Reconstructing Practical Theology: The Impact of Globalization (Explorations in Practical, Pastoral and Empirical Theology)

Reader, John

ISBN 10: 0754666603 / ISBN 13: 9780754666608

Published by Routledge, 2008

About this Item

Argues that the discipline of practical theology needs to be re-shaped in the light of the impact of various influences created through the encounter with globalization. This book shows how it is in danger of operating with 'zombie categories'. Series Editor(s): Astley, Revd Jeff; Francis, Revd Canon Leslie J.; Percy, Very Revd Prof. Martyn; Slee, Dr. Nicola. Series: Explorations in Practical, Pastoral and Empirical Theology. Num Pages: 150 pages, black & white illustrations. BIC Classification: HRCM; HRCX4. Category: (UP) Postgraduate, Research & Scholarly; (UU) Undergraduate. Dimension: 157 x 233 x 10. Weight in Grams: 300. . 2008. 1st Edition. paperback. . . . .

Seller Inventory # V9780754666608

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Reconstructing Practical Theology: The Impact of Globalization (Explorations in Practical, Pastoral and Empirical Theology)
• Publisher: Routledge
• Publication Date: 2008
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0754666603
• ISBN 13: 9780754666608
• Binding: Soft cover
• Edition: 1st Edition
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

This book argues that the discipline of practical theology needs to be re-shaped in the light of the impact of various influences created through the encounter with globalization. Essential to this is an engagement with the insights of other disciplines, e.g. sociology, politics, economics and philosophy. The content and authority of the Christian tradition is being challenged by the blurred encounters with more fluid lifestyles, alternative spiritualities and indeed other faiths as mediated through information technology and the breakdown of attachments to all forms of institutional life. Traditional ways of 'belonging' and relating to places and structures are being eroded leaving the established patterns of ministry, worship, church organisation the province of an ageing population, while those who are now more inclined to search for 'communities of interest' avoid being drawn into the practices and structures of formal religion. What is the future for practical theology in this rapidly changing context? By examining the familiar concerns of the subject John Reader shows how it is in danger of operating with 'zombie categories' - still alive but only just - and presents the possibilities for a reflexive spirituality grounded in the Christian tradition as a way into the future.

About the Author

Revd Dr John Reader, Rector of the Ironstone Benefice in the Diocese of Oxford, Senior Honorary Research Fellow with the William Temple Foundation in Manchester and Senior Tutor for the Diploma in Christian Rural and Environmental Studies based at Ripon College, Cuddesdon, Oxford.