Postfoundationalist Reflections in Practical Theology

"In a fast-changing world the description of the field of practical theology as continuously 'under construction' rings true to many scholars in the field. Macallan finds in a postfoundationalist approach to the field of practical theology the vocabulary to take the context very seriously. In grappling with the epistemology of the field he develops a grammar for practical theology in conversation with many voices. In engaging with these voices he shows us how to participate in a constructive way in our postmodern era towards the praxis of a living faith."

--Ian Nell, University of Stellenbosch, South Africa



"Philosophically grounded, theologically astute, and ecumenically aware, Brian Macallan's Postfoundationalist Reflections in Practical Theology provides a penetrating analysis of the discipline's emergence, pitfalls, and possibilities. His command of historical and contemporary scholarship is breathtaking as is his commitment to elucidating a practical theology that is missional, praxis-based, cogent, and humble . . . as it must be for a postmodern world. The work, at once balanced and provocative, deserves the attention of all scholars of the discipline."

--Gerard Hall, Australian Catholic University, Australia



"Brian Macallan invites readers on a journey he knows well from foundationalist assertion of inerrant biblical truth to a 'chastened' and humble postfoundationalist affirmation of Christian faith, discovering along the way practical theology's turn to local knowledge as a fruitful resource. His book will be especially useful to those caught in similar binds and curious about practical theology as a potential road forward."

--Bonnie J. Miller-McLemore, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN