Practicing Faith
Theology and Social Vocation in Conversation
Edited by Lisa Spriggens and Tim Meadowcroft
Foreword by Marty Folsom
Imprint: Pickwick Publications
The integration of theology and social vocation invites scholars and practitioners to reach outside their discipline and into relationship with others. Out of these relationships new ways of enacting faith and informing practice can emerge. This book brings together a collection of essays engaging with the integration of theology and social vocation. Designed to reflect and invite dialogue, these authors engage with the relationship between faith and practice as it is expressed in their own area of interest and speciality. Arranged in five themed dialogues--wellbeing, formation, hospitality, therapy, and theology--each essay reflects the unique dynamics of its author's integrative process and offers something new to the ongoing conversation between theology and social vocation. This set of essays will be of interest to practitioners and students concerned to infuse their faith with their practice of vocation, to develop a practicing faith.
Lisa Spriggens is a counselor and Head of Counseling at Laidlaw College in Auckland, New Zealand. She is also undertaking a PhD at University of Melbourne researching trauma counselors and their stories of self-care.
Tim Meadowcroft is senior research fellow in biblical studies at Laidlaw College, Auckland, New Zealand, and editor of the Journal of Theological Interpretation. He is also priest assistant in the Anglican parish of Henderson/Swanson in West Auckland.
“The task of integrating social-vocation practice and sound theology is always urgent and necessary, but also daunting. Through integration of practice and theology, we are all better placed to enable people to find healing and restoration of the whole person. This book is not daunting and offers both practitioners and theologians superb assistance with the integrative task.”
—Peter Carrell, Anglican Bishop, Christ Church, New Zealand
“There is much to chew on in this most helpful book that connects faith and social practice, and theology and therapy. The focus is on interpersonal relationships, incarnational ministry, transformation, and divine grace. God’s comfort flows among human beings who, in their pain and mess, can recognize his presence and power and find healing and wholeness in community. Those in the helping professions, including pastors, would immensely benefit from this thoughtful book.”
—Robert Solomon, Bishop emeritus, The Methodist Church, Singapore
“This collected conversation is impressive in exploring song, grief, the theology of friendship, and the power of hospitality. Yet, it is more than an interdisciplinary dialogue. It is an integration of theology and social practice, each giving fresh meaning to the other, creating fascinating juxtapositions and challenges. It asks, Can I cultivate both courage and humility, risking vulnerability in being both host and guest, as you, God, and myself discover a purposed existence?”
—Jill Shaw, University Chaplain and Public Theologian, Auckland, New Zealand
“Beautifully written, this collection of essays and responses embodies the integration of theology with social vocations. Returning again and again to the importance of relationships—within God, with God, and with one another—these scholars ground their integrative aspirations in these dynamisms. These essays are refreshingly personal, intellectually rich, and spaciously dialogical. Practicing Faith is a fabulous read for those wondering about the merits of integration as well as how to do this well.”
—Christa McKirland, Lecturer of Systematic Theology, Carey Baptist College
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