No 146 - Theological Reflection

Reflecting on Reflection: Problems and Prospects for Theological Reflection

Judith Thompson and Stephen Pattison

Abstract: This article is a reflective report on a symposium held in 2004 organised by Cardiff University and St Michael’s College, Llandaff, and sponsored by the British and Irish Association for Practical Theology which addressed problems and prospects in Theological Reflection. The article identifies the main themes and issues considered at the symposium by a group of around 20 British and Irish practical theologians and considers the present stay of play and possible opportunities for developing reflective theological methods and theories. It contains a select bibliography of works relevant to theological reflection drawn from the membership of the symposium and details of the place where preparatory papers can be read on the web.

A Dramatic approach to Black Theological Reflection

Anthony G. Reddie

Abstract: This article is based on an ongoing research project that attempts to create a more inclusive and accessible method to enable theological reflection with Black lay people in Britain. The author, a Black religious educator and theologian, utilizes many of the central themes and concepts of Action Research to create a dialogical model of learning for marginalized and oppressed people. This macro-theory of knowledge construction is juxtaposed with the practice of Christian drama in order to create a liberating praxis for theological reflection. Whilst this contextual piece of work is very much rooted within the Black experience, as expressed in inner city areas of Britain, the author believes that this method has important insights for all contexts in which Christian faith is expressed and lived out in community.

Theological Reflection: Method or Mystique?

Elaine Graham, Heather Walton and Frances Ward

Abstract: This article is a shortened version of the introduction of a book to be published in 2005 entitled Theological Reflection: Methods. In it the authors present seven different methods of TR, and each chapter provides illustrations of how the particular method in question can be identified in Biblical text and through the Christian tradition. A catalytic moment is described when the method becomes recognized for what it is, and then the way each method is used in contemporary times is explored. This preview article sketches out the ground covered in the book.

Turning the Other Cheek: A Theological and Psychological Reflection on Children with Challenging Behaviour.

Jane Wallman

Abstract: This article explores the subject of children who are violent towards adults, and the impact their violence has on those who are the carers of children with such complex special needs. Conduct Disorder is explored and its implications examined, as a means of characterizing the intensity of the violence experienced. Drawing on the universalizable and potentially transforming process of active empathy, this article investigates the means by which forgiveness can become a method of letting go for those who feel themselves trapped by shame and powerlessness.

Taking Leave: The ‘Good Death’ Today

Paul Ballard

Abstract: The 'good death' has become part of the pastoral care of the dying. It is a spin-off from the increasingly widespread introduction of palliative care. At heart such care is about giving people dignity and worth. But there are issues that arise: Setting up norms which if not met suggests failure; Death can become anodyne; What about customer choice? How can we meet the demands of pluralism? The loss of the communal dimension of death; The question of ‘the beyond’.