Disclosing Church: An Ecclesiology Learned from Conversations in Practice

Researchers at Heythrop College and the Oxford Centre for ecclesiology and Practical Theology (OxCEPT, Ripon College Cuddesdon) worked on a theological and action research project from 2006 to 2011. The 2010 publication of Talking About God in Practice: Theological Action research and Practical Theology (SCM) was a landmark study in the praxis of Anglican and Catholic ecclesiology in the UK. This book is a direct follow-up, providing a systematic analysis of the impact of the theological action research methodology and its implications for a contemporary ecclesiology. It presents an ecclesiology generated from church practice, drawing on scholarship and the results of the theological action research undertaken.

Format: Hardback
Length: 270 pages
Publication date: 25 March 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

From 2006 to 2011, a collaborative effort between researchers from Heythrop College and the Oxford Centre for Ecclesiology and Practical Theology (OxCEPT, Ripon College Cuddesdon) resulted in the groundbreaking Action Research – Church and Society (ARCS) project. This project aimed to explore the intersection of theology and practice within the Anglican and Catholic churches in the United Kingdom. In 2010, the fruits of this research were published in the form of Talking About God in Practice: Theological Action Research and Practical Theology (SCM). This accessible book presented the work of ARCS and its evolving methodology, showcasing how theology interacted with the lived experiences of clergy and congregations in these different contexts.

Recognized as a significant milestone in the field of Anglican and Catholic ecclesiology in the UK, this study demonstrated the profound ways in which theology influenced the daily lives of clergy and congregations. It shed light on the complex interplay between theory and practice, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of religious communities.

Building upon the foundation of the previous work, the book under review presents a systematic analysis of the impact of the theological action research methodology and its implications for contemporary ecclesiology. Authored by one of the original researchers, it delves into the nuances and complexities of the ARCS project, providing a comprehensive account of its achievements and challenges.

One of the key strengths of this book is its ability to bridge the gap between academic discourse and real-world scenarios. By incorporating authentic examples alongside the theoretical framework, the author enables readers to grasp the intricate relationship between theology and practice. This approach not only enhances the understanding of the subject matter but also makes it more relatable and applicable to practitioners and scholars alike.

Addressing the need for a more developed theological and methodological account of the ARCS project, this book appeals to a wide range of interests. It will be of particular interest to scholars engaged in the study of Western lived religion, ecclesiology, and theology more broadly. The insights and methodologies presented in this book have the potential to inspire and inform future research and practice in these fields.

In conclusion, the book under review is a valuable contribution to the field of ecclesiology and theology. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the theological action research methodology and its implications for contemporary ecclesiology. Through its engaging and accessible style, it provides a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between theory and practice, offering valuable insights for scholars, practitioners, and anyone interested in exploring the dynamics of religious communities.

Weight: 530g
Dimension: 162 x 240 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138307742