Ethnography as a Pastoral Practice: An Introduction, Second Edition

Ethnography is a method for gathering, analyzing, and sharing data to better understand a community. This second edition of Ethnography as a Pastoral Practice is a must-read for those in or training for ministry who want to use ethnography to hear the stories of those they minister to. It presents the helpful pastoral practice of ethnography in a clear, step-by-step manner and includes compelling case studies of transformational leadership.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2023
Publisher: SCM Press

Ethnography is a powerful approach to gaining insights into the complex dynamics of a community by collecting, analyzing, and disseminating data. In its fully revised and updated second edition, Ethnography as a Pastoral Practice has emerged as a go-to resource for individuals in or training for ministry who seek to harness the power of ethnography to better understand and engage with the people they serve. This book makes a compelling case for ethnography's ability to inspire aspirations and heal communal wounds, presenting a clear and practical guide to implementing ethnographic pastoral practices.

Throughout its pages, Ethnography as a Pastoral Practice invites readers to cultivate a heightened sense of empathy, openness, and compassion toward the members of their congregations. It provides a rich tapestry of compelling case studies that showcase the transformative impact of ethnographic research on leadership and organizational culture. By exploring the experiences, perspectives, and narratives of individuals and communities, pastors and ministry professionals can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing their congregations and develop effective strategies for ministry.

One of the key strengths of Ethnography as a Pastoral Practice is its accessibility and practicality. The book is written in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to understand and apply to various contexts and ministry settings. It provides step-by-step guidance on conducting ethnographic research, including techniques for data collection, analysis, and interpretation, as well as practical tips for integrating ethnographic insights into pastoral practice.

Moreover, Ethnography as a Pastoral Practice emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in ethnographic research. The author emphasizes the need for respect, empathy, and sensitivity when engaging with participants and communities, and provides guidelines for navigating complex ethical dilemmas that may arise during the research process. This book is a valuable resource for pastors, ministry professionals, and researchers interested in exploring the intersection of culture, faith, and social justice. It offers a wealth of insights and practical tools that can help individuals and organizations cultivate more inclusive, effective, and compassionate pastoral practices.

In conclusion, Ethnography as a Pastoral Practice is a groundbreaking work that offers a transformative perspective on pastoral practice. By embracing the power of ethnography, pastors and ministry professionals can gain a deeper understanding of their communities, inspire aspirations, and heal communal wounds. This book provides a clear and practical guide to implementing ethnographic pastoral practices, and its emphasis on ethical considerations and accessibility makes it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their ministry skills and impact.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 150 x 229 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780334059967