Towards Friendship-Shaped Communities: A Practical Theology of Friendship

Anne-Marie Ellithorpe's book "Towards Friendship-Shaped Communities: A Practical Theology of Friendship" explores the place and nature of friendship in personal and civic dimensions, responding to contemporary concerns and offering a comprehensive theology of friendship. It integrates philosophical, anthropological, and theological perspectives and provides practical discussions for outworking friendship ideals in communities of practice.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 05 May 2022
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

In her groundbreaking work, Towards Friendship-Shaped Communities: A Practical Theology of Friendship, distinguished theological researcher Anne-Marie Ellithorpe delves into a profound and insightful exploration of the multifaceted nature of friendship, encompassing its personal and civic dimensions. This book, of particular interest to members and leaders of faith communities, responds to contemporary concerns regarding relationality and presents a comprehensive theology of friendship.

The author conducts an inclusive and interdisciplinary study, engaging with both historical traditions and contemporary contexts. Through examples from Indigenous and Euro-Western cultures, she sheds light on the rich tapestry of friendship across different cultures. Readers are invited to reflect on the theology of friendship and its interrelationship with community, engaging in critical thought about their own social and theological imagination. The book offers practical discussions on theology, friendship, and the social imagination, exploring themes such as mutuality and spirit-shaped friendships.

Furthermore, it provides considerations for outworking friendship ideals within communities of practice, drawing from the perspective of strategic (or fully) practical theology. By integrating philosophical, anthropological, and theological perspectives, this book offers a comprehensive introduction to contemporary questions on friendship and discussions of co-existing friendship worlds. It provides comprehensive explorations of friendship in first and second testament writings, as well as friendship within classical and Christian traditions.

In conclusion, Towards Friendship-Shaped Communities: A Practical Theology of Friendship is a transformative resource for anyone seeking to understand and nurture the profound gift of friendship in their personal and communal lives. Through its comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, it provides a rich tapestry of insights and practical considerations that will enrich the reader's understanding of this essential aspect of human existence.

Weight: 488g
Dimension: 252 x 178 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781119756941