Spirituality In Ministerial Formation

Presents a study in the area of theological education. This title traces the origin and evolution of the formation model of training and identifies what difference this paradigm makes to the practice. It offers ideas for a renewed understanding and praxis of the role of prayer in learning. It is intended for the theological students and teachers.

Spirituality in Ministerial Formation traces the origin and evolution of the formation model of training and identifies important differences this theological paradigm makes to present practice. Uncovering significant and surprising functions for prayer in the learning process through first-hand accounts by ordained clergy and tutors, this volume identifies the practical implications of this research and offers creative ideas for renewing our understanding of how prayer works in the teaching of spirituality. Of interest to a wide group of theological educators and students, this is essential reading for those interested in a clearer articulation of spirituality in education and our present culture and context.

The shift from adolescence to adulthood, a recently identified stage of life called "emerging adulthood," covers an increasing span of years in today's culture (roughly ages 18-30) due to later marriages and extended education. During this prolonged stage of exploration and self-definition, many young adults drift away from the church. Here two authors--both veteran teachers who are experienced in young adult and campus ministry--address this new and urgent field of study, offering a Christian perspective on what it means to be spiritually formed into adulthood. They provide a "practical theology" for emerging adult ministry and offer insight into the key developmental issues of this stage of life, including identity, intimacy and sexuality, morality, church involvement, spiritual formation, vocation, and mentoring. The book bridges the gap between academic and popular literature on emerging adulthood and offers concrete ways to facilitate spiritual formation among emerging adults.

Publisher's description: Presence-Centered Youth Ministry shows how classic disciplines, symbols and practices that have sustained the church over the centuries can shape the worldviews, virtues and habits of young people today. Come explore the deeper terrain of an ancient faith; your students are sure to follow.

Pastors and church leaders can use the normal activities of church life to touch the innermost lives of their flock, fostering spiritual growth and building up the body of Christ.

'A Spirituality for Active Ministry' addresses the issue of contemporary apostolic spirituality for Christian ministers. Focusing primarily on the integration of prayer and action, contemplation and ministry, its purpose is to provide a tool for on-going spiritual formation for ministry. In addition to an exploration of key topics, the book includes reflection questions, activities and recommended readings. It is a valuable source for ministry training programs, religious communities, adult spirituality courses, and could also be used in workshops or guided retreats. It is designed to be used either by an individual for spiritual growth or with groups facilitated by a teacher or director.

Military chaplains are highly trained professionals with multiple graduate degrees and varying civilian pastoral experience. They enter the chaplaincy after a rigorous selection process and military courses, which all must verify their calling to military ministry. Throughout a chaplain’s career, he or she will attend many continuing education seminars, civilian education graduate programs, and conferences, all provided by the military. However, chaplains are challenged with the rigorous multitasked environment of this ministry. Multiple deployments into combat have negatively impacted the personal lives of those seeking to care for the souls of the soldier. This book encourages the importance of spiritual resiliency in the lives of leaders, both military and civilian. Leaders who regularly practice spiritual disciplines will be less likely to suffer personal and professional failure, or burnout. Second, the leader’s practice of spiritual disciplines is essential to fostering positive modeling and mentoring for young chaplains and those wishing to serve. Third, practicing historic Christian spiritual disciplines will benefit those who strive to lead congregations and especially military installations in the free exercise of their faith.

This is a ground-breaking study into a crucial area of theological education. It traces the origin and evolution of the formation model of training and identifies what difference this paradigm makes to present practice. It uncovers significant and surprising functions of prayer in the formational and learning process as discovered in empirical research (informed by theological and psychological perspectives on prayer) among a sample of newly ordained clergy and tutors. The practical implications of the research are identified, offering creative ideas for a renewed understanding and praxis of the role of prayer in learning. This is essential reading for theological students and teachers alike, and calls for a clearer articulation of a spirituality of education as needed by our present culture and context.