Practical Theology

Every church congregation encounters challenging situations, some the same the world over, and others specific to each church. Richard Osmer here seeks to teach congregational leaders - including, but not limited to, clergy - the requisite knowledge and skills to meet such situations with sensitivity and creativity. ^Osmer develops a framework for practical theological interpretation in congregations by focusing on four key questions: What is going on in a given context? Why is this going on? What ought to be going on? and How might the leader shape the context to better embody Christian witness and mission? ^The book is unique in its attention to interdisciplinary issues and the ways that theological reflection is grounded in the spirituality of leaders. Useful, accessible, and lively - with lots of specific examples and case studies - Osmer's Practical Theology effectively equips congregational leaders to guide their communities with theological integrity.
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