Welcome to the Department of Practical and Missional Theology for a new academic year! We are thrilled to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery with each one of you as we delve into the multifaceted study of faith practices.
Our department, the largest in the Faculty of Theology and Religion, places a special emphasis on understanding and engaging with the diverse aspects of faith practices. This encompasses the following key areas:
- Practices of Faith Development: Exploring the development of faith in individuals across different contexts.
- Practices of Liturgy and Homiletics: Investigating the meaningful participation of the faithful in worship activities.
- Practices of Congregational Studies: Understanding the functioning of communities of faith.
- Practices of Pastoral Care: Providing care for individuals and communities navigating growth amidst trauma and challenges.
- Practices of Missiology: Propagating and proclaiming the Gospel in a way that resonates with a changing context, fostering a missional orientation for faith communities.
In our academic pursuits, we recognise the significance of local, concrete, and embodied practices. Our focus extends to describing daily realities and how spirituality manifests itself in tangible ways. As part of this endeavour, empirical research plays a vital role in our academic endeavours.
On behalf of the dedicated full-time and part-time colleagues in the Department, I extend a heartfelt welcome to each one of you. We are eager to embark on this discovery journey together, exploring lived spirituality and religion in both daily life and ecclesial settings.
Wishing you a year filled with exciting discoveries and meaningful insights!
Prof Juanita Meyer
Head of Department: Practical and Missional Theology