Future Faith: Public and Practical Theologies for the Contemporary World (Explorations in Practical, Pastoral and Empirical Theology)

Future Faith: Public and Practical Theologies for the Contemporary World explores what is needed for theology to survive and thrive in the next generation. As well as declining student numbers and pressures on university theology departments, churches are increasingly questioning the value of theological study. The volume addresses the need for innovative responses to this crisis, which re-evaluate the place of theological study in the ecclesial, academic, social and cultural landscape. Focusing on the UK, it brings together leading scholars in public and practical theology from the academy and the churches. Contributors engage in particular with the insights and work of Professor Stephen Pattison. It is argued that the future of contemporary theology lies in its ability to contribute to modern life in practical and public ways. If theology is to have a future, it must be relevant in the workplace, in public institutions and in public life. The chapters consider the methodological innovations required for theology to have such a future and investigate specific examples of the practical expressions of a future theology in some important contemporary settings. Public theology, professional life and chaplaincy are the three key areas in which the outward-facing nature of theological reflection is explored and developed. Future Faith will be of particular interest to scholars and students working in these spheres.