Search for Community: Congregation-Based Spiritual Guidance Rooted in Jürgen Moltmann's Social Doctrine of the Trinity and Ecclesiology of Voluntary Friendship

Team Members/Contributors

Angela H. Reed Princeton Theological Seminary Contact Me

About this dissertation fellowship

A number of sociologists who track changes in American religious patterns note that a widening gulf has developed between what is frequently described as “religion” and “spirituality.” The contemporary search for God is strong, but many Americans are not looking to traditional religions to light the way. Congregations and theological institutions across denominations are attempting to bridge the gulf between traditional religious institutions and the contemporary spiritual quest by revitalizing and retooling ancient spiritual practices such as spiritual guidance and direction. Yet some question whether the growing interest in spiritual guidance practices simply mirrors a contemporary spirituality that ends in personal fulfillment – a spirituality that is centered on the self rather than communal formation, interiority rather than an outward missional focus, and a detraditionalized eclecticism rather than a firm theological grounding. Through a sociological study of contemporary spirituality, empirical research on spiritual guidance in six congregations and two seminaries, reflection on historical practices, and a discussion of Jürgen Moltmann’s ecclesiology, I will explore a vision of congregation-based spiritual guidance that relishes the contemporary spiritual quest while remaining rooted in a theology of community and mission. This vision includes the possibilities of revisioning pastoral ministry in light of spiritual guidance. While growing numbers of Protestant seminaries and spiritual formation institutes are training congregational leaders in these practices, minimal sustained critical reflection has been offered as yet on the theological implications and the actual benefits to congregations. This dissertation contributes a practical theological perspective on these changes in contemporary American religious life.