Proposal Summary

The teaching of Christian faith is that baptism, not ordination, is the initiation rite of every person’s call to live a faithful life in Christ. Reading the present scholarship in order to become familiar with the major relevant literature in the field of the theology of lay vocations, my primary research will be conducting field research; interviewing lay people in the workplace, inviting them to write and tell stories of their faith and work, and hosting two weekend workshops on lay vocations.

My Pastoral Study Project will be completed during a six month sabbatical and will culminate in a book with an accompanying curriculum for two audiences: a pastoral and theological resource for the education of clergy leaders, clarifying the role and impact of lay vocations in church vitality and growth. And a book with a curriculum guide to aid congregations ready to explore the lively intersection of faith and work in the lives of the laity.