A theopoetics of practice: re-forming in practical theology

Walton, H. (2019) A theopoetics of practice: re-forming in practical theology. International Journal of Practical Theology, 23(1), pp. 3-23. (doi: 10.1515/ijpt-2018-0033)

Abstract

This article articulates a challenge to discern what form theopoetics might take within practical theology and, further, to engage with the construction of modes of theopoetic making appropriate to the discipline. To date there has been little conceptual engagement with theopoetics by practical theologians. In order to begin to address this lack Catherine Keller’s work is taken as indicative of the potential significance of this project. An examination of theopoetics within constructive theology highlights the necessity for practical theologians to create their own distinctive forms of theopoetical reflection honouring their disciplinary heritage. It is suggested that a ‘theopoetics of practice’ might be created in the manner of a bricolage from neglected cultural resources. The work embodies in its writing style the creative work it advocates.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Walton, Professor Heather
• Authors: Walton, H.
• College/School: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Critical Studies > Theology and Religious Studies
• Journal Name: International Journal of Practical Theology
• Publisher: De Gruyter
• ISSN: 1430-6921
• ISSN (Online): 1612-9768
• Published Online: 01 March 2019
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2019 Walter de Gruyter GmbH
• First Published: First published in International Journal of Practical Theology 23(1):3-23
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy