Practical Theology - Period 5

The aim of this course is to introduce students to the key models, theories, methodologies and developments of practical/empirical theology, putting special emphasis on the concept of lived religion/experience. The course primarily focuses on an integrative approach for practical theology, the approach that combines the hermeneutical, empirical, and strategic (critical) perspective in practical/empirical theology. The integrative approach requires an interrelationship between different branches of theology and enables practical/empirical theology to enter into sincere dialogue with the social sciences in order both to interpret contexts and practices as well as to think creatively about the development of new strategies and practices. The course also represents the vital relevance of the concept of lived religion to the study of practical/empirical theology. It helps students to understand the lived particularities of different sociatial and ecclesial challenges as embodied practices in which (religious) stories and narratives are created, transformed, and shared.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) awards credits based on the ECTS system. Contact hours listed under a course description may vary due to the combination of lecture-based and independent work required for each course therefore, CEA's recommended credits are based on the ECTS credits assigned by VU Amsterdam. 1 ECTS equals 28 contact hours assigned by VU Amsterdam.