The Christian Path in a Pluralistic World and the Study of Spirituality

By (author) Diana L. Villegas

Publication date:

04 November 2011

Length of book:

130 pages

Publisher

Lexington Books

ISBN-13: 9780739168127

Based on exploration of boundaries between spirituality and religion, this book argues that theological study of spirituality is important for interpretation of the Christian path in a pluralistic world. As a text for graduate study in spirituality and ministry, it explores relevant sociological studies, post modern culture, contemporary study of Christian spirituality, and a brief history of the relationship between theology and spirituality. The book argues that the revelation and tradition of Christianity understood and interpreted in the light of contemporary culture make a difference to postmodern persons’ quests for spirituality. What one believes and how one understands that belief influences the manner in which the Christian path is lived in a pluralistic, global world. The book discusses the role of religion in culture and the relevance of this for the identity of religious spirituality and the study of Christian spirituality.

Preface

Introduction

1 Cultural Developments in Spirituality: Postmodern Context

2 Studying Christian Spirituality: Changing Disciplinary Boundaries

3 Theology and Spirituality in Historical Perspective

4 Religion’s Role in Human Culture: Relevance for Spirituality

5 Contemporary Spirituality and Religious Self-understanding: Illustrations for Study

Bibliography

Index

This book squarely addresses a key issue for Christian spirituality (both academic and pastoral) in the U.S. today, namely: How is it possible to maintain authentic “Christian identity” in a highly pluralistic spiritual marketplace where most people have become somewhat eclectic in their beliefs and practices?—Mary Frohlich, Catholic Theological Union