This article attempts to demonstrate similarities between the socioeconomic, cultural, and religious contexts of 18th-century England and 21st-century Canada. Revisiting the Sunday School movement in 18th-century England provides insights for the development of renewed Sunday School models in the current Canadian context of transnational…

This article examines the ministry-ethical implications and meanings of spiritual formation grounded in the so called "culture wars" and then in light of identity, the postmodern condition and the urban context. It highlights the tensions the church faces between being conformed to the world and being conformed to the image of Jesus…

The First Congregational Church has a heart of mission. Yet, when the mission hits a situation that's personal and makes one squirm a bit, it becomes more of a challenge. Seven teams have been sent from the church to help the rebuilding in New Orleans. The first teams did the mucking, getting all of the belongings out of the house and putting them…

Based on studies conducted by a task force of the Lutheran Council's Division of Campus Ministry and Educational Services, this booklet provides a description of the community college, a theological perspective of community college ministry, and a process by which a local parish can begin ministry in the colleges. Part 1 examines the typical…

Maintains that the mental "playground" of young people, the field of opportunities where they learn to grow into the person they are uniquely destined to become, has shrunk dramatically. Reflects on three models for youth ministry and religious education that can respond to this phenomenon. (MJP)

Considers the defining role of ritual liturgical practices (hymn singing, prayer, sacred meal) in establishing and maintaining the faith of a religious community. Argues that liturgical practices (acting as formative and catechesis agents) are critical, constitutive, and normative for persons and communities of faith. (MJP)

Maintains that reimagining God through metaphors that counter patriarchy can become a liberating and transformational pathway for a healing community. Proposes two metaphorical constructions, "bodyfaith" and "the mind's heart," to act as tools to imagine a healing agenda within education. Considers the role of educational healing within a…

Argues that the act of worship can become an act of resistance against the hegemony of a dominant culture. Maintains that congregational life offers the possibility to awaken people's discontent, foster skepticism toward prevailing assumptions, articulate ethical alternatives, and develop readiness for struggle and change. (MJP)

Uses participatory ethnography to interview lay persons about the role of religion and the church in personal meaning-making. Probes the motives that call people to theology, the theological methods people use, how people engage in religious knowing, and how the church helps these efforts. Suggests shortcomings in present religious education. (DSK)

The work of the Centre for the Study of Religion and Education in the Inner City, a church-related organization in Salford, England, is described. The role of religion in the formation of social and spiritual values is discussed, with emphasis on the needs of those in urban, multicultural settings. (PP)

Historically, religion and spirituality have been major influences in the social, cultural, and political lives of African Americans. Spirituality is deeply embedded into their rich cultural heritage, and it is intertwined into all aspects of their life, including beliefs about health and illness. For African Americans, health and illness are a…

Presents a fascinating comparison of the musical styles and respective theologies between an Anglican church service and a black fundamentalist service. Maintains that the Anglican service depends on a logocentric vision of the world, separating emotion from intellect. The black church exemplifies a more holistic, transcendent experience. (MJP)