PT405
Introduction of Pastoral Ministry
The field of practical theology has its life in relation to the missions of religious institutions, communities of faith, and lived religious experience, that is, how faithful people live out their faith in social, political, and cultural settings. Because it requires analysis of the history and theology that are effective or normative for such institutions, communities, and situations, practical theology requires a substantial understanding of history and theology. Thus, the field of practical theology is eminently interdisciplinary and involves contextual research both inside and outside of Christian congregations.