Ministerial Training: the need for pedagogies of Formation and Contextualization in theological education

Abstract

Developing the next generation of competent Christian leaders with vision and character for the new millennium remains a major concern in church and society. This article explains how and why, within the theological curriculum, pedagogies of formation and of contextualisation are critical to producing quality Christian workers who are grounded in their pastoral identity and have the necessary skills to be relevant to their communities. Pedagogies of formation relate to both aspects of spirituality and holiness and the profession of ministry. Practices of contextualisation should help students develop the skills of social and theological analyses, understand the nature of communities and their dynamics, and the means by which they can be transformed and adapted to social change. Intentionality about formation and contextualisation can provide the integration of learning that can narrow the gap between theological education and Christian practice.