Influence of secularization tendencies on spiritual practices at Evangelical Theological Colleges in Australia
Loading...
Authors
Momoh, Paul Ejima
Issue Date
2021-06
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Theological education , Theological colleges , Spiritual formation , Spiritual practices , Discipleship , Secularization , Post-secular era , Evangelicalism , Evangelical tradition , Evangelicals
Alternative Title
Abstract
As a cultural process, secularization defines the contexts of Westernized countries in which
theological colleges exist and thrive. It is a phenomenon by which religion or godliness
declines. It undermines the institutions’ formational goal and transformational agenda. Its
growth underpins the diminishing of spiritual values and practices. This study explored
spiritual practices at evangelical theological colleges in Australia. Firstly, it sought to
understand how the institutions were aware and alert to secularization in the post-secular
era and to adjust their program accordingly. Secondly, it sought to interrogate the priority
and contextual relevance of spiritual practices. Thirdly, it posed an inquiry on the
appropriateness of learning to students’ needs so they are developed holistically to
adequately engage their secularized contexts. The retooling process is a practical theological
task. As a praxis model, the task demands that we reflect upon the practices and their everchanging cultural context, which leads to more consecrated practice and reflection. As a
social science inquiry, the interpretivist paradigm was utilized, and a qualitative approach
was deployed using Osmer's 'descriptive-empirical tasks' in the field of practical theology.
In its theory of epistemology, the study constructed reality out of the knowledge that
emerged from the meanings the participants brought to their lived experience. It used a case
study approach to the three Higher Education Providers in the sample. The data was
captured through a triangulated data collection method: face-to-face interview, documentary
study, and observational research. The key findings indicated the need for awareness and
relevance to secularized contexts. There were challenges as the institutions were distracted
by academic pressures and criticized for imbibing the culture they sought to evangelize or
being irrelevant to social contexts. More critically was the inadequate ongoing research on
spiritual practices and the Evangelicals' notions of a secular-sacred divide. Thus, the study's
original contribution to knowledge reflected on the institutions' awareness and relevance to
contexts, such that students are adequately transformed and equipped. It constructed a
preparedness for robust engagement while providing recommendations for implementation
and future research. The study established that current practices were not strongly aware
and relevant, and therefore, not fully engaged.