Presents a study in the area of theological education. This title traces the origin and evolution of the formation model of training and identifies what difference this paradigm makes to the practice. It offers ideas for a renewed understanding and praxis of the role of prayer in learning. It is intended for the theological students and teachers.

"In recent years, theological education and training for both lay and ordained ministry have been reconceived in terms of ministerial formation. But what is the origin of this paradigm and what difference does it actually make to both teachers and learners? This study not only addresses these questions but also, offering perspectives from the Eastern Christian traditions and from empirical research, uncovers a dynamic role for prayer in the learning process. It explores how different types of prayer have the potential to be a significant integrative, cognitive, healing, empowering influence in ministerial formation and to enable a transformative process of 'deep learning'." "It will prove not only to be a reference book for all practitioners in the field of theological education, but also a practical workbook for teachers and students as its questions for individual or group use challenge present practice and open up new possibilities for the healing of the historic divide between theology and spirituality. The book identifies elements for the development of a rich theology of ministerial formation which will enhance and energize the practice of theological education. Seeking to re-balance training and formation, it invites a rethink of current functionalist approaches to professionalized lay and ordained ministry in terms of discovering creative and surprising functions of spirituality within the learning process. The book thus has implications for the teaching of spirituality, highlighting the need to articulate an integrated spirituality of education. It also addresses important aspects of the Church's mission in society and the imperative of resourcing clergy and lay ministers for their engagement with the rising interest in spirituality in today's culture." --Book Jacket.

The shift from adolescence to adulthood, a recently identified stage of life called "emerging adulthood," covers an increasing span of years in today's culture (roughly ages 18-30) due to later marriages and extended education. During this prolonged stage of exploration and self-definition, many young adults drift away from the church. Here two authors--both veteran teachers who are experienced in young adult and campus ministry--address this new and urgent field of study, offering a Christian perspective on what it means to be spiritually formed into adulthood. They provide a "practical theology" for emerging adult ministry and offer insight into the key developmental issues of this stage of life, including identity, intimacy and sexuality, morality, church involvement, spiritual formation, vocation, and mentoring. The book bridges the gap between academic and popular literature on emerging adulthood and offers concrete ways to facilitate spiritual formation among emerging adults.

Publisher's description: Presence-Centered Youth Ministry shows how classic disciplines, symbols and practices that have sustained the church over the centuries can shape the worldviews, virtues and habits of young people today. Come explore the deeper terrain of an ancient faith; your students are sure to follow.

This is a ground-breaking study into a crucial area of theological education. It traces the origin and evolution of the formation model of training and identifies what difference this paradigm makes to present practice. It uncovers significant and surprising functions of prayer in the formational and learning process as discovered in empirical research (informed by theological and psychological perspectives on prayer) among a sample of newly ordained clergy and tutors. The practical implications of the research are identified, offering creative ideas for a renewed understanding and praxis of the role of prayer in learning. This is essential reading for theological students and teachers alike, and calls for a clearer articulation of a spirituality of education as needed by our present culture and context.

“Henri Nouwen was one of the great spiritual masters of the modern age. His beloved writings have helped millions understand that no matter where we are, God can meet us there. Read this brand-new compilation of his writings and conferences, and let Henri Nouwen accompany you—with his trademark wisdom, acuity, common sense, erudition and, most of all, compassion—and help you encounter God more fully in your daily life.” — James Martin, SJ, author of The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything Led by the writing of beloved, bestselling author Henri Nouwen (With Open Hands, Reaching Out, The Wounded Healer, Making All Things New), the authors of Spiritual Direction, return with the second work in this popular spirituality series on how to live out the five classical stages of spiritual development.

Pastors and church leaders can use the normal activities of church life to touch the innermost lives of their flock, fostering spiritual growth and building up the body of Christ.