HDR Candidate: Mercer, Andrew
Title of Project | Flourishing in exile: communal disciplines, spiritual formation, and the monastic ideal in contemporary Christian thought |
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Course of Study | Doctor of Philosophy |
Language of Instruction | English |
Abstract | The Western church in the 21st century exists in what many scholars consider to be a state of post-Christendom. Christians, leaders, and laypeople alike, perceive they are living as exiles within their societies. How can Christians flourish whilst living an exilic existence? Since the mid-20th century, a diverse range of Christian thinkers has pointed to communal discipline as a critical aspect of Christian flourishing in a post-Christendom age. This thesis will explore if specific communal disciplines can enable Christians to grow. Why is communal discipline perceived to be so crucial in formation? For consideration, I will evaluate three practices of communal discipline for Christians. Firstly, a political approach within a community of resistance derived from the teachings and practices of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Secondly, a psychological approach; , the shaping of a Christian’s affection within a liturgical community, as advanced by James K. A. Smith. Thirdly, I will review the development and disciplines practised within examples of new monastic communities. As some of these approaches promote a form of monasticism, I will also evaluate them, considering their missional attributes of presenting Christ to a lost world. |