I wish I could hear the conversations this week in practical theology classes, and in the many academic-pastoral-social venues that practical theologians work, regarding Pope Francis’ USA visit.
What does practical theology have to say about the trip? What does Roman Catholicism as refracted through his visit have to say to practical theology?
Thinking about his visit in practice-intensive terms opens a lot of potential avenues to deepen theological awareness and practice. Among the topics I’m thinking about are the practice of interpreting a religious heritage to multiple constituencies at once in a way that remains simultaneously “prophetic,” “reasonable,” and “experiential.” What was opened up through his practice, what was not, and how?
What theological questions are being asked, or responses evoked, in your setting after the Pope’s USA visit?
–Tom Beaudoin, Fordham University
[photo credit: Evan Schneider]