Ethnographic Theology An Inquiry Into the Production of Theological Knowledge

Can ethnography open new possibilities for theology in the often unlikely places where we live our faith? This book breaks new ground by using reflexive ethnographic methods to get academic theologians and everyday Christians talking to each other about theology. Drawing on the author's research in the Baptist church where she served as a minister, the resulting "ethnographic theology" produces constructive theological insights and proposes creative alternatives for Christian thought and action. This text crosses multiple genres - from critical theological methods to experimental doctrinal theology, from creative non-fiction to reflexive spiritual autobiography - making a compelling read for academic theologians, laity and clergy alike. By rigorously outlining an ethnographic theological method and demonstrating that method's fruits with extensive constructive theological work in ecclesiology, social transformation, embodiment, sanctification, and more, Ethnographic Theology opens new possibilities for how contemporary theology can be done.

This book uses ethnography as theological practice, yielding a theology constructed at the intersection of church, academy and everyday life. Drawing on the author's research in her Baptist church, the resulting 'ethnographic theology' produces creative theological insights, while also proposing fresh alternatives for Christian thought and action.

Natalie Wigg-Stevenson is Assistant Professor of Contextual Education and Theology at Emmanuel College of Victoria University in the University of Toronto, Canada, where she also founded and directs the Teaching for Ministry Program. She received her doctorate in theological studies from Vanderbilt University, USA, where she was a fellow in The Program in Theology and Practice.

Introduction

PART I: ETHNOGRAPHIC THEOLOGICAL THEORIES AND METHODS

1. Making Space: Making the Theological Field

2. Making Theologians: Deploying a Theological Habitus

PART II: CONSTRUCTIVE THEOLOGIES

3. Cogs in the Machine: A Reflexive Theology of Ecclesial Change

4. The Slump of a Shoulder: A Carnal Theology of God

5. My Mother's Hips: A Performance Theology of Sanctification

Conclusion