This book articulates a perichoretic pastoral theology, offering a pastoral theological response to the question of how ministering persons practice ministry in communion with the triune God. Key elements from contemporary pastoral theology—theologies of human experience, concern for human suffering, and situational attentiveness—are drawn into conversation with the doctrine of perichoresis. Jim Horsthuis provides a vision for life and ministry in relational, participational and spiritual communion with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. The chapters explore four spiritual movements that foster this vision: (1) the move from experience to relationship; (2) the move from concern to presence; (3) the move from competence to communion; and (4) the move from practice to prayer. The book represents a unique academic contribution to both pastoral theology and Trinitarian theology.
Introduction: An invitation to a dance
1. Attentive reflection: Pastoral theology and Christian doctrine
2. A perichoretic rhythm: Relationality, participation, and spirituality
3. Perichoretic relationality: The move from experience to relationship
4. Perichoretic participation: The move from concern to presence
5. Perichoretic spirituality: The move from competence to communion
6. Ministry in cadence with God: The move from practice to prayer
7. Eschatological resonances
Biography
Jim Horsthuis is Education Director at Emmaus Formation Centre in Canada. He earned a PhD in Christian Theology from McMaster Divinity College and is an ordained minister with the Christian and Missionary Alliance. Jim serves as an affiliate faculty member at Carey Theological College.
