24: Feminist Practical Theology

1. Theological Category and Placement

Category: Practical Theology

Feminist Practical Theology is situated within Practical Theology as it applies feminist insights to the praxis of ministry, pastoral care, and ecclesial life. It critically examines and challenges patriarchal structures within the Church and society, advocating for gender justice, inclusivity, and the empowerment of women in all aspects of Christian life and ministry (Ruether, 1993).

2. Introduction

Feminist Practical Theology emerged in the late 20th century alongside broader feminist movements, seeking to address systemic gender inequalities in the Church and society. It integrates theological reflection with feminist critique and praxis, aiming to reconstruct ministry and pastoral care in ways that affirm the dignity and agency of women. This tradition fosters inclusive practices and challenges oppressive traditions (Ruether, 1993).

3. Historical Development

Building on feminist theology’s critique of traditional doctrines and ecclesiology, Feminist Practical Theology developed as a focused discipline addressing the lived experiences of women in ministry and church life. It has expanded to include intersectional analyses, considering race, class, and sexuality. The movement has influenced feminist pastoral counseling, worship renewal, and leadership practices (Schüssler Fiorenza, 1983).

4. Core Doctrines and Theological Emphases

  • Gender Justice: Advocating for equality and the dismantling of patriarchal structures.
  • Inclusive Ministry: Promoting women’s leadership and participation in all church roles.
  • Critique of Traditional Theology: Challenging androcentric interpretations of Scripture and doctrine.
  • Embodied Theology: Valuing women’s experiences as sources of theological insight.
  • Intersectionality: Addressing multiple and overlapping forms of oppression.
  • Reimagined Worship and Liturgy: Creating inclusive and empowering worship practices.

5. Scriptural and Theological Foundations

Feminist Practical Theology re-examines biblical texts through feminist hermeneutics, highlighting stories of women’s agency and critiquing oppressive readings (e.g., Galatians 3:28, Deborah’s leadership). It draws on feminist ethics and liberationist themes to advocate for transformative ecclesial practices (Ruether, 1993).

6. Influence and Impact

This theology has transformed pastoral care, liturgy, and church leadership by fostering inclusivity and justice. It has empowered women within ecclesial structures and challenged churches to address systemic sexism. Feminist Practical Theology continues to influence contemporary debates on gender and sexuality in theology and ministry (Schüssler Fiorenza, 1983).

7. Representative Theologians and Key Works

  • Rosemary Radford Ruether – Sexism and God-Talk
  • Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza – In Memory of Her
  • Katie Cannon – Womanist practical theologian
  • Kwok Pui-lan – Postcolonial feminist theologian

8. Conclusion

Feminist Practical Theology offers a critical and constructive approach to ministry and pastoral care, foregrounding gender justice and inclusivity. Its ongoing challenge to patriarchal structures enriches the Church’s witness and practice in the pursuit of equality and holistic discipleship.

9. References

  • Ruether, R. R. (1993). Sexism and God-Talk: Toward a Feminist Theology. Beacon Press.
  • Schüssler Fiorenza, E. (1983). In Memory of Her: A Feminist Theological Reconstruction of Christian Origins. SCM Press.
  • Cannon, K. (1988). Katie’s Canon: Womanism and the Soul of the Black Community. Continuum.
  • Kwok, P. L. (2005). Postcolonial Imagination and Feminist Theology. Westminster John Knox Press.
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