'n Praktykbenadering tot geloofsvorming vanuit die benadering van Thomas Groome en Gestaltteorie : 'n prakties-teologiese dialoog

Abstract

The focus of this study is faith formation. The transversal model of cross-disciplinary dialogue, developed by Wentzel van Huyssteen, is being utilised to develop a practice approach to faith formation. Dialogue between Thomas Groome’s approach to faith formation and Gestalt theory is used to develop a practice approach to faith formation. Osmer’s practical theological model frames the different stages of the research: the descriptive, interpretive, normative and pragmatic tasks. The descriptive task involves a description of the process of faith formation according to the approach of Thomas Groome. His Shared Christian Praxis approach, encompassing five movements, is being discussed. In order to complete the interpretive task, the description of Groome’s approach is followed by a focus on Gestalt theory. The philosophical roots of Gestalt theory is explored, as well as specific Gestalt concepts, in order to explain the process of human growth and change. The way in which faith formation can be explained, with a focus on integration and assimilation, is outlined. Gestalt theory’s Paradoxical theory of change, as well as the contact cycle, are being utilised in order to explain the process of integration and assimilation of faith. Hereafter, the transversal dialogue is continued by relating the insights gained from Groome’s approach and Gestalt theory with each other during the normative task. The context of missional ecclesiology, in which the researcher finds himself, is also being accounted for during the dialogue. The process identifies six guidelines for the practice of faith formation. During the completion of the pragmatic task, the findings of the dialogue are processed into a practice approach to faith formation. The practice approach is presented in such a way that it can be utilised in a variety of settings.