Uppsatsen ska ge en bild av de olika förhållningssätten till gudstjänsten som finns inom Svenska kyrkan som i sitt uppdrag har att föra ut evangeliet. Det är gudstjänstens förhållande till den Augsburgska bekännelsen, här främst inriktat på den IV, V och den VII av de förnämsta trosartiklarna som ska utläggas. Vilka konsekvenser får då de skilda synsätten som råder i gudstjänstens utformning och gestaltning? Några av de modeller som finns kommer att redovisas, från den renodlade högkyrkliga till dagens aktuella former som består av en blandning av tidigare inriktningar tillsammans med nya koncept. Slutligen ställer jag också frågan om Svenska kyrkans uppgift och betydelse för dagens människa och hur hon lever upp till sin önskan och vision att nå ”alla” människor med evangeliet. Sv.kyrkan är en evangelisk-luthersk bekännelsekyrka och min frågeställning i denna uppsats är hur och om Sv.kyrkan lever upp till detta ideal eller inte. Givetvis kan jag inte ge ett rakt och konkret svar på hur Sv.kyrkan på bästa sätt lever upp till sitt uppdrag, men uppsatsen kan väcka tankar över Sv.kyrkans uppgift och betydelse i dagens samhälle. De förnämsta trosartiklarna i den Augsburgska bekännelsen utgör tillsammans med de tre versionerna av trosbekännelsen, den apostoliska, nicaenska och den athanasianska, är kärnpunkten av Sv.kyrkans bekännelseskrifter som varandes evangelisk-luthersk bekännelsekyrka. Gudstjänsten är det centrala i gestaltningen av Sv.kyrkans tro, bekännelse och lära. Den Augsburgska bekännelsen bör betraktas som den gudstjänstfirande församlingens dokument som är nyckeln till evangeliets bruk som har sin grund i gudstjänstens bekännelse som slår vakt om en rätt gudstjänst, alltså är det själva gudstjänsten som gestaltar Sv.kyrkans tro och bekännelse. Luther såg gudstjänstfirandet som det säkra kännetecknet och helgelsemedlet. Sv.kyrkan har den Augsburgska bekännelsen som riktlinje och ledning i sitt arbete och bland de främsta trosartiklarna finner vi den IV som beskriver den tro som leder till en rättfärdighet inför Gud. Därefter följer den V trosartikeln som visar att det är genom det inrättade predikoämbetet som förmedlar Ordet, evangeliet och sakramenten som skänker den heliga Anden och frambringar den rätta tron. Som en motbild beskrivs de som tror att den heliga Anden kan komma till människorna genom deras egna ansträngningar, utan det utvärtes ordets förmedling. Av detta kan man dra slutsatsen att prästämbetet i Sv.kyrkan har ett stort ansvar i sin utövning av sitt ämbete. Detta bekräftar den VII trosartikeln ytterligare där kyrkan beskrivs som de heligas samfund där evangeliet rent förkunnas och sakramenten rätt förvaltas.

My research considers one way in which contemporary sculptural art practice might reinterpret sculpture and painting, primarily from Catholicism as represented in Italian and Spanish Renaissance and Baroque art. The themes that are explored include: faith and doubt, divinity and human nature, miracles and materials. How can sculptural practice delve into the nature of faith and doubt through materials and processes, interpretative strategies, and a consideration of contexts? Can any sense of faith or belief in the unphysical be evoked in audiences through this practice-led research? The research employs inductive means and methodologies that are fundamentally practice-led and iterative. Rather than starting with a problem-based enquiry, a careful analysis of existing artworks, primarily by the painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio and the sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini, was undertaken. This study has led to the production of creative work that in turn has initiated further questions and more sculptural objects. The production of sculptural artefacts creates a snowballing effect that is a self-reflective, investigative cycle. This method draws upon the sculptural process itself and takes into account external and contextual considerations. My studio-based investigations have given rise to the sculptural work. These case studies reinforce an understanding that methods that are primarily based on the assessment of haptic means relating to touch, sight and other sensory perceptions can contribute to knowledge in meaningful and unique ways. The iterative process used in this research has thematic and metaphoric parallels to the ways in which Catholic stories are retold, interpreted, and examined – narratives that have themselves been continuously readapted to suit changing contexts and intended audiences. Such narratives have been disseminated throughout the history of Christianity, and continue to be circulated in modern-day Christianity. In our post-enlightenment world, the core theme of incredulity, as imagined through art, is explored. To this end, and to make wider connections with this enquiry, philosophical writings regarding ideas of truth and subjectivity, particularly the work of Søren Kierkegaard, are investigated. The historical sculpture and painting referenced and utilised as source material are themselves reinterpretations of pre-existing narratives and stories. This research strives to explore and expose the correlative relationship that exists between understandings of past and present day contexts and employs an examination of both historical and contemporary art works and practitioners. Rather than perceiving this research project primarily in the context of other contemporary art practices, the main focus is on how European artists from the early 17th century wrestled with imagining and imaging these stories and, in that context, how the same narratives might be reinterpreted today. A selection of contemporary artists has been used throughout the research in order to help situate this work within a contemporary cultural context. The primary output from the research is a selection of three sculptural groupings, referred to as case studies, presented in chronological order, taken from the larger body of sculptural artefacts created over the course of the entire research project. The three selected case studies encapsulate the key findings and principle discoveries. The case studies are supplemented by photographs of installed site-specific work, as well as the contextual and critical analysis contained in this thesis.

In spite of many indications to the contrary, not least the tenor of the times which includes both the remnant left after the "death of God" as well as the rise of New Age religiosity, this thesis proposes, using feminist and feminine archetypal thinking, that the theory of culture that Christianity, and specifically Catholicism, formulates, is more relevant than ever for the culture it had a part in creating. Within the frame of Christian value reality, a "religion of relatedness" is centred on the Great Commandment which orders loving relatedness to God, then to oneself, and finally to others. What this has to mean in practice is that our relatedness to others depends on our relatedness with ourselves which depends on our relatedness to a beneficent God. Our relatedness to ourselves and to God can be appreciated and evaluated through the lens of Jungian thought - in particular Jung's theory of individuation. Our relatedness to others and the success of that as expressed in the health of our cultural milieu can be appreciated and evaluated through the lens of Lacanian discourse theory. Both individual and cultural growth are part of a developmental and maturation process leading to the "paradox, depth and intergenerational responsibility" that Fowler (1981) describes as characteristic of a Stage 5 level of faith in his Stages of Faith model. That complexity in Stage 5 understanding is seen as essential for growing out of the social and environmental problems that beset human life at this point in its history.

In an altering world of work where change is inevitable, and with the vast growth of a technological era unknown to mankind and which leaves the human factor behind, there is an outcry for leaders leading by example. Leaders today have a responsibility towards their followers by leading with their hearts, souls and minds, whilst intrinsically motivating their followers. Spiritual leaders are individuals who live by their values, ethics and attitudes, who intrinsically motivate themselves as well as their followers, whilst instilling a sense of belonging and membership in the organisation. When a leader demonstrates these qualities, it increases the psychological wellbeing, productivity and morale of the employee, adding towards the triple bottom-line of people, planet and profit, whilst at the same time reducing absenteeism. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a spiritual leadership questionnaire in the South African context. A quantitative, random probability sampling survey design was utilised in construction organisations in the Gauteng and Northern Cape Provinces, reaching a sample size of 221 participants. By making use and adapting the Spiritual Leadership Theory Questionnaire, the Spirituality Scale, the Religious Involvement Questionnaire and the Meaning in Life Questionnaire, a biographical questionnaire was used to develop the Spiritual Leadership Questionnaire on a 4-point Likert scale. Participation was completely voluntary. The Confirmatory Factor Analysis was used to verify whether the constructs measured the latent variable of spiritual leadership, while Structural Equation Modelling with the application on the Mplus program was used to confirm the relationships between the constructs, and to determine the validity and reliability of the latent variables. Acceptable item reliability was found in a three-factor model, namely spirituality, vision/hope/faith, and altruism. The results indicated practical and statistically significant relationships between the latent variable spiritual leadership and the constructs spirituality, vision/hope/faith and altruism. Recommendations followed, as well as indications for future research. / MCom (Industrial Psychology), North-West University, Vaal Triangle Campus, 2014

Retirement is an unavoidable and necessary phase in a person’s life. It is also one of the biggest transitions in the life cycle of a human being. Emeritus of the Apostolic Faith Mission of S.A. (AFM) have positive and negative feelings regarding their retirement. In the light of this fact the research question was posed: How can the AFM, from a pastoral perspective, understand the situation of, prepare and assist its emeritus in coping effectively with retirement - in the process addressing their holistic needs - maintaining a meaningful life in the service of God as integral members of His community? With reference to the abovementioned question it is the overall aim of this study to research the holistic needs of the pastors of the AFM, with the objective to create a pastoral model for retirement preparation. In so doing they can remain integral members of God`s community whose holistic needs are taken care of, in a Christian way. The study was done by using the practical-theological model of Osmer as starting point which comprises the following: * the normative task, where Scriptural perspectives on the topic have been researched; * the interpretative task, according to which material from other disciplines are studied; * an empirical research by way of interviews with emeritus; * and a practice theory to design a model for pre-retirement planning for pastors of the AFM. The normative task part of the research indicates that although the Bible does not say much regarding emeritus, definite direction is found regarding old age. God speaks through, and gives direction in his Word concerning the elderly. In the interpretative task part of the study very little literature is found regarding the retirement of clergy. Information exists, however, on the subject of the elderly. Numerous guidelines are also found in Scripture a propos the pastors as a holistic person in connection with body, soul and spirit. Research indicated that preparation for retirement is of cardinal importance. The results which surfaced from the empirical study, confirmed the normative and interpretative theoretical research. Subsequently the practice theory has been formulated from the hermeneutical interaction of the different elements of the research in the format of a model for pre-retirement planning. A model where the strategy for planning has been explained has been compiled finally. Matters related to the problems and fears of emeritus were addressed in creating a model. The intention of the pre-retirement education is to reduce the effect of negative stereotypes of retirement. It will further assist pastors to develop realistic goals for their retirement. With reference to the research question, central theoretical argument and the research reflected in chapters 2 to 5, the final conclusion states that pre-retirement planning for pastors of the AFM is very important. / PhD (Pastoral studies), North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2014

The central theoretical argument of the study is that faith can heal or help counselees to cope with mood and anxiety disorders. In the meta-theoretical perspective a literature study of recent research on mood and anxiety disorders and the therapeutic approaches to each within the disciplines of psychiatry, psychology, and medicine was done. It was found that there are a number of different causes and treatments for depression and anxiety with different disciplines emphasising different perspectives. An empirical study consisting of qualitative structured interviews and observations of a selected group of counselees struggling with depression and anxiety was also carried out. It was established that faith had played a significant role in the healing of the counselee's depression and anxiety or in their ability to deal with their illnesses. The goal with the basis-theoretical perspectives was to explore what the Bible has to teach about 'depression", faith and healing and to research the revelation historical stance on this. Expositional studies of a selected core of biblical references pertaining to depression were undertaken and key biblical figures who suffered from “depression" were studied. It was concluded that although the Bible does not speak of depression and anxiety per se, it describes people who might have been suffering from it. Valuable insights that can be used in helping counselees to deal and/or cope with their depression and anxiety were gained by studying these biblical characters and passages (2 Corinthians 1:3-11, Philippians 4:4-13 and Lamentations). In the practice-theoretical perspective an integrative model which can be used by pastoral counsellors for dealing with depression in a faith-based context and for equipping depression sufferers to constructively deal with their depression and anxiety was developed. This was accomplished by utilising the basis- and meta-theoretical perspectives in a hermeneutical interaction to formulate a holistic faith-based model. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Pastoral))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2006

The aim of this study was to determine how preaching can stimulate spiritual growth and intensify the spirituality of Listeners. The working method for the study has been based on the mode[ formulated by Zerfass (1974) for Practical Theology and follows a Reformatory angle. • In the first place, basis-theoretical principles regarding preaching, spirituality and spiritual growth have been researched, as well as the relationship between preaching and spiritual growth. To do this, exegetical hermeneutical studies about a series of Bible texts, as well as some literary studies regarding these topics have been conducted. • In the second place, meta-theoretical principles regarding studies in Communication and the Psychology of Religion and Spirituality have been researched by means of Literary studies. • In the third place, a qualitative empirical study has been done to test the basis and meta-theoretical principles in practice. Interviews have been conducted with 21 participants from seven Reformatory churches. • In the fourth place, the results of the empirical study have been put in hermeneutical interaction with the basis- and meta-theoretical principles in order to formulate readjusted basis- and meta-theoretical principles. The readjusted basis- and meta-theoretical principles have been used to formulate a readjusted practice theory which gives guidelines on how preaching can contribute to spiritual growth and intensified spirituality. Out of this, a model has been formulated which can help preachers to promote spiritual growth among their listeners by means of their preaching. The result of this study is as follows: A preacher can promote spiritual growth and contribute to intensified spirituality among their Listeners by means of: • Identifying voids and problems in their listeners' spirituality • The context • Taking into account the level of spiritual growth of the listeners while preaching. These matters must be addressed in sermons which communicate effectively. In preaching, effective communication can be obtained by: • Having clarity regarding the tone to be used during the sermon (proclaiming, teaching, consoling or admonishing) • Having clarity regarding the exact goal of the sermon • Ensuring that the sermon possesses a strong structure • Thorough exegesis of Scripture • Effectively addressing all kinds of noise • Using techniques to make people actively listen to the sermon • Using techniques to make it easier for listeners to follow the sermon • Ensuring that the preacher is credible. Although preaching is a monologue in nature, feedback i s of the utmost importance to the preacher. Feedback can help in clearing up obscurities, identifying problems and other voids. These problems and voids can be addressed in follow-up sermons and over time preaching can encourage and accompany listeners in a congregation lo grow spiritually and deepen their spirituality. In this way, preaching contributes to Listeners having an ever growing fervent relationship with the Lord. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Homiletics))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2007.

This study examines the question of whether the faith-estranged could be guided from their natural state of estrangement from God and resultant wounded ness since the Fall as well as subsequent wounds inflicted on earth due to traumatic events, by way of counseling and prayer into experiencing God's salvation in Christ. The section on basis theory has shown that a Biblical-pastoral anthropology is the foundation of Biblical pastorate. Man's estranged and wounded condition since the Fall and the resultant secondary wounding and suffering at the hand of fellow man on earth,presents the pastorate with a unique opportunity regarding the facilitation of and guiding towards both a spiritual and emotional healing process. This pastoral intervention addresses both primary and secondary wounded ness within the faith-estranged. The work of the Holy Spirit, confession of sin and guilt, prayer, forgiveness and faith, form part of the pastoral counseling process pointing towards salvation, healing and restored intimate communion with God. The meta-theoretical section brought to light the fact that the traumatized person is dealt not only a physical, cognitive and/or emotional wound but in fact also a spiritual wound by these events. A strong correlation was discovered between the healing of the body and the healing of the mind or spirit - in this regard forgiveness of the abuser, the self and of God (by implication a confession of personal rebellion) seemed to playa central role. It was also confirmed that an important link exists between, on the one hand, success in the therapeutic process with the wounded person, and on the other hand, the creation of a secure therapeutic environment, healthy relational structures as well as evoking hope in the heart of the counselee. The empirical section has proved to be of extreme importance regarding the distinctive role of the counselor in demonstrating God's closeness in Christ and His sharing in the pain of the counselee. The counselee does have an active role in this process of healing by accepting ownership of his future life choices and rational decisions. Perspectives derived from the sections of both basis theory and meta-theory has ultimately led to the formulation of a suitable practice theoretical model called Theo-phospromissio therapy. This model demonstrates the path along which there can be a pastoral engagement with the faith-estranged towards accepting God's redemption through Christ's finished work on the Cross. Furthermore, this model opens up a distinctive eschatological perspective on the final purpose of man's life on earth as it gives meaning to life here and now amidst seemingly unending life-crises and trauma, given the eternal hope it promises in God as the only secure anchor. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Pastoral))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2010

Becoming an effective agent of development in the challenging and complex context of the development NGO in Sub-Saharan Africa necessitates prioritizing learning and adaptation. But NGOs are often not characterized by such a strong learning culture and commitment; and Christian NGOs are no exception. Reforming both the commitment to learning and the structures that support it is a pressing challenge facing Christian NGOs committed to being effective agents of development. Such reform requires careful analysis of the context of Sub-Saharan Africa, special consideration of the complex broader socio-political structure of the NGO world, and systematic research into understanding organizational dynamics that facilitate learning. Data from this research contributes to building an integrated learning model. Applying this model through a case study of specific Christian NGO—World Vision Burundi—leads to both identifying factors that undermine learning and proposing a set of recommendations that will help this NGO become a more effective learning organization.

The aim of this study was to determine how preaching can stimulate spiritual growth and intensify the spirituality of Listeners. The working method for the study has been based on the mode[ formulated by Zerfass (1974) for Practical Theology and follows a Reformatory angle. • In the first place, basis-theoretical principles regarding preaching, spirituality and spiritual growth have been researched, as well as the relationship between preaching and spiritual growth. To do this, exegetical hermeneutical studies about a series of Bible texts, as well as some literary studies regarding these topics have been conducted. • In the second place, meta-theoretical principles regarding studies in Communication and the Psychology of Religion and Spirituality have been researched by means of Literary studies. • In the third place, a qualitative empirical study has been done to test the basis and meta-theoretical principles in practice. Interviews have been conducted with 21 participants from seven Reformatory churches. • In the fourth place, the results of the empirical study have been put in hermeneutical interaction with the basis- and meta-theoretical principles in order to formulate readjusted basis- and meta-theoretical principles. The readjusted basis- and meta-theoretical principles have been used to formulate a readjusted practice theory which gives guidelines on how preaching can contribute to spiritual growth and intensified spirituality. Out of this, a model has been formulated which can help preachers to promote spiritual growth among their listeners by means of their preaching. The result of this study is as follows: A preacher can promote spiritual growth and contribute to intensified spirituality among their Listeners by means of: • Identifying voids and problems in their listeners' spirituality • The context • Taking into account the level of spiritual growth of the listeners while preaching. These matters must be addressed in sermons which communicate effectively. In preaching, effective communication can be obtained by: • Having clarity regarding the tone to be used during the sermon (proclaiming, teaching, consoling or admonishing) • Having clarity regarding the exact goal of the sermon • Ensuring that the sermon possesses a strong structure • Thorough exegesis of Scripture • Effectively addressing all kinds of noise • Using techniques to make people actively listen to the sermon • Using techniques to make it easier for listeners to follow the sermon • Ensuring that the preacher is credible. Although preaching is a monologue in nature, feedback i s of the utmost importance to the preacher. Feedback can help in clearing up obscurities, identifying problems and other voids. These problems and voids can be addressed in follow-up sermons and over time preaching can encourage and accompany listeners in a congregation lo grow spiritually and deepen their spirituality. In this way, preaching contributes to Listeners having an ever growing fervent relationship with the Lord. / Thesis (Ph.D. (Homiletics))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2007.