<p> Chapter 1 is the introduction, which gives an overview of the entire study. Chapter 2 is the literature review, defining the problem of stunted spiritual growth and considering coaching as a possible catalyst to move people out of stagnation. Chapter 3 covers the methods of the present study, describing how the treatment and effects study was set up in order to determine if the participants who were coached would experience more spiritual growth than the non-coached participants and how the focus group interviews were conducted to ascertain any noticeable difference in the spiritual growth between the two groups by looking for areas of growth that the coached group experienced that were not reflected in the DSGS and then seeing if the non-coached group grew in those same areas or different areas. Chapter 4 details the results of the study. The hypothesis that coached participants would score at higher levels of spiritual growth than non-coached participants was not supported by the results. The data showed that both groups scored at the same level of growth with no significant difference when t-tested. Chapter 5 addresses conclusions of the study and suggestions for related studies that could help address the problem of spiritual stagnation in the United States church.</p><p>

<p> The purpose of this study was to test a ministry model designed to foster growth in the understanding and practice of bringing miracles, signs, and wonders to bear in life situations. The spiritual effect on individuals and congregations was measured. A qualitative/quantitative strategy utilized a comparison of a pretest and post-test, participant testimony, and peer review to generate the data. The results suggest participants experienced spiritual growth, individually and collectively. This study is part of the Randy Clark scholars' theme "Randy Clark Scholars: Presenting the Gospel as Jesus Intended, in Love, Authority, Signs, and Wonders."</p>

<p> The purpose of this study was to provide a case study on the application of service-learning curriculum in a youth ministry at a traditional mid-size church. The intent of the curriculum was to provide a new and creative way for the church to impact youth by getting them involved in actions that correspond with Biblical principles. Church leaders hope that this curriculum change will not only impact youth in their teens but also influence them to remain involved in a traditional church as they reach college and become young adults. </p><p> The researcher used the process model of curriculum study from Lawrence Stenhouse (Smith, 2000) to investigate the selection, implementation, and desired outcomes of service learning. The researcher, who also served as the Student Minister at the church, used qualitative data collection methods to discover the thoughts of students who left the ministry prior to service-learning implementation. He then compared that to focus-group research, survey responses, and interviews of youth and young adults as well as adult leaders of the youth ministry. </p><p> The research sought to demonstrate the impact of service learning on the youth ministry, as well as the potential impact on youth as they grow into young adulthood. The youth and adults involved had very positive reactions to the curriculum; however, the church did not share that reaction. In fact, certain elements of the church tried to block certain aspects of the curriculum. How the youth and the church respond organizationally and educationally in the future will determine the overall impact of the curriculum. If changes and improvements can be implemented, the present case study may provide a model for youth ministry that can have a positive impact on young adults as well as the larger Christian community.</p>

Thesis (Ph.D.)--Andrews University, 2005. / (UnM)AAI3182008. Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 66-07, Section: A, page: 2602. Chair: Jimmy Kijai.

Thesis (Ed. D.)--Teachers College, Columbia University, 1986. / Typescript; issued also on microfilm. Sponsor: William Bean Kennedy. Dissertation Committee: Douglas M. Sloan. Bibliography: leaves 216-221.

Habilitation-Universität, Münster, 2008. / Includes bibliographical references and register.

<p> For many years, churches have known that young people have not found the corporate worship of their congregations meaningful. To churches' credit, they have both acknowledged the problem and tried many different solutions to fix it. Unfortunately, most solutions lose steam after changes to the style of the corporate worship service. This dissertation suggests that the problem is not the style of music or the formality of the liturgy, but rather the inability of congregations to help young people anticipate an encounter with God in worship. After examining John Wesley's understanding of religious experience and worship as well as the historical shifts in liturgical practice of American Methodism, I use qualitative research methods to detail the experience of corporate worship for teenagers in three United Methodist congregations. Then, leaning heavily on the work of Howard Thurman, I propose a theology of magnitude that suggests that the Church is the normative home for the anticipated encounter of God. Finally, I propose five strategic turns necessary to return magnitude (the significance which comes from the anticipation of an encounter with God) to worship in United Methodist congregations.</p>

Project (D. Min.)--Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, 1975. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 126-128).

Project (D. Min.)--Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, 1975. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 126-128).

<p> This project examines the dynamics of discipleship and missional community. The concept and perceptions around both topics are relational. As all relationships are, by definition Discipleship is multilayered and multifaceted. Christian Discipleship is revealed through Christ&rsquo;s example, as evident in His teachings and His ministry within the community. This project begins with a specific definition of Christian Discipleship followed by a demonstration of how that definition can be executed within a particular church. The paper will not limit Discipleship solely within the church but will articulate discipleship through community outreach and conclude with an evaluation of the project and its methodologies. </p><p> The goal of the project is to define and effectively utilize Christian Discipleship principles as revealed through the life of Christ. This paper seeks to explore the making of Christian Discipleship within a church in transition, as we seek to be engaged with the larger neighborhood context. This project will address two major social challenges in East New York: Mental illness and homelessness. It will examine discipleship as a model for effective ministry among and within those realities.</p><p>