Studying Local Churches: A Handbook - Softcover

Cameron, Helen; Richter, Philip J.; Davies, Douglas

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0334029600 ISBN 13: 9780334029601

Publisher: SCM Press, 2005

Synopsis

This practical handbook - aimed at final year undergraduates, Masters-level students, student ministers, church leaders and policy makers interested in local faith communities - guides readers through the various tools, methods of analysis and research skills needed for studying local churches. This resource takes full account of the UK context and is an ideal basis for students undertaking research projects and dissertations. After an historical overview. the handbook identifies theoretical foundations for the study of local churches, drawing on the 4 disciplines of anthropology, sociology, organisational studies and theology. Guidance is provided on both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Research processes covered include such issues as selecting a church, gaining access, selecting methods,analysing data, maintaining confidentiality, research reflexivity, and completing the final report. There is also a critical review of existing literature, as well as case studies and worked examples, demonstrating how key concepts from the 4 disciplines apply to actual local churches.The handbook contains a wide range of contributors with extensive theoretical and practical experience of studying local churches.

About this title

Review

These rich and varied readings of Aquinas scholarship can themselves be profitably read in many ways and by different audiences. --Robert Masson, Marquette University, Milwaukee, December 2005

From the Author

This book is the first text book in congregational studies (or local church studies) in the UK. It is being adopted as a text by courses in ministerial education, and Masters degrees in practical and pastoral theology. We are also getting positive reactions from leaders in local churches and those who work to support them. The book has its own website where you can find additional resources and ask questions of the editors on a forum.
A recent collection of academic articles is a helpful accompaniment: Congregational Studies in the UK: Christianity in a Post-Christian Context. 2004 Mathew Guest (Editor), Karin Tusting (Editor), Linda Woodhead (Editor)Ashgate Publishers

Edition details

• Publisher: SCM Press
• Publication date: 2005
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0334029600
• ISBN 13: 9780334029601
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 288