Theological Reflection and Christian Formation

While much has been written about the process of theological reflection, one of the least developed areas is an understanding of related outcomes, and the ‘difference that this complex, demanding process ... make[s] in theory and in practice’ (Woodward and Pattison, 2000:128-29). Through a detailed discussion of reflection per se, the paper argues for a range of outcomes resulting from the activity of theological reflection (TR), including the construction of individual biographies, the growth of different forms of self, and a more subtle overall existential change. Applying this to how people engage with Christian theology and hence engage in TR, four theoretical models are examined with regard to these outcomes. The results of a recent research project are also summarised, demonstrating four different forms of TR with corresponding outcomes. Since biography, self and existential change all relate to aspects of human growth and development, the paper argues that TR must also relate to Christian formation, and the final section considers each dimension in greater depth within this context.