The relation of Christian education to pastoral theology: with reference to the function-centered theology of Seward Hiltner

Abstract

Thesis (Ph.D)--Boston University1. Problem.--The problem of this dissertation is to examine the relation of Christian education to pastoral theology, utilizing the function-centered theology of Seward Hiltner as the frame of reference and theories of three Christian educators. There will be an attempt to clarify the nature and structure of pastoral theology and to arrive at some implications for its reformulation as a coordinate theology of the functions of ministry. 2. Methodology.--The study is set in a historical and contemporary perspective by a brief historical survey of practical and pastoral theology, including the rise of specialization within the functional ministry and a survey of recent attempts to reformulate pastoral theology. A descriptive analysis of Seward Hiltner's function-centered theology provides the frame of reference for describing and analyzing the general theory of pastoral theology and/or ministry and the relation of Christian education in the writings of Reuel L. Howe, Lewis J. Sherrill, and Ross Snyder. Inferences as to the relation of Christian education to pastoral theology and implications for a reformulation of pastoral theology are made [TRUNCATED