Models of theological reflection are not intended to be straightjackets, which force us to explore complicated topics by moving through various stages in a pre-arranged fashion. The models of theological reflection, which will be considered in this session, should be seen as explanatory models. They provide a way of talking about the complex process of doing theological reflection. In addition, they provide ways of structuring our thinking about an experience, and offer ways of explaining to others, how we have been thinking about particular experiences.
A theological reflection model would have provided a useful structure for thinking carefully about what had been going on.
This model of reflection was developed by the Durham Diocesan Theological Consultancy and the Teesside Industrial Mission at ICI Billingham in September 1991. It was introduced to students at Spurgeon's College by the Revd Dr Bill Allen during his time as a tutor in pastoral studies (1992-1999). One of the strengths of this model is its simplicity.
Anecdote - Telling the story
The process commences by telling the story of an experience; in other words, by sharing an Anecdote. This involves sharing or writing down an experience which is of significance or concern
to the storyteller. If this approach is being used with a group it is important, at this stage, to listen carefully to the person telling the story. Do not allow interruptions or questions at this stage.
Simply allow the storyteller to tell the story
Analysis - Identifying the Issues
The second stage is to explore some of the concerns, issues and questions which this story raises. Write things down as they occur. Concentrate on asking the questions, rather than looking for answers at this point in the process. It is important to allow ample time for thinking through the issues and for group discussion of them.
Application - Bringing Christian Insights to bear
At this stage the challenge is to make meaningful connections between the issues raised by the
story, and your knowledge of Scripture, and of the Great Tradition of Christian thought. So:
• Identify pictures, experiences, and stories from the Bible which resonate with the story you are
exploring;
• Draw upon your theological knowledge, asking about doctrines which might shed some light on
the issues you are examining;
• Consider the resources provided by your own Christian roots and traditions.
• This is always the most difficult part of the process. However, if it is to be a theological reflection it is essential to make real connections with biblical and theological insights.
Action - New Actions and Responses
The final stage of the reflection process seeks both to identify new perspectives and approaches,
and to think about ways in which those ideas can be translated into action.
So:
• What clues, hints or ideas for new approaches emerge in your mind?
• How can these new ideas be turned into a practical Christian response?
• What new experiences will such action lead into?
A theological reflection model would have provided a useful structure for thinking carefully about what had been going on.
This model of reflection was developed by the Durham Diocesan Theological Consultancy and the Teesside Industrial Mission at ICI Billingham in September 1991. It was introduced to students at Spurgeon's College by the Revd Dr Bill Allen during his time as a tutor in pastoral studies (1992-1999). One of the strengths of this model is its simplicity.
Anecdote - Telling the story
The process commences by telling the story of an experience; in other words, by sharing an Anecdote. This involves sharing or writing down an experience which is of significance or concern
to the storyteller. If this approach is being used with a group it is important, at this stage, to listen carefully to the person telling the story. Do not allow interruptions or questions at this stage.
Simply allow the storyteller to tell the story
Analysis - Identifying the Issues
The second stage is to explore some of the concerns, issues and questions which this story raises. Write things down as they occur. Concentrate on asking the questions, rather than looking for answers at this point in the process. It is important to allow ample time for thinking through the issues and for group discussion of them.
Application - Bringing Christian Insights to bear
At this stage the challenge is to make meaningful connections between the issues raised by the
story, and your knowledge of Scripture, and of the Great Tradition of Christian thought. So:
• Identify pictures, experiences, and stories from the Bible which resonate with the story you are
exploring;
• Draw upon your theological knowledge, asking about doctrines which might shed some light on
the issues you are examining;
• Consider the resources provided by your own Christian roots and traditions.
• This is always the most difficult part of the process. However, if it is to be a theological reflection it is essential to make real connections with biblical and theological insights.
Action - New Actions and Responses
The final stage of the reflection process seeks both to identify new perspectives and approaches,
and to think about ways in which those ideas can be translated into action.
So:
• What clues, hints or ideas for new approaches emerge in your mind?
• How can these new ideas be turned into a practical Christian response?
• What new experiences will such action lead into?
