Theological Reflection on Experience
Length: Reports should not exceed five (5) typed, single-spaced pages in length. The questions are suggestive, not prescriptive.
Select an Experience
- Think of several key incidents in your current placement in which you personallyplayed a role. Select one, preferably one that was particularly challenging for you or that raised questions, concerns, or uncertainties.
Narrate the Experience
- Briefly narrate the experience answering the basic questions of “who, what, when, where, and how.”
- Narrow the focus by identifying one segment of the experience that represents a key issue or critical concern.
- Describe how you specifically responded (provide a short verbatim or summary).
- Describe the response of others.
Analyze the Experience
- What key issues do you see as being significant in this situation (e.g. interpersonal dynamics, social forces, cultural issues, power dynamics, value conflicts, assumptions, attitudes, etc.).
- How does this experience connect with your personal values and convictions?
- What specific questions are you bringing to the group for reflection?
Reflect on the Experience
- What key theological themes does this experience evoke?
- What Biblical principles or stories (not proof text) seem applicable in this context?
- What learning and insights from your theological studies are relevant?
- What insights from your personal faith experiences are called to mind?
- How do you perceive God to be present in this experience?
Assess your Learning
- What insights have surfaced from your reflection that you can take with you into this particular ministry situation or similar situations in the future?
- How has this experience challenged and/or affirmed your personal beliefs and theological convictions?
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What have you learned from this experience about the practice of ministry?
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What have you learned about yourself and your identity as a ministering person?