Considers the defining role of ritual liturgical practices (hymn singing, prayer, sacred meal) in establishing and maintaining the faith of a religious community. Argues that liturgical practices (acting as formative and catechesis agents) are critical, constitutive, and normative for persons and communities of faith. (MJP)

Maintains that reimagining God through metaphors that counter patriarchy can become a liberating and transformational pathway for a healing community. Proposes two metaphorical constructions, "bodyfaith" and "the mind's heart," to act as tools to imagine a healing agenda within education. Considers the role of educational healing within a…

Suggests an alternative to the traditional epistemological construction that defines the individual as the center of knowledge formation. Criticizes this approach for helping to perpetuate an individualistic culture often at odds with religious teachings. Outlines recent epistemologies, mostly offered by feminists, that challenge these theories.…

Argues that the act of worship can become an act of resistance against the hegemony of a dominant culture. Maintains that congregational life offers the possibility to awaken people's discontent, foster skepticism toward prevailing assumptions, articulate ethical alternatives, and develop readiness for struggle and change. (MJP)

Asserts that the manner in which congregations understand their nature as groups is critical to how they make meaning and take action in relation to their faith. Presents sociological categories that can help congregations clarify their understanding of each other as group members. Outlines supporting efforts for religious educators. (MJP)

Examines how a Canon (body of ideas, doctrines, and practices) becomes embodied in religious communities, how that experience forms the faithful in the tradition, and how that experience modifies the Canon of that tradition. Explores this phenomenon within the Jewish, Catholic, and Lutheran communities. (MJP)