Towards Friendship-Shaped Communities: A Practical Theology of Friendship

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This book offers a unique exploration of the nature and significance of friendship in both personal and civic dimensions. The author, a distinguished theological researcher, presents a constructive examination of friendship as essential to human existence, vocation, and community life. It addresses contemporary concerns about relationality and provides a comprehensive theology of friendship, making it particularly relevant for members and leaders of faith communities. The study is inclusive and interdisciplinary, engaging traditional texts with modern contexts, including insights from Indigenous and Euro-Western cultures. Readers are encouraged to reflect on the theology of friendship and its connection to community, critically examining their own social and theological perspectives. The author draws on Don Browning’s Fundamental Practical Theology to develop an integrative approach to theological reflection. The book integrates philosophical, anthropological, and theological perspectives, addressing contemporary questions about friendship and exploring its representation in first and second testament writings, as well as in classical and Christian traditions. It includes practical discussions on mutuality and spirit-shaped friendships, offering considerations for implementing friendship ideals within communities of practice. This work is ideal for graduate and advanced undergraduate students in courses on friendship or prac