Living out a calling to teach

A practical theological engagement

Bibliographic Data

ID12858110
AuthorsCarolina Botha (0000-0003-1693-5575, University of the Free State, corresponding author), Jan-Albert van den Berg (University of the Free State)
Year2013
Volume34
Issue1
Publication date2013-02-28
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueVerbum et Ecclesia (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1609-9982 • E-ISSN: 2074-7705
PublisherAOSIS (PUBLISHER • ZA)
DOI10.4102/ve.v34i1.790
OpenAlexW2004444918
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited5

South African teachers are confronted with a plethora of stressors on a daily basis. Often their experience of having a calling to teach is silenced by the realities they have to face. Becoming more aware of the presence of God in their classrooms might turn them into practical theologians. This in itself does not eliminate the factors that cause stress, but it becomes the driving force that keeps them coping in times of duress. Through a constant migration between theory and praxis within the habitus of practical theology, the academic discourses about teachers and about calling are explored. This specific context creates a moment of praxis where they can explore their identity as Christian teachers and their endeavours to create schools driven by their calling. The realisation that they are practical theologians has a profound effect on the different relationship-spheres in which teachers function. Thus they become empowered to be the hands and feet of God in their classrooms and, in turn, serve as agents of hope for their learners and for one another

Aesthetics · Context (archaeology · Coping (psychology · Epistemology · Habitus · Identity (music · Pedagogy · Praxis · Realisation · Social science · Sociology · Theology · Biblical Studies and Interpretation · Christian Theology and Mission · Philosophy · Psychology · Religion, Society, and Development

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