Date
8-9-2024
Department
Rawlings School of Divinity
Degree
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Chair
Howard D. Owens
Keywords
Authentic dialogue, Spirituality, Ecumenism, Human Dignity, Hermeneutics, Mission
Disciplines
Ethics in Religion | Practical Theology
Recommended Citation
Reaves, Antoinette Marie, "Grounded in Faith: Maintaining and Appreciating a Relationship with God, Oneself, and Others in an Ever-Changing World with New Ears and Eyes" (2024). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 5891.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/5891
Abstract
The declining Mass attendance and participation in campus ministries at Cabrini University prompted this action research project. It was designed to engage students in guided dialogue defending key Christian doctrines to boost their Mass attendance and deepen their spiritual engagement. By involving seventeen students and employing interviews, focus group discussions, questionnaires, and surveys, the intersection of religion and spirituality among young adults was explored. Insights highlighted the participants’ perspectives regarding declining Mass attendance and disengagement from institutionalized religion. Meaningful dialogue around fundamental Christian doctrines, such as God’s existence and Jesus’ death and resurrection, was fostered to motivate students to increase Mass attendance and active participation in campus ministry programming.
Future researchers should explore means for establishing connections between campus ministers and students holding diverse beliefs, fostering inclusivity and understanding within the community, and promoting personal growth among young adults. Continued support and mentorship for young adults exploring spirituality and religiosity, during the transition from late adolescence to early adulthood, are crucial. Understanding the processes behind religious change during this critical life stage is also essential. Moreover, literature on these endeavors needs updating with research on the contemporary landscape of Catholic campus ministries. By embracing the inclusive ethos of Catholicism, campus ministries can evolve into beacons of faith in Christ for the spiritual needs of students. Collaboration among Christians of different denominations can further enrich this endeavor for the benefit of college students.
