Date
12-4-2025
Department
Rawlings School of Divinity
Degree
Doctor of Ministry (DMin)
Chair
Glenn A. Stone
Keywords
spiritual formation, contemplative prayer, Scripture meditation, journaling, fasting, reflection, ministry leadership, attentiveness, pastoral development, formation practices, spiritual growth, mixed-method research
Disciplines
Religion | Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion
Recommended Citation
Bolden, Kion D., "Shaping the Soul: Spiritual Formation Practices in the Development of Leaders, Ministers and Ministry Workers at First Mt. Olive Freewill Baptist Church" (2025). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 7661.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/7661
Abstract
This Doctor of Ministry thesis project examined how structured spiritual formation practices can cultivate attentiveness to God and strengthen ministry readiness among leaders within a congregational context. The project addressed a critical need in the ministry field: many leaders serve faithfully but lack sustained rhythms of reflection, Scripture meditation, and contemplative rest that foster long-term spiritual vitality. The purpose of the study was to design, implement, and evaluate an eight-week Spiritual Formation Program integrating journaling, Scripture meditation, fasting, service, and contemplative prayer within a supportive cohort model. The goal was to determine whether consistent engagement in these practices measurably deepened participants’ awareness of God’s presence and confidence in ministry leadership. The research employed a mixed-method design utilizing pre- and post-interventions, Spiritual Practices Inventories, semi-structured interviews, and reflective journals. Quantitative data revealed measurable gains in reflection, Scripture meditation, and ministry confidence, while qualitative findings highlighted themes of increased peace, attentiveness, and clarity of purpose. Theologically, the project affirmed that ordinary habits of grace—prayer, Scripture engagement, reflection, and shared life—remain the Spirit’s means for transforming leaders and equipping the Church. Practically, it offers a transferable model for congregations and seminaries seeking to develop reflective, Spirit-led leaders who integrate interior transformation with outward service. The study contributes to the growing field of spiritual formation research by demonstrating that formation can be both designed and empirically assessed without diminishing its sacred character.
