Title:
Self-story through "Logos": narrative and spiritual discovery
Author:
Shirley Eloise Ruedy
Committee Member:
C. Kevin Gillespie
Committee Member:
David C. Newton
Degree Granting Institution:
Loyola University Maryland--College of Arts and Sciences
Place:
Baltimore (Md.)
Publisher:
Loyola University Maryland
Date Created:
2006
Type of Resource:
text
Genre:
thesis
Language:
eng
Format:
application/pdf
Physical Form:
electronic
Digital Source:
reformatted digital
Abstract:
This thesis explored "narrative," especially as informed by postmodern thinking, as a way to support spiritual growth in a religiously diverse, multicultural setting. The study brought together the ideas of narrative psychologists (especially Jerome Bruner and Don P. McAdams), narrative theologians (principally Stephen Crites and Sallie McFague), literary theoreticians (notably Erich Auerbach and Robert Alter), and spiritual care specialists (including Charles Gerkin, Merle Jordan, Carolyn Gratton, Janet Ruffing, and Kevin Gillespie). The ideas of Augustine and Walter Ong illuminated numerous aspects of the topic, especially the relationship of language and narrative to Logos, God's creative energy. Narrative was analyzed as an epistemological and hermeneutical tool and as a means for discovering and experiencing the transcendent. The study confirmed that informed and intentional use of narrative techniques such as characterization, plot development, point of view, and figurative language could play a central role in spiritual development. Each of these techniques were found to have a spiritual aspect from which both story-teller and story-listener could draw in the search for life's meaning and relationship to Ultimate Meaning. Narrative was found to require a teller, a listener, and a series of linked episodes played out in time. The development of narrative form or story as a major milestone in human cultural history was considered. Although narrative can be written, this study focused on oral narrative, particularly as a speech-act and social transaction that could contribute to spiritual growth and development. The study drew heavily on Biblical narrative, including the Gospel stories of Jesus, Jesus' parables, the overarching narrative of salvation, and the incarnation of Logos. However, the study also found that the narrative approach was adaptable for use in religiously diverse, multicultural settings. Focus on life-story in such situations would allow the story-teller to set the boundaries and pace of the exchange; it would also permit the listener—whether in a formal or informal role—maximum flexibility of response, from attentive listening to non-intrusive facilitation of spiritual growth.
Subject:
Spiritual direction--Christianity
Subject:
Spiritual direction
Subject:
Self psychology--Religious aspects
Subject:
Spiritual formation
Degree:
Master of Arts
Level:
Master
Discipline:
Spiritual and Pastoral Counseling
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Identifier:
RuedySE-06
