"Toward a full fledged action theory from a perspective of musical transcendence"

Abstract

Practical theology as a discipline has struggled historically in the gaps between theory and practice, academy and church. A recognized scholar recently urged pursuit of "a full-fledged action theory" with a "perspective of transcendence" to move the discussion forward. Additionally, global conditions are such that we need practical reflection and action that reconciles communities and cultures. Accordingly, a neo-Parsonian action theory is sketched and music as a practical bridge between theory / practice is argued. Music offers a lens into the empirical faith life of a religious community even as it transcends and pulls that community into new ways of critically experiencing God in an intimate and possibly intercultural relationship of embodied song.