In this episode of the Ask a Theologian podcast, I had an insightful conversation with Dr. Mark Cartilage, the principal of the London School of Theology. We delved into the difference between practical and systematic theology, emphasizing practical theology's focus on the contemporary church and its empirical research methods. Dr. Cartilage shared how practical theologians study living traditions and engage with real people to understand the church's current practices and beliefs. We also explored the communal and doxological aspects of the church as depicted in the Pentecost narrative, discussing how these shape discipleship, spiritual formation, and mission. Dr. Cartilage emphasized the importance of understanding and performing the gospel story within one's cultural context. For those interested in going deeper into practical theology, he recommended his book and the Master of Arts in Practical Theology and Ministry program at the London School of Theology.

Hey everyone, welcome back to Ask A Theologian! I apologize for the hiatus—my wife and I are in the midst of transitioning out from our roles as lead pastors, and things have been hectic. But onward we go! Today, I'm excited to have Dr. Pam Engelbert join us. She's a practical theologian and Pentecostal minister who focuses on grief support, among other roles. We delve into her book, 'Who's Present in Absence,' which adds rich perspective on God and suffering. Pam shares her journey of grappling with unmet expectations of God in ministry and how it led her to explore the complex ways Pentecostals experience God's presence and absence in times of suffering. Through interviews and research, she uncovered different types of divine presence—everything from intense moments of intervention to the sustaining presence of God in the midst of extended suffering. We also touched upon reactions from church communities, both helpful and unhelpful, and how presence and practical support often outweigh spoken words. We wrap up by discussing how her expanded view of divine healing informs a broader understanding that goes beyond the miraculous, touching on everyday interactions as sacred opportunities to participate in God’s healing work. It's an enriching conversation that especially resonates with anyone facing deep questions about suffering and faith.

This episode is a little different than our normal podcast. In this episode, I chat with Dr. Jeremy D. Sims who is the professor of Spiritual Formation at Southeastern University. We talk about what spiritual direction is and why it's needed today. After exploring the topic, I asked Dr. Sims to take me through what a session of spiritual direction might look like. I got quite personal for me as he directed me into what God might be saying to me during this time of pastoral transition. He made quite a few book recommendations and I've included them below.

1. Easy as Hard Gets by Jeremy D. Sims
2. What is Spiritual Direction? by Jeremy D. Sims and Hannah Sims
3. Soul Shaper by Tony Jones
4. Sacred Listening by James Wakefield
5. Mansions of the Heart by Tom Ashbrook
6. Seeking God Together by Alice Fryling
7. Working the Angles by Eugene Peterson
8. The Contemplative Pastor by Eugene Peterson
9. Gravity and Grace by Simone Weil
10. Waiting for God by Simone Weil
11. Spiritual Granularity by Jeremy D. Sims (coming 2026 from IVP)