Includes bibliographical references and index.

Fieldwork in theology : waking up to the world God loves -- Rigorous self-reflection : Bachelard, science, and sin -- Embodied perception : Merleau-Ponty and the incarnate body -- Practical logic : Bourdieu and the social art of improvisation -- Surrendering to the other : Wacquant and carnal sociology -- Epilogue : understanding as a spiritual exercise.

In this addition to the acclaimed The Church and Postmodern Culture series, leading practical theologian Christian Scharen examines the relationship between theology and its social context. He engages with social theorist Pierre Bourdieu to offer helpful theoretical and theological grounding to those who want to reflect critically on the faith and practice of the church, particularly for those undertaking ministry internships or fieldwork assignments. As Scharen helps a wide array of readers to understand the social context of doing theology, he articulates a vision for the church's involvement with what God is doing in the world and provides concrete examples of churches living out God's mission.