Doctoral Degrees (Practical Theology)

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Christian solidarity in pastoral counselling: a Kenyan perspective
(University of the Free State, 2013-04) Wambugu, Anne Gathoni; Janse van Rensburg, Johan
This study explored the Christian solidarity in pastoral counselling within the Kenyan context. The research was both qualitative and descriptive in nature. The design used was phenomenological. Descriptive data were from real counselling cases whose stories are included in the Appendicess and their analysis in Chapter Four. Some pastors also participated in the study. The objectives, all studied within the Kenyan context were: to investigate the caring behavior of the pastors; to establish whether the pastoral spirituality of solidarity may empower pastors in pastoral care and counselling in the Kenyan context; to investigate how pastoral counselling effectiveness is affected by pastoral education, ethics and skills within the Kenyan context; finding out whether mutual growth and rapport result between pastoral workers and their sufferers through their helping relationships; to explore whether by focusing on the stories of people’s experiences pastors could find an effective and a non-judgmental counselling approach that focuses on collaborative action; explore how biblical narratives and other narratives could be valuable therapeutic tools in the Kenyan context; and to find out how Kenyan pastoral counsellors/carers could rise above ethnicity and political difference in their care-giving. These were expected to give a gauge of pastoral Christian solidarity with their congregation as a measure of caregiving quality. The study concluded that most Kenyans seek help from pastors when in crisis. However, for the hurting to experience Christian solidarity from their pastors, there is need for a practice that is engraved in biblical principles of spirituality of solidarity, ethics and professional competence. Lack of adequate training in those areas posed major threats to effective pastoral caregiving in the Kenyan Church. Importantly, the study has distinct benefits for the Kenyan Christian counselling carers. It offers a variety of counselling tools accessible to pastors and community healers. It will also contribute to the area of knowledge to counselling professionals as it brings in a rich integrated spirituality and psychological treatment.
Open Access
Die ontwerp van 'n terapeutiese model vir die pastorale seksuologie
(University of the Free State, 2001-09) Casaleggio, Enrico; Janse van Rensburg, Johan
English: Although numerous theological pieces have been written about sexuality, the majority of those cover the ethics of sexuality. The rights and wrongs of issues such as homosexuality, illegitimate relationships and sexual disorders - to mention a few - have been argued in theological writings. Rendering assistance is, however, still fallow land as far as theology is concerned. To a limited degree articles and chapters with the purpose of counseling have been published. A theologically based therapeutic model for pastoral sexology does not exist. The purpose of this thesis is in fact to make a contribution towards adressing the need. The chapters of the thesis form the pieces of a puzzle which eventually culminate to create a complete picture of a therapeutic model for pastoral therapy in the final chapters. This model is termed a phase model, as it takes both pastor and parishioner through certain phases until the sexual problems have been resolved satisfactorily. For the member of the parish, the first phase commences with general aspects which could bring about solutions, ranging from a visit to a physician to adressing conflict or communication problems within the marriage. It then proceeds, from general problems to more specific sexual issues, such as sexual exercises and sexual aids which can be prescribed. Certain phases concern the pastor as well. Although the aim of compiling this model is to assist each pastor to render help to his parishioners as far as he possibly can, the extent to which the pastor will be able to help in solving sexual problems, depends on his training. Each pastor is enabled to support a parishioner through the first phases, while the later phases demand more specialized knowledge about sexuality and sexual problems. The author aims to have pastoral sexology acknowledged as a field of speciality, as a subdivision of pastoral therapy. In this thesis it is pointed out that the therapist's point of departure is decisive for the therapy eventually to be ministered. It is thus illustrated that it is essential that pastoral sexology should have a diaconiological point of departure, with the Bible as basis. Human sciences such as psychology and psychiatry are to be supportive resources as interdisciplinary co-operation is strongly recommended. Human sciences can never be the basis with the Bible merely as support. The therapist's view of anthropology is vital for the practice of sexology. Not only does it indicate whether he views man as image of God or as a developed primate, but is also indicative of aspects vital for solving sexual problems, for instance, the fact that the human being is both a sexual creature and a being of relationships. There is reference to the influence the Platonic philosophy had on the church and its devastating effects on people's perception and understanding of sexuality. Plato made a dualistic distinction between body - where the physical embodies what is sinful - and the spirit, which represents purity. Theological anthropology therefore forms one of the cornerstones for this model for pastoral sexology.
Open Access
Pastoraat aan die afgetrede egpaar deur kanker geaffekteer: 'n narratiewe benadering
(University of the Free State, 2008-06-28) Brunsdon, Alfred Richard; Janse van Rensburg, Johan
English: A diagnosis of cancer is shattering news. It is imbedded in negative social discourses like suffering and has far-reaching implications for those affected by it. Couples who have reached the unique life-stage of retirement, are affected in a specific way by a diagnosis of cancer. Not only are the so-called golden years in jeopardy, but also the positive opportunities associated with this lifestage. In view of the apparent lack of pastoral models to cope with this phenomenon, this study will seek a workable model by which the retired couple affected by cancer can be counselled. The narrative approach to therapy has attracted a great deal of attention in therapeutic circles during recent years. It will therefore be used within the framework of this research. It will, however, be used within the diaconiological epistemology and not within the context of its original epistemological roots. Linked to a qualitative approach, this study will be descriptive and exploratory in nature while conducting therapy with a retired couple affected by cancer. As qualitative research is a form of participatory research, it makes the description of the pastoral-therapeutic process possible. At the basis of this narrative pastoral activity lie Biblical principles as the diaconiological epistemology perceives the Bible as being normative for pastoral therapy. When the life-goals of man are viewed within the light of Scripture, the radical nature of cancer becomes apparent. Scripture also provides valuable insight as to what the goals of therapy should be within this study. As the diaconiological epistemology acknowledges and make use of metatheoretical insights, basic theoretical insights are drawn from disciplines such as psychology, sociology and systems theory. In this manner a clearer understanding of the retired couple is achieved. This study serves the community by giving a retired couple affected by cancer the opportunity to tell their problem-saturated story. With the narrative approach as strategy the pastoral process gives them a chance to tell their story in a reflective manner. In doing so, the negative discourses of cancer can be heard. However, it also offers them the opportunity to recall the times that they coped well with cancer and in doing so, reminds them that a full life is possible in spite of a serious illness. The sustenance of God and his Holy Word also becomes apparent and in this manner the transforming effect of pastoral therapy comes to the fore. This study also serves the reformed pastoral therapy as it utilises a contemporary pastoral approach within a diaconiological epistemology. It shows that the narrative approach is valuable as a model by which the retired couple affected by cancer can be counselled and helped to lead a meaningful life amidst an existential crisis.
Open Access
Pastorale terapie met die MIV/VIGS geaffekteerde familie: 'n narratiewe benadering
(University of the Free State, 2003-11) Bothma, Jan Daniel; Janse van Rensburg, Johan
English: HIV/AIDS has become an increasing concern, especially in South Africa. Recent statistics have revealed no significant decrease in the number of HIV/AIDS-infected individuals – this, in spite of numerous campaigns aiming to increase awareness and stop the virus from spreading. Aside from having an enormous impact on a country’s economy and population structures, HIV/AIDS also has a great influence on an infected person’s identity as well as on his friends and family. Although a number of pastoral methods of therapy already exist, certain theological components have been irreversibly radicalized by HIV/AIDS. Subsequently, a need has developed for a suitable pastoral method of therapy, concerning the HIV/AIDS-affected family. The narrative method is one that combines all the positive aspects already present in existing pastoral methods. When applied in conjunction with qualitative research, it is the method most suited to use for the purpose of this particular study. The nature of qualitative research is descriptive, exploratory, it examines complex manifestations situated deep within our social realities and it also enables the researcher to conduct his study in a participating manner. By taking basic theoretical perspectives on pastoral therapy into consideration, an attempt is made to set up alternative guidelines, by which to approach this specific problem situation. The extent to which HIV/AIDS disrupts the emotional atmosphere of the family, can clearly be observed in the obvious withdrawal in the behavior of especially the toddler, but also in those of the remaining members of this family (consisting of the parents and a toddler). By following the guidelines of the narrative approach, each family member, traumatized by the gripping influence of HIV/AIDS, is given the chance to express his/her experience (this is done in a reflective and meaningful way). Through these reflective conversations, the aim of this study is achieved as these (revealing) descriptions of each member’s experiences are shared among the participants, creating an atmosphere of acceptance – and ultimately restoring brittle relationships within the family. Within the pastoral encounter (a metaphorical encounter with God) a radical transformation takes place in every family member’s heart. This transformation is brought to pass by the Holy Ghost, which continuously influences, renews and supports our human spirit. Accordingly, the roles fulfilled by the parents also undergo significant change: Where (at first) survival is seen as the main priority, transformed attitudes gain the insight to realize that group work between the parents and the toddler is in truth, of much greater importance. Take note that the purpose of this study is not to prove anything; neither to examine the causes and/or consequences of HIV/AIDS, but rather to provide traumatized family members with an adequate chance to explain their experiences. Afterwards, (and based on a theoretical and theological background knowledge) these experiences are thoroughly reflected upon. The research group as a whole undergoes spiritual and emotional growth and thus the aim of practical theology (to bring about a transformation in conjunction with the Gospel) is reached – by means of the narrative method. By finally examining expressive results of the study, a suitable approach to pastoral therapy is revealed through which to bring about such a transformation in the lives of Christians from all culture groups. This specific approach has the necessary ability to counteract the crumbling process in traumatized families and bring forth a complete renewal in the family as a whole.
Open Access
Pastorale terapie vanuit die vadermetafoor aan kliënte met veralgemeende angsversteuring
(University of the Free State, 2005) Jordaan, Anton; Janse van Rensburg, Johan
English: Generalized Anxiety Disorder and related disorders frequently occur in the community. While the behavioural sciences have done much research on this, a justifiable pastoral therapeutic approach to a therapy for the individual who suffers from it, is needed. While psycho- and pharmacotherapy cannot be ignored, pastoral therapy - which takes into consideration the religious aspects of the individual’s world - can make a contribution to the treatment of the disorder. In this study the correlation between the individual’s father image and her/his image of God, as well as its influence on the development of Generalized Anxiety Disorder is researched. Favourable dividends to address the disorder are found through narrative rewriting of the individual’s father and God concepts. In chapter 1 the subject area of practical theology is explored. Attention is given to epistemological matters and the selection of a paradigm, resulting in the selection of a deductive theological epistemology within the reformed theological paradigm. Furthermore a diaconiological approach to the subject area is chosen and a diaconiological integrating encounter model is submitted for research. The second chapter comprises a summary of the field of anxiety disorders in order to obtain a complete view of the etiological and symptomatological aspects thereof. This psychopathological frame of reference however does not imply a modernistic approach to therapy, but aims to simplify naming various forms of anxiety disorders. In chapter 3 the research continues with specific attention to Generalized Anxiety Disorder. That the disorder is long-term and that known forms of therapy have limited effect is meaningful for a pastoral therapeutic approach. As the correlation between the father and God image is a central theme in this study, the father metaphor is explored from a theological perspective in chapter 4. Naming God as Father is inherent to Scripture and is meaningful for the way the individual experiences God. In Chapter 5 feministic commentary on masculine language concerning God is considered, and although feminine or gender neutral terminology for God is not supported, cognizance is taken of important correctives for traditional phrases of speech concerning God. This awareness sensitizes the pastoral therapist to accuracy concerning content in the application of the father metaphor. The theological research is concluded in chapter 6 with considerations regarding the use of Scripture in pastoral therapy as well as the faith imperative that encourages the individual to trust despite of anxiety. In chapter 7 the coherence between father- and God images and the symptomatology of Generalized Anxiety Disorder is explored. A negative father image, which leads to a distortion of the individual’s image of God, results in existential insecurity, which causes a lack of security within the individual. This deprivation of security is identified as a causal factor for Generalized Anxiety disorder. The development of a therapeutic model is discussed and methodology justified in chapter 8. The selection of a deductive epistemology results in the diaconiological nature of the model while it’s integrating nature makes the use of insights from other disciplines, as well as their application in a narrative modus operandi. In chapter 9 the practical application of the diaconiological integrating encounter model is researched using a narrative process in the context of a qualitative single case study. The conclusion in chapter 10 shows that the research hypothesis namely that the father- and God images of an individual can be a causal factor in the development of generalized anxiety disorder, is justified and that the healing of these concepts can be facilitated through narrative therapy, thus presenting a contribution to the therapy of individuals with this disorder.
Open Access
Volwassewording as problematiek in pastorale konteks
(University of the Free State, 2005) Bezuidenhout, Jacobus Philippus; Janse van Rensburg, Johan
English: This study is a search for answers to five problem areas in connection with the pastor’ s pastorate, namely: • The necessity of a pastor’s Biblically-grounded pastoral anthropological approach with a view to a diaconiological epistemological pastorate. • The facilitation of a church member by the pastor.in the process of becoming a mature believer • The utilisation of a postmodern narrative therapy within a diaconiologic epistemological frame of reference is highly questionable and requires the construction of a Reformed-narrative pastoral approach. • The part the Holy Spirit plays in the pastoral process necessitate elucidation. • The relevance of the covenant in a Reformed-narrative pastoral therapy. This study points out the intrinsic distinctiveness between the psychological anthropological point of departure, the different pastoral models, man’s postmodernistic point of view and feminism. In the light of the church member’s process of growing in faith is it necessary to construct a Biblically-grounded pastoral anthropology. The study examines the phenomena psychological adulthood and faith adulthood. The praxis-theoretical implications in connection with facilitating the process of faith maturation were stressed in view of the roleplayers in the facilitation (especially the pastor). This includes the pastor’s education and equipment, his conversational approach, and the covenantal viewpoint. The study also points out the discrepancy in the pastor’ s approach when using postmodernistic narrative therapy methods within a diaconiological epistemological approach as he guides the church member in his/her process of faith maturation. The postmodernistic narrative pastoral therapy is evaluated deconstructively and then formulated reconstructively in a new outcome, namely a Reformed-narrative pastoral therapy within a diaconiological epistemology. In addition, the role of the covenant in the therapeutic approach is emphasised by means of pastoral markers as a guideline in the facilitation process. Throughout the study emphasis is laid on the trinitarian dimension (Holy Spirit, pastor and church member) in the conversational approach.

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Browsing Doctoral Degrees (Practical Theology) by Advisor "Janse van Rensburg, Johan"

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