This chapter explores the theological significance of pottery as a site of spiritual formation and ecological discipleship. Beginning with the problem of ecological alienation in urban contexts, it argues that spirituality and sustainability must be taught together through embodied practice. Drawing on theology and the arts, it develops craft and plays as a pedagogical grammar for formation. The case study of Fabricandi Divina—a studio practice of prayerful pottery—illustrates how tactile, communal making becomes a form of liturgy in which participants learn ecological and theological lessons. The observed outcomes of this practice are interpreted in conversation with Trinitarian, incarnational, and sacramental theology: Clay teaches communion through cooperation and humility, solidarity through fragility and resilience, and reverence through sacramental encounter. Methodologically, the chapter offers practical theology through case study rather than comprehensive systematics, showing how clay functions as pedagogy. Pottery thus becomes a model for teaching spirituality and sustainability within both academic and ecclesial contexts.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Earth and Spirit: A Theology of Making, Formation, and Sustainability Through Clay

  • Michael W. DeLashmutt

摘要

This chapter explores the theological significance of pottery as a site of spiritual formation and ecological discipleship. Beginning with the problem of ecological alienation in urban contexts, it argues that spirituality and sustainability must be taught together through embodied practice. Drawing on theology and the arts, it develops craft and plays as a pedagogical grammar for formation. The case study of Fabricandi Divina—a studio practice of prayerful pottery—illustrates how tactile, communal making becomes a form of liturgy in which participants learn ecological and theological lessons. The observed outcomes of this practice are interpreted in conversation with Trinitarian, incarnational, and sacramental theology: Clay teaches communion through cooperation and humility, solidarity through fragility and resilience, and reverence through sacramental encounter. Methodologically, the chapter offers practical theology through case study rather than comprehensive systematics, showing how clay functions as pedagogy. Pottery thus becomes a model for teaching spirituality and sustainability within both academic and ecclesial contexts.