Date of Award

2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Ministry

First Advisor

Alvin Luedke

Second Advisor

Dan Anderson

Abstract

This mixed methods Action Research project studied the effects of spiritual

practices in the life of men in a Lutheran congregation. The project was framed by Janet Hagberg and her work on personal power in “Real Power: Stages of Personal Power in Organizations,” Narrative Theory, and masculinity. These frames were integrated with biblical and theological lenses of the theology of the cross, spiritual practices, and Trinitarian theology, including a significant lens from Richard Rohr and his book, “Adam’s Return: The Five Promises of Male Initiation.”

The study offered insight into the impact of specific spiritual practices with the intent of shifting awareness in men's lives from an external sense of power to inner meaning. The results showed the effectiveness of engaging in communal spiritual practices to help men understand the importance of personal power.

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