Research 

• Social Cohesion, Reconciliation and Ecumenism (Julian Müller, Johann Meylahn, Stephan de Beer)

The project on culture and society, "Practical Philosophical Theology, Culture and Society" explores the relationship between 'forgiveness', 'reconciliation' and 'restitution' in the South African context and the development of social cohesion. The shifting identities of the rural, urban and virtual poor is investigated and a discourse of reconciliation and social cohesion in South Africa is re-imagined, mapping, describing and reflecting on urban (dis)engagements of church and theology, in relation to social inclusion and cohesion; homelessness and housing; children and youth at risk; and theological education.

• Liturgical and Ritual Studies (Cas Wepener, Hennie Pieterse)

Religious practices in their particular contexts (specifically African) with an emphasis on religious rituals and Christian liturgy as well as social capital formation. The current ritual-liturgical landscape is investigated. A joint South African/Dutch project: “Flows of worship in a network culture”. The role of religion and liturgy in the ongoing processes of social cohesion and reconciliation in South Africa is investigated.

• Pastoral Engagement Today (Yolanda Dreyer, Maake Masango, Juanita Meyer)

Sola Scriptura – source of unity or division in the Reformed tradition? Gender, power, sexuality and pastoral engagement, including life history research with adolescent orphans affected by HIV/AIDS from a gender, psycho-social, spiritual perspective, and pastoral care with sexual minorities. The project “Pastoral care in the midst of violence: A South African Perspective” focuses on the healing of wounded souls in a context of violence.

• Youth, Spirituality and Identity (Malan Nel, Yolanda Dreyer and SA churches, Julian Müller)

An interdenominational project on church, youth and religion in South Africa focusing on the impact of spirituality on the identity formation of young people.

Posttraumatic spirituality and the effect of personal trauma such as abuse on the spirituality of children and young people. Youth ministry and faith development in Southern Africa.

• Leadership and Spirituality (Elmo Pienaar)

Narrative and spiritual coaching in organisational development.