The Church, Pentecost, and Practical Theology: A Conversation with Dr. Mark Cartledge

In this episode of the Ask a Theologian podcast, I had an insightful conversation with Dr. Mark Cartilage, the principal of the London School of Theology. We delved into the difference between practical and systematic theology, emphasizing practical theology’s focus on the contemporary church and its empirical research methods. Dr. Cartilage shared how practical theologians study living traditions and engage with real people to understand the church’s current practices and beliefs. We also explored the communal and doxological aspects of the church as depicted in the Pentecost narrative, discussing how these shape discipleship, spiritual formation, and mission. Dr. Cartilage emphasized the importance of understanding and performing the gospel story within one’s cultural context. For those interested in going deeper into practical theology, he recommended his book and the Master of Arts in Practical Theology and Ministry program at the London School of Theology.