158 Chapter 4 3. Disclosing theology through a conversational method The four theological voices need to be brought together at one table, where good conversation can take place. This practical-theological conversation wherein all theological voices are heard can be described as the cornerstone of TAR. ‘It is, if our theological reading is right, only in the conversation between voices, carefully attended to, that an authentic practical-theological insight can be disclosed’ (Cameron et al., 2010, p. 60). This conversation requires not only ‘a proper place to the variety of theological voices’ but also ‘a genuine openness to hearing those voices, even when they might seem strange or contradictory’ (Cameron et al., 2010, p. 60). Cameron et al. (2010) elaborated a few more practical yet fundamental conditions for TAR. Very practical is their indication that, as TAR is focused on faith-based organisations and agencies, it is necessary to work with an in- and an out-group to investigate the practice of the organisation at hand. This practical requirement is included in their own definition of TAR (Cameron et al., 2010): TAR is a partnership between an insider team and an outsider team. The insider team owns the practice that is the subject of the research and has a commitment to exploring and reflecting upon that practice. Their aim is to change the practice or develop their theological understanding of that practice or both. (p. 66) How big these teams need to be, as well as whether the project is outsider- or insider-led, depends on the specific organisation, situation and context being investigated. To ensure fruitful participation in the conversation, all participants need to exhibit the following key qualities (Cameron et al., 2010, p. 75): • Interest in the practice of the insider organisation and a willingness to ask questions about it. • Acceptance that their voice will be just one among a number. • Willingness to change their views and play a part in changing the views of others. • Trustworthiness concerning confidential documents. • Willingness to make mistakes and forgive the mistakes made by others. • Willingness to articulate their own position. To be a theologian is not a requirement to be a team member. It is, however, beneficial for the conversation to include one or more formal theologians—that
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTk4NDMw