Why Matter Matters in Theological Action Research: Attending to the Voices of Tradition

Abstract

AbstractIn this article we show how a sensibility of materiality offers helpful perspectives on issues of tradition and normativity in theological action research. Employing Actor-Network Theory (ANT) as our conceptual framework, we analyze work published by the Action Research – Church and Society (ARCS) team. We argue that a sociomaterial understanding of the embodiment of the normative voices of tradition in ecclesial practices, such as the liturgy, offers resources to overcome a tension we see inherent in the work of the ARCS team. Developing the ARCS team’s conversational approach by including this sociomaterial sensibility allows for a more mutual relationship between the normative voices of the Christian tradition, the academy and the inherent theology of what is enacted and expressed by participants in the fieldwork.