Practical Theology Facing the Challenges of Religion in Globalization

for a theology in an attitude of search for relevance

Abstract

The phenomenon of globalization is studied by different researchers who seek to understand its impacts in various areas: life, society, economy, culture, and religion. This article seeks to present the impacts of globalization on religion and how Practical Theology becomes an important and essential discipline for the updated debate in academic centers and institutions. Thus, through bibliographical research, we aim to expose the ideas of different researchers regarding the impacts suffered by religion in contemporary times. Faced with multidisciplinary trends and a reading of religious praxis, Practical Theology is perceived as the one that most confronts these challenges and, therefore, requires the necessary tools to carry out its task. For this, it can make use of its ability to dialogue with other areas of knowledge, as well as the hermeneutics of lived religion. The importance of Practical Theology is confirmed for the constant dialogue with everyday life, with the new challenges imposed by globalization, and how it is essential for the relevance of Theology itself.