Seasoned faith: relationality, practice, and community

Abstract

The author argues that becoming a person of exemplary faith is a complex process. It involves a strong determination to be in God's will, the ability to persist when one's back is against the wall, consistent engagement in chosen faith practices and disciplines, a willingness to actively be a part of a faith community and accepting that community's support in various ways and contexts, the capacity to hold on to one's hope and belief in ultimate values while not succumbing to despair in the short term, and constantly nurturing and participating in vital relationships in order that such relationships might flourish and serve as a source of ongoing spiritual development and meaning-making as one grows in deeper relationship with God.