Spiritual space: Hearing and experiencing the voice of God

Abstract

Many countries around the world are shifting into post-secular societies. As this process continues to take shape, it enables many and competing voices and expectations to bombard their citizens. This raises questions around the use of space, sacred texts and stories, and how communities of faith use them as a source to access and hear the voice of God. Acknowledging the valuable position that sacred space and text holds within faith communities, how should we seek to hear the voice of God speak in a post-secular context and into the current competing societal setting in which multiple voices vie and struggle, and power and societal structures shift as Christians aim to find meaning, purpose and establish ways of living?

Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: In the context of the secular and/or non-religious public reflex in society, there is debate around sacred space and sacred text, including how it is used and how it is interpreted. As scrutiny increases of what and how, such material is shared, used and taught, creating a space where the voice of God can speak into our current settings becomes increasingly vital. In a fast-paced world, full of busyness and tiredness, how does one hear and experience the voice of God? This study provides such a basis for Practical Theology in post-secular societies, utilising Biblical text and historical understanding, to do so.