Bowen Family Systems Theory: A Resource for Pastoral Theologians

Abstract

Assuming that theological reflection is an integral dimension of the decision making process involved in shaping acts of pastoral ministry, this article explores Bowen Family Systems Theory (BFST) as a resource for ministers engaged in such reflection. A case study of a ministry situation of a pastor in a heterogeneous inner city congregation serves to illustrate the dual contribution BFST can make to a minister's ability to do this essential work. In the first place, the theory serves as a personal resource for the minister seeking to assume the non-reactive stance necessary for any attempt to understand more clearly the dynamics involved in a ministry situation. Closely related to this is the capacity of the theory's conceptual framework to provide an accurate and in-depth understanding of the often unrecognized but always determinative emotional process present in a situation. Enabling ministers to “see” these systemic dynamics is the unique contribution BFST can make to the first step, description, in John Macquarrie's three-dimensional methodology for doing theological reflection and, therefore, to the last two steps, interpretation and application. All three dimensions of Macquarrie's methodology are identified. The article also examines some of the possible causes for the frequent absence of theological reflection from the practice of ministry.