Gesturing the Bodies,Embodying Hope for the Earth: Developing an Earthbound Eschatology through Eco-Liturgy in the Advent Season

Abstract

The predominantly verbal and intellectually oriented liturgical practices in Reformed churches have contributed to the disconnection between people, their bodies, and nature. In response to this phenomenon, drawing on Sallie McFague's theological framework, this paper argues that the incorporation of communal gestures in liturgy during the Advent season can play a crucial role in fostering an eschatology that cultivates awareness of humanity's interconnectedness with the Earth and responsibility in addressing the ecological crisis, aligned with what Timothy Hessel-Robinson refers to as an earthbound eschatology. Employing a one-shot case study design and supported by three complementary data collection methods, this paper presents findings from research conducted at GPIB Kanaan Kenangan, a congregation of The Protestant Church in Western Indonesia (GPIB—Gereja Protestan di Indonesia bagian Barat).

Keywords

embodied liturgy communal gestures Sallie McFague body of God earthbound eschatology eco-liturgy Reformed liturgy

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