Being in Communion: a qualitative study of young lay women's experiences of the Eucharist

Wasey, Kim Alexandra (2013). Being in Communion: a qualitative study of young lay women's experiences of the Eucharist. University of Birmingham. Th.D.

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Abstract

This thesis explores young lay women’s experiences of Communion in the Church of England within a framework of practical feminist theology.

After grounding the study in a review of relevant feminist literature on the Eucharist, the use of qualitative research methodology is described. Semi-structured interviews with ten young women revealed three central themes: ways in which women experience and respond to exclusion and alienation from Communion; the importance of relationality and community; and how experience leads women to construct their own understandings about Communion.

Ambiguity and difference within women’s experience are key concepts. Some embrace traditional understandings and practices of Communion; others subvert these to claim new and liberating understandings for themselves and their communities.

The thesis points to a desire to deconstruct boundaries, creating a vision of inclusive and egalitarian Eucharistic community where loci of power and authority are challenged by the quest for personal autonomy and relationship in community.

The research process is shaped by the pastoral cycle method of theological reflection. This leads to the suggestion of a metaphor of birthing as a means of responding to the experiences and needs revealed by the research and a model for developing liberational Eucharistic theology for

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Th.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Th.D.

Supervisor(s):