Books

In Relational Spirituality, Hall and Hall present a definitive model of spiritual transformation based on a relational paradigm. At its heart is the truth that human beings are fundamentally relational—we develop, heal, and grow through relationships. While many sanctification models are fragmented, individualistic, and lack a clear process for change, the relational paradigm paints a coherent picture of both process and goal, supported by both ancient wisdom and cutting-edge research. Integrating insights from psychology and theology, this book lays out the basis for relational spiritual transformation and how it works practically in the context of relationships and community.

Relational Spirituality draws together themes such as trinitarian theology, historical and biblical perspectives on the imago Dei, relational knowledge, attachment patterns, and interpersonal neurobiology into a broad synthesis that will stimulate further dialogue across a variety of fields. Highlighting key characteristics of spiritual communities that foster transformation, Hall and Hall equip spiritual leaders and practitioners to more effectively facilitate spiritual growth for themselves and those they serve.

PRAISE FOR RELATIONAL SPIRITUALITY

“I have been waiting for this book for a long time. With Relational Spirituality, Todd Hall and Elizabeth Hall have, with erudition and mercy, given us a masterpiece that not only tells us who we are but also points us in the direction of who we long to become. Broad in its scope, prophetic in its conviction, beautifully imaginative in its synthesis of multiple domains of human experience, and accessible in its application, this is sure to become a wellspring of hope and transformation—one that could not come at a more timely moment.”

Curt Thompson, author of The Soul of Shame and Anatomy of the Soul

“This outstanding book is a pivotal contribution within the relational revolution in both psychology and theology. Todd and Liz Hall are both longtime, creative leaders in this emerging work on relational spirituality and bring a wealth of integrative expertise as scholars, practitioners, and (most importantly) mature persons. I look forward the conversations and initiatives that will result from deep reflection on their work. Clearly, we need much more healthy relational spirituality in our world, and they help us move in that direction.”

Steven J. Sandage, Boston University, coauthor of Relational Spirituality in Psychotherapy: Healing Suffering and Promoting Growth

“Working from the premise that God’s love is the reason, model, and source for the transformation of our natural love into Christian love, Todd and Liz Hall have provided an extended reflection that ably moves from theology to therapy, from psychological literature to implications for pastoral care. I think this volume will be especially generative for those in ministry who are trying to think in fresh ways about how to move ‘relational’ ministry from being a slogan to a reality.”

Kelly M. Kapic, professor of theological studies at Covenant College, author of Embodied Hope

“Relational Spirituality is a significant contribution that brings together attachment psychology, neuroscience, theology, spirituality, and other disciplines in an emerging and dynamic conversation, all for the sake of a deeply relational vision of Christian spiritual formation. Frankly, this is a book I’ve been waiting and hoping for, one that will be well used by my students in years to come.”

Chuck DeGroat, professor of pastoral care and Christian spirituality at Western Theological Seminary, senior fellow at Newbigin House of Studies.

Can real change happen in the human soul? Is it possible to have truly healthy relationships? Is psychology something that can help us see reality as God sees it?

John H. Coe and Todd W. Hall tackle these and other provocative questions in this next volume of the Christian Worldview Integration Series which offers an introduction to a new approach to psychology that seeks to integrate psychology and spiritual formation. This model “represents a spiritual formation and relational approach to psychology for the sake of servicing the spiritual needs of the church.” Their goal is to provide a unique model of doing psychology and science in the Spirit.

Here you will find an introduction to the foundations, methodology, content and praxis for this new approach to soul care.