Igreja Adventista do Sétimo Dia: uma igreja de teologia pública

Abstract

The research starts from the general view as to the meaning of Public Theology, initially presenting exponents that precede its definition, passing through models and ways in which it can be characterized. The importance of citizenship for the understanding and expansion of Public Theology among the most varied publics was emphasized, summarized in three spheres: the academic sphere, the social sphere and the ecclesiastical sphere. Citizenship is expressly fundamental for the formation of a civil society by the malleability of the moral and material fabric. Philosophical knowledge is of great importance for the integrality of being to gradually forge society, making it an environment of belonging. This process takes place by the development of the physical, mental, spiritual and social faculties of each person, making them not only aware, but active in their rights and duties. Despite the explicit non-positioning of the Seventh-day Adventist Church as a promoter of public theology, its contribution to the drafting of proposals, resolutions and public statements undeniably responds to the current concerns and controversies in society. The Seventh-day Adventist Church promotes one-to-one Bible study during the week with a deeper look at it in smaller groups on Saturday through its study guide called the Sabbath School Lesson. Through various forms of action, the Seventh-day Adventist Church serves the youthful audience with the Adventurers Club; the youth and adolescent public with the Pathfinders Club; the wider community with projects by church volunteers that include blood donation (Life for Lives Project), domestic violence awareness (Breaking the Silence Project); and also, in education, it has an important influence on teaching through Adventist Education as a tool for character building of citizens through the improvement of their physical, mental and spiritual faculties.