The Theology of Home: Cultivating Faith and Belonging Through Community and Hospitality as a Reflection of God’s Presence in the Community and Church

Alternative Title

Portraits of Home and Belonging

Authors

Carrie C. Teller

Abstract

This dissertation examines the essential human need for belonging and its theological significance in shaping faith, identity, and community. Drawing on biblical texts, historical theological perspectives, and contemporary ecclesiological discourse, this study explores the church as a spiritual home—a sacred space of belonging where relationships foster deeper engagement with God and one another. This study contends that the modern church is in decline, and to revitalize it, we must reclaim the ecclesial essence of home. Rather than relying on institutional structures or programming strategies, churches must prioritize relational engagement and radical hospitality and cultivate authentic communities. Organizations like Mission Waco exemplify this transformative approach, alleviating homelessness through the incarnational presence of Christ in intentional community and service. By integrating theological reflection with practical insights for church renewal, this dissertation contends gathering and hospitality are not merely components of the church’s mission but central to its identity. Faith communities flourish when they embody God’s love through radical welcome and genuine fellowship, inviting individuals to experience spiritual transformation and communal belonging. Ultimately, this study calls for a renewed ecclesiology that values relational depth over institutional formality, reclaiming the church as a living, welcoming home for all. While this study aims to develop a comprehensive theological vision of the church as a spiritual home, its primary focus is on the essence and characteristics of such a faith community rather than offering a detailed practical guide for implementation.

Degree Date

5-17-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

D.Min.

Department

Perkins School of Theology

Advisor

Dr. James K. Lee

Second Advisor

Dr. Ruben Habito

Number of Pages

144

Format

.pdf

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License

Recommended Citation

Teller, Carrie C., "The Theology of Home: Cultivating Faith and Belonging Through Community and Hospitality as a Reflection of God’s Presence in the Community and Church" (2025). Doctor of Ministry Projects and Theses. 54.
https://scholar.smu.edu/theology_ministry_etds/54