Date of Award

2026

Document Type

Project Portfolio

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Department

Seminary

First Advisor

Tracy Cotterell, DMin

Second Advisor

Michael Larson, DMin

Third Advisor

Ken Van Vliet, DMin

Abstract

This project works to address the following need/problem/opportunity (NPO): Christian women in my contexts are hindered from having a positive relationship with their bodies which undermines potential and diminishes self-worth. I observed this problem in the students I counsel in my work as a mental health therapist at Bethel University, but I also noticed a tendency for women in my church and community settings to disregard, disdain, or despise their bodies as well. The research over these three years has helped me see the complexities of the factors that contribute to the negative postures that women hold towards their bodies and the magnitude of its impact on the holistic well-being of women throughout the lifespan.

Rather than addressing the issue in my context as therapist, I chose to create and pilot a contemplative and relational 8-week women’s group in my church setting in New Brighton, MN. The group curriculum is composed of three main components: hearing a reflection, time for discussion, and a contemplative practice, and it is designed to build the skills needed to foster a more wonder-filled posture toward embodiment. “Wonder” became the lens or the doorway through which to address the NPO due to its ability to elicit openness, curiosity, and awe - effective antidotes to negative postures towards the body. Using a skill-building approach and trusting the healing power of group dynamics, this project worked to increase the potential and self-worth of women by helping them reconnect with their bodies through the lens of “wonder.”

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