Theology of intercultural encounter and witness
In this course, we will explore recent theological developments in the theology of religions as they affect the possibilities and practice of intercultural encounter, learning and witnessing and living together.
Course content
Specific attention will be given to the question of the finality of the revelation of God in Christ, the role of the Spirit and a spirituality that enables trust and openness and ‘prophetic dialogue’. We will study some of the challenges of interfaith encounter with specific examples in view, In particular, but not exclusively, with Islam.
We will also discuss the implications of new phenomena such as dual religious belonging and so-called insider movements for interfaith encounter and witness. A final area of focus concerns the political and social challenges of living together in religiously pluralistic societies. We pay special attention to the place of the truth question and the relationship between conviction and openness to non-believers.
Size
The seminar is 7.5 ECTS:
- 48 hours lectures
- 12 hours preparation
- 120 hours literature study
- 30 hours paper and preparation of presentations
Period
November 2025 to January 2026
For who?
Are you looking for answers to questions raised by interfaith encounters and witnessing? Do you want to delve into new perspectives on living together in a religiously pluralistic society? And do you want to learn to express your point of view well? Then this seminar is for you.
Literature
- Moyaert, Marianne. Fragile Identities: Towards a Theology of Interreligious Hospitality. Amsterdam; New York: Rodopi, 2011.
- Toren, Benno van den, and Kang-San Tan. Humble Confidence: A Model for Interfaith Apologetics. Downers Grove, IL: IVP Academic, 2022.
- Reitsma, Bernhard. Vulnerable Love: Islam, the Church and the Triune God. Carlisle: Langham Global Library, 2020.
Assessment
Assessment is done by writing three short papers and class presentations.
