The Graduate School of Ecumenical Studies is an intensive period of study, research and community life. It is primarily for young theologians and pastors and for students of other disciplines with a suitable level of theological literacy.
60th Session:
God Has Given Us the Ministry of Reconciliation
(2 Cor. 5-18):
Poverty and Wealth in Overcoming Violence
15 September 2008 - 15 February 2009
According to the University of Geneva rules, successful completion of the Graduate School of Ecumenical Studies programme is equivalent to 30 ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) credits. These are granted upon request, to students who are registered as regular students at the University of Geneva.
The programme of the Graduate School
The programme includes a study of the broad history of the ecumenical movement around the world comprising:
the hopes, interests and actors who helped to shape the movement in its most formative moments;
a review of the specific contribution of the World Council of Churches together with other institutional expressions of the ecumenical movement;
an analysis of the resources - biblical, ethical, historical, liturgical, political, sociological and theological - of importance to ecumenical thinking or reflection;
an introduction to those elements of contemporary life that currently most challenge ecumenical thinking and action;
a careful look at the issues and themes which are at the forefront of contemporary ecumenical dialogue;
the problem of conflict within the ecumenical movement and an examination of the possible methods for its resolution;
the prophetic role of the churches and their contributions to promoting justice, peace, reconciliation and healing in the world.
The focus this year, given through the theme, will be on the situation between poverty, wealth and violence, as well as reflection on the role that wealth could take over in order to overcome violence on the background of Christian ethics. The academic reflection is being enriched through the proximity of the WCC and international community of Geneva.
To explore themes relevant to ecumenism and to study the ecumenical movement and its history, including the organization and activities of the World Council of Churches, ecumenism in the Roman Catholic Church and ecumenism among Evangelical and Pentecostal groups not affiliated with the WCC.
To live together as an ecumenical and multicultural community in which many different confessions, backgrounds and philosophies of life are represented; to share in an adventure in which people who come from divided churches and diverse life-situations seek to build genuine community in the face of inherent tensions and conflicts.
To worship together recognising and respecting different liturgical traditions.
lectures and discussions
work in modules and seminars
individual research resulting in two research papers
study visits (to the offices of the World Council of Churches in Geneva, to Rome, to Swiss Reformed parishes, to Orthodox liturgies)
participation in social and cultural events