Pursuing Unity as an Inclusive Community

18-24 May 2009

The church, although a theological idea, is at the same time a sociological entity and as such exposed to the realities and forces around. Discrimination and exclusion of certain sections of people within, discriminating and excluding practices and language, the assertion of the interests of the dominant groups, indifference to and justification of unjust practices and traditions, besides concentration and abuse of power and victimisation of dissent, are only some of the realities which already at the time of the apostle Paul made it necessary to intervene (cf. 1. Cor. 11 and 12).

This seminar will attempt to explore the questions related to this fact. It will attempt to discern the contours of an authentic and credible church that bears witness to the life-affirming, life-nurturing and life-enhancing love of God in Christ Jesus in today’s world through its being as well as its doing.

Can unity and inclusivity be affirmed and pursued together as crucial for the credibility of church’s witness? What are the specific areas - language, liturgy, physical access, organisation of community life and relationships, etc.- that need to be set in order for the churches to become communities which are different from secular institutions and which make a difference in today’s globalised world with its tendency for institutional injustice? What are steps that churches ought to take in order to keep away from the value orientations of economic globalisation that exclude many? Discussions around questions like these will help to discern the way ahead.

Theologians representing the concerns of the excluded people – people living with disabilities, people struggling against racism, casteism and other forms of discrimination and indigenous peoples will provide the resources for this reflection. 

The methodology used will be based on stories of both discrimination and overcoming discrimination, and theological reflections on the unity, nature and mission of the church.

Staff: Dr Deenabandhu Manchala, Dr Amélé Ekué and Rev. Dr Odair Pedroso Mateus

Cost:

registration and programme fee 120.00

board & lodging  & city tax 664.80

total 784.80

Application form to seminars and courses (pdf)