Paul Fiddes

Revd Professor Paul Fiddes is a distinguished theologian and academic holding the title of Professor of Systematic Theology at the University of Oxford. He has held multiple roles at Regent’s Park College, including Principal (1989–2007), and currently serves as Senior Research Fellow. A Baptist minister, Fiddes combines theological research with ecumenical engagement, serving as Canon Emeritus of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford.

Education: B.A. (first class) in English Language and Literature (1968), B.D. in Theology (1970), D.Phil (1975) and D.D. (2004) from the University of Oxford.

Research focuses on intersections between theology and literature, 19th/20th-century Christian doctrine, process theology, and Trinitarian theology. He directs the Study of Love in Religion project and founded the Oxford Centre for Religion and Culture. His work bridges academic rigor with pastoral theology, exploring themes like divine suffering, eschatology, and Baptist identity.

Publications span over four decades, including landmark texts like The Creative Suffering of God and Participating in God. Awards include Fellowship of the British Academy and honorary doctorates from Bucharest University. He has editorial leadership roles in journals like Ecclesiology and advises on projects like The Power of the Word initiative.

His career includes significant institutional leadership: 18 years as Principal of Regent’s Park College, Chair of Oxford’s Theology Faculty Board (1996–98), and Ecumenical Representative to the Church of England’s General Synod (2007–2019). Current research includes forthcoming works on C.S. Lewis and Iris Murdoch, reflecting his signature blend of theological and literary analysis.