Aaron Langenfeld

Prof. Dr. Aaron Langenfeld is Chair of Fundamental Theology and Comparative Religious Studies at the Faculty of Theology, University of Paderborn since 2022, and serves as Rector of the Faculty since the winter semester of 2022/23. Previously, he was designated Chair of Fundamental Theology and Comparative Religious Studies at the Paderborn Faculty of Theology starting October 1, 2021, and served as Acting Professor for Dogmatics and History of Dogma with a focus on fundamental theological issues at the University of Vechta in 2020-2021.

• Habilitation in Fundamental Theology at the University of Innsbruck (2020)
• Doctorate in Fundamental Theology at the Theological Faculty of Paderborn (2015)
• Doctoral studies at the Theological Faculty and University of Paderborn (2010-2015)
• Studies in Catholic Theology, German Studies and Philosophy at the University of Cologne (2005-2010)

Langenfeld's research centers on anthropologically oriented theologies in late modernity, theological epistemology at the interface of dogmatics and fundamental theology, and Comparative Theology of Religions. His work demonstrates particular expertise in pneumatology (the study of the Holy Spirit), interreligious dialogue (especially Christian-Muslim dialogue), and theological anthropology. His habilitation thesis 'Frei im Geist' earned him the prestigious Karl Rahner Prize for Theological Research in 2021, examining pneumatology and translating Rahner's concerns into 'transcendental pneumatology' while refuting the competitive relationship between grace and freedom.

His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on theological epistemology, interreligious dialogue, and the relationship between human freedom and divine action. Langenfeld has made significant contributions to understanding how theological concepts can be articulated in contemporary contexts while maintaining their integrity across religious traditions.

• Karl Rahner Prize for Theological Research (2021) for his habilitation thesis
• Friedrich-Spee-Preis (2015) for his doctorate
• Scholarship from the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Graduate Program (2011-2014)
• Scholarship from the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Basic Support (2008-2010)

Langenfeld serves as Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Center for Comparative Theology and Cultural Studies at the University of Paderborn and is a member of the International Center for Comparative Theology and Social Issues at the University of Bonn. He regularly contributes to academic discourse through lectures, workshops, and interviews on topics ranging from the relevance of theology in contemporary society to interreligious dialogue and the challenges of religious expression in secular contexts. His work demonstrates a commitment to making theological concepts accessible while maintaining academic rigor.