Elray Gene Henriksen

Elray Gene Henriksen is a Doctoral Research Fellow at MF Norwegian School of Theology, Religion and Society, where he researches the role of the Book of Mormon in contemporary American politics. His professional expertise spans religion, politics, and peacebuilding. He holds a Master of Arts in Religion (Graceland University, 2019–2021), an Executive Master of Arts in Communication and European Affairs (IHECS, Belgium, 2017–2018), a Master of Science in Peace Operations (George Mason University, 2005–2007), and a Bachelor of Arts in Peace and Development Studies (Bradford University, 2000–2004).

His career includes work with the UN system (World Bank and UNDP), Norwegian Church Aid (civil society program coordination and global strategy), and founding the non-profit “co-citizens” in Brussels (supporting Congolese refugees). He has also volunteered with Community of Christ Europe and developed communication skills at an MA and professional level.

Research interests focus on intersections of religion, politics, and peacebuilding, with emphasis on Mormonism’s influence in modern U.S. governance. While no specific grants or awards are noted, his work bridges academic and practical dimensions of conflict resolution and societal integration.

He is affiliated with MF’s interdisciplinary environment, contributing to theology and societal studies through his doctoral research and past field experiences.