Dr. Sebastian Rimestad is a Research Fellow at the Institute for the Study of Religions , University of Leipzig. His work focuses on Orthodox Christianity, religious history of Eastern and Northern Europe, religious conversion, religion and politics in modern societies, and religious minorities in Europe. Current affiliation: University of Leipzig Education: Habilitation (2019), PhD (2011), MA in Religious Studies (2007) and Politics & IR (2004) Research interests include confessional identity formation in 18th-century Poland-Lithuania, religious conversion as political statement, and Russian Orthodox concepts of secularity. His work analyzes how religious identities have been shaped by external authorities and critiques of religious modernity. His scientific awards include the DFG Heisenberg Fellowship and Liselotte Kirchner Scholarship. He has taught courses on religious conversion and published extensively on Orthodox Christianity in Eastern Europe, Baltic states, and global contexts.
Revd Professor Andrew Atherstone is the Professor of Modern Anglicanism , Tutorial Fellow in Church History , and Latimer Research Fellow at Wycliffe Hall, University of Oxford. His career spans academic scholarship, parish ministry, and ecclesiastical advisory roles. Institutional Affiliation: University of Oxford (Wycliffe Hall) Academic Roles: Professor, Tutorial Fellow, Research Fellow Church Roles: Served on Church of England's Faith and Order Commission and Liturgical Commission Andrew’s research focuses on the intersection of Anglicanism and Evangelicalism , with particular emphasis on historical and theological dynamics. He has authored and edited numerous volumes exploring: Christian Fundamentalism (2023 Oxford Handbook) Charismatic Renewal (2021 Transatlantic Study) Reformation History (2011-2015 publications) Modern Anglican Leadership (2014 Welby biography) His work combines rigorous historical analysis with practical ecclesiological insights, examining how theological movements shape denominational identity and practice. Scientific contributions and awards include: Latimer Research Fellow (successor to Latimer House, Oxford-based Anglican Evangelical institute) Editorial leadership in key theological handbooks Andrew teaches courses on Anglicanism, Church History, Ecclesiology, and Evangelicalism, maintaining active engagement with contemporary church governance and theological discourse.
Professor Rachel Muers is the Chair of Divinity at the University of Edinburgh’s School of Divinity, a historic position she became the first woman to hold. Her work bridges disciplinary, confessional, and institutional boundaries, focusing on 20th-century Christian theology and contemporary theological responses to urgent societal questions. She holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge (2002), where she also served as Margaret Smith Research Fellow. Previously, she held academic roles at the University of Exeter and the University of Leeds, achieving a personal chair in 2018. Her research explores intersections between theology, ethics, and social practice, with notable focus on Quaker theology, environmental stewardship, and ecumenical dialogue. She serves on the World Council of Churches Faith and Order Commission and is affiliated with organizations like the Society for the Study of Christian Ethics. Her teaching emphasizes practical theology and ethical discernment. Key themes in her scholarship include liturgical practices, pacifism, and the relevance of theology to modern challenges. She advocates for interdisciplinary approaches, integrating anthropology and the social sciences into theological inquiry. Her publications reflect a commitment to actionable theology, addressing issues from climate change to interfaith relations.
Professor Wolfgang Vondey serves as Professor of Christian Theology and Pentecostal Studies in the Department of Theology and Religion at the University of Birmingham, where he directs the Centre for Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies. A classically trained systematic theologian with expertise spanning philosophy, linguistics, and ethics, Vondey teaches in the Master of Arts programme in Evangelical and Charismatic Studies while maintaining an active research agenda that bridges academic theology with practical ecclesial concerns. His academic journey includes: MA in Japanese Studies, Japanese Linguistics, and Media Science from Philipps University Marburg, Germany (1994) MDiv from Pentecostal Theological Seminary, USA (1999) PhD in systematic theology and ethics from Marquette University, USA (2003) Postdoctoral fellowship at Boston College Faculty position at Regent University Divinity School (2005-2015), where he founded and directed the Regent Center for Renewal Studies Vondey's research focuses on Pentecostal and Charismatic theology with particular emphasis on pneumatology, ecclesiology, ecumenical theology, and the intersection of theology and science. His scholarly work spans diverse theological traditions from Catholic to postmodern thought, exploring ritual and liturgical studies, theological method, Christology, soteriology, and political theology. With a multilingual background (German, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, and Japanese), he brings international perspective to his analysis of global Pentecostalism. His publications reveal consistent engagement with contemporary Pentecostal theological challenges, examining political dimensions of glossolalia, corporate embodiment in Pentecostal tradition, synodality, and the public nature of Pentecostal ecclesiology. Vondey's work demonstrates how Pentecostal theology navigates tensions between mainstream and extreme expressions while maintaining theological coherence in global contexts. As an academic leader, Vondey co-edits the 'Christianity and Renewal – Interdisciplinary Studies' book series with Amos Yong and serves as founding chair of the ecumenical studies group of the Society for Pentecostal Studies. His supervision of numerous PhD students across diverse topics—from Pentecostal orality in Denmark to Word of Faith theology in Bolivia—demonstrates his commitment to developing the next generation of Pentecostal scholars worldwide.
Delbert Burkett is the Jaak Seynaeve Professor of Biblical Studies and Professor of Religious Studies at Louisiana State University. He specializes in New Testament studies, particularly the history, religion, and literature of earliest Christianity. His research focuses on the Synoptic Problem and early Christian textual traditions. Before joining LSU in 1996, he taught at Western Kentucky University, Appalachian State University, and Lebanon Valley College. He served as Section Head of Religious Studies (2004-2007) and Department Chair (2010-2016). Education: B.A. in Koine and Classical Greek, Abilene Christian College (1971) M.T.S., Harvard Divinity School (1973) Ph.D. in New Testament and Christian Origins, Duke University (1989) Research Interests: Burkett's work examines the literary relationships between the Synoptic Gospels, the 'Son of Man' title in the New Testament, and early Christian origins. His publications include Rethinking the Gospel Sources (multi-volume series) and The Case for Proto-Mark . Publications Trends: His recent articles address topics like Markan narrative analysis, Jewish ritual practices, and Luke-Acts theological unity. Earlier work engaged with Johannine resurrection narratives and Coptic liturgical texts. Awards: 2009-2010 ATLAS Grant 2007 Tiger Athletic Foundation Teaching Award Repeated recognition for undergraduate instruction (Alpha Lambda Delta, 1999/2003) LSU Council on Research Summer Stipends (1997, 2000) 1992 Southern Regional Education Board Travel Grant Teaching & Grants: Teaches courses such as 'A History of God' and 'Apocalyptic Literature.' His grants supported research on gospel sources and early Christian texts. No formal lab affiliations are noted, though he collaborates on initiatives like the 'AI & Religion Collaborative.'
Thomas Banchoff is Director of the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs and serves as Vice President for Global Engagement at Georgetown University, where he holds a professorship in both the Department of Government and the Walsh School of Foreign Service. His leadership combines academic scholarship with practical global engagement initiatives that address critical contemporary challenges. Georgetown University: Professor, Department of Government and Walsh School of Foreign Service Berkley Center: Director University Administration: Vice President for Global Engagement Banchoff earned his B.A. from Yale University (1986), M.A. from the University of Bonn (1988), and Ph.D. in Politics from Princeton University (1993). His scholarly development was enriched by prestigious fellowships including Harvard's James Bryant Conant Post-Doctoral Fellowship (1997-1998) and a Humboldt Fellowship at the University of Bonn (2000-2001). His research focuses on ethical and religious dimensions of global politics, with particular expertise in Catholic Social Teaching's application to contemporary challenges. Banchoff's scholarly trajectory evolved from European politics (evidenced by early works like The German Problem Transformed ) to contemporary analyses of religion's role in global governance. His current work emphasizes Pope Francis's "culture of encounter" concept across international relations, education, and interfaith dialogue. Recent scholarship increasingly addresses democratic erosion, AI ethics from religious perspectives, and Jesuit higher education's contribution to global citizenship. Analysis of his publication history reveals thematic progression toward practical applications of religious perspectives to global challenges. His recent work demonstrates engagement with urgent issues including democratic backsliding (as seen in his moderation of the 2025 IAJU Assembly panel on Nicaragua and Lebanon), AI ethics, and interfaith collaboration in conflict zones. DAAD Prize for Distinguished Scholarship in German studies (2003) Banchoff directs the IAJU Global Citizenship Fellows Program, which engages over 2,000 students across 60+ institutions in 20+ countries. His leadership extends to significant initiatives including Catholic Social Teaching and the Global Future of Development, Faith and the Global Agenda, and Religious Pluralism in World Affairs. Upcoming engagements include "Nostra Aetate at 60" (September 2025) and "Pope Francis: A Legacy of Human Fraternity" (August 2025), reflecting the continued relevance of his work at the intersection of religion, politics, and global challenges.
Ray Burbank is a Lecturer at Faith Mission Bible College (Edinburgh) and tutor at the University of Edinburgh's School of Divinity. His PhD research focuses on 19th-century evangelical conversion theology in Western India, supervised by Dr. Alexander Chow and Dr. Felicity Loughlin. He holds degrees from the University of Edinburgh (M.Th.), Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and the University of Arkansas (B.A.). His research explores the cross-cultural transmission of theology among Scottish missionaries and Marathi Christians, examining figures like David Ganpatrao Malhar and John Wilson. Supported by the Teape Trust Fund, his work emphasizes 'horizontal' conversion models linking church, caste, and national identity. Teaching includes undergraduate courses on global Christianity and mission studies. Key conference presentations include talks on Henry Martyn’s missiology (2021), N.V. Tilak’s legacy (2019), and Indian devotional songs in theology (2018/2017). He is affiliated with the Evangelical Missiological Society and Yale-Edinburgh Group on World Christianity.
Joseph Pak is Professor of Biblical Studies at Taylor University in the Biblical Studies, Christian Ministries, Intercultural Studies & Philosophy Department . A New Testament scholar with a PhD from Dallas Theological Seminary, he invests his life in training the next generation of Christian leaders. Education PhD, New Testament Studies – Dallas Theological Seminary STM, New Testament Studies – Dallas Theological Seminary MDiv, School of Divinity – Liberty University BS, Electrical Engineering – Virginia Tech Research Interests Pak’s research centers on the New Testament , particularly the epistles of James and 2 Peter , exploring themes of self-deception in theology , wealth and poverty in early Christianity , Scriptural inspiration , and false believers . He also examines the intersection of contemporary philosophical discussions with biblical hermeneutics and theological ethics. Publications & Translations He has authored the monograph False Believers in the New Testament and the volume What the Bible Says about the Dangers of Self-Deception: An Exegetical Approach . Additionally, Pak translated six influential Christian works from English into Korean, including Daniel Fuller’s The Unity of the Bible and Everett Ferguson’s The Background of Early Christianity , thereby bridging Korean and Western evangelical scholarship. Professional Service & Outreach Regular presenter at the Evangelical Theological Society national conferences Contributed 10 New Testament introductions to The Abide Bible (Thomas Nelson, 2020) Has taught courses at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary , Liberty University , Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary , and Taylor University Joseph Pak’s overarching passion is to know, love, and serve Jesus while equipping students to lead with biblical integrity.
Rev. Dr. hab. Antoni Nadbrzeżny serves as Professor at John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin (KUL) within the Faculty of Theology, specifically in the Department of Pneumatology, Ecclesiology and Mariology. His scholarly work centers on advanced theological research with particular emphasis on Mariology, Ecclesiology, and the theological contributions of Edward Schillebeeckx. Nadbrzeżny's research interests demonstrate deep engagement with contemporary theological challenges. His work explores dialogical ecclesiology as a response to Vatican II, examining how the Church can navigate modern secular contexts while maintaining theological integrity. Significant focus is given to Schillebeeckx's hermeneutic theology, Mariological developments from 'Mother of Redemption' to 'Mother of All Believers,' and the existential dimensions of faith in contemporary culture. His publications consistently address the intersection of personalist anthropology with soteriology and pneumatology. His recent scholarly output reveals a clear trajectory toward dialogical theology that bridges historical tradition and contemporary challenges. The 2025 monograph on Schillebeeckx's Mariology represents culmination of decades examining pneumatological and ecclesiological themes through phenomenological lenses. Articles consistently explore tension points between faith and modernity, particularly regarding religious freedom, anthropological concepts, and the Church's role as sacrament of dialogue. Bronze Medal for Long Service (2016) Rector's Award of KUL (4th degree team award, 2011) Rector's Award of KUL (3rd degree team award, 2006) Nadbrzeżny actively supervises doctoral candidates at KUL's Doctoral School since 2019 and serves as Consultant and Secretary of the Polish Episcopal Conference's Faith Science Commission. His current research includes the Ministry of Education-funded project 'The Church as a Space for Dialogue: The Second Vatican Council Reread.' He regularly presents to clergy formations, including the Sandomierz Diocese's ongoing program, and contributes to international theological discourse through publications and conferences.
Andreas J. Beck is Professor and Department Chair of Historical Theology at ETF Leuven, where he also serves as Director of the Institute of Post-Reformation Studies and Co-Director of the Jonathan Edwards Center Benelux. His research focuses on early modern Reformed theology, particularly Reformed scholasticism, Scotist philosophy, and post-Reformation intellectual history. Research areas include: Reformed Orthodoxy and scholastic methodology Historical development of doctrinal formulations Gisbertus Voetius studies and Scotist reception Early modern theological controversies Textual analysis of confessional documents Beck has led major editorial projects including the three-volume Synopsis Purioris Theologiae and supervises numerous PhD students. His publications demonstrate consistent focus on Protestant scholasticism and its medieval roots. Scientific Recognition: H. Henry Meeter Center for Calvin Studies Fellow (1995) He serves on editorial boards of Jonathan Edwards Studies , Augustiniana , and directs the book series 'Studies in the History of Church and Theology'.
John Wayne Kaufman is an Associate Professor of Early Christian Studies and the History of Theology at MF University College of Theology, Religion and Society. He currently serves as head of the Department of Theology and History and has held various academic leadership roles, including board member and department head. His research focuses on early Christianity (2nd–3rd centuries), with a specialization in Irenaeus of Lyons, emphasizing themes like salvation as deification, historical methodology, and the intersection of theology and history. He teaches courses on early Christianity, the history of theology, and historical methods in theological studies. Education and Academic Background: PhD in Theological History, MF University (2009) Cand.theol., MF University (2001–2003) Cand.philol. in Intellectual History, University of Oslo (1999–2001) Cand.mag. in German, Theology, and Intellectual History, University of Oslo (1995–1998) Research Interests: Kaufman’s work bridges early Christian theology, historical methodology, and the societal context of antiquity. He explores themes such as Irenaeus’ Christology, the development of Christian denominations, and the role of historical studies within theological frameworks. His recent publications address topics like Christian responses to ancient epidemics and the Delphic maxim’s influence on early Christian thought. Professional Contributions: Kaufman has edited volumes on ancient perspectives of love and contributed chapters to international collections. His work often engages with historical relativism and the essence of Christianity, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to theological history.
Dr. Boris Paschke serves as a Guest Associate Professor of New Testament at the Evangelische Theologische Faculteit Leuven . Holding a Ph.D. in New Testament Studies from ETF Leuven (2009), he has been actively engaged in theological education since 2001, teaching at ETF Leuven and in public secondary schools in Brussels. Ph.D. in New Testament Studies (ETF Leuven, 2009) Licentiaat in de godgeleerdheid (M.Th., ETF Leuven, 2004) M.A. in Biblical Studies (University of Gloucestershire, 2001) Paschke's research focuses on New Testament theology , apocryphal literature , and early Christian worship practices , particularly prayer to Jesus and the Holy Spirit. His work explores intertextuality (e.g., Song of Songs in Romans 3), historical contexts (Roman censorship, slavery), and theological intersections between Christianity and Islam. Recent publications highlight trends in liturgical theology (2024 analyses of 1 Timothy 1:12 and Peräa), prayer studies (2023 essays on Tertullian and 2 Timothy 1:18), and historical criticism (2016-2022 works on Semler, Acts of John, and Philemon). He participates in multiple academic societies, including the Society of Biblical Literature and the Association pour l’étude de la littérature apocryphe chrétienne , and has co-authored works on ancient speech impediments (2016, 2023).
Michel Steinmetz is a Full Professor in the Department of Practical Theology at the Faculty of Theology, University of Fribourg. His academic career spans both French and Swiss institutions, with significant contributions to liturgical theology and sacred music studies. His educational background includes: Master's degree in Sacred Art from the Institut Catholique de Paris (ICP) Doctorate in anthropology and history of religions from the Sorbonne Doctorate in theology from the Institut Catholique de Paris (dissertation on "The Official Function of Church Music") Professor Steinmetz's research focuses on the theology of liturgy, exploring how to build theological understanding from the multifaceted activity of the Ecclesia orans. His work examines the relationship between liturgy and ecclesiology, liturgy as a resource for rooting oneself in living tradition, and the relationship between liturgy and the arts. His scholarship demonstrates a deep engagement with both historical and contemporary liturgical practices, with particular attention to the role of sacred music within liturgical contexts. Analysis of his recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a consistent focus on liturgical theology, with particular attention to the relationship between liturgy and ecclesiology, the role of sacred music, and contemporary liturgical challenges. His work spans historical analysis of medieval liturgical practices, theological reflection on current liturgical reforms, and practical applications for contemporary worship. A notable theme across his recent work is the exploration of how liturgical practices can serve as resources for spiritual formation and ecclesial renewal. Professor Steinmetz is actively involved in several research communities: Research team "Rites et Spiritualité" (Pôle "Textes et Herméneutiques" of the research unit "Religion, Culture et Société" EA 7403) Editorial committee of the journal La Maison-Dieu AKL (Association of Catholic Liturgical Scholars in the German-speaking area) Before his academic career, Professor Steinmetz served as a priest in the Diocese of Strasbourg, where he was parish priest and Director of the Diocesan Service for Liturgical and Sacramental Pastoral Care, Sacred Music, and Sacred Art for twelve years. He also served as president of the Union Sainte-Cécile and as Master of Ceremonies for the Archbishop of Strasbourg, providing him with practical experience that informs his academic work.
Eugene TAN Kheng Boon is an Associate Professor of Law at the Yong Pung How School of Law, Singapore Management University (SMU), where he has served since 2013. He holds a JSM from Stanford University (2004), an MSc in Comparative Politics from the London School of Economics (1998), and an LL.B. from the National University of Singapore (1995). His academic roles have included Co-Director of the Centre for Scholars' Development (2012–2017) and earlier positions as Assistant Professor, Lecturer-in-Law, and Senior Tutor. His research focuses on constitutional law, public policy, business ethics, and governance in Singapore. He explores themes such as ethnic relations, corporate social responsibility, and the intersection of law with societal values. Notable projects include studies on Singapore’s management of immigration, religious regulation, and the ASEAN Charter’s implications. Tan’s publications span constitutional law treatises, counter-terrorism policy analyses, and critiques of Singapore’s legal traditions. His work often emphasizes Singapore’s unique blend of pragmatic governance and ethical considerations. He has contributed to international discussions on corporate responsibility in Asia and the evolution of pluralist legal systems. Awarded fellowships from Stanford and the Fulbright Program, Tan has also engaged in public service as a Nominated Member of Parliament (2012–2014) and held roles in bodies like the Singapore Compact for Corporate Social Responsibility. His interdisciplinary approach bridges legal scholarship with real-world governance challenges.
Dr. Jermo van Nes is an Assistant Professor of New Testament at Evangelische Theologische Faculteit Leuven , where he has held positions since 2017, including Senior Researcher in New Testament. He also serves as a Senior Tutor in New Testament studies at King’s Evangelical Divinity School, University of Chester, UK, and is a Research Associate at the University of Pretoria, South Africa. Education Ph.D. in Theology and Religious Studies (2017), ETF Leuven & Theologische Universiteit Kampen Master of Theology and Religious Studies (2010), ETF Leuven Bachelor of Theology and Religious Studies (2007), ETF Leuven Marnix Gymnasium, Rotterdam (2004) Dr. van Nes specializes in New Testament studies, with a focus on Pauline epistles, linguistic variation in the Corpus Paulinum, early Christian ethics, and the reception of disputed New Testament writings in church practice. His research intersects textual criticism, authorship debates, and the theological implications of grammatical and lexical analysis. His recent work explores textual authenticity via statistical analysis of hapax legomena, ethical frameworks in Titus , and historical context of the Pastoral Epistles . Publications include monographs on introductory Greek instruction and edited volumes addressing Pauline theology and boundary formation in early Christianity.
