Sivert Angel is Professor of Church History and Practical Theology at University of Oslo's Faculty of Theology, specializing in Reformation studies, Lutheran homiletics, and Nordic church history. Holds Cand.theol (1998) and PhD (2011) from University of Oslo. Research analyzes Lutheran preaching traditions including funeral sermons, resurrection rhetoric, and contemporary applications like refugee crisis responses. Examines textual transmission of Jerusalem motifs in Scandinavian Reformation contexts. Participates in international projects including 'Tracing the Jerusalem Code' and refugee crisis preaching initiatives. Former President of Practical-Theological Seminary (2014-2016).
Michael Gese is a Professor of Biblical Theology and Parish Diakonia at the Evangelical University of Ludwigsburg since 2021. He teaches in the fields of Religionspädagogik/Gemeindepädagogik and Diakoniewissenschaft. His academic and professional career spans roles as a parish priest, theological educator, and researcher, with a focus on New Testament studies and practical theology. Education: Studied Evangelical Theology at the University of Tübingen, Göttingen, and Munich (1982–1988); earned his doctorate in New Testament from Eberhard Karls University Tübingen (1996). Gese’s research centers on Biblical Theology, particularly Pauline epistles like Ephesians and Colossians, and practical theological disciplines such as homiletics, pastoral care, and church ministry. His work emphasizes theological interpretation, exegesis, and the application of biblical texts in modern contexts. His publications reflect trends in New Testament scholarship, including pneumatology, Pauline theology, and homiletic methods. Notable works include commentaries on Ephesians and Colossians, as well as pedagogical frameworks for theological education. Gese’s career includes significant roles such as Geschäftsführender Pfarrer in Esslingen (2005–2013), Studienleiter at the Pfarrseminar in Stuttgart-Birkach (2013–2021), and leadership in vicar training. He holds additional qualifications in spiritual guidance and pastoral psychology.
Dr. Jonathan Loopstra is a Professor of History at Redeemer University , specializing in Church History, Biblical Languages, and Middle Eastern History. He has previously held positions at the University of Northwestern-St. Paul, Capital University, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Reformed Theological Seminary, and The American University of Iraq-Sulaimania. His academic credentials include a Ph.D. in Early Christian Studies from The Catholic University of America, an MSt in Syriac Studies from Oxford University, and an MA in Christian Thought from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. His research focuses on the Bible’s reception across centuries, particularly in multicultural and multilingual contexts of the late Antique and Medieval Middle East. He explores Syriac Christian literature, the history of preaching, cross-cultural relations, and pedagogical practices in antiquity. Research fellowship, Institute for Advanced Study at Princeton Research fellowship, Hill Monastic Manuscript Library Dr. Loopstra’s publications analyze Syriac manuscripts, biblical translation traditions, and theological handbooks. His work bridges biblical lexicography, patristics, and manuscript preservation, with a forthcoming commentary on Gregory of Nazianzus and studies on Syriac teaching manuals. He teaches courses spanning Classical History, Church History, Islamic Encounters, Medieval Europe, and Christian Political Thought, emphasizing historical theory and cross-cultural understanding from ancient Sumer to the Gulf War.
Sabrina Müller is Professor of Practical Theology at the Faculty of Protestant Theology at the University of Bonn since 2024. She previously served as Managing Director of the University Research Priority Program (URPP) Digital Religion(s) at the University of Zurich (2021-2024), where she was also a Private Lecturer and Associate Member of the Center for Church Development (ZKE) and the University Research Priority Program Digital Religion(s). Her academic journey includes a habilitation on Religious Experience and Its Transformative Power (2016-2021), a doctorate on Fresh Expressions of Church (2010-2015), and pastoral work in the Reformed Church of Bäretswil (2009-2015). Dr. Müller's research interests span Digital Religion and Theology, Contextual, feminist and postcolonial theologies, Empirical Theology and Citizen Science, Homiletics in a culture of digitality, Church development and innovation, Pioneering and the future of the parish, and Religious experience and practical-theological anthropology. Her work bridges traditional theological inquiry with contemporary digital culture, focusing particularly on how digital spaces transform religious practice, community formation, and theological reflection. She has developed innovative methodologies combining qualitative social research with citizen science approaches to study lived religious experience in digital contexts. Her scholarly output reveals a consistent focus on the intersection of digital culture and religious practice, with particular attention to religious influencers on social media, digital homiletics (preaching beyond the pulpit), and new forms of church communities emerging in digital contexts. Her work demonstrates how digital platforms are reshaping theological discourse, religious authority, and community formation, while maintaining connections to traditional theological concerns about religious experience, ecclesiology, and pastoral care. Dr. Müller has received recognition for her leadership in the field, serving as Co-Chair of the Practical Theology Unit of the American Academy of Religion (AAR) since 2020. She is also active in numerous scholarly societies including the International Academy of Practical Theology (IAPT), International Society for Empirical Research in Theology (ISERT), and the Open Science Commission of the University of Zurich. In her teaching and mentoring, Dr. Müller supervises doctoral students including Tobias Adam, Aline Knapp, and Patrick Todjeras, as well as postdoctoral fellow Kimion Tagwirei. Her editorial work includes serving as Editor of the Journal of Empirical Theology and Book Review Editor for the International Journal of Practical Theology, demonstrating her commitment to advancing methodological rigor in practical theological research.
Ellen F. Davis is the Amos Ragan Kearns Distinguished Professor of Bible and Practical Theology at Duke University Divinity School. She holds a Ph.D. from Yale University (1987) and an M.Div. from Church Divinity School of the Pacific (1983). Her research focuses on biblical interpretation’s role in addressing contemporary issues like environmental crises and interfaith relations. Davis is affiliated with the Duke Initiative for Science & Society and has authored eight books and numerous articles. Her teaching includes courses such as Hope for Creation?: An Exilic Perspective , Psalms as Prayer of the Heart , and Biblical Hebrew Syntax . She has led grants on African biblical interpretation, field education for pastors, and initiatives in Sudan, supported by institutions like the Duke Endowment and the Issachar Fund. Key research interests include eco-agrarian readings of Scripture, ethical eating practices, and the intersection of prophecy with social justice. Davis’ work bridges academic scholarship and practical theology, emphasizing how biblical texts inform Christian life and public engagement. Recognition includes media features in The Christian Century and Duke Divinity Magazine , highlighting her contributions to environmental theology and interfaith dialogue.
Prof. Dr. Sonja Keller is a Professor of Practical Theology at Augustana University since 2020, previously serving as Junior Professor at the University of Hamburg (2016-2020). She holds a doctorate from the University of Zurich (2014) and has extensive pastoral experience in Zurich (2011-2016). Her research focuses on homiletics, church theory, material culture of religion, and spatial ecclesiology. She leads the research project 'Culture under the church tower' and is affiliated with the Institute for Evangelical Asceticism. Education: Studied Philosophy, Theology, and Literature in Basel and Berlin. Key academic roles include University Preacher at Hamburg (2017-2018) and Vicar (2011-2016). Her work integrates empirical religious research with practical theological methodological innovations. Research emphasizes church buildings' societal roles, digital materiality in religious communication, and postcolonial perspectives on ecclesiastical material culture. Recent projects explore spatial theology, liturgical practices, and the intersection of religion with urban public spaces. Her publications span monographs, edited volumes, and peer-reviewed articles in leading theological journals. Current supervisions include PhD projects on church building transitions and religious-cultural analysis. She collaborates with interdisciplinary teams on projects funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG).
Jerusha Matsen Neal is an Associate Professor of Homiletics at Duke University's Divinity School. Ordained as an American Baptist minister, she holds a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary (2014) alongside degrees from the University of Chicago and Princeton's M.Div. Her work bridges postcolonial preaching, climate stewardship, and gender studies through a Spirit-centered lens. Formerly Dean of Studies at Fiji's Davuilevu Theological College, her research examines sermon performance in marginalized contexts. Education : B.A. University of Chicago; M.Div./Ph.D. Princeton Theological Seminary Her book The Overshadowed Preacher (2020) redefines preaching efficacy through Mariological frameworks, earning Christianity Today's top award. Current projects explore climate-displaced sermons and minoritized preachers' pulpit rhetorics. She leads Bass Connections teams on immigration theology and preaches globally for events like the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship General Assembly. Awards include Duke’s 2020 Exemplary Teacher recognition and frequent media engagements on climate theology (e.g., Christianity Today, Faith & Leadership). Teaching focuses on anti-racist proclamation, environmental ethics, and women's preaching. Recent courses include Hope for Creation?: An Exilic Perspective and Women Preaching .
Andrea Bieler is Professor of Practical Theology and Dean at the Faculty of Theology, University of Basel, Switzerland. She holds the Professorship of Practical Theology and is a member of the Regency. Her office is located at Heuberg 12, 4051 Basel. She leads the Faculty of Theology with a vision for interdisciplinary and intercultural theological engagement. Professor of Practical Theology, University of Basel (2017–present) Dean, Faculty of Theology, University of Basel (2020–present) Professor of Practical Theology, Kirchliche Hochschule Wuppertal (2012–2016) Professor, Pacific School of Religion and Graduate Theological Union, Berkeley, CA (2000–2012) Andrea Bieler's research centers on the intersection of practical theology and social dynamics, particularly in the context of migration, vulnerability, and intercultural communities. Her work explores how religious communities respond to trauma, displacement, and diversity. She investigates themes such as hospitality, agency, and digital pastoral care, contributing to both academic and ecclesial discourse. Her scholarship integrates trauma hermeneutics, memory studies, and intercultural theology to understand healing and reconciliation in post-conflict and migratory settings. Her recent publications and research projects, such as 'Conviviality in Motion' and 'Religion and Migration,' reveal a consistent focus on multiethnic congregations, vulnerability, and the ethical dimensions of care. These works span disciplines including theology, anthropology, ethics, and art, reflecting a deeply interdisciplinary approach. She frequently collaborates on international projects and publications, engaging with global theological networks. Scientific awards and recognitions include: Nomination for the Hanns Lilje Foundation Prize for Freedom and Responsibility in the field of The Formative Power of Art and Culture Projects Andrea Bieler actively supervises doctoral students and leads major research initiatives funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation. She is involved in numerous editorial and advisory roles, including the Scientific Advisory Board of the Magnus Hirschfeld Foundation and the Commission for Ethics of the Protestant Churches in Switzerland. Her service extends to leadership in academic societies such as the International Academy of Practical Theology and Societas Homiletica. She is affiliated with key research networks and centers, including the Karl Barth Center for Reformed Theology at the University of Basel and the international research network 'The Enhancing Life Project' at the University of Chicago. These affiliations support her work in connecting historical theology with contemporary ethical and pastoral challenges.
Prof. Bernhard Oestreich is a Professor of New Testament at Friedensau Theological College since 1978. His career spans over four decades, focusing on Biblical Exegesis, Homiletics, and Performance Criticism. He earned his Ph.D. from Andrews University in 1997 and has held pastoral roles in Leipzig and Güstrow (1971–1977). Education: High School Diploma (1967), Theology Diploma (Friedensau, 1971), M.Div. Equivalency (Andrews, 1980), Ph.D. (Andrews, 1997) His research explores Pauline epistles , apocalyptic symbolism , and ritual theology , with a focus on performance criticism and intercultural interpretations. Articles like Investigations into the Sound’s Message of Philippians (2018) and Metaphors and Similes for Yahweh in Hosea (1998) reflect his interdisciplinary approach blending literary analysis, theology, and ritual studies. His publications examine ecclesiological dynamics , moral tensions in early Christian communities, and liturgical practices , including translations of his work into Croatian, Czech, and French. He has contributed to Adventist ecumenical theology through works on baptism, footwashing, and the doctrine of the Trinity.
Rodrick Sweet is an Instructor of Bible and Theology in the Christian Studies Department at Hannibal-LaGrange University (HLGU). He concurrently serves as Site Director of the Freedom on the Inside prison program at Jefferson City Correctional Center since July 2020. Previously, he held adjunct faculty positions at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (2013-2019) and College of Biblical Studies-Houston (2016-2022). His educational background includes: ABD in Homiletics and Biblical Theology, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary Master of Theology, Dallas Theological Seminary (2016) Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies and Christian Leadership, College of Biblical Studies-Houston (2008) Sweet's research centers on Homiletics, with a focus on African American preaching traditions, biblical theology, and the application of rhetorical analysis to sermons. He investigates the theological foundations of Black preaching in the 21st century and explores eschatological themes within the Black Church. His work bridges historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and W.E.B. Du Bois with contemporary homiletical practice. His recent publications and conference presentations demonstrate a consistent focus on preaching methodology, sermon illustration, and cultural contextualization. Sweet examines how narrative techniques and Christ-centered approaches can enhance sermon effectiveness, particularly within diverse cultural settings including the African American church tradition. His academic achievements include: President Scholarship at the College of Biblical Studies (2006-2007) Acton Institute Action University Oikonomia Fellowship Scholarship (2017) S.M. Lockridge Scholarship at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (2017-2020) Sweet has not been documented as advising graduate students. His leadership in the Freedom on the Inside program involves mentoring incarcerated individuals in theological education. While no external research grants are mentioned, his academic work has been supported by scholarships during his doctoral studies. As Site Director of the Freedom on the Inside program, Sweet leads an initiative that provides college-level theological education within a prison setting. He is an active member of the Evangelical Theological Society, Evangelical Homiletic Society, and the Society of Gospel Haymanot, contributing to scholarly discourse in homiletics and theology.
Prof. Jörg Seip is a Professor of Pastoral Theology at the University of Bonn's Catholic Theological Faculty. He holds a doctorate from Paderborn University and a habilitation from Würzburg University. His academic career includes roles as Lecturer in Homiletics at Paderborn and Würzburg Universities, and he became a full professor at Bonn in 2012. His research focuses on the intersections of theology, literature, and contemporary cultural studies, particularly exploring pastoral theology's aesthetic dimensions and the relationship between biblical texts and modern literature. He has authored monographs, edited volumes, and numerous peer-reviewed articles. Education: Studied Catholic Theology at Paderborn and Munich Universities (2001 PhD), habilitated at Würzburg (2008). Academic memberships include the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Homiletik and the Zentrum für Religion und Gesellschaft (Bonn). His work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining theological analysis with literary criticism and spatial theory. Research interests span pastoral theology, homiletics, biblical hermeneutics, and the role of literature in religious discourse. Notable publications include Der weiße Raum (2009) and Schrift ahoi! (2013). He engages with contemporary thinkers like Latour and Agamben to reframe pastoral practices in postmodern contexts. His publications often bridge theology and the arts, analyzing how literature and media shape religious expression. Recent work explores spatial theology and the application of actor-network theory to pastoral care. Labs/Teams: Active in the Zentrum für Religion und Gesellschaft at Bonn, collaborating on projects like Die Leere halten (2021). His mentoring includes guiding doctoral research at Bonn and Würzburg.
Michael Jaffe is Professor of Preaching and Church Leadership and former Department Chair of Church Ministries at Evangel University, where he has served since 2013. He holds a D.Min from Assemblies of God Theological Seminary, an M.Div from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and a B.A. from Central Bible College. He previously served as Professor and Department Chair at Central Bible College (2001–2013) and has been an Adjunct Professor at Global University since 2012. His educational background includes a B.A. from Central Bible College and an A.S. from Cumberland County College. He was also a student at Central Bible College, where he met his wife, Barbara. Dr. Jaffe's research and teaching focus on homiletics, biblical preaching, spiritual formation, and Pentecostal leadership. He teaches courses such as Homiletics 1 and 2, Preaching and Biblical Genres, Pentecostal Leadership, and Spiritual Formation & Discipleship. His work emphasizes practical theology, team-based ministry, and Great Commission engagement. While no peer-reviewed journal articles are listed, his publications include a dissertation on empowering the people of God through team leadership, a textbook on Great Commission strategies, a personal gospel testimony titled 'Found: The Story of One Life Transformation,' and over 30 adult Sunday School commentaries for the Radiant Life curriculum. He has served in pastoral ministry and as a church planter for 22 years in New York and continues discipleship work at the United States Medical Center for Federal Prisoners since 2003. He has also taught and preached in six countries. Ordained Minister, Assemblies of God (1981–present) Member, Evangelical Homiletical Society Member, Society for Pentecostal Studies Dr. Jaffe has advised and mentored numerous students in ministry and leadership roles, though specific names are not listed. He has received no formal scientific awards, but his long-standing contributions to theological education and curriculum development are significant. He has written extensively for adult religious education and has been instrumental in shaping preaching and leadership programs. He is involved in curriculum development for Radiant Life and contributes to discipleship programs in federal prisons. His work bridges academic theology and practical ministry, emphasizing transformational leadership and biblical fidelity.
W. Kirk Brothers is Professor of Leadership and Ministry and President of Heritage Christian University (HCU). He previously served as a professor at Freed-Hardeman University for eight years and has extensive experience in local church ministry. He teaches courses in Homiletics, Biblical Leadership, Paul's Prison Epistles, and Adolescent Spiritual Development, and is actively involved in ministerial training across Latin America. Education: Ph.D. in Leadership, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary (2010) M.Div. in Theology, David Lipscomb University (2004) M.A. in New Testament, Freed-Hardeman University (1999) B.A. in Bible and Mass Communication, David Lipscomb College (1987) His research and teaching focus on biblical leadership, homiletics, youth ministry, and spiritual formation. He emphasizes practical ministry training and the theological foundations of preaching and discipleship. His international work includes mission teaching in over a dozen countries and leading Future Minister Training camps across Latin America. His recent publications explore themes such as grace, calling to ministry, sermon preparation, and the integration of faith and reason. The body of his work reflects a deep commitment to equipping preachers and strengthening the church through biblical scholarship and practical application. Professional Presentations: "Restoring Evangelism" – Faulkner Lecture Series (2018) "Paul’s Tips for Teachers" – Society of Professors of Christian Education Conference (2017) "Ministry Training in Latin America" – Stone-Campbell Journal Conference (2015) Presented dissertation at multiple academic forums including AYME, Stone-Campbell Journal, and Furman Curley Lectures (2012–2014) Brothers has advised and trained numerous young ministers through cross-cultural programs and academic instruction. His leadership extends beyond the classroom into global missions and educational outreach. He has not received formal scientific awards, but his scholarly contributions are evident in his publications and conference engagements. He leads international missionary efforts under the elders of Forrest Park Church of Christ and continues to teach at the Bible School of the Americas in Panama. His work integrates academic rigor with practical ministry impact.
Louis Markos is Professor of English and Scholar-in-Residence at Houston Christian University, where he holds the Robert H. Ray Chair in Humanities. He earned his BA in English and History from Colgate University and his MA/PhD in English Language and Literature from the University of Michigan. His teaching focuses on Romantic and Victorian literature, mythology, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and the integration of classical thought with Christian theology. Markos researches the intersections of Christian apologetics, classical literature, and modern cultural engagement. His work emphasizes recovering transcendent ideals of truth, beauty, and virtue through ancient texts and imaginative literature. He advocates for classical education models that synthesize Athens' philosophical heritage with Jerusalem's biblical revelation. His 26+ books demonstrate consistent engagement with Greco-Roman classics, medieval poetry, and 20th-century Christian writers. Key themes include Platonic/Aristotelian philosophy in Christian thought, mythological archetypes in Scripture, and literary defenses of faith. Article analyses reveal recurring exploration of Lewis/Tolkien's theological dimensions, Stoic-Christian ethics synthesis, and countercultural apologetics. Robert H. Ray Chair in Humanities Markos mentors students in worldview formation and publishes extensively for public audiences. He directs the Christian Studies program and lectures globally at classical schools, emphasizing knowledge dissemination beyond academia.
Jameela Lares is Professor of English at the University of Southern Mississippi, specializing in Milton, English Renaissance literature, seventeenth-century studies, biblical style, and the history of rhetoric. She served as Charles W. Moorman Distinguished Professor of the Humanities (2017-19). Her research examines the intersection of religious discourse, rhetorical traditions, and literary expression in early modern literature, with particular focus on Milton's works. She has published extensively on preaching arts, biblical influences in literature, and the reception of classical traditions in children's literature. Recent publications include tributes to scholarly figures, analyses of Milton's rhetorical strategies, and studies of hymnody and educational texts, demonstrating her interdisciplinary approach to literary and religious history.
