Professor Mary Catherine Hilkert holds a position in the Department of Theology at the University of Notre Dame’s College of Arts and Letters. Her research focuses on theological anthropology, fundamental theology, Christology, feminist theologies, and the interplay between theology, preaching, and spirituality. A member of the Dominican Sisters of Peace, she has received four honorary doctorates and prestigious awards recognizing her contributions to integrating academic and pastoral theology, particularly through feminist frameworks. Education: B.A., University of Dayton; M.A. and Ph.D., Catholic University of America. Her work centers on Edward Schillebeeckx’s theology, medieval mystics like Catherine of Siena, and sacramental imagination in preaching. She has lectured globally and served on international theological commissions for the Order of Preachers. Awards include the Sophia Award and Yves Congar Award for theological excellence. Her publications explore themes like the Reign of God, liturgical spirituality, and the role of women’s voices in theology. She has advised students through her academic leadership and has been a key figure in ecumenical theological dialogues across continents.
Thomas Schlag is Professor of Practical Theology with a focus on Religious Education, Church Theory and Pastoral Theology at the Faculty of Theology, University of Zurich. Since January 1, 2021, he has served as Director of the University Research Priority Program 'Digital Religion(s): Communication, Interaction and Transformation in the Digital Society.' He is also Chairman of the Board of the Center for Church Development (ZKE), which he co-founded in June 2010. Previously, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Theology (2014-2016) and Vice Dean for Teaching (2012-2014). 1965: Born in Stuttgart 1980-1985: Attended Protestant seminaries Maulbronn and Blaubeuren 1986-1993: Studied Protestant Theology and Political Science in Tübingen and Munich 1993-1996: Doctorate at University of Munich 2004-2005: DFG research fellowship at University of Tübingen 2005: Appointed Assistant Professor at University of Zurich 2009: Habilitation at University of Tübingen 2011: Appointed Professor at University of Zurich Professor Schlag's work centers on the intersection of theology, education, and digital transformation. His research examines how religious practices adapt to digital environments, with particular focus on religious education in schools, confirmation work, and church youth programs. He explores theological-anthropological interpretations of digital transformation and investigates the relationship between church, state, and civil society through the lens of 'Public Theology.' His current projects analyze digital media practices in church educational offerings and investigate how churches negotiate digital worship services and sacraments. His recent publications reveal a strong emphasis on digital religion, with numerous articles examining digital media in confirmation work, religious leadership in digital contexts, and the challenges churches face in adapting to digital transformation. His work spans practical theology, religious education theory, and ecclesiology, with a particular focus on Swiss religious contexts while maintaining international comparative perspectives. The research demonstrates increasing interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly with scholars examining digital innovation in religious contexts. As Director of the University Research Priority Program 'Digital Religion(s),' Professor Schlag leads a significant interdisciplinary research initiative exploring how digital technologies transform religious communication, interaction, and practices. His work has practical implications for church development, religious education, and theological reflection in the digital age. He actively collaborates with international research networks including the European Network for Confirmation Work and the International Academy of Practical Theology.
Neil Pembroke is a Lecturer in Studies in Religion at the University of Queensland , affiliated with the School of Historical and Philosophical Inquiry . His academic work bridges theology, philosophy, and pastoral care, with a focus on spiritual formation, healthcare ethics, and the intersection of psychology and religion. Education : B.Eng (Agric.), B.Th (B.C.T.), BA (Hons), PhD (Edin) Teaching interests : Jung and Human Spirituality, Religion and Health, Mysticism, Psychology of Religion, Religion and Psychotherapies His research explores therapeutic preaching, spiritual maturity, and the role of empathy in Christian and interfaith contexts. He has contributed to organizational spirituality, particularly in church-sponsored healthcare, and examined compassion fatigue through Christian and Buddhist perspectives. Publications include books like Divine Therapeia and the Sermon and Renewing Pastoral Practice , with over 50 journal articles and 10 book chapters. Collaborative projects span international studies on pastoral care models and interdisciplinary dialogues on ethics. Neil Pembroke's work emphasizes the integration of theological and psychological insights into personal and communal spiritual growth, with a particular focus on shame, identity, and the relational Trinity as frameworks for pastoral practice.
Jamie H. Ferguson is an Associate Professor in the Department of English at the University of Houston, with a cross-appointment to the Honors College. He specializes in Renaissance and early modern literature, focusing on intersections between biblical hermeneutics, literary poetics, and translation theory. Renaissance Literature Shakespeare Studies Biblical Translation Great Books Tradition His research explores how theological debates shaped vernacular literary production in Early Modern Europe, with particular attention to textual materiality and interconfessional dialogues. Ferguson's publication record spans Latin, Italian, French, Polish, and English contexts. Recent projects include the annotated translation of Joachim du Bellay's Deffence et illustration de la langue françoyse and a forthcoming book on European Biblical Poetics . He has received multiple Martha Gano Houstoun Research Grants and been recognized with Honors College lecture awards.
Sara Toth is an Associate Professor at the Department of English Literatures and Cultures within the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Károli Gáspár Reformed University in Budapest, Hungary. With a PhD in Literary Studies from ELTE (2004), her academic career spans decades of research at the intersection of literature, religion, and cultural studies. Prior to her academic appointment, she served as Editor-in-Chief at Harmat Publishing House, bringing practical editorial experience to her scholarly work. Dr. Toth earned her MA in English Language and Literature from ELTE in 1991 before completing her doctoral studies there in 2004. Her dissertation, The Other Side of Imagination: Literature and Religion in the Critical Work of Northrop Frye , established the foundation for her ongoing research into the relationship between literary theory and religious thought. Her research focuses on the intricate connections between 18th-20th century British literature, literary theory, and religious studies, with particular expertise in Northrop Frye's critical framework, Protestant spirituality, and the works of contemporary American author Marilynne Robinson. Dr. Toth has made significant contributions to understanding how religious experience manifests in literary form, exploring themes of sacramentality, transcendence, and the sacred-profane dialectic. Her scholarship demonstrates how literary works can serve as vehicles for theological reflection and spiritual exploration, particularly within the Protestant tradition. Analysis of Dr. Toth's recent publications (2020-2025) reveals a sustained engagement with Protestant spirituality, particularly through the lens of North American literature. Her work consistently examines the interplay between literary narrative and theological concepts, with a strong emphasis on Marilynne Robinson's fiction and Paul Tillich's theology. The publications demonstrate increasing sophistication in analyzing how literary form conveys religious experience, with growing attention to specific religious practices (baptism, preaching) and theological concepts (forgiveness, restoration, the sacred). Publication of the Year (shared) - Gaspar Karoli Reformed University (2015) Dr. Toth has served as an opponent at doctoral defenses, including for Palatinus David Levente's dissertation on "Framing the Body, Staging the Gaze" (PPKE, 2009) and Ruth Karin Lévai's work on "The Concept of Truth in Four Works" (ELTE BTK, 2020). She participates in the Fundamentalism research group (2020-present) and the Canadianist research group, contributing to interdisciplinary scholarly conversations. Her language proficiency in English and Spanish supports her international scholarly collaborations and research. As a member of the Central European Association for Canadian Studies, Dr. Toth contributes to cross-cultural academic dialogue. Her current research activities within the Fundamentalism research group demonstrate her ongoing commitment to understanding the complex relationship between religion, literature, and contemporary cultural phenomena. Her work bridges literary scholarship with theological reflection, creating a distinctive interdisciplinary approach to studying the spiritual dimensions of literature.
Thomas Schlag is Professor of Practical Theology at the University of Zurich , with research foci in religious education, church theory, and pastoral theology . He directs the university-wide research focus "Digital Religion(s): Communication, Interaction and Transformation in the Digital Society" , exploring the intersection of theology and digital culture. His career includes roles as Chairman of the Center for Church Development (ZKE) and Dean of the Faculty of Theology (2014–2016). Key Research Areas : Digital religion, public theology, interreligious education, confirmation work, church development, and socio-political theology. Academic Leadership : Directed international studies on confirmation work, co-edited interdisciplinary theological compendiums, and contributed to debates on state religious education and digital ethics. Recent Publications (2024–2025) examine digital media in religious education, Swiss church reform, theological responses to polarization, and interfaith educational models. His "Digital Religion(s)" program analyzes church-state-civil society dynamics in digital societies. He teaches courses on existential religious education , digital transformation , and ecclesiological-practical semesters . Collaborations include the European Network for Confirmation Work , International Academy of Practical Theology , and projects with Swiss and international theological institutions. His work bridges digital innovation , democratic education , and pastoral care in virtual environments .
Rochelle Scheuermann is Associate Professor of Evangelism & Leadership at Wheaton College's A. Duane Litfin Divinity School, where she also serves as Program Director for the Doctor of Ministry degree and Assistant Dean of Ministry and Evangelism. Her academic background includes a Ph.D. in Intercultural Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and an M.Div. from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary. Ph.D., Intercultural Studies – Trinity Evangelical Divinity School Master of Divinity – Assemblies of God Theological Seminary Her research interests focus on disability and the church, theology of mission, and the intersection of preaching and culture. She explores how theological frameworks can better include people with disabilities and how cultural engagement shapes effective preaching and missional practice. Her recent publications span topics in disability theology, missiology, and homiletics, with a consistent emphasis on inclusion, contextualization, and ecclesial integrity. Her work appears in journals such as Missiology , Christian Scholar’s Review , and Trinity Journal . Knox Fellowship Award for Research in Evangelism (2022) Scheuermann has held leadership roles in the Evangelical Missiological Society, including President (2022–2024), and serves on editorial boards for Missio Dei Journal , Koinonia Journal , and Missiology . She is also a board member for Can Do Kids International and part of the Lausanne Mission and Disability Catalyst Group. Her ministry experience includes serving as Associate Pastor at a church plant in Salt Lake City, UT, and teaching internationally in Thailand, Cambodia, and Kenya. She is co-author of Preaching in the Contemporary World and co-editor of Communication in Mission and Controversies in Mission , with a forthcoming book titled Not Forgotten: Mission to Women Amid Global Crises .
Stephanie Smith Matthews is a Full-Time Associate Professor of Old Testament at Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU). She holds a PhD in Hebrew Bible and Ancient Israel from Vanderbilt University, an M.T.S. in Biblical Studies from University of Notre Dame, and dual B.A. degrees in Biblical Studies & Spanish from Olivet Nazarene University. Specializes in Hebrew Bible, Gender Studies, and Theological Ethics Focuses on reproductive health narratives, prophetic imagination, and justice themes Active in Society of Biblical Literature and Wesleyan Theological Society Her research connects ancient texts with modern bioethical concerns through interdisciplinary approaches. Publications span topics from maternal pain in Genesis to Wesleyan theological applications. 2024 presentations on ancient pain narratives and AuDHD preaching 2020-2024 grants and fellowships support her theological scholarship Notable contributions include co-edited textbooks and critical analyses of gender dynamics in biblical contexts.
Dr. Robert Smith Jr. is the Distinguished Professor of Divinity and Dr. Charles T. Carter Baptist Chair of Divinity at Beeson Divinity School, Samford University in Birmingham, AL. He earned his PhD at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary and has spoken at over 135 universities, seminaries, and colleges globally. Current academic rank: Professor Department: Christian Preaching Research Interests include passion in preaching, African American preaching history, Christological preaching, and theological frameworks for homiletics. His work bridges academic theology with practical ministry applications. Scientific Awards : 2017 E.K. Bailey Expository Preaching Conference Living Legend 2009 Preaching Book of the Year (Doctrine That Dances) 2008 Preaching Book of the Year (Doctrine That Dances) 1996 Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Findley B. Edge Award for Teaching Excellence Dr. Smith has authored/co-edited multiple books, advised on Christian ministry, and served as a Baptist minister for 20 years at New Mission Missionary Baptist Church. His global teaching engagements span locations including Greece, Turkey, and the Holy Land.
Inmaculada Delgado Jara is an Associate Professor of Greek Philology at the Facultad de Ciencias Humanas y Sociales, Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca, specializing in Biblical Studies and Patristics. Her academic profile shows extensive engagement with ancient Greek texts, particularly focusing on San Juan Crisóstomo, Erasmus of Rotterdam, and Septuagint studies. Her educational background includes a doctorate from Universidad Pontificia de Salamanca with the thesis "Sermones in Genesim de San Juan Crisóstomo estudio temático, estilístico y traducción" (1999), supervised by Dr. Alfonso Ortega Carmona. She is a member of the research groups "Humanismo, reformas y ciencia: del Medievo a la Ilustración" and "ICS. Innovación en Ciencias Sociales". Delgado Jara's research interests center on Greek Philology, Biblical Philology, Patristics, Septuagint Studies, Erasmus of Rotterdam studies, and San Juan Crisóstomo studies. Her scholarly work demonstrates deep expertise in ancient Greek language and literature, particularly as applied to biblical and patristic texts. She has made significant contributions to understanding the intersection of classical literature and early Christian thought. An analysis of her recent publications reveals a consistent focus on textual criticism, philological analysis of biblical and patristic works, and the reception history of classical texts in Christian contexts. Her work often bridges linguistic analysis with historical and theological interpretation, particularly examining how ancient Greek texts were transmitted, interpreted, and utilized in later periods. Her scholarly activity includes numerous books, edited volumes, and academic papers, with recent work focusing on Erasmus's biblical scholarship, San Juan Crisóstomo's homilies, and the Septuagint. Despite her extensive publication record, no specific scientific awards are mentioned in the available information. Delgado Jara is actively involved in academic supervision and research direction, as evidenced by her editorial work on major scholarly projects and her participation in academic conferences. Her work shows collaboration with numerous scholars across Spain and internationally, particularly in the fields of Biblical Studies and Renaissance Humanism.
Tone Stangeland Kaufman is a Professor of Practical Theology at MF University College of Theology, Religion and Society . Her research focuses on ecclesiology, homiletics, Christian spirituality, and qualitative methodologies , with an emphasis on reflexivity and normativity in empirical theological research. She leads the Scandinavian research project Priests' Learning in Practice (PLP) , examining newly graduated priests' transition to professional roles in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Her educational background includes a PhD (2011) from MF with a dissertation on Nordic clergy spirituality. She has held roles as a part-time parish priest (2012–2015) and served on committees like the Interchurch Council Theological Committee (2020–present) and the American Academy of Religion Practical Theology Group (co-chair since 2013). Her work bridges pastoral practice and academic rigor, with a focus on youth theology, religious education, and the digital transformation of worship. Key publications include studies on digitally mediated preaching , confession practices , and Ignatian spirituality in prisons . Her 2021 book Forkynnelse for barn og voksne analyzes confirmation rituals, while recent work explores postcolonial perspectives in practical theology. She teaches courses on homiletics, practical theology methodology, and postmodern religious practices. Professional networks include leadership roles in Societas Homiletica , the Nordic Network for Homiletics , and the Ecclesiology and Ethnography group. Her research often integrates material culture, digital media, and intergenerational dynamics to address contemporary challenges in Christian practice and institutional life.
Olaf Kramer is a Professor of Rhetoric and Knowledge Communication at the Department of General Rhetoric, Faculty of Humanities, University of Tübingen. He leads the Presentation Skills Research Center and serves as Managing Director of the Research Center for Science Communication (RCS). Since 2021, he has been the spokesperson for the RHET AI Center, focusing on artificial intelligence in science communication. Kramer is also a key editor of Science Notes magazine and the neue rhetorik / new rhetoric book series. Professor, Department of General Rhetoric, University of Tübingen Head, Presentation Skills Research Center Managing Director, Research Center for Science Communication (RCS) Spokesperson, RHET AI Center Editor, Science Notes and neue rhetorik series Education: Studied General Rhetoric, German Literature, Philosophy, and Psychology in Tübingen, Frankfurt (with Jürgen Habermas), and Chapel Hill, USA (with Lawrence Grossberg) Ph.D. (2008): Rhetoric in Goethe Habilitation (2015): Virtual Reality, with teaching authorization in General Rhetoric and German Literary Studies Olaf Kramer's research centers on science communication , communicative competence , political communication , digital rhetoric , and virtuality . His work bridges classical rhetorical theory with contemporary media and public discourse, particularly in scientific and political contexts. He investigates how knowledge is recontextualized in public communication and how digital platforms reshape rhetorical practices. The recent publications reflect a strong trend in interdisciplinary rhetoric , combining insights from law, theology, education, and digital media. His work explores the rhetorical dimensions of judicial decisions, science slams, social media, and AI, emphasizing the role of narrative, visual design, and audience engagement in shaping public understanding. The integration of virtuality and digital navigation into rhetorical theory highlights his innovative approach to modern communication challenges. Scientific Awards: No specific awards are mentioned in the provided text. Kramer actively supervises a large cohort of students and researchers, many of whom have collaborated on publications and projects. He has secured third-party funding for major initiatives like the Presentation Skills Research Center. His advisory and leadership roles extend to university governance, public engagement, and professional consulting for organizations such as the Max Planck Society and the German Foreign Office. He is deeply involved in public science communication through the Science-Notes lecture series, which he founded and moderates, and through media appearances on ZDF/3sat and RTL. His work also includes designing and leading rhetorical training programs for academic, corporate, and governmental clients, demonstrating a strong commitment to translating academic knowledge into practical applications.
Yung Suk Kim is a Professor of New Testament and Early Christianity at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, Virginia Union University. His work emphasizes transformative theology, biblical hermeneutics, and social justice. He holds a PhD from Vanderbilt University and has authored over 16 books, including Christ’s Body in Corinth and How to Read Paul . B.A., Kyungpook National University M.Div., McCormick Theological Seminary Ph.D., Vanderbilt University Dr. Kim’s research focuses on racial identity in biblical interpretation, Pauline theology, and the intersection of scripture with contemporary social issues. His recent work explores themes like the 'Other' in theological discourse, biblical pluralism, and minority perspectives in scripture. He has received major grants including the Lilly Theological Scholars Grant and the Wabash Center Fellowship. His publications demonstrate a commitment to reimagining biblical narratives through lenses of social justice and cultural diversity. Notable topics include racial identity in Paul’s letters, the socio-political context of early Christian communities, and ethical dimensions of Jesus’ parables. Recipient of Scott & Stringfellow Outstanding Professor Award (2019) Presidential Citation for outstanding service (VUU) Dr. Kim’s academic service includes editorial work for 1-2 Corinthians: Texts @ Contexts and leadership in initiatives promoting holistic human transformation through biblical studies. His current projects address decolonizing biblical interpretation and fostering intercultural theological dialogue.
Anathea Portier-Young is an Associate Professor of Old Testament at Duke Divinity School since 2011. She holds a Ph.D. from Duke University (2004), M.A.B.L. from the Graduate Theological Union/Jesuit School of Theology (Berkeley), and a B.A. from Yale University. Her research focuses on biblical prophecy, early Jewish apocalyptic literature, and second-temple historiography, with a specialization in embodiment studies as applied to religious experience and text interpretation. She is the award-winning author of *Apocalypse Against Empire* (2011) and *The Prophetic Body* (2024), exploring resistance theology and the role of the body in mediation. Educations: B.A., Yale University M.A.B.L., Graduate Theological Union/Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley Ph.D., Duke University Research Interests: Portier-Young examines embodiment through cognitive science and materiality, addressing themes like incarceration, identity, and nonviolence in biblical texts. Her work critiques imperial domination and integrates interdisciplinary methods with social justice applications. Recent projects explore Miriam’s prophetic dance and Josephus’s portrayal of memory. Publications & Media: Over 20 peer-reviewed articles and books, including co-editing *Scripture and Social Justice*. Media features include *Religion News Service* and *WorkingPreacher.org*. Recent articles analyze Daniel’s textual fluidity and the symbolic resistance in apocalyptic narratives. Teaching & Grants: Teaches courses like *Prophecy in the Body* and *Old Testament Interpretation*. Received grants such as the Catholic Biblical Association’s *Prophecy in the Body* project (2021–2022). Active in the Duke Divinity School Women’s Center, fostering community and equity in theological education.
Olehile Buffel serves as Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology and the Fred W. Meuser Professorship in Church History/Homiletics at Trinity Lutheran Seminary, Capital University. An ordained Lutheran minister since 1986, he brings extensive pastoral and administrative experience across multiple dioceses and parishes, and has conducted workshops for diverse denominations including Lutheran, Assemblies of God, and Dutch Reformed churches. His educational background includes: Bachelor of Theology (University of South Africa) Bachelor of Theology Honours in Practical Theology (University of South Africa) Master of Theology in Practical Theology (University of South Africa) PhD in Practical Theology (University of Pretoria) Buffel's research centers on pastoral care and homiletics within contexts of poverty, HIV/AIDS, land reform, and black liberation theology. He explores the therapeutic value of cultural rituals, the church's role in xenophobic contexts, and theology of vocation, emphasizing contextual and liberating approaches that address systemic injustice and human dislocation. His work consistently integrates Clinical Pastoral Education with community-based practices to serve marginalized populations. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2010-2022) reveals three dominant trajectories: pandemic-related theological responses (2020-2022), land justice and black liberation theology (2014-2021), and HIV/AIDS pastoral care models (2005-2014). These intersect through a consistent liberationist framework applying practical theology to South Africa's socio-economic crises, with increasing focus on vaccine nationalism and Covid-19 impacts in his latest work. His recognition includes: Fred W. Meuser Professorship in Church History/Hom Research Fellow appointment (2024) in Christian Spirituality, Church History and Missiology Buffel has supervised Master's and Doctoral students to completion at the University of South Africa and serves as external examiner for multiple South African universities. His editorial leadership spans Theologia Viatorum, HTS Theological Journal, Missionalia, Studia Historiae Ecclesiaticae, and the Journal of Theology in Southern Africa, where he regularly reviews submissions. He actively contributes to academic communities through memberships in Practical Theology in South Africa, South African Missiological Society, Theological Society in South Africa, Society for Pastoral Theology, and the International Association of Practical Theology, bridging scholarly work with practical church leadership across denominational lines.
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