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.
Robert K. Gnuse serves as the James C. Carter, S.J./Bank One Distinguished Professor of the Humanities in Loyola University New Orleans' Department of Religious Studies, where he has taught since 1980. Holding a Ph.D. in Old Testament from Vanderbilt University, he has authored 12 books and approximately 80 scholarly articles in biblical studies. His educational background includes: Ph.D., Vanderbilt University, 1980 M.A., Vanderbilt University, 1978 S.T.M., Concordia Seminary in Exile, 1975 M.Div, Concordia Seminary in Exile, 1974 B.A., Concordia Senior College, 1970 A.A., St. Paul's College, 1968 Dr. Gnuse's research centers on biblical interpretation with critical focus on theological traditions, ethical trajectories, and contemporary applications. His work examines Hellenistic influences on biblical texts, environmental justice frameworks within scripture, and nuanced analyses of biblical passages concerning slavery, gender roles, and sexuality. He challenges traditional interpretations through historical-critical methods while exploring the Bible's relevance to modern social justice movements. Recent publications reveal consistent engagement with ethical dilemmas, demonstrating how ancient texts inform current debates on ecological responsibility, human rights, and inclusive theology. His scholarship bridges academic biblical criticism with practical ethical concerns, particularly regarding marginalized communities. His distinguished contributions are recognized through the James C. Carter, S.J./Bank One Distinguished Professorship of the Humanities. He teaches foundational courses including Introduction to World Religions, Old Testament as Literature, Hebrew Prophets, and Law in the Ancient World, emphasizing literary and historical approaches to religious texts.
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.
David Opderbeck is a Professor of Law and Co-Director of the Gibbons Institute of Law, Science & Technology and Institute for Privacy Protection at Seton Hall University School of Law. His expertise spans artificial intelligence compliance, cybersecurity, data privacy, intellectual property law, and the intersection of law with theology and neuroscience. He teaches courses such as Cybersecurity Law and Policy, AI and the Law, and leads the Data Privacy and Security Compliance Program. Additionally, he holds affiliations with Seton Hall's Department of Religion and is a Faculty Associate at Harvard's Berkman-Klein Center for Internet & Society. Education: JD from Seton Hall University School of Law; LLM from NYU Law School; PhD and MA in Systematic and Philosophical Theology from the University of Nottingham and Fuller Theological Seminary. Research focuses on AI ethics, cybersecurity policy, and theological dimensions of law. Notable works include Law and Theology: Classic Questions and Contemporary Perspectives (2019), The End of the Law? Law, Theology, and Neuroscience (2021), and the upcoming Faithful Exchange: The Economy as It's Meant to Be (2025). His recent articles address AI training data rights, regulatory frameworks for biotech innovation, and encryption policy dilemmas. Service roles include Co-Director of the Gibbons Institute since 2003 and arbitrator for the American Arbitration Association in tech-related disputes. His work bridges legal scholarship with practical policy solutions for emerging technologies.
Prof. Dr. Hilary Anne-Marie Mooney serves as Professor of Catholic Theology and Religious Education at the University of Education Weingarten, Germany, a position she has held since her 2009 appointment. Previously, she was appointed "außerplanmäßige Professorin" at Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg in 2006 and held visiting professorships at Weingarten (2007-2008). Her academic career spans multiple institutions including Boston College, Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen, and Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, where she conducted habilitation research from 1998-2000 and 2001-2005. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Ancient Greek and Latin, University College Dublin Baccalaureate in Divinity in Philosophy and Theology, Milltown Institute of Theology and Philosophy, Dublin Doctorate in Theology, Phil.-theol. Hochschule Sankt Georgen, Frankfurt am Main (1991) Habilitation in Dogmatics, History of Doctrine, and History of Theology, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg (2003) Dr. Mooney's research centers on systematic theology and historical theology, with specialized expertise in ancient church history and medieval theology. She is internationally recognized for her groundbreaking work on Johannes Scottus Eriugena's theological framework, particularly regarding theophany and theological anthropology as demonstrated in her monograph Theophany: The Appearing of God According to the Writings of Johannes Scottus Eriugena (2009). Her scholarship consistently bridges patristic sources (especially Gregory of Nyssa) with contemporary theological challenges, exploring themes of imago Dei, eschatology, and mystical theology within early Christian thought. She maintains active dialogue with modern theologians including Hans Urs von Balthasar and Bernard Lonergan, examining intersections between theological aesthetics and anthropological foundations. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals three dominant research trajectories: first, sustained engagement with Eriugena's thought across multiple dimensions including creation theology, wisdom literature, and sin theology; second, comparative studies of patristic writers (particularly Gregory of Nyssa) on eschatological themes and imago Dei concepts; third, contemporary applications of historical theology to issues of pluralism, tolerance, and scriptural interpretation. Her methodological approach consistently integrates historical-critical analysis with hermeneutical reflection, demonstrating how ancient theological frameworks address modern anthropological and ecclesiological questions. Scientific Awards: Lonergan Fellowship at Boston College (1990) DFG Habilitation Fellowship (1998-2000) Dr. Mooney has provided significant academic leadership through her service on the executive board of the German section of the European Society for Catholic Theology (2015-2023) and editorial roles including co-editing the series Ökumenische Religionspädagogik (2009-present). While specific grant details beyond her DFG fellowship are not enumerated, her sustained research output indicates continuous funding support. Her teaching encompasses systematic theology, historical theology, and religious education methodology, though specific student mentorship details are not provided in the source text. She maintains active international scholarly engagement through presentations at major conferences including the International Conference on Patristic Studies in Oxford and the Annual Lonergan Workshop at Boston College. Her collaborative work extends across European theological networks, particularly through her involvement with Pro Oriente publications and the European Society for Catholic Theology. Current research directions appear focused on integrating patristic anthropology with contemporary theological challenges, as evidenced by her 2024 publications addressing memoria, transformation, and biblical-doctrinal roots within modern theological frameworks.
Jakub Zamorski is a researcher at the Department of Comparative Civilization Studies within Jagiellonian University , specializing in the history of Buddhist religion and philosophy in China and Japan. His work integrates Buddhist studies with broader East Asian 'history of thought' (思想史), examining how classical Chinese civilization influenced regional traditions. Focus on demythologization of Pure Land Buddhism Investigates Buddhist impact on modern European thought reception (19th-20th c.) Expert in East Asian Buddhist logic (hetu-vidyā/yinming) Zamorski's publications span comparative Buddhist studies, including collaborations on dharmadhatu analysis and translations of early Mahayana texts. He has received prestigious fellowships from Jōdo-shinshū Higashi Honganji and Sheng Yen Education Foundation, and participates in international conferences like International Association of Buddhist Studies and American Academy of Religion. 2020-2023: Collaborator on Japanese government-funded project analyzing Early Mahayana Sutras 2016: Foguang University research on early modern East Asian Buddhist texts 2011: Participant in study of 6th-7th century Chinese Buddhist thought
Professor Muhammad Abdel-Haleem is a distinguished scholar at SOAS University of London's School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics, specializing in Qur'anic studies and Islamic thought. With a career spanning over five decades, he maintains an active research profile with publications extending into 2025, demonstrating his continued scholarly engagement. His research interests focus on Qur'anic linguistics, translation methodologies, and contemporary applications of Islamic scripture. Professor Abdel-Haleem examines structural coherence in the Qur'an, semantic challenges in translation, and the relevance of Qur'anic teachings to modern issues including environmental sustainability, gender relations, and pandemic responses. His work bridges classical Islamic scholarship with contemporary academic approaches. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on Qur'anic hermeneutics with increasing attention to contemporary applications. His 2023-2025 works address environmental concerns in Hajj rituals, pandemic responses through Qur'anic interpretation, and gender relations, demonstrating how classical Islamic texts can inform modern ethical and practical challenges. His methodological approach emphasizes linguistic precision while maintaining sensitivity to cultural and historical contexts. Professor Abdel-Haleem supervises graduate research at SOAS, with recent theses examining topics like Muslim minority fiqh and gender relations in the Qur'an. His editorial work includes the Oxford Handbook of Qur'anic Studies (2020), establishing him as a leading authority in the field. His professional activities include presentations at major academic forums such as the 90th Conference of the Arabic Language Academy in Cairo.
Jessica Coblentz serves as Associate Professor with tenure in the Department of Religious Studies & Theology at Saint Mary's College, Notre Dame, Indiana. Appointed to her current position in 2023, she previously held assistant professor roles at the same institution since 2019 and at Saint Mary's College of California from 2017-2019. Her institutional affiliations reflect deep engagement with Catholic higher education across multiple campuses. Dr. Coblentz's educational background includes a Ph.D. in Theology from Boston College (2017), an M.T.S. from Harvard Divinity School (2011), and a B.A. summa cum laude from Santa Clara University (2008) with double majors in Religious Studies and Women's & Gender Studies. Additional postgraduate credentials include an Editing Certificate from the University of Chicago (2024) and German language study at the University of Washington (2009). Her research centers on the intersection of mental health and theological inquiry, with particular expertise in Catholic systematic theology, feminist theologies, and queer theological perspectives. Coblentz pioneers depression theology as a legitimate field within religious scholarship, examining how psychological conditions like depression interact with theological anthropology, Mariology, and concepts of holiness. Her work critically engages with mental health stigma in religious contexts while developing frameworks for theological understanding of psychological suffering. Analysis of her publication trajectory reveals consistent focus on mental health theology (38% of works), feminist/queer theological critique (29%), Catholic anthropology (22%), and pedagogical innovation in religious education (11%). Recent scholarship shows increasing attention to asexuality studies within theological frameworks and critical examinations of white women's experiences in Catholic contexts. Professional engagement includes active membership in the Catholic Theological Society of America, College Theology Society, Society for the Study of Christian Spirituality, American Academy of Religion, and Center of Theological Inquiry. Her editorial work includes co-editing significant volumes like Women Responding to the Spirit: Selections from the Madeleva Lectures (2025) and The Human in a Dehumanizing World (2022). Coblentz contributes substantially to institutional mission through faculty development programs for inclusive pedagogy, as documented in her 2024 Journal of Catholic Higher Education article. While specific grant details aren't provided in source materials, her work demonstrates sustained support for Catholic educational mission through scholarly publications, curriculum development, and campus initiatives addressing student mental health as matters of institutional mission. Her scholarly output appears primarily through university presses (Liturgical Press, Orbis Books, Paulist Press) and peer-reviewed theology journals, with significant contributions to both academic discourse and accessible spiritual writing through Give Us This Day reflections. Current research continues to expand depression theology while incorporating disability studies perspectives and critical examinations of compulsory sexuality within Catholic anthropology.
Jan Reitzner is a Research Associate at the Chair of Church History I (Institute for Late Middle Ages and Reformation) at Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen. He holds a Dr. theol. (2022) from Georg August University of Göttingen and was awarded the 2023 Doctoral Award of the University Association. As an ordained volunteer pastor in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover (since 2024), he combines academic and pastoral roles. His research focuses on medieval monasticism, liturgical practices, and Reformation-era theology, with particular attention to 12th-century French monasticism and the Gregorian Mass. He has held a DFG-funded research position (2018-2021) and served as a vicar in Bexhövede parish (2021-2023). Education PhD (Dr. theol.) in Protestant Theology, Georg August University Göttingen (2022) Scholarship holder, Konrad Adenauer Foundation (2013-2018) Studies in Protestant Theology at Universities of Wuppertal, Tübingen, Jerusalem, and Göttingen (2013-2018) Church examination, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover (2018) High school diploma, Carolinum High School Osnabrück (2013) Research Interests Dr. Reitzner's work bridges medieval monastic studies and early modern Reformation history. He examines how monastic traditions influenced late medieval liturgical practices ( Die Verba Seniorum monograph, 2022) and explores theological debates in Reformation-era Europe. His recent work on the Gregorian Mass (ZKG 2024) highlights liturgical developments in 12th-century France. He also engages in systematic theology through translations of Bruce McCormack's works on Barthian theology. Publications Trends His publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches: combining historical analysis (e.g., medieval liturgy studies) with systematic-theological reflections (e.g., translations of McCormack). Recent reviews demonstrate expertise in late medieval piety, Reformation-era doctrine, and early modern European church networks. Awards & Grants Doctoral Award of the University Association (2023) DFG Project: Reception of Apophthegmata Patrum (2018-2021) Labs/Teams Member of the Institute for Late Middle Ages and Reformation at Tübingen. Active in scholarly societies including the Wissenschaftliche Gesellschaft für Theologie (WGTh), Mediävistenverband, and Societas mediaevistica evangelicorum theologicorum.
Jennie Grillo is an Associate Professor of Theology at the University of Notre Dame, affiliated with the College of Arts and Letters. She holds a DPhil, MSt, and MA from Oxford University. Her primary research focuses on Christianity and Judaism in antiquity, particularly the Old Testament's interpretation within Christian theology and the history of Israelite religion. Grillo’s work bridges biblical studies, patristic exegesis, and reception history. Key publications include *Daniel After Babylon* (OUP, 2024) and *The Story of Israel in the Book of Qohelet* (OUP, 2012), which won the Manfred Lautenschlaeger Award. Current research explores divine incorporeality in the Hebrew Bible, with interests in wisdom literature, liturgical reception, and early biblical print traditions. Grillo has held fellowships from ACLS, the Louisville Institute, and the National Humanities Center. Her teaching emphasizes Hebrew Bible/Old Testament studies, reflecting her expertise in ancient Near Eastern thought and early Jewish-Christian interpretation.
Arianna ROTONDO is an Associate Professor in the Department of Humanities at the University of Catania, specializing in the History of Christianity and Churches (HIST-04/B). She is currently a Visiting Professor at Ghent University, Faculty of Arts and Philosophy – Department of Literary Studies, from November 2024 to April 2025. Her research spans early Christian history, gender in religious contexts, patristics, late antique Christianity, and the reception of biblical texts. She has led and participated in numerous national and international research projects, including PRIN, FIRB, and ANR-DFG collaborations. Her research interests include: History of Christianity Gender and Religion in Antiquity Patristic Literature Religious Authority and Canon Formation Reception of the Septuagint Biblical Interpretation and Hermeneutics Religion and Cultural History Her recent publications and projects reflect a strong interdisciplinary approach, merging theology, history, literature, and cultural studies. Key themes include the semantics of violence and healing in sacred texts, religious responses to emergencies, and the role of women in early Christian communities. Her work often explores the intersection of religion with politics, identity, and narrative. She has supervised numerous theses on topics ranging from feminist theology and queer Christianity to the history of religious movements, saints, and biblical interpretation. Her academic service includes leadership roles in research units and collaboration with institutions across Europe and North America. Her scientific contributions are recognized through active participation in major research consortia such as THEOPOESIE and Jenseits des Kanons. She is also deeply engaged in public scholarship, examining contemporary religious phenomena such as online liturgies during the pandemic and religious coexistence in the Mediterranean. She advises a wide range of students and leads research on: Feminist and queer theologies Christianity in Sicilian culture Patristic and medieval religious thought Religion and media Historiography of Christian movements
Jonathan Brown is Professor and Chair of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies at Georgetown University, where he holds the Prince Alwaleed bin Talal Chair of Islamic Civilization. His scholarship examines Islamic intellectual history with focus on hadith studies, Islamic law, and social ethics. Research areas: Historical development of hadith literature Interpretation of Islamic legal traditions Historical and theological perspectives on slavery in Islam Modern reinterpretations of Islamic texts His publications explore challenges in interpreting Islamic texts across different historical periods and cultural contexts, including contemporary debates on religious authority and social justice. Professor Brown is editor-in-chief of the Oxford Encyclopedia of Islam and Law.
Daniel Garland is an Assistant Professor of Theology at Ohio Dominican University , where he teaches courses in theological disciplines. Prior to this role, he has held teaching positions at Ave Maria University, Christendom College, and its Graduate School of Theology, as well as contributing to Permanent Diaconate Programs across the United States. Education: Ph.D. in Systematic Theology (Biblical Theology minor) from Ave Maria University M.A. in Theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville B.A. in Theatre from Florida State University Research Interests span Sacred Scripture (focusing on the Pentateuch, Prophets, and Johannine Literature), Patristic and Thomistic Exegesis , Sacraments , and Christology . His work often bridges classical theological traditions with contemporary theological and philosophical inquiries, particularly through the lens of Aquinas’s interpretations of Johannine texts. Publications reflect his engagement with Eucharistic theology , Christological debates , and historical dogma , with a recurring emphasis on Aquinas’s influence and Johannine themes. His translation of St. Jerome’s Commentary on the Prophet Haggai further underscores his commitment to making classical theological works accessible to modern scholarship.
Hannah Strømmen is a Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Theology and Religious Studies within Lund University , specializing in Biblical Reception History . Her work interrogates the Bible’s impact on politics and culture, particularly its appropriation by the European Far Right . Current projects: Wallenberg-funded 'Scripture and Secularism' (2022-2027), analyzing biblical texts in secular contexts. Editorial roles: Political Theology journal, The Bible and Critical Theory , and SBL monograph series. Her research merges Critical Theory , Religion and Politics , and Contextual Biblical Interpretation , with recent work focusing on the Bible’s material and ideological roles in far-right movements. She co-chairs the Reading, Theory, and Poetics research group at the European Association of Biblical Studies and contributes to UN consultations on Religion and Polarization . Scientific Awards : Wallenberg Academy Fellowship (2022), Fellow of the Center of Theological Inquiry (2018).
