Jeremy W. Johnston is a part-time Adjunct Lecturer in History at Redeemer University, specializing in American History, Western Civilization, and Classical Studies. He holds an M.Ed. (2017), B.Ed. (2002), and BA (2001) from the University of Western Ontario. His teaching includes courses like A World at War: The Turbulent 20th Century and History of the US: From Colony to Superpower . Education: M.Ed. (2017), Curriculum and Pedagogy, University of Western Ontario B.Ed. (2002), English and History, University of Western Ontario BA (Honours) (2001), English and History, University of Western Ontario Jeremy’s research spans interdisciplinary fields including Christianity and the arts, Anglo-Saxon/Medieval literature, and 20th-century Christian thinkers like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. His recent publications focus on literary analysis, theological aesthetics, and educational philosophy, with a particular emphasis on Christian cultural engagement. His scientific awards include the Teaching Excellence Award (2002) and multiple academic honors from the University of Western Ontario (1998-1999). He has authored three books and served as an arts columnist for Barnabas magazine over a decade.
Professor Athanasios Paparnakis serves at the School of Theology , Aristotle University of Thessaloniki , within the Department of Social Theology and Christian Culture . His academic work focuses on Old Testament interpretation, biblical theology, and the integration of information technology in theological research. Specializes in Patristic hermeneutics and reception history of the Bible Develops digital methodologies for scriptural analysis Teaches courses on Old Testament exegesis and theological interpretation Recent publications demonstrate expertise in: 2023: Biblical foundations of childhood education in Jewish contexts 2019: Patristic interpretations of Proverbs 8:22 2017: Digital tools for patristic text analysis He contributes to interdisciplinary research through: Collaborations with the Eusebius Lab (Church History, Politics, Diplomacy) Leadership in digital theological applications
Anja Block is a research assistant (academic title: Researcher ) at the Chair of Old Testament Exegesis and Theology within the Protestant Theological Faculty of the University of Bonn . Born in 1991, Wermelskirchen Magistra Theologiae (2019) from the Evangelical Church in the Rhineland Doctoral candidate in Old Testament studies: 'Wisdom and Torah – Psalm 119 in the context of the Psalter' Her research focuses on the interplay between Torah and Wisdom Literature in the Hebrew Bible, with a specialization in Psalm 119 analysis. She explores theological frameworks, linguistic patterns, and the psalm’s role in shaping the Psalter’s structure. Her work intersects with Christian-Jewish contextual studies , informed by her academic ties to the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Selected publications include: Torah through the Lens of Wisdom (BN 202, 2024) Speaking Responsibly about Biblical Texts (Leipzig, 2023) She has taught courses on Old Testament exegesis, Psalms, and Christian-Jewish dialogue since 2020. Awards include the 2021 University of Bonn Teaching Award and a Konrad Adenauer Foundation Fellowship .
Vicente Vide Rodriguez is a faculty member at the University of Deusto , affiliated with the College of Theology and Department of Theology . His career spans over three decades, focusing on intersections between theology, philosophy, and cultural studies. He has held significant roles in academic commissions and thesis tribunals, contributing to research and doctrinal development.
Rev Dr Vicky Balabanski is a Senior Lecturer in New Testament at Flinders University's Department of Theology and Director of Biblical Studies at the Uniting College for Leadership and Theology. With a PhD in Classics and Near Eastern Studies from the University of Melbourne (1993), she has held prestigious fellowships including the Golda Meir post-doctoral position at Hebrew University and scholarships from DAAD, Swiss Government, and Robert Maddox. Bachelor of Divinity, Melbourne College of Divinity (1986) Bachelor of Arts with Honours, University of Melbourne (1982) Her research focuses on ecological and feminist interpretations of the Bible, Stoic philosophy in New Testament contexts, and Indigenous spirituality. She co-edits the Earth Bible Project, which explores scriptural responses to ecological crises, and contributes to feminist collections while supporting Indigenous writers through initiatives like the 2019 National First and Second Peoples' writers' retreat. Notable research outputs include her 2020 monograph Colossians: An Eco-Stoic Reading , 2024 chapters on creation theology, and a 2025 introduction to a JSNT special issue on creation. These works reflect her expertise in New Testament hermeneutics, ecological ethics, and cross-disciplinary engagement with Stoic cosmology. Scientific Awards : 2017: Member of Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas (SNTS) 2012 & 2011: Visiting Scholar appointments in India and Thailand 1996: Post-doctoral fellowship at Hebrew University 1988-1989: Swiss Government and Robert Maddox scholarships 1981: DAAD German Government Scholarship As a Higher Education supervisor, she guides students in topics like Irony in the Fourth Gospel and Pauline engagement with Stoic thought . She also directs Flinders' Forum on Religion and Ecology (Australia-Pacific) and contributes to the Earth Bible Project as an editor.
Dr. Matthias Mangold is a Senior Researcher in Historical Theology at the Institute of Post-Reformation Studies (IPRS) within the Evangelical Theological Faculty (ETF) Leuven, Belgium. His work focuses on early modern theological and philosophical currents in the Dutch Republic, particularly the intersection of Reformed orthodoxy, Cartesianism, and the reception of figures like Spinoza and Cocceius. PhD in Theology and Religious Studies (2021) from ETF Leuven MA in Theology and Religious Studies (2013) from ETF Leuven Staatsunabhängige Theologische Hochschule Basel (2010) Matthias's research spans the Cartesio-Cocceian synthesis , covenant theology, and the intellectual dynamics of the Dutch Golden Age . He has contributed to translating the Synopsis Purioris Theologiae and analyzed its global theological impact post-1625. His award-winning thesis on Salomon van Til's covenant doctrine established his expertise in 17th-century Reformed debates . His publications and presentations explore topics such as Van Til's engagement with Spinoza, Braun's Cartesian epistemology, and the compatibility of heliocentrism with Reformed hermeneutics. Key awards include the Prof. dr. S. van der Linde-Award for his MA thesis and fellowships at institutions like the Meeter Center for Calvin Studies and the Institut d’histoire de la Réformation.
Prof. Dr. Pieter Boersema is a Visiting Professor of Religious Studies & Missiology at the Evangelical Theological Faculty Leuven since 2018. His academic career at ETF spans multiple roles including Professor (2004-2018), Chairman of Department (2004-2018), and Academic Dean (2003-2004). Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (PhD in Social and Cultural Anthropology, 2004) Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Drs. in Cultural Anthropology, 1996) University of Reading (MSc Agricultural Extension, 1985) His research bridges anthropology of religion with mission studies , focusing on intercultural communication and contextualization of Christianity . Key publications include Diversity in a Cultural-Religious Context (2023) and The Word in Image and Language (2020). As a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute , Boersema's work examines religious identity in multicultural societies, with specific attention to Christian migrant communities and Moluccan theological education . His editorial contributions in Under Tension (2011) and Authority in Motion (2008) reflect his interdisciplinary approach.
Heiko Wenzel serves as Professor of Old Testament Studies at Free Theological University Giessen and as Post-doctoral Research Assistant in Old Testament Studies at ETF Leuven. His academic profile bridges biblical scholarship with Islamic studies, focusing particularly on the Book of the Twelve (Minor Prophets) and interfaith dialogue between Christian and Islamic scriptural interpretation traditions. Wenzel's educational background includes a Ph.D. from Wheaton College (2008), an MA in Islamic Studies and Theology from Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen (2000), and M.Div. equivalent from Freie Theologische Akademie Giessen (1996). His classical language training (Latinum, Graecum, Hebraicum) completed in 1991/1992 provides foundational expertise for his biblical scholarship. His research centers on Old Testament exegesis with three interconnected strands: 1) The Book of the Twelve, where he examines both textual details and broader canonical questions; 2) Biblical anthropology, particularly how the Hebrew Bible conceptualizes human nature; and 3) Islam-Christian relations, exploring connections between biblical texts and Islamic theological interpretation. His work demonstrates how ancient texts continue to shape modern religious identities and intergroup relations. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a growing emphasis on comparative religious studies, particularly examining how biblical texts are interpreted across religious boundaries. His scholarship often bridges textual analysis with theological implications, creating a rich interdisciplinary approach that moves from detailed grammatical studies to broad theological reflections on scriptural interpretation across faith traditions. Wenzel maintains active membership in key scholarly organizations: Society of Biblical Literature (2007-present) European Association for Biblical Studies (2009-present) Evangelical Theological Society (2012-present) His teaching career spans multiple institutions, beginning as a Teaching Assistant at Freien Theologischen Akademie/Hochschule Giessen (2006-2010) where he taught both Old Testament and Islamic Studies, then advancing to Professor at Free Theological University Giessen (2010-present) while simultaneously serving as Post-doctoral Research Assistant at ETF Leuven (2012-present). This dual appointment reflects his interdisciplinary expertise bridging traditional biblical scholarship with contemporary interfaith concerns.
Christian Hild is a Privatdozent (PD) in Practical Theology/Religious Education at the University of Saarland's Faculty of Protestant Theology. He holds a dual doctorate (Dr. phil. in Classical Philology from Tübingen University and Dr. phil. in Historical Theology from Saarland University) and completed his habilitation in Practical Theology/Religious Education at Saarland University in 2022. His primary academic affiliation is with the Department of Protestant Theology at the University of Saarland, where he teaches and conducts research on religious education, translation studies, and language sensitization in religious contexts. Christian Hild's educational background includes: 1999-2003: Studies in Latin and Protestant Theology at Saarland University, obtaining First State Examination in 2003 2004-2006: Teacher training (Referendariat), obtaining Second State Examination 2013: Doctorate in Classical Philology from Eberhard Karls University Tübingen 2016: Doctorate in Historical Theology from Saarland University 2022: Habilitation in Practical Theology/Religious Education from Saarland University Dr. Hild's research focuses on the intersection of religious education, translation studies, and language sensitization. His work explores how religious concepts and terminology can be effectively translated and adapted across linguistic and cultural boundaries, particularly in educational settings. He investigates the role of translation processes—both intralingual (within the same language) and intersemiotic (across different sign systems)—in facilitating religious understanding and dialogue. His research also addresses the integration of religious and ethical education, especially in interdisciplinary contexts such as engineering education, and examines humanity as a guiding principle in religious pedagogy. Analysis of Dr. Hild's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on translation processes in religious education, with particular attention to linguistic challenges in conveying religious concepts across cultural contexts. His work spans multiple disciplines including theology, linguistics, education, and ethics, demonstrating an interdisciplinary approach to religious pedagogy. A notable trend is his increasing focus on practical applications of theoretical concepts, particularly in developing teaching methods that address multilingual and multicultural classroom environments. His research also shows growing engagement with contemporary issues such as pandemic-related religious communication and the integration of religious and ethical education in technical fields. Dr. Hild serves as a known examiner for the Theological Examination Commission of the Evangelical Church in the Rhineland since 2017. While specific grant information isn't detailed in the provided text, his participation in the "SirSyn" research project (2013-2017) indicates experience with third-party funded research. His collaborative work on multiple edited volumes suggests active engagement with academic networks and potential mentorship of junior scholars, though specific students are not named. Dr. Hild is actively involved in several academic initiatives, including the "Religion und Kommunikation in Bildung und Gesellschaft" (RKBG) book series, which he co-edits. He participates in the design and implementation of the "Industriedesign, Ergonomie und Ethik" module for engineering students, demonstrating interdisciplinary collaboration between religious studies and technical education. His work with the WiReLex (Scientific Religious Education Lexicon) shows engagement with digital academic resources in his field.
Dr. Ryan Richard Overbey is the Robert H.N. Ho Family Foundation Associate Professor in Buddhist Studies and Chair of the Religious Studies Department at Skidmore College . Holding a Ph.D. in the Study of Religion from Harvard University (2010) and an A.B. in Classics & Sanskrit from Brown University (2001), Dr. Overbey specializes in the intersection of Buddhist ritual theory and practice through critical analysis of esoteric traditions. Ph.D., Harvard University (2010) A.B., Brown University (2001) His research focuses on Buddhist Studies with particular emphasis on Chinese and Indian religions , Tantra , and digital humanities . Recent work involves the interpretation of dhāraṇī scriptures, Pure Land rituals, and Buddhist stone inscriptions across Central and East Asia. Dr. Overbey has received prestigious awards including the ACLS Ho Foundation Grant (2021–2022), Shinjō Itō Fellowship (2013–2015), and multiple Harvard University teaching accolades. His publications span editions of Buddhist scriptures and theoretical analyses of ritual practices. Books : The Vaults of Buddhas (under review), co-edited volumes with Brill and Oxford University Press Courses Taught : Introduction to Asian Studies, Buddhism and the Body, Religious Studies core curriculum
Gregory Spinner is a Teaching Professor at the Department of Religious Studies , Skidmore College. His research focuses on interdisciplinary intersections of religion, gender, and visual culture. Ph.D., The University of Chicago (2003) M.A., The University of Chicago (1988) B.A., The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (1987) Key research areas include Jewish mysticism , Christian and Muslim scriptures , and ritual practices , with particular attention to mythology , millennialism , and gender dynamics . His publications analyze topics like parental imprinting, suffering in Jewish thought, and morphological theories in religious contexts. He engages with visual culture through collaborations like the Graphic Jews: Negotiating Identity in Sequential Art podcast series at the Tang Museum, and contributions to public discourse on antisemitism.
Joan Ferrer Costa is a full Professor at the University of Girona within the Philology and Communication department. His academic work focuses on Hebrew and Aramaic Studies , Biblical Philology , and Catalan Language through religious text translation and linguistic analysis. Research : History and normative studies of Catalan language, Judeo-Romance linguistics, and interlinear biblical editions Publications : Bilingual Latin-Catalan Augustinian works (2024), Syriac lexicography (2020), and Hebrew-Catalan Exodus editions (2023) Contact : joan.ferrer@udg.edu
apl. Prof. Dr. Thilo Rudnig is an extraordinary professor and Hebrew lecturer at the Faculty of Theology, University of Göttingen. His academic journey includes a doctorate from the University of Münster (1999), habilitation (2005), and extensive research on Old Testament texts. He coordinates the ludus linguarum at the Centrum Orbis Orientalis et Occidentalis and serves as the Faculty Representative for Good Scientific Practice and Chairman of the Equal Opportunities Commission. Rudnig's research focuses on Old Testament exegesis, Hebrew linguistics, prophetic literature, and ancient Near Eastern religions. Key areas include Ezekiel studies, Davidic historiography, temple theology, and Hebrew syntax. His work integrates philology, literary criticism, and comparative analysis of Ugaritic and biblical texts. His publications emphasize textual criticism, theological motifs in biblical narratives, and modern adaptations of scriptural themes. Recent works explore holiness concepts in Isaiah, Syriac Psalms, and cinematic reinterpretations of Job. His Luther Bible revisions reflect rigorous engagement with historical and linguistic contexts. Awards: Dissertation prize, WWU Münster (1999) Rudnig actively contributes to academic societies including the Scientific Society for Theology and the Hebraists Association. He examines Old Testament theology for the Evangelical Church of Hanover and participates in Christian-Jewish dialogue.
Dr. Edeltraud Gaus is a part-time lecturer at the University of Tübingen in the Faculty of Catholic Theology , specializing in Religious Education . She is affiliated with the Tübinger School of Education (TüSE) and collaborates with institutions like the Institut national supérieur du professorat et de l'éducation in Marseille and the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven . Her current roles include teaching modules on professional development and interreligious topics. PhD in Catholic Theology (2017-2022), University of Tübingen Part-time lecturer at University of Tübingen since 2009 Visiting scholar at Australian Catholic University (2018-2019) Erasmus+ exchange at Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (2019) Her research focuses on teacher professionalism , reflective practice , interfaith education , and relational teaching . She explores how educators maintain pedagogical integrity during crises , integrates embodied learning from biblical texts, and develops intercultural and interreligious curricula . Recent work addresses antisemitism in education and applied theology for modern teaching challenges. Her publications emphasize critical reflection , ethical education , and communal theological understanding . She contributes to educational resources like the Klett-Auer Verlag series and engages in collaborative projects such as the Springer VS interreligious hermeneutics volume (2024). Teaching Board Member , Tübingen School of Education Ansprechperson for sexual harassment issues Part-time lecturer for modules like 'Integrative Social Work' and 'Religious and Intercultural Competencies' Contributor to accreditation processes for theology programs
Lena Lütticke is a Research Fellow at the Chair of New Testament at the Faculty of Catholic Theology, Eberhard Karls Universität Tübingen, since 2022. She is also a co-editor of the Wissenschaftliches Bibellexikon im Internet (WiBiLex) since 2022. Her research focuses on New Testament theology, particularly divine hiddenness, prayer, and antijudaism in Matthew’s Gospel and early Christian exegesis. Current research: Antijudaism in New Testament exegesis, Divine presence in Matthew, Temptation narratives. Editorial work: WiBiLex (New Testament section), Judenfeindschaft und Theologie (2025). Her publications include interdisciplinary analyses of New Testament texts, theological lexicon entries, and critical reviews. In 2023, she received the Promotionspreis from the Faculty of Catholic Theology at Regensburg University. Scientific Awards Promotionspreis 2023, Förderverein der Katholisch-Theologischen Fakultät, Universität Regensburg Lütticke is currently on parental leave and advises contact with Dr. Reinhard Stiksel or the secretariat for delayed responses.
