Public Theology?
|
Theology is the systematic study of the nature of the Divine and of religious belief. The Ebor Lectures offer a space where theology can dialogue with a range of communities such as educational institutions, public interest groups, religious movements, secular society, and anyone with an interest in contemporary issues.
By sharing knowledge and provoking reflection, the Ebor Lectures contribute to the creation of personal and collective decision-making. The Lectures promote Public Theology both in the sense of theology that engages with public issues, and in the sense of making theology more publicly accessible. |
|
|
Public Theology is particularly concerned with issues that link religious faiths and the larger society. It can include the study of the Divine ("God/s") done by or for the public, or the study of public issues by or for faith communities. Public Theology has something to say on a very broad range of public issues. Public Theology is particularly interested in the welfare of the state and a just society for all, engaging issues of common interest that build 'the common good'. Public Theology talks with society, not just to society, and public theologians have an important role in informing faith communities about public issues of contemporary relevance. Public Theology can also present faith positions in a way that can be publicly understood and thereby open to public debate and critical enquiry.
Public Theology is closely linked to disciplines such as Practical Theology, Political Theology, Social Theology, Eco Theology, and Liberation Theology, and interested in anything connected with public life. |
Public Theology emerged within academic circles in the second half of the Twentieth Century, partly inspired by movements and events such as the social developments following World War II (1945+), the establishment of the World Council of Churches (1948), and the Second Vatican Council (1962-65).
Public Theology has been particularly promoted by Christian theologians but is not exclusively Christian.
Public Theology has been particularly promoted by Christian theologians but is not exclusively Christian.
