Interview
Looking back, what is one experience or lesson from Bossey that has had the greatest impact on your personal, academic, or ministry journey?
Dr. Lin: I studied at Bossey in 1997. Back then, the Bossey curriculum differed considerably from what it is today. We were split into four seminar groups, each supervised by a different professor, and we shared reflections on assigned readings nearly every day.
Beyond these daily seminars, the main academic assignment we completed was an essay reflecting on the theme of the Gospel and culture from our own contextual perspectives.
Working on this paper marked several firsts for me. It was the first time I had engaged with such a large volume of theological literature within a tight timeframe, and the first occasion for deep‑rooted reflection on my own cultural and faith traditions. It was also my first attempt to write a lengthy theological paper in English, a second language for me.
I remain deeply thankful that this paper, “A Modern Chinese Journey of Inculturation” — which analysed the inculturation of Christianity in China and outlined key challenges and opportunities for the Chinese church in its self‑understanding and engagement with the broader society — was published in the January 1998 issue of the International Review of Mission (IRM). This publication was a major source of encouragement and helped me recognize my own academic potential. This formative Bossey experience gave me the confidence to go on to complete a Master’s degree at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Texas and several years later, a PhD at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California, USA.
How has the Bossey community and its ecumenical approach influenced the way you engage with people from different churches, cultures, or faith traditions?
Dr. Lin: The Bossey community and its ecumenical ethos have profoundly shaped how I engage with sisters and brothers from diverse church traditions, cultural backgrounds, and faith communities.
In 1997, our studies at Bossey placed a strong focus on the Orthodox Church, which turned out to be a truly eye‑opening experience. Before then, the Orthodox tradition had merely been an abstract concept I encountered in church history books. However, studying this tradition alongside Orthodox priests and lay believers offered me a vivid, firsthand, and living ecclesial experience that I had never had before. Apart from this, interacting and learning with young Christian peers from varied denominational backgrounds at Bossey greatly enriched my theological vision and cultivated my inclusive ecumenical approach to dialogue and fellowship.
What would you say to someone who is considering studying at the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey?
Dr. Lin: I would highly encourage any young Christian considering studying at the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey to seize this precious opportunity.
Since 1990, the China Christian Council and the National Committee of Three‑Self Patriotic Movement (CCC&TSPM) have sent students to Bossey almost every year. To date, more than 60 Chinese church workers have completed their studies and returned to serve the Church across China. They now serve in local congregations, theological seminaries, and at all levels of Christian Councils and TSPM. Their studies at Bossey have greatly broadened their vision of ecumenical movement and the spirit of unity.
As General Secretary of the China Christian Council, I consistently encourage young people in the Chinese Church to apply for the Bossey program. At Bossey, they will receive top‑tier ecumenical formation, build friendships with peers from diverse church traditions and cultural backgrounds, and share compelling stories of the Chinese Church within Chinese society with the global ecumenical community. Their presence will also enable the wider ecumenical church to understand that the Three‑Self Principles and the practice of union worship of the Chinese Church are fully aligned with the spirit of ecumenism. Study at Bossey is a precious asset that will nourish and shape their lifelong journey of faith and ministry.
The Ecumenical Institute at Bossey is celebrating its 80th anniversary. Do you have a memory to share? You can help preserve the spirit of this unique community and connect generations of people who have found a place of welcome, learning, and fellowship there. Share your story, photographs, reflections, or special memories—and help keep the Bossey experience alive for all who have been part of it, and for those who will come after.
Email: [email protected]
WCC special webpage: Bossey 80th anniversary
Learn more about the Ecumenical Institute at Bossey
Bossey alum reflects on special years of living and learning (WCC interview, 18 August 2026)
Rev. Merlyn Hyde Riley: “Bossey experience a gift and opportunity” (WCC interview, 1 September 2026)
