News
The webinar, “80 Years of Bossey in the Mirror of Theological Biographies,” brought together theologians representing Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, Protestant, and Roman Catholic traditions. The event was the second in a series of webinars marking eight decades of Bossey’s contribution to ecumenical formation.
Presentations reflected on the lives and work of influential figures associated with Bossey, including Suzanne de Dietrich, Nikos Nissiotis, and John Mbiti. Their theological journeys provided a lens through which participants considered the diversity of the global ecumenical movement, as well as the common commitments that have shaped Christian engagement across traditions.
Speakers included Rev. Dr Kuzipa Nalwamba, WCC programme director for Unity, Mission, and Theological Formation; Fr Prof. Dr K.M. George, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church,; Prof. Dr Elisabeth Parmentier, Église protestante de la Confession d’Augsbourg d’Alsace et de Lorraine, Geneva University; Rev. Canon Dr Peniel Rajkumar, director of Global Mission, United Society Partners in the Gospel, Church of England; Georgios Vlantis, Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, Theological Academy of Volos; and Fr. Dr Lawrence Iwuamadi, academic dean of Bossey.
The webinar also invited reflection on the future of theological formation and the role of Bossey as a place where Christians from different traditions encounter one another, learn together, and engage in ecumenical dialogue.
Reflecting on the discussion, moderator Rev. Dr Martin Illert said: “The presentations on the Bossey in the light of theological biographies highlighted both the rich diversity of the global ecumenical movement and at the same time the one spirit that unites it. The creativity and energy of the individuals featured in the presentations can serve as a great inspiration to all those currently studying and teaching at Bossey, encouraging them to discern the signs of the times and to attentively listen to one another in ecumenical dialogue.”
Watch the recording of this webinar
