Indigenous Theologies: Prospects and Challenges

RISC is a network of scholars working on Indigenous Christianity. This RISC Webinar session is jointly organised with the Society for the Study of Theology (SST (theologysociety.org.uk)).

Abstract: 

Claims of knowledge typically stem from religious perspectives and rely on religious justifications. Moreover, the terms "indigenous" and "theology" are both products of European colonial expansion, and as such, their methods and perspectives reinforce Western paradigms of power, including colonialism, racism, and sexism. Therefore, it is necessary to critically examine and unpack the meanings of these concepts. To initiate this process, the upcoming webinar features the renowned Cherokee activist and teacher, Professor Randy S. Woodley, who will discuss his latest book, "Indigenous Theology and the Western Worldview: A Decolonized Approach to Christian Doctrine." His talk will be followed by reflections from other contexts: Elilo Ezung (Naga Tribal-Indigenous, India), Elia Maggang (coastal indigenous communities and maritime theology, Indonesia), and Axolile N. M. Qina (Biblical studies from Xhosa perspective, South Africa).

This event is free and virtual, on April 28, 2023 at 5pm London/ noon ET/ 9am PT.

Schedule:

5:00-5:05pm: Welcome from SST (Anupama Ranawana, University of St. Andrews)

5:05-5:10pm: Introducing RISC (Rathiulung Elias, University of Edinburgh)

5:10-5:15pm: Preliminary remarks  (Dr. Arvin Gouw, University of Cambridge)

5:15-6:00pm: Keynote Lecture (Prof. Randy S. Woodley, Portland Seminary)

6:00-6:10pm: Elilo Ezung (University of Edinburgh)

6:10-6:20pm: Elia Maggang (University of Manchester)

6:20-6:30pm: Axolile Qina (University of Edinburgh)

6:30-6:55pm: Q&A and open discussion

Co-Chairs:

Rathiulung Elias (University of Edinburgh)

Arvin Gouw (University of Cambridge)

Keynote Speaker:

Prof. Randy S. Woodley (Distinguished Professor of Faith and Culture at George Fox University/Portland Seminary)

Dr. Woodley earned a Ph.D. in Intercultural Studies and remains active in ongoing discussions in a variety of areas concerning spirituality, earth-care, racial and ethnic identity, diversity, peace, social justice, eco-justice, interreligious dialogue, Indigenous studies, agriculture, and spirituality.  A  former member of the Oregon Dept. of Education, American Indian/Alaska Native Advisory Board, Dr. Woodley has taught for Cook Indian School, at Bacone Indian College, and was a founding board member of NAIITS, the North American Institute for Indigenous Theological Studies. Dr. Woodley was co-founder and Program Director of the NAIITS/George Fox Master of Arts Intercultural Studies degree. Raised in the mean streets near Detroit, Michigan, he was a first-generation college student, and maternally, a first-generation non-coal miner. During his academic career, Randy attained the rank of both tenured and distinguished professor while at George Fox University.

Moderator:

Anupama Ranawana (University of St. Andrews)

Respondents::

Elilo Ezung (University of Edinburgh) 

Elia Maggang (University of Manchester)

Axolile Qina (University of Edinburgh)