22 Langham Scholars from 17 countries convened at Wycliffe Hall, Oxford, in June for a highly beneficial and enriching consultation*.
These Scholars are all studying for PhDs at UK or European institutions, aiming to return to their home countries to serve on completion.
Since the Langham Scholars programme began over 50 years ago, more than 300 Scholars have received support from Langham.
The event at Wycliffe Hall brought together 22 Langham Scholars to share and discuss their research in a supportive, international academic setting. They could also share insights into their countries and lives as researchers.
17 countries represented
Scholars came from 17 countries, including Argentina, Bulgaria, Columbia, Greece, India, Paraguay, Poland, and several that cannot be named for security reasons.
Besides providing a venue, Wycliffe Hall was represented at the event by its Tutorial Fellow in World Christianity, Revd Dr Ofula Kenneth, whose input was very much enjoyed.
During the six-day consultation, the scholars were divided into three groups with each scholar giving a presentation about their PhD. The scholars found these times extremely valuable, as they gave each other feedback and shared different perspectives from their particular contexts.
Worship in different languages
Worship sessions were led focussing on a different part of the world each morning. Songs were sung in different languages and the scholars were able to pray for countries where Christians face persecution.
The scholars also listened to interviews with Langham staff in the evenings in a more relaxed setting. These included Global Ambassador Rev Dr Chris Wright, Scholar Care Coordinators Liz and Malcolm McGregor and Langham Scholars Director Lina Toth.
The Langham Scholars team gathered feedback about the event and overall it was “much appreciated” by all who attended.
‘Thoughtful… enriching… inspiring’
Regarding the scholars’ presentations, comments included:
“They were thoughtful, engaging and broadened my worldview”.
“They were enriching and inspiring. We deeply share our common desire for a truly contextual theological reflection, biblical perspective and missiological engagement.”
One Scholar said of the consultation: “The greatest benefit was being able to share my research, its purpose and vision, and also learn from other fellow Langham peers.”
Building friendships
Francis Mathew, from India, is studying for a PhD at Bristol Baptist College. He is focusing on the ‘Silence of God’ in Old Testament passages depicting violence against women. He shared his reflections about the consultation:
“It offers you the opportunity to hear what other people are doing, to address either contextual or textual issues from within their context and it’s always encouraging to meet people and hear their stories. I’m keen to build possible friendships so that there are opportunities to collaborate in the future on projects that could address matters of faith in our Asian context as well.”
The scholars and staff were blessed by their stay at Wycliffe Hall. Danny Crowther, a Langham staff member, said: “Wycliffe Hall provided good food, good facilities and a warm welcome in an attractive academic and tourist city.”
*A consultation in this context is a gathering of Scholars (researchers) who exchange information and opinions.
This article was written in partnership with Wycliffe Hall’s communications team