Scholars in Leuven discuss means of safeguarding the religious liberties of the most at-risk individuals
Scores of scholars, faith leaders, and human rights activists congregated in the picturesque town of Leuven, Belgium, on May 8-9 for the half-decade old ISFORB conference. Hosted by the academically prestigious Evangelical Theological Faculty**, this event aimed to tackle the pressing issue of "Faith and Vulnerability"[1].
Participants from 20 prestigious universities and 8 religious organizations gathered to delve into the intricate complexities surrounding the freedom to practice one's religion or beliefs[1].
This academic extravaganza played host to almost thirty inspiring presentations and captivating keynote speeches by eminent scholars across Europe, shedding light on the importance of upholding the freedom of religion or belief for the world's most susceptible communities[1].
Dr. Steven van den Heuvel, an eminent ethicist at ETF Leuven, initiated discussions by expounding upon the idea that acknowledging our shared human fragility strengthens the arguments for securing religious freedom for the susceptible religious crowds worldwide[1].
The most impactful presentations were delivered by Prof. Leita Ngoy from the Oikos Institute, who offered insights from her personal experiences creating Intercultural Worship Services in Gütersloh, Germany. These services cater to some of society's most vulnerable members, including undocumented immigrants, asylum seekers, refugees, and those struggling to find spiritual acceptance in unfamiliar settings[1].
"These intercultural worship services cultivate an environment where individuals can bring their entire selves — their languages, experiences, and traditions — without feeling pressured to conform," Ngoy insightfully stated[1]. Instead of viewing vulnerability as a weakness, these services embrace it as the cornerstone for fostering genuine understanding and empathy[1]. The result is heartfelt worship that reinforces human dignity and renders religious freedom meaningful in everyday life[1].
The conference likewise examined intricate contemporary conundrums facing faith communities, with Swedish expert and ETF doctoral student Kristina Patring presenting research on the complex intersection of religious freedom and LGBTQ+ rights[1].
Her presentation analyzed the tricky question of what obligations religious organizations have in terms of inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community[1]. This discussion sparked lively but respectful deliberations among participants[1].
Beyond the formal sessions, the conference also provided an excellent platform for networking and relationship-building opportunities, culminating in a delightful conference dinner where conversations continued amidst a more casual atmosphere[1].
The event underscored the ongoing work of ISFORB and marks an annual initiative of ETF Leuven. ISFORB serves as a forum for doctoral students, faculty members, and visiting researchers to explore current questions centering on religion's role in a secular society, encompassing local community issues to global religious persecution[1].
In this time of escalating pressure faced by evangelical communities worldwide, such insights and discussions are more vital than ever[1]. The conference demonstrated that safeguarding the freedom of religion or belief necessitates not just advocacy but a deep understanding of how vulnerability, dignity, and justice mesh within our diverse global community[1].
"Protecting religious freedom calls for more than just advocacy," said Dr. Tatiana Kopaleishvili, co-coordinator of ISFORB[1]. "It necessitates rigorous academic inquiry and dialogue to develop informed solutions to the complex challenges we're facing today."[1]
Connect with us to contribute to our mission of making EF sustainable by joining those across Europe and beyond who share our commitment. Learn more about our #TogetherInThisMission initiative (English).
Originally published in: Evangelical Focus - europe - Scholars debate in Leuven on protecting religious freedom for the most vulnerable.
Attendees at the ISFORB conference in Leuven, Belgium, recognized the importance of lifelong learning and education-and-self-development in addressing faith-related vulnerabilities. Dr. Steven van den Heuvel's presentation on acknowledging shared human fragility highlighted the need for continual learning to secure religious freedom for susceptible religious crowds around the world. Furthermore, Prof. Leita Ngoy's insights from her personal experiences demonstrated the power of learning and embracing vulnerability in fostering understanding, empathy, and meaningful religious freedom in everyday life.
