A one-day regional seminar on “Global South Christianity: Trends and Transformation in 21st Century” was organized by North East Christian University Dimapur (NECU), Oxford Centre for Religion in Public Life UK (OCRPL) and Centre of Advanced Religious Studies (CARS) of NECU at NECU on Friday.
Delivering keynote address, principal Trinity Theological College, Dimapur, Rev. Dr. Hukato N Shohe focused on the significant shift of Christianity from the Global North to the Global South. He emphasized that, while traditionally Christianity was closely associated with the West, this association has dramatically changed over the past few decades. The Global South, encompassing regions like Latin America, Africa, and Asia, now represents a growing majority of the Christian population.
Dr. Shohe traced the roots of this shift back to the missionary movements of the 17th and 18th centuries, which spread Christianity to these regions. He pointed out that while the Global North has seen a decline in religious adherence, with many moving away from institutionalized faith, Christianity has flourished in the Global South. This shift has prompted scholars to recognize the rising influence of the Global South in shaping the future of Christianity.
He noted that this growing influence has led to a significant impact on theology, as religious practices and beliefs were increasingly being shaped by local contexts rather than Western traditions. Dr. Shohe emphasized that this shift necessitates a reevaluation of how theology has been approached.
The theological frameworks that have traditionally been Western-centric must now consider the diverse contexts of the Global South. Dr. Shohe therefore urged that the Global South to develop the confidence to define its own theological and spiritual identity, independent of Western norms. This includes embracing the vibrancy, warmth, and community-oriented aspects of worship that are characteristic of Global South Christianity.
The inaugural address was delivered by Vice Chancellor of NECU, Prof. Dr. Darlando Khathing. He highlighted the university’s history and curricula, emphasizing the need for greater vigilance regarding modern approaches to theology, Christian lifestyle, and other 21st-century trends, including the integrated use of AI.
Earlier, Seminar Convenor, Dr AS Pillarson, Asst. Professor, CARS delivered welcome address and chaired by Associate Professor, Dr. Vivek Pathak while Executive Head-Academics and Operations, Dr.Daniel Thejus delivered greetings on behalf of OCRPL.
Rev. Dr. Taimaya Ragui, Academic Lead and Deputy Head of Shepherd’s Academy, Bangalore, presented on “Online Theological Education: Preparing Leaders for the Future Church,” emphasizing the effectiveness of well-planned online learning in fostering spiritual growth, addressing misconceptions about distance education, and advocating for a thoughtful, technology-integrated curriculum that supports both young and elderly learners.
He highlighted the historical evolution of online learning, discussed its future prospects, and suggested strategies like flipped classrooms and collaborative learning to enhance theological education with empowered digitalization.
John Lalnuntluanga, Academic Research Coordinator with BREAD at Klesis Global Bangalore, presented on “Indigenous Spirituality (IS)”, exploring the identity of indigenous peoples, the essence and principles of IS, and the need for its inclusion in theology.
Other presenters included “Transformative Theology and Quality of life in Nagaland” by Academic Dean, United College of Theology and Missions, Chumoukedima, Dr Temsulemla Longchar, while “Global South Research” and “Leveraging Adult Learning strategies for Dynamic Bible Study Groups” were presented by Rev. Dr. M. Justin Moses, Registrar TSA (OCRPL UK) and Prof. Dr. Biju Mathew. The valedictory remarks were delivered by Lead Pastor, Chakhesang Baptist Church Dimapur, Rev. P. Bonny Resu, with attendees from various church sectors and CSOs.