Dec 01, 2008
The Fellowship of Theological Institutes of Thailand met for the first time as a forum to discuss theological issues when the WEA Theological Commission sponsored a consultation on holistic ministry during the TC’s recent annual meeting in Thailand. The consultation, held on Oct 24th at the Baptist Theological Seminary, Bangkok, was attended by faculty members of Thai colleges, church workers and many other people interested in the subject, “Holistic gospel in the developing society.”
Plenary papers on the biblical and historical foundations were presented by visiting TC scholars, Dr James Nkansah (Nairobi Evangelical Graduate School of Theology) and Dr Justin Thacker (Head of Theology, Evangelical Alliance of the UK). Small groups then discussed four topics which related to local issues, including politics and corruption, and ministry to HIV/AIDS suffers, children and prostitution. At the reporting session, key issues emerged which led to lively interchanges between participants. Following devotions led by Dr David Parker, Executive Director of the WEA Theological Commission, a fellowship meal was served for all participants. It is expected that this well received consultation will be the first in a series of further meetings of theologians in Thailand, some of whom travelled long distances to attend.
In expressing appreciation for the warm welcome and response by local theologians to the idea of holding a consultation geared to local interests, Dr Parker said, “This kind of event is one of the most important aspects of the work of our Theological Commission, committed as it is to ‘promoting biblical truth by networking theologians to serve the church in obedience to Christ.’ We are greatly encouraged when we see those interested in the fellowship, confirmation and defence of the gospel meeting together to deepen the understanding of the church and expanding its vision. We pray that the work of theological reflection in Thailand will increase and develop greatly in the future.”
During the consultation, the Theological Commission worked on a short statement on holistic ministry from an international perspective covering biblical principles, opportunities and challenges, and practical steps to implementation in churches. Copies of the statement, which may be freely copied and distributed, are available on the TC web site or on application to the TC Executive Director (tc@worldevangelicals.org).
During the strategy and planning session of the TC’s annual gathering held prior to the consultation, the resignation of Dr Rolf Hille as chair of the TC was received. He has held the position since 1996, and for most of the time was also the Executive Director. Warm words of appreciation were expressed during the TC meeting for Dr Hille who joined the Executive Committee in 1986. In the dual positioin of “Executive Chairman”, he played a vital role in steering the TC through a major re-organisation and re-focusing of its vision, while at the same time carrying a heavy load in his full time ministry as head of an important theological institution in Tuebingen, Germany. This significant achievement was all the more noteworthy because he was deeply involved in church, theological and Evangelical Alliance work in Germany and Europe and had heavy family responsibilities.
Dr Justin Thacker (EA UK) was appointed acting chair with the anticipation that he will be able to accept the position permanently in the near future. Dr James Nkansah (Nairobi) was appointed Vice-Chair. Rev David Roldan from FIET Buenos Aires was appointed as a TC member for Spanish-speaking Latin America. Dr David Parker’s appointment as Executive Director was extended.
At the meeting in Bangkok, almost twenty core and Global Members of the TC reviewed the TC program for the previous year including its study activities and publications. They also considered the financial situation and laid plans for the future. The major event in 209 will be an international consultation in Sao Paulo, Brazil July 22-25 involving participants from Latin America and members of the TC from other countries on the theme, “Church and Theology in Practice.” Details of the program are being developed but in the meantime, expressions of interest for participation and presentations are invited.
Dr Parker said, “We want to serve the church in Latin America by sponsoring this consultation and we look forward to working with as many people, seminaries, associations and churches as possible to make this a significant event. There are many strategic opportunities in this region and we hope that our visit next year will help bring a wide range of theologians together. We are deeply appreciative of the support and interest we have received for this consultation so far, and especially the endorsement of several key people and organisations. We are keen to receive suggestions about the program and supply details as it develops. Those interested are invited to contact us to be put on the mailing list.”
At the conclusion of the TC meeting in Bangkok, several members travelled to Pattaya to participate in the 12th General Assembly of the World Evangelical Alliance. There was considerable interest in the TC display table and several opportunities to discuss the work of the TC.
