Scripps College continues to host The Global Future of Feminist New Testament Studies Conference, a tripartite series of discussions that bring together international scholars to address the future of both Christianity and feminist Biblical scholarship that has its final event in April 2003. Conversation III: Africa and the Diaspora will take place on April 25, featuring international religious scholars Vincent Wimbush and Althea Spencer-Miller, and Musa Dube of the World Council of Churches and theological consultant for Africa on HIV-AIDS. All conference events are free and open to the public and will take place on the Scripps campus in Claremont. For a complete schedule of events, please call Scripps’ Office of Religious Studies at (909) 607-3933.
The overall conference goal for these consecutive monthly discussions is to explore two key questions: “What form will Christianity take by the mid-21st century?” and “What will be the implications of these developments for Christian feminists who are New Testament scholars?” Invited speakers range in age, experience, cultural tradition, and perspective. All are recognized as leading authorities in their specific areas of contribution or in the broader fields of New Testament, theology, or cultural studies. Each presentation will focus on issues facing Christians and feminists in light of the global transformations in Christianity that will have a direct impact in the politics of nations as well as in the lives of individuals and communities.
According to conference co-chair Professor Kathleen O’Brien Wicker: “The global dimension is certainly the distinguishing and essential feature of the conference. Women constitute the self-identified majority of Christians worldwide, and notably in countries such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America, these same women are taking an increasingly active role in the public domain. Their foundational values have a significant influence on the shape of world history and will continue to do so. For many of them the Bible is the primary text that guides and fosters their values; therefore, it is critical to analyze and understand how they both interpret and act upon this text.”
In conjunction with this conference, the Scripps College Clark Humanities Museum is hosting the exhibit “New Testament Arts” through April 15. On display are artist books from the Ella Strong Denison Library Permanent Collection, printed Bibles from the Honnold Library Rare Book Room, and various related works by contemporary artists. For additional information and exhibition hours, please call the Clark Humanities Museum Office (909) 607-3606.
For a full and up-to-date schedule for the Global Future of Feminist New Testament Studies Conference, please contact the Scripps College Office of Religious Studies, (909) 607-3933.