20 Nov 2014 Apply now for studies at the Ecumenical Institute

 
The World Council of Churches (WCC) Ecumenical Institute in Bossey, Switzerland. Photo courtesty of the Ecumenical Institute

The World Council of Churches (WCC) Ecumenical Institute in Bossey, Switzerland said it is now accepting applications for its academic programmes in ecumenical studies, 2015-2016. The application deadline is 30 November 2014.

The Ecumenical Institute, which is related to the theology faculty of the University of Geneva, is the WCC’s international centre for ecumenical formation, encounter and dialogue. Founded in 1946, the institute brings together people from different church traditions, cultures and backgrounds for ecumenical learning, academic study and personal exchange.

“The tremendous social fractures we are witnessing worldwide and the accelerated transformation in the Christian world show that a uniquely diverse center of encounter and learning is necessary,” said Fr. Ioan Sauca, WCC associate general secretary for ecumenical formation and education.

The current annual academic programme offers a Complementary Certificate in Ecumenical Studies; a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Ecumenical Studies and a Master of Advanced Studies in Ecumenical Studies. It is also possible to earn a Doctorate in Theology specializing in ecumenical studies.

Students interested in ecumenical studies, fulfilling the programme conditions, are invited to apply. Churches in need of a younger generation of ecumenically trained theologians are encouraged to support applications. Applicants may apply for a scholarship if they fulfil the conditions for financial support.

Considered part of the avant-garde laboratories of the ecumenical movement, the institute offers an academic platform of rigorous study guided by faculty from different churches and cultural backgrounds. It is a place where complex challenges confronting the churches are debated and analyzed.

“Bossey is a place where the students encounter the whole world with its cultural diversities, conflicts, struggles and sufferings,” said the Rev. Dr. Dagmar Heller, academic dean at the institute.

Ecumenical learning at the Ecumenical Institute consists of a close combination of academic study with experimental learning through life in an intercultural and inter-confessional student community.

Information on how to apply is here.

A list of courses at the Ecumenical Institute is here.

Watch an 11-minute video here of “The Bossey Experience.”