Theology Schools Discuss Pluralism in Asia at 4th Biennial Assembly

Theology schools comprising the Samahan ng Teolohikal na Edukasyon ng Pilipinas (STEP) converged in Silliman University for its 4th Biennial Assembly held April 20 to 22.

Centered on the theme “Teaching for a Racially and Culturally Diverse World”, the gathering provided a venue for seminary mentors to discuss the current state of teaching theology in the Philippines vis-a-vis an approach towards pluralism in the Asian region.

STEP, or the National Association of ATESEA Member Schools in the Philippines, is the counterpart in the country of the Association for Theological Education in Southeast Asia (ATESEA). It adopts ATESEA’s approach to theology and pluralism.

Present during the biennial gathering were key leaders of theology schools that comprise the core group of STEP: Saint Andrew’s Theological Seminary (Episcopal Church of the Philippines), Union Theological Seminary ([UTS]United Church of Christ in the Philippines, in partnership with United Methodist Church), Aglipay Central Theological Seminary (Iglesia Filipina Independiente), Central Philippine University College of Theology (Convention of the Philippine Baptist Churches), Philippine Baptist Theological Seminary (Convention of the Philippine Baptist Churches), Dansalan College Foundation (United Church of Christ in the Philippines) and Saint Paul’s Theological Seminary (Iglesia Filipina Independiente), and Silliman University Divinity School (United Church of Christ in the Philippines).

Dr. Ferdinand A. Anno, STEP president and concurrent director of the Doctor in Ministry program at the UTS led the proceedings. National Association of ATESEA Member Schools in the Philippines. Keynoting the event was UTS president Dr. Eleazar S. Fernandez.

Founded in 2009, STEP has 25 regular and seven associate member schools affiliated with protestant and other Christian churches. The University’s Divinity School is a founding member.