5th Theology Symposium: Call for Papers

The Council of Nicaea, acknowledged by many Christian traditions as the first ecumenical synod of the Church, was summoned in the year 325 by Emperor Constantine the Great to resolve a subtle, yet essential, theological dispute that threatened to engulf both church and state and shatter the emerging unity of the nascent Christian Roman Empire. As the first council to aspire to universal status it became the paradigm, in both structure and aim, for all subsequent imperial synods of the first millennium.

While the Council’s main task was to adjudicate between the rival positions of the Alexandrian presbyter, Arius, and his bishop, Alexander, on the issue of the relationship between the Father and the Son, it succeeded not only in formulating a Creed that would serve as the model for later orthodox confessions of faith but also in establishing a canonical tradition that would form the basis for the future hierarchical and synodal polity of the Church. Furthermore, it sought to bring liturgical unity to the Church by decreeing a common formula in calculating date for Easter that has ramifications for Christian life to this day.

As we celebrate the 1700th Anniversary of Nicaea, we remain cognisant of the many ways this Council has shaped both the Christian faith and the church in history. Its theological, canonical and liturgical legacy continues to impact the outlook and thinking of contemporary theologians and church leaders, both within their own traditions and in the ecumenical context.

This theological symposium will therefore seek to reflect on the times, theology and legacy of this great council and consider its relevance for Christian life and thought in the twenty-first century and beyond. Itwelcomes presentations from the different disciplines of Christian theology, irrespective of their field of expertise, academic affiliation or denominational background. Indeed, it is hoped that a cross-disciplinary approach (whether this be systematic theology, patristics, ethics, biblical studies, church history, liturgics, etc.) will contribute by casting further light – indeed a more enriching and holistic perspective – on this most prominent council of the Church and its enduring significance.