wfn.org | Asian Theologians Convene to Discuss Fundamentalism

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Title: Asian Theologians Convene in Taiwan to Discuss Fundamentalism
Taiwan Church News 2739, 23-29 August 2004
Reported by Staff. Translated and Rewritten by David Alexander

Following the events of 11th September 2001 Islamic Fundamentalism became a
topic not to be ignored. But fundamentalism is not unique to Islam alone. Many
religions have their own manifestations of fundamentalism. In many places
around the world over the past several decades religious fundamentalism has
been used by forces struggling for political ends. The power of fundamentalism
is seen in the many cultures, religions and ethnicities that make up the
people of Asia. It is a challenge for those who seek to formulate and
articulate theologies suitable for the times.
The Programme for Theology and Cultures in Asia, one of many projects run by
the Association for Theological Education in South East Asia, convened a
regional theological consultation from August 16 through 20 in Tainan at Shoki
Coe House on the campus of Tainan Theological College and Seminary. Papers
presented and discussed centered on Religious Fundamentalism and its
Challenges to Doing Theology in Asia.  Participants came from India, Sri
Lanka, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
About a third of those present were women. Eleven papers were presented and
discussed.
Every paper attempted to shed light on a particular aspect of fundamentalism
in a local cultural and religious context. These centered mainly on ethnic and
religious identity issues. Christian fundamentalism was the topic of only half
of the papers.
Asian cultural contexts are manifold. Mass media presentations of
"fundamentalism" only scratch the surface, lacking both breadth and depth. But
attaining such characteristics is not easy. That is why reporters are tempted
to paste on the label of "fundamentalist" and let things go from there.
Discussion flowed freely among the theologians present. All held to their own
faith standpoints and respected each others.  The attitude of mutual
acceptance and openness to dialogue is the most precious gift of meetings such
as these.

For more information: Tainan Theological College  www.ttcs.org.tw

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