IRTI news
- Blog: 'I would have preferred sitting in the back'On the fourth day of the IRTI Conference, we were invited to experience some of the culture in Yogyakarta. We visited a protestant church, the sultan's palace and the Borobudur temple. For me, this cultural exposure was the highlight of the Conference. It made me ask myself an important question. Who am I as a Dutch person to delve into Indonesian culture, with colonial history in mind?
- Blog: 'The hope of a world of hospitality'If something has struck me these past few days, it is the hospitality and friendliness of the people we meet here in Yogyakarta. It makes me think about the hospitality we ourselves show to to others in the Netherlands.
- Blog: Imagining War and PeaceThe opening of the second day of IRTI was less impressive than the first day. But, while there were no dancers in amazing outfits, no readings from all Scriptures and no pouring out of water, there was a short but important devotional moment, in which we read the Bible, prayed together and sang for the Lord. I cannot help but put it in the perspective of the lectures I have heard today as I reflect on it.
- Blog: ‘Bravely choosing to keep dancing’Upon arrival on the first day of the 15th IRTI biennial conference, soothing classical music sounds in the background. Students and faculty from all walks of life mingle in a very convivial atmosphere. Suddenly, upbeat music catches their attention and the vibe changes. A dozen young people appear in the middle of the room, in skirts and headgear, their bodies decorated with motif paintings and necklaces. The music makes it almost impossible to stay in your seat. They perform a traditional Papuan welcome dance for us. After this enthusiastic welcome, the dancers leave the hall.
- IRTI Conference starts at Universitas Kristen Duta WacanaThe 15th biennial IRTI Conference starts today in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Around fifty theologians from Asia, Africa, Europe and North America will be collectively reflecting on the topic ‘Peace among the Nations: Reformed Theology and Geopolitical Conflicts’.
- Blog: Exploring Jakarta and the religious convivialityWhen I was exploring Chinatown in Jakarta, I stood in line for coffee behind an American and we got to talking. He asked if I was in Indonesia for business or pleasure. I told him it was a bit of both and that I was going to the IRTI conference. Laughing, he remarked that he found it surprising that I had travelled to a Muslim-majority country for a Christian conference.
- The Calling of the Church in Times of PolarizationFrom 3 till 7 July 2023 the International Reformed Theological Institute (IRTI) is organizing its biennial Summer School in Amsterdam at the Protestant Theological University and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.
