Wycliffe welcomes Langham Scholars

Theology PhD researchers from 17 nations came together at Wycliffe Hall in June 2024 for a consultation facilitated by Langham Partnership. 

These scholars are all sponsored by the Langham Scholars programme, which was started over 50 years ago by Rev John Stott. 

The programme is now part of the wider Langham Partnership, which also trains pastors and publishes and distributes books, serving Christians in over 90 countries. So far, more than 300 Scholars have received support from Langham in their PhD studies. 

The event at Wycliffe Hall brought together 22 current Langham Scholars, most of whom are studying at institutions in the UK.

It was an opportunity for scholars to present and discuss their research in a supportive, international academic setting, and to share insights into their countries and lives.

An international dynamic

Scholars came from 17 countries, including Argentina, Bulgaria, Columbia, Greece, India, Paraguay, Poland, and several that cannot be named for security reasons. 

Besides providing a venue, Wycliffe Hall was represented at the event by its Tutorial Fellow in World Christianity, Revd Dr Ofula Kenneth, whose input was very much enjoyed. 

Worship sessions focussed on a different part of the world each morning. Songs were sung in different languages and scholars were able to pray about countries where Christians face persecution.     

Engaging and enriching

During the six days, each scholar gave a presentation about their PhD to a small discussion group. Participants found this extremely valuable and reflections on the presentations included:

• “They were thoughtful, engaging and broadened my worldview.”
• “They were enriching and inspiring. We deeply share our common desire for a truly contextual theological reflection, biblical perspective and missiological engagement.”

The scholars also listened to interviews with Langham staff in the evenings in a more relaxed setting. 

Sowing seeds of collaboration

Francis Mathew, from India, is studying for a PhD via Bristol Baptist College – he is focusing on the ‘Silence of God’ in Old Testament passages depicting violence against women. He said of the event:

It offers you the opportunity to hear what other people are doing... to meet people and hear their stories. I'm keen to build possible friendships so that there are opportunities to collaborate in the future on projects that could address matters of faith in our Asian context as well.

Another scholar reflected:

The greatest benefit was being able to share my research, its purpose and vision, and also learn from other fellow Langham peers.

Warmly welcomed by Wycliffe

Scholars and staff were blessed by their stay at Wycliffe Hall. Danny Crowther, a Langham staff member, said: “Wycliffe Hall provided good food, good facilities and a warm welcome in an attractive academic and tourist city.”

Thanks to Victoria Marsay, Media Producer, Langham Partnership UK, for collaborating on this article