APPEAL FOR THE IOCS LECTURESHIP IN ECUMENICAL STUDIES
‘One of the most promising developments in academic theology and religious studies in recent years has been a deeper engagement with the rich and complex heritage of Eastern Christianity in all its forms. This is not simply about texts and traditions, however; the living experience of Eastern Christian communities – in Eastern Europe, in the Middle East, in all sorts of diaspora situations – is more visible and more significant in the Western world than ever. It is essential to have a context where careful and honest scholarship in these matters is nurtured, and where there is the opportunity of interaction with the best of British scholarship in theological, historical and sociological disciplines. The proposal of a new appointment in Cambridge is a profoundly positive and exciting one, a natural outgrowth from the sterling work done by the IOCS over the years, and it deserves the strongest support.’
Rowan Douglas Williams, Baron Williams of Oystermouth, PC, FBA, FRSL, FLSW was the 104th Archbishop of Canterbury, a position he held from December 2002 to December 2012. Lord WIlliams was educated at the state sector Dynevor School, Swansea, before reading theology at Christ’s College, Cambridge, where he graduated with starred first-class honours. He then went to Wadham College, Oxford, where he studied under A. M. Allchin and graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy degree in 1975 with a thesis entitled ‘The Theology of Vladimir Nikolaievich Lossky: An Exposition and Critique.’ He lectured and trained for ordination at the College of the Resurrection in Mirfield, West Yorkshire until 1977, when he returned to Cambridge to teach theology as a tutor (as well as chaplain and Director of Studies) at Westcott House. In 2013, Lord Williams was appointed as the 35th Master of Magdalene College, Cambridge and served until September 2020. He was also made an honorary Professor of Contemporary Christian Thought by the University of Cambridge in 2017. On 18 June 2013, the University of South Wales announced his appointment as its new chancellor.