Doctoral Colloquium 'Empowered Through Humility'

The annual Doctoral Colloquium is an essential part of our PhD program. Students working on a dissertation gather during this week and meet with their professors, prepare for exams and present their research. Public defenses of dissertations also usually take place during this week.

This year’s theme is “Empowered Through Humility.” The context of the celebration of the 40th ETF Doctoral Colloquium is one of polarization, geopolitical shifts and a cultural climate emphasizing strength, power and standing forcefully against military, economic or cultural enemies. This year’s theme, therefore, focuses on Jesus Christ and how He was Empowered Through Humility. He was exalted to the highest place and given a Name above every name, so that every knee in heaven and on earth will bow, because He humbled himself and became obedient to death (Phil 2:6–11). Hence, not only Paul, but also James (Jam 4:10) and Peter (1 Pet 5:5–6) call to be humble, while Jeremiah prophesied not to boast in strength or riches, but in the Lord, who exercises mercy, justice and righteousness (Jer 9:23–24).

Accordingly, the theme invites to reflect theologically on the question how Jesus’ humility and being humble empower and bring justice, and how to stand firm against the powers of the world as Jesus did.

You are welcome to attend one or more sessions of the public program (the schedule will be published below in August).

If you want to attend a doctoral defense, please register by August 25, 2024 via the registration form (not available yet). You don’t need to register to attend the opening chapel, morning devotions or faculty lectures. Attending the sessions is free of charge.

There is the option to join a meal before or after a session. Payment for meals will be processed immediately upon submission of the registration form.

• Lunch (at 13:00) is € 20,-
• Dinner (at 18:30) is € 40,-

The public program is to follow soon.