On April 7-11 INCHE Europe hosted the INCHE global 50th anniversary conference in Biezenmortal, the Netherlands. Together 170 participants were “Finding God’s Light in the Twilight”, our conference theme.
The conference included participants from all five of the INCHE global regions, spread across six continents. Together we reflected on recognizing elements of our cultures that are receding and the twilight that this creates in human understanding and direction. But conference speakers expressed their faith in God’s sovereignty and providence to guide us beyond the twilight to a new dawn; and we examined what this future brings for Christian higher education.
Three plenary speakers guided our reflections. Dr. Gerald Pillay, vice-chancellor emeritus of Liverpool Hope University, provided thoughtful commentary about Christian faithfulness, regardless of whether Christianity is dominant or marginal. He described the cathedral schools that preceded European universities as sources of faith and character formation; and he encouraged participants to ponder the agency of their universities in advancing peace and reconciliation amid 21st century uncertainty.
Professor Derek Schuurman of Calvin University described important technological features of the new dawn. He explored whether technology, and new AI developments, are a idolizing bane or utopian blessing; and he suggested that we frame such assessments within the Biblical story of creation, the fall, redemption in Christ, and the future of God’s promises. In that regard we should consider both AI structure and direction.
Then Dr. Beatrice de Graaf of the University of Utrecht called for Christian educators to shape a distinctive Christian identity for graduates who will engage current political cultures. Political leaders are returning to prototypes similar to those of the early 19th century. Then, as now, celebrated strongmen sought absolute team loyalty, unquestioned patriotism, and influence through force. She emphasized that building core Christian faith, values, and practices with our students can lead to an identity that is independent from politlcal power brokers. Such thought independence is needed to support democracy, the rule of law, and responsible government.
Conference participants continued to explore these ideas in small discussion groups and concurrent presentations. As one participate noted the conference was “an excellent mix of deep engagement, excellent fellowship, strategic concerns.”
Our conference learning was enhanced by worship, song, prayer, and small group excursions. INCHE India members wrapped the entire occasion in joy by providing honorary shawls to conference organizers and prompting us to sing “they will know we are Christians by our love.” And that becomes our guide beyond the twilight.