At the beginning of August, USPG staff Rev’d Canon Dr Peniel Rajkumar, Rev’d Davidson Solanki and Dr Paulo Ueti travelled to Colombo, Sri Lanka for the Asia Theological Consultation. Organised in collaboration with Church of Ceylon, Diocese of Colombo, this consultation brought together Principals and Deans of Theological seminaries from across Asia into a space of fellowship and discussion.
Proceedings began with a vibrant dance performance by students from Bishop’s College, Colombo – a prominent school founded by the Anglican Church of Ceylon. Delegates, representing seminaries and colleges from across South and East Asia, were then invited to light a traditional lamp. Following opening words of welcome and a Bible study, discussions around the tables centred on what delegates considered to be the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in their region. USPG staff commented how special it was to hear of the diverse and vast Anglican presence across Asia. Similarly, engaging and collaborating with people of other faiths, and secular groups and individuals, was raised as a positive way to sustain the vision of Theological Institutions.
The trip was a good opportunity to consolidate theological education in the region as well as establish a network of theological leaders.
Dance group from Bishop's College, Colombo
The Very Rev'd Dr. Gloria Lita D. Mapangdol, President and Dean of Saint Andrew's Seminary in Manila, Philippines
Panel discussion with The Very Rev'd Dr Gloria Mapangdol (Philippines), Rev'd Dr Vasantha Rao (India), Rev'd John Yukata Kuroda (Japan) and Rt. Rev'd Nishantha Fernando (Sri Lanka)