Faith in Context Summer School in Šibenik Concludes

On Saturday, September 6, the international Faith in Context Summer School (BIP) came to a successful end. The program, which took place from August 31 to September 6, brought together students from various countries. It began in Zagreb, where participants visited and were introduced to various religious communities, and then continued at the Catholic Elementary School in Šibenik. Thanks to the cooperation of Principal Sr. Mandica Starčević and the school staff, participants enjoyed a productive and comfortable experience.
 

The Summer School's study program was developed and led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sc. Zoran Turza (Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sc. Dion Forster (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam), Prof. Dr. Annette Langner-Pitschmann (Goethe-Universität Frankfurt), Dr. Andreas Telser (Universität Wien and University of Salzburg) and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sc. Ivana Brstilo Lovrić (Catholic University of Croatia, Zagreb).

The program was grounded in the hermeneutic theology of American theologian David Tracy (1939–2025), whose focus on pluralism, globalization, fragmentation, and various interpretations of ultimate reality provided a framework for interdisciplinary discussions on faith in contemporary society. It was emphasized that spaces of faith emerge not in isolation, but within the context of historical, cultural, and social processes. The program incorporated theological, philosophical, sociological, and other interdisciplinary dimensions. Professors offered insights based on their research, while students had the opportunity to develop their theses and engage in critical reflection on various topics through previously prepared essays, daily presentations, team discussions, and interactive dialogues.

In addition to mentoring sessions and seminars, lectures were conducted both in person and online by a range of distinguished academics, including Ph.D. Barnabas Palfrey (St Augustine's College of Theology, London), Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ivana Brstilo Lovrić (Catholic University of Croatia), Prof. Dr. Mary Doak (University of San Diego), Prof. Dr. Ryszard Sadowski (Stefan Wyszyński University, Warsaw), Dr. Sára Heidl (University of Vienna), and Prof. Dr. Sipho Mahokoto (Stellenbosch University, South Africa).
 

During the Summer School, participants also enjoyed a visit to Krka National Park and the city of Šibenik, where they received an expertly guided tour in English, organized with the help of the Šibenik Tourist Board. The organizers extend their special gratitude to the Šibenik Tourist Board and its director, Dino Karađole, for their invaluable support and cooperation.