ANZATS
The Australian and New Zealand Association of Theological Studies
Gathered and Scattered: The Shape of Christian Community Today
Christian communities have long lived between gathering and scattering—between worship and witness, rootedness and movement. In a time of rapid social change, digital connection, and shifting ecclesial forms, the 2027 conference theme invites explorations into how the Church is being reshaped today. What does it mean to be the Body of Christ, and how are Christians called to live as a scattered people in the world?
We invite papers that engage biblical, theological, historical, sociological, and practical perspectives on the nature and future of Christian community. Contributions that bridge academic reflection and lived experience are especially welcome, as we seek to reimagine ecclesiology in ways that are faithful, inclusive, and responsive to contemporary realities.
Lineup
Tom Greggs
Tom Greggs is the Director of the Center for Theological Inquiry. A globally renowned academic and speaker, Dr Greggs is known as one of the world’s leading theologians. His work is focused on Theology outside of the conditions of Christendom. He is interested in what new theological questions and insights this context raises and how to articulate Theology in a circumstance of secularism and pluralism. A committed churchperson and preacher, Greggs is a member of the Faith and Order Commission of the World Council of Churches, and is a former theological advisor to the Archbishop of Canterbury. In 2002, he was recognized as a Preacher in the Methodist Church of Great Britain, and since then has preached and led services for local congregations most weeks. Greggs is married to Heather (a former Headteacher and specialist teacher of deaf students) and they have two young daughters, Isabel and Lydia.
Rev. Dr Maja Whitaker
Rev. Dr Maja Whitaker is the Academic Dean and Senior Lecturer in Practical Theology at Laidlaw College, based at the Ōtautahi/Christchurch campus. She is a ordained pastor in the ACTS network in New Zealand. She is passionate about spiritual formation and helping others understand how to follow the way of Jesus in contemporary cultural contexts, and about developing leaders who flourish in ministry and vocation and who are deeply formed by their faith and values. Maja’s research interests include the theology of the body, theological anthropology, disability theology, and eschatology. Maja will be on the panel discussing Theology and Disability
Louise Gosbel
Louise is an experienced lecturer & academic with a demonstrated history of lecturing in Christian theological institutions & multiple publications on disability theology. Passionate about the inclusion of people with disability in church communities & theological colleges. She is a strong education professional with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Ancient History (New Testament) from Macquarie University & a Bachelor & Masters (Hons) in theology. A passionate educator, writer, and public speaker. Louise will be joining the panel on Theology and Disability.
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