Seattle University has opened a new Center for Religious Wisdom and World Affairs, devoted to exploring the ways in which religious wisdom and the resources of faith communities can lend assistance in the analysis, diagnosis and community responses needed to address pressing social problems. The Center plans to accomplish this goal in three ways: a commitment to interfaith dialogue, linking scholarship and faith-based action, and re-imagining the role of religion in public life.
Every two years, the Center will focus on a specific social issue, such as, rising inequalities, gender-based violence, human trafficking and unsustainable use of environmental resources. The Center is focusing on homelessness.
In launching this project, Seattle University is issuing a call for scholars on inter-religious exploration of homelessness. Scholars will meet at Seattle University on April 25 and 26, 2017. During the course of the two days, they will learn about the issue of homelessness from legal experts, policy analysts, and economists; participate in a discussion with local stakeholders, including religious leaders; and prepare paper proposal abstracts through a collaborative effort. Scholars will return to Seattle University in April of 2018 to present their papers at a second symposium. This scholarly initiative aims to produce an anthology that captures the best interfaith thinking about the religious, spiritual, and ethical dimensions of homelessness. Travel expenses, lodging, and meals will be covered by the Center. Scholars will also receive an honorarium.
To be considered, please submit 1) a one-page letter of interest and 2) curriculum vitae to Manuel Mejido, Ph.D., Director, Center for Religious Wisdom and World Affairs, by email, care of: crwwa@seattleu.edu. The selection committee will meet in December of 2016. Scholars will be notified in January of 2017. The deadline for submissions is December 12, 2016.
ACCU Peace and Justice 