The Ecumenical Institute at Bossey, Switzerland. Photo: World Council of Churches.
Do you have a passion for ecumenism? The Ecumenical Institute at Château de Bossey is accepting applications for students interested in taking part in a yearlong study in Bossey, Switzerland.
For more than 75 years, the institute has hosted thousands of students from all over the world in an intercultural community of faith. Through their studies and interactions, participants return home equipped to promote collaboration and dialogue, providing an ecumenical approach to peace and justice work.
The General Assembly Committee on Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations can nominate a PC(USA) student applying for admission for the upcoming academic year. Priority is given to students between 22 and 30 years of age who have at least an undergraduate degree in theology or two years of a Master of Divinity/Theology.
“The institute is an amazing resource offered by the World Council of Churches and its member churches,” said Dr. Dianna Wright, director of Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations with the Office of the General Assembly. “Students will have the opportunity to study and live with others within the churches that make up the WCC.”
A scholarship, named in honor of the Rev. Dr. Eugene Carson Blake, Stated Clerk of the Presbyterian Church in the USA, is available to support a North American student at the institute.
The accredited programs include a Complementary Certificate in Ecumenical Studies (one semester), a Master of Advanced Studies in Ecumenical Studies (two semesters), and a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Ecumenical Studies (one semester; part of the continuing education program).
“The pandemic has, in many ways, shown us the importance of deepening our connections and relationship with our siblings from the global community. Bossey is a culturally diverse space in which to learn more about the life of the church worldwide and what that means for your local context today,” said Wright. “The ecumenical program will give students the opportunity to study, participate in worship with students from diverse religious traditions, and experience a sense of unity while nurturing friendships and relationships with people from all over the world.”
The institute at Bossey is a part of the World Council of Churches and is attached to the University of Geneva. Click here for more information.