Public Theology: Exploring Expressions of the Christian Faith

This Festschrift is an expression of deep appreciation to the pioneering life and prophetic work of C. K. Samuel. It is published by the TRACI community and its friends who have all been inspired in one way or another by Samuel's contributions to the distinctive nature of an Indian public theology. Samuel was significant for leading Theological Research and Communication Institute (TRACI). Not surprisingly the volume begins by describing his life and work and giving an account of how he helped shape a public theology in this setting. This account should be read in association with an essay by the volume's editor, Bonnie Miriam Jacob, which describes the practice and purpose of a public theology and its relationship to the Christian faith. The Festschrift consists of six sections and twenty-five essays. In terms of organization the six categories have to do with the contours and shape of a public theology, its relationships to the church, to spiritual formation, the public sphere, social justice and societal engagement. Samuel's work should be seen within the wider context of Indian theology. The discipline of a public theology, after all, is not new to Indian context. Samuel's work overlaps with that of other pioneers like M. M. Thomas (19161996) and more contemporary figures such as Felix Wilfred (1948-). Where this volume can be seen to be different lies in its broader reach of what constitutes a public theology. Unlike Thomas, Wilfred, and other Indian public theologians who see a theology of direct engagement in political issues as the only relevant public theology of social justice, the contributors of this volume expand the scopes and contents of public theology with the aim of integral mission. The contributors - pastors, social activists, and academicians - come together to consider the need for relating faith and its public engagement, covering a wide range of socio-political, socio-economic,