Thank you for your interest in the Commonwealth Theologian in Residence Scholarship, an opportunity for an exceptional scholar from a Commonwealth country to spend one term living within the Westminster Abbey precincts, with opportunities for study, preaching, and seminars. The inaugural holder of this post was The Revd Dr Ishaya Anthony, Canon Theologian of the Diocese of Kwoi, Nigeria, and postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Department of Religious Studies, University of Johannesburg.
Westminster Abbey offers this opportunity as a further development of its long-standing commitment to the Commonwealth and to theological scholarship in the life of the Church. The successful candidate will pursue research or a writing project of their choice. The time may be used as part of a sabbatical. It is hoped that the successful candidate might play some part in the annual Commonwealth Day Service, held each year on the second Monday in March.
To qualify, you will need to have completed doctoral study, and/or have a track record of exceptional research or teaching. We seek theological dialogue partners with strong communication and interpersonal skills, committed to open conversation and serious reflection. The opportunity is open to scholars working in any theological discipline who have a passion for the life of the Church. There will also be opportunities to build connections and partnerships with the ecclesial and theological institutions associated with Westminster Abbey.
The successful applicant should be prepared to participate in the daily worshipping life of the Abbey in ways which are appropriate, especially on Sundays.
Description of skills
Essential
Personal Character:
- A resident or national of a Commonwealth country.
- If not an Anglican, then a communicant member of another Trinitarian church which is a member or affiliate of the World Council of Churches.
Education:
- Experience of significant postgraduate study or research.
Skills/Aptitudes:
- Proven expertise in their chosen academic discipline.
- Excellent skills in written and oral communication.
- Enthusiasm about the role of theology in the life of the Church.
Knowledge/Experience:
Experience of ecumenical and/or interfaith working
Desirable
Knowledge/Experience:
- A teaching staff member of an academic faculty or theological college.
- A track record of exceptional research and/or teaching.
Personal Character:
- An ordained or lay minister in a Church of the Anglican Communion, a Church in communion therewith, or otherwise of another Trinitarian Church.