Guiding through the world of Roman Catholicism, an evangelical academic institution sets its compass
Annual Event Explores Evangelical Analysis of Roman Catholicism
The seventh annual Rome Scholars and Leaders Network (RSLN) took place in Rome from June 10-13, bringing together evangelical scholars and leaders from around the world for a deep dive into the analysis of Roman Catholicism.
The event, which is now in its seventh year, focuses on evangelical analysis of Roman Catholicism, with topics ranging from the pillars of the Roman Catholic theological system to the dogma of the bodily assumption of Mary, and everything in between. This year's discussions included Roman Catholicism as a worldview, the Holy Spirit in Reformation theology, lessons from the exchange between Sadoleto and Calvin, Marian apparitions, an evangelical approach to Thomas Aquinas, J. H. Newman's theory of doctrinal development, the theological method of Roman Catholicism, the Catholic theology of priesthood and Eucharist, trends in Catholic missiology, and the beatific vision in Protestant and Catholic theology.
A highlight of the RSLN was a dialogue session with Catholic theologian Prof. Philipp Renczes, demonstrating that evangelical analysis is open to dialogue without practicing 'ecumenical' forms of dialogue. The session provided an opportunity for encounter between evangelicals and Catholics.
The RSLN also featured a public evening open to Roman evangelical churches, with North American evangelical apologist Gavin Ortlund delivering a speech on the theme 'Always be ready: sharing faith today.' Ortlund's speech was well-received by the attendees, many of whom were professors at evangelical theology faculties, PhD students, or held leadership roles in evangelical ministries.
In addition to the discussions and dialogue sessions, the RSLN provided opportunities for informal conversations, where participants could refine the issues and share applications of the various topics to their specific contexts in academic, ecclesiastical, or missionary service.
A book entitled The Nicene Creed: Can Evangelicals and Catholics Profess It Together? was presented during the RSLN. The book, which is a collaboration of 11 scholars from the RSLN, will be published by the Australian publisher MatthiasMedia by the end of the year. Initially, it was scheduled to be published by InterVarsity Press, with a release date in September 2023.
The RSLN had participation from evangelical scholars and leaders from various countries, including Albania, Australia, Belgium, Chile, France, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Romania, and the United States. Leonardo De Chirico, Reid Karr, and Clay Kannard were among the participants.
The RSLN has become a valuable platform for exploring and discussing the complexities of Roman Catholicism from an evangelical perspective, fostering dialogue and understanding between the two traditions. As the event continues to grow, it is expected to play an increasingly important role in promoting greater understanding and cooperation between evangelicals and Catholics.
