Think Tanks

Think Tanks in the Domain of Theology

Introduction

Think tanks have become vital players in shaping discourse, policy, and public understanding across various fields, including politics, economics, and social issues. Within the realm of theology, think tanks operate at the intersection of faith and scholarship, addressing critical questions about religion, ethics, and society. These organizations engage theologians, scholars, and practitioners to explore theological issues, develop responses to contemporary challenges, and foster dialogue among diverse religious communities. This article examines the role, functions, and impact of theological think tanks in the modern world.

What are Theological Think Tanks?

Theological think tanks are research organizations dedicated to the study and application of theological concepts and principles. They may focus on a specific religious tradition or engage in interfaith dialogue, addressing questions that arise within various religious contexts. These think tanks often produce scholarly articles, policy papers, and educational resources that contribute to a deeper understanding of faith, morality, and society.

Functions of Theological Think Tanks

1. Research and Scholarship: The primary function of theological think tanks is to conduct research on a range of theological topics. This research may encompass biblical studies, ethics, social justice, interfaith relations, and more. By producing scholarly work, these organizations contribute to the academic discourse on religion and theology.

2. Public Engagement: Theological think tanks often engage with the broader public to raise awareness and promote understanding of theological issues. They may host conferences, lectures, and workshops that invite participation from scholars, practitioners, and laypeople alike. Through these events, they foster discussions on faith and its implications for society.

3. Policy Development: Many theological think tanks seek to influence public policy by providing a religious perspective on social and political issues. They may advocate for ethical approaches to matters such as poverty, immigration, environmental stewardship, and human rights. By producing position papers and engaging with policymakers, these organizations aim to ensure that theological insights inform public decisions.

4. Interfaith Dialogue: In an increasingly pluralistic world, many theological think tanks emphasize interfaith dialogue. They work to foster understanding and cooperation among different religious traditions, addressing common challenges and promoting peace. Through workshops, publications, and collaborative projects, these organizations facilitate conversations that build bridges between faith communities.

5. Education and Training: Theological think tanks often offer educational programs for clergy, lay leaders, and the general public. These programs may include courses, seminars, and resources designed to deepen participants’ understanding of theology and its application to contemporary issues. By providing theological education, these organizations help equip individuals to engage thoughtfully with their faith.

Examples of Theological Think Tanks

Several prominent think tanks operate within the domain of theology, each with its unique focus and mission:

1. The Institute for Advanced Theology (IAT): This think tank focuses on exploring contemporary theological questions through interdisciplinary research. IAT engages scholars from various fields to analyze the relevance of theological concepts in modern society.

2. The Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences (CTNS): CTNS seeks to foster dialogue between theology and the sciences, particularly in the areas of cosmology, evolution, and environmental ethics. Through research, conferences, and publications, they explore the relationship between faith and scientific understanding.

3. The Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs: Based at Georgetown University, the Berkley Center promotes research and dialogue on the role of religion in global affairs. It addresses issues such as interfaith cooperation, conflict resolution, and the impact of faith on social justice.

4. The National Association of Evangelicals (NAE): While primarily a network for evangelical churches, the NAE also functions as a think tank that addresses social and political issues from a theological perspective. Their publications and initiatives seek to apply evangelical principles to contemporary challenges.

5. The Yale Center for Faith and Culture: This center engages in research and education at the intersection of faith and culture. It focuses on issues such as ethics, social justice, and the role of faith in public life, providing resources and events that foster dialogue on these topics.

6. The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC): MPAC is dedicated to promoting a positive understanding of Islam and Muslims in the public square. They engage in research, advocacy, and educational initiatives to address issues affecting Muslim communities in the United States.

Impact of Theological Think Tanks

The impact of theological think tanks is multifaceted:

1. Shaping Public Discourse: By producing research and engaging in public discussions, theological think tanks help shape the discourse surrounding faith-related issues. They contribute to a more nuanced understanding of religion’s role in society and foster dialogue on complex moral and ethical questions.

2. Influencing Policy: The insights and recommendations provided by theological think tanks can significantly influence public policy. Their work helps ensure that religious perspectives are considered in decision-making processes, particularly on issues with moral implications.

3. Promoting Interfaith Understanding: Through their focus on interfaith dialogue, theological think tanks foster greater understanding and cooperation among different religious traditions. This work is vital in promoting peace and reconciliation in a diverse and often divided world.

4. Empowering Communities: By providing educational resources and training, theological think tanks empower individuals and communities to engage thoughtfully with their faith. This empowerment can lead to more informed and active participation in social justice initiatives and community-building efforts.

5. Encouraging Theological Reflection: The work of theological think tanks encourages individuals and communities to reflect critically on their beliefs and practices. This theological reflection can lead to deeper faith and a more profound commitment to living out those beliefs in daily life.

Conclusion

Theological think tanks play a crucial role in the modern religious landscape by fostering research, public engagement, and interfaith dialogue. Their contributions to understanding the complexities of faith, ethics, and social issues are vital for both religious communities and society at large. As the world continues to grapple with pressing challenges, the insights and perspectives offered by theological think tanks will remain essential for informed discourse and ethical decision-making. Through their efforts, they help bridge the gap between faith and contemporary issues, promoting a more just and compassionate society.

Here’s a list of notable think tanks focused on theology and religious studies, along with brief descriptions of their missions and areas of expertise:

1. The Institute for Advanced Theology (IAT)

• Focus: Interdisciplinary research in contemporary theological questions.

• Mission: To explore the relevance of theological concepts in modern society.

2. Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences (CTNS)

• Focus: The relationship between theology and the sciences, particularly in cosmology and environmental ethics.

• Mission: To foster dialogue between theology and scientific understanding.

3. Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs

• Focus: The role of religion in global affairs, interfaith cooperation, and conflict resolution.

• Mission: To promote research and dialogue on the impact of faith on social justice and peacebuilding.

4. Yale Center for Faith and Culture

• Focus: The intersection of faith and culture, including ethics and social justice.

• Mission: To engage in research and education that fosters dialogue on faith-related issues.

5. National Association of Evangelicals (NAE)

• Focus: Advocacy for evangelical perspectives on social and political issues.

• Mission: To represent evangelical churches and provide resources for addressing contemporary challenges.

6. The Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC)

• Focus: Promoting understanding of Islam and addressing issues affecting Muslim communities.

• Mission: To engage in research, advocacy, and education for a positive representation of Muslims.

7. The Trinity Forum

• Focus: The intersection of faith, culture, and public life.

• Mission: To cultivate, support, and connect leaders in the exploration of faith-related issues.

8. The Center for the Study of Global Christianity (CSGC)

• Focus: Research on global Christian demographics, missions, and theology.

• Mission: To provide reliable data and insights on Christianity’s impact worldwide.

9. The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics (OCCA)

• Focus: Training and equipping individuals for apologetics and evangelism.

• Mission: To engage the contemporary culture with thoughtful Christian responses.

10. The Institute for Global Engagement (IGE)

• Focus: Promoting religious freedom and engagement among different faiths.

• Mission: To foster peaceful coexistence through dialogue and understanding.

11. The Theological Institute for the Study of Religious Freedom (TISR)

• Focus: Researching and advocating for religious freedom.

• Mission: To promote the understanding of religious liberty as a fundamental human right.

12. The Center for the Study of Religion and Society (CSRS)

• Focus: Research on the impact of religion on social behavior and public policy.

• Mission: To study the interaction between religion and society, addressing contemporary social issues.

13. The Center for Religion and Civic Culture (CRCC)

• Focus: The role of religion in public life and community engagement.

• Mission: To examine how religious beliefs and practices influence civic life.

14. The Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies (ICJS)

• Focus: Interfaith dialogue among Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.

• Mission: To promote understanding and cooperation among the three Abrahamic faiths.

15. The Evangelical Theological Society (ETS)

• Focus: Scholarship and research among evangelical scholars.

• Mission: To promote scholarly research and discussion in evangelical theology.

Conclusion

These think tanks play essential roles in exploring theological questions, fostering interfaith dialogue, and addressing contemporary social issues from a religious perspective. Their research and initiatives contribute to a deeper understanding of faith and its implications for society.

Here’s a list of think tanks and organizations that focus specifically on Catholic theology, along with brief descriptions of their missions and areas of expertise:

1. The Catholic University of America (CUA)

• Focus: A comprehensive Catholic institution that offers programs in theology and religious studies.

• Mission: To promote the study of Catholic theology and engage in research that supports the Church’s teachings.

2. The Center for Catholic Studies (CCS)

• Affiliation: Seton Hall University

• Focus: Scholarship and dialogue on Catholic theology, culture, and the social implications of faith.

• Mission: To promote the understanding and integration of Catholic thought in contemporary society.

3. The Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies (IACS)

• Affiliation: University of Southern California

• Focus: Advanced research in Catholic theology and its application to modern issues.

• Mission: To engage scholars in critical inquiry on Catholic thought and practice.

4. The Thomistic Institute

• Focus: Promoting the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas and its relevance to contemporary issues.

• Mission: To foster study and discussion of Thomistic philosophy and theology in the Catholic tradition.

5. The Catholic Social Thought Institute

• Focus: Research and education on Catholic social teaching and its application in social justice issues.

• Mission: To promote the principles of Catholic social teaching in public policy and community engagement.

6. The Jesuit Institute

• Focus: Research and dialogue on the intersection of Jesuit spirituality, education, and Catholic theology.

• Mission: To foster the exploration of faith through a Jesuit lens, emphasizing social justice and education.

7. The Institute for Church Life (ICL)

• Affiliation: University of Notre Dame

• Focus: The intersection of theology, culture, and public life.

• Mission: To explore and promote the Church’s role in society through research and community engagement.

8. The Catholic Theological Society of America (CTSA)

• Focus: A scholarly organization dedicated to promoting theological scholarship and education.

• Mission: To advance the study and teaching of theology in the Catholic tradition.

9. The National Catholic Bioethics Center (NCBC)

• Focus: Bioethical issues from a Catholic perspective.

• Mission: To provide education and guidance on ethical questions in healthcare and life sciences, grounded in Catholic teaching.

10. The Institute of Catholic Culture (ICC)

• Focus: Educational programs aimed at deepening understanding of Catholic theology and history.

• Mission: To foster the study of the Catholic intellectual tradition through lectures, discussions, and resources.

11. The Pope John XXIII National Seminary

• Focus: Formation and education of priests for the Catholic Church.

• Mission: To prepare candidates for priesthood through comprehensive theological education.

12. The Catholic Network for Women’s Equality (CNWE)

• Focus: Issues related to women’s roles in the Church and society.

• Mission: To advocate for equality and justice within the context of Catholic teaching.

13. The Aquinas Institute of Theology

• Focus: Advanced theological education and formation for ministers and lay leaders.

• Mission: To prepare individuals for service in the Church through the study of Catholic theology.

14. The Center for Catholic Education and Formation (CCEF)

• Affiliation: Various Catholic institutions

• Focus: The integration of theology and education, emphasizing catechesis and spiritual formation.

• Mission: To promote quality Catholic education grounded in the teachings of the Church.

15. The Catholic Faith Network (CFN)

• Focus: Media and resources that promote Catholic teaching and theology.

• Mission: To provide content that deepens faith and understanding of Catholic doctrine.

Conclusion

These think tanks and organizations play significant roles in advancing Catholic theology and engaging with contemporary issues from a Catholic perspective. Through research, education, and advocacy, they contribute to a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith and its implications for society.

Here’s a list of think tanks and organizations that focus specifically on Orthodox theology, along with brief descriptions of their missions and areas of expertise:

1. The Orthodox Theological Society in America (OTSA)

• Focus: Promoting scholarly research and dialogue in Orthodox theology.

• Mission: To foster a deeper understanding of Orthodox theology and its implications for contemporary issues.

2. The Institute for Orthodox Christian Studies (IOCS)

• Location: Cambridge, England

• Focus: Education and research in Orthodox theology, spirituality, and history.

• Mission: To promote the study of Orthodox Christianity through academic programs and resources.

3. The Orthodox Christian Studies Center (OCSC)

• Affiliation: Fordham University

• Focus: Interdisciplinary research on Orthodox Christianity, including theology, history, and culture.

• Mission: To foster scholarship on Orthodox traditions and engage with contemporary issues.

4. The Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute

• Location: Berkeley, California

• Focus: Orthodox theology, ecumenical dialogue, and social justice.

• Mission: To promote theological education and engage in dialogue with other Christian traditions.

5. The St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary (SVOTS)

• Location: Yonkers, New York

• Focus: Theological education and formation for Orthodox clergy and laity.

• Mission: To prepare leaders for service in the Orthodox Church through rigorous theological study.

6. The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

• Focus: The promotion and dissemination of Orthodox theology and teachings.

• Mission: To provide resources and programs that engage the Orthodox faithful in their spiritual and theological formation.

7. The Center for Orthodox Thought and Culture

• Affiliation: Various Orthodox institutions

• Focus: Engaging with contemporary cultural issues from an Orthodox perspective.

• Mission: To explore the intersection of Orthodox thought, culture, and society.

8. The Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF)

• Focus: Engaging college students in Orthodox faith and fellowship.

• Mission: To create a supportive environment for young adults to explore their Orthodox identity and deepen their theological understanding.

9. The Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America (FOCA)

• Focus: Community service and outreach rooted in Orthodox theology.

• Mission: To support various charitable initiatives while fostering a deeper understanding of Orthodox faith.

10. The Orthodox Church in America (OCA)

• Focus: Promoting the teachings and traditions of the Orthodox faith in North America.

• Mission: To provide resources and support for parishes and faithful while fostering theological education and dialogue.

11. The Coptic Orthodox Diocese of Los Angeles

• Focus: Theological education and resources for the Coptic Orthodox community.

• Mission: To support the spiritual and theological formation of Coptic Orthodox Christians.

12. The Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

• Location: Brookline, Massachusetts

• Focus: Advanced theological education for the Greek Orthodox Church.

• Mission: To prepare clergy and lay leaders through comprehensive theological training.

13. The St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church (The Orthodox Christian Education Commission)

• Focus: Education and resources for Orthodox catechesis and spirituality.

• Mission: To promote the understanding of Orthodox theology and practice among parishioners.

14. The Orthodox Theological Faculty of the University of Belgrade

• Location: Serbia

• Focus: Academic research and education in Orthodox theology.

• Mission: To train clergy and scholars in Orthodox Christian traditions and engage with contemporary theological issues.

15. The Orthodox Institute of Studies in the United States (OISUS)

• Focus: Research and dialogue on Orthodox theology in an American context.

• Mission: To promote understanding and scholarship of Orthodox Christianity in the United States.

Conclusion

These think tanks and organizations play essential roles in advancing Orthodox theology and engaging with contemporary issues from an Orthodox perspective. Through research, education, and community engagement, they contribute to a deeper understanding of Orthodox faith and its implications for society.

List of the Church Fathers, featuring the most important theologians and Christian writers of the early centuries, organized by period and region:

I. Apostolic Fathers (1st and 2nd centuries)

1. Clement of Rome († 99) – Bishop of Rome, author of the ‘First Epistle to the Corinthians.’

2. Ignatius of Antioch (35-108) – Christian martyr, known for his letters to the early Churches.

3. Polycarp of Smyrna (69-155) – Disciple of the Apostle John and martyr.

4. Papias of Hierapolis (60-130) – Author of the ‘Explanations of the Sayings of the Lord.’

5. Barnabas († 61) – Considered the author of the ‘Epistle of Barnabas.’

6. Didache – A text attributed to apostolic disciples, often called the ‘Teaching of the Twelve Apostles.’

II. Apologists (2nd century)

1. Justin Martyr (100-165) – Philosopher and theologian, author of the ‘Apologies’ and the ‘Dialogue with Trypho.’

2. Tatian the Syrian (120-180) – Disciple of Justin Martyr, author of the ‘Diatessaron’ and ‘Address to the Greeks.’

3. Athenagoras of Athens (133-190) – Author of ‘Plea for the Christians.’

4. Theophilus of Antioch († 183) – Bishop of Antioch, author of the apologetic work ‘To Autolycus.’

III. Greek Fathers (3rd to 5th centuries)

1. Clement of Alexandria (150-215) – Christian philosopher and author of the ‘Protrepticus’ and the ‘Stromata.’

2. Origen (185-253) – Theologian, exegete, author of the ‘Hexapla’ and ‘On First Principles.’

3. Dionysius of Alexandria (190-264) – Theologian and bishop of Alexandria.

4. Gregory the Wonderworker (213-270) – Disciple of Origen, bishop of Neocaesarea.

5. Methodius of Olympus († 311) – Theologian known for his work ‘The Banquet of the Ten Virgins.’

6. Eusebius of Caesarea (260-340) – Father of Church history, author of the ‘Ecclesiastical History.’

7. Athanasius of Alexandria (296-373) – Defender of Nicene faith, author of ‘Against the Heathen’ and ‘The Life of Anthony.’

8. Basil of Caesarea (329-379) – One of the Cappadocians, theologian of the Trinity, author of the ‘Monastic Rules.’

9. Gregory of Nazianzus (329-390) – Theologian and poet, author of the ‘Theological Orations.’

10. Gregory of Nyssa (335-395) – Brother of Basil, Christian philosopher, author of ‘The Life of Moses.’

11. John Chrysostom (347-407) – Patriarch of Constantinople, famous for his homilies and sermons.

12. Cyril of Alexandria (376-444) – Defender of Christological faith, author of the ‘Commentary on John.’

IV. Latin Fathers (3rd to 5th centuries)

1. Tertullian (160-225) – Apologist and theologian, first to formulate the Trinity, author of ‘On the Spectacles.’

2. Cyprian of Carthage (200-258) – Bishop and martyr, author of ‘On the Unity of the Church.’

3. Lactantius (240-320) – Author of ‘Divine Institutes,’ defender of the Christian faith.

4. Hilary of Poitiers (315-367) – Defender of the Trinity against Arianism.

5. Ambrose of Milan (340-397) – Influencer of Saint Augustine, author of ‘On Duties.’

6. Jerome (347-420) – Translator of the Bible into Latin (Vulgate), author of numerous biblical commentaries.

7. Augustine of Hippo (354-430) – One of the greatest theologians, author of the ‘Confessions’ and ‘The City of God.’

8. Leo the Great (400-461) – Pope and theologian, author of the ‘Letters’ and the ‘Tome of Leo.’

9. Prosper of Aquitaine (390-455) – Defender of Saint Augustine’s doctrine of grace.

V. Cappadocian Fathers

1. Basil of Caesarea (329-379) – Author of the treatise ‘On the Holy Spirit.’

2. Gregory of Nazianzus (329-390) – Known for his theological homilies.

3. Gregory of Nyssa (335-395) – Philosopher and mystical theologian.

VI. Syriac Fathers

1. Ephrem the Syrian (306-373) – Hymnographer and theologian, author of the ‘Hymns Against Heresies.’

2. Isaac of Nineveh († around 700) – Mystic and writer, known for his spiritual writings.

VII. North African Fathers

1. Tertullian (see above).

2. Cyprian of Carthage (see above).

3. Augustine of Hippo (see above).

VIII. Eastern Fathers (outside Cappadocia and Syria)

1. Epiphanius of Salamis (315-403) – Author of the ‘Panarion,’ a treatise against heresies.

2. John of Damascus (676-749) – Defender of icon veneration, author of ‘On the Orthodox Faith.’

This list includes major figures who shaped Christian theology in the early centuries and fought against heresies. Each of them left a significant mark on a particular region, in both the East and the West, and their works continue to influence Christian theology today.