Call for Papers

Thematic Research Group (Charles Sturt University)
Friday 18 September 2026 | Sydney – ISRA (Level 3/128–136 S Parade, Auburn NSW 2144) | in-person

Overview

Prof John L. Esposito dedicated his scholarly life to demonstrating that interfaith dialogue, the removal of hate, and bridge-building between communities are not luxuries but necessities for human flourishing. His work at Georgetown University, the Bridge Initiative, and through decades of mentorship showed that faith traditions carry profound resources for understanding, resilience, and the strengthening of communities. This symposium honours his legacy by bringing together scholars who share his conviction that faith can transform conflict into connection, fear into solidarity, and isolation into flourishing.

The Faith and Flourishing Communities Thematic Research Group at Charles Sturt University invites abstracts for a small symposium to explore how faith traditions, theology, religious ethics and spirituality contribute to human flourishing—in particular, how they build bridges across difference, resist hate and intolerance and foster resilient communities and individuals.

Main Topic Areas:

1. Bridging Divides – Interfaith Dialogue and Solidarity

2. Solidarity – Confronting Hatred, Religious Intolerance and Discrimination

3. Faith Leadership for Resilience and Ethical Action

4. Spiritual and Communal Wellbeing – Resources and Obstacles

5. Flourishing Societies – Faith, Social Cohesion, and Public Life

Invitation to Submit

We are seeking abstracts from scholars across theology, Islamic and Christian studies, social sciences, psychology, spirituality, ethics, education, public health, and community engagement. Papers should reflect one of these five main topic areas and demonstrate how Esposito's legacy—his commitment to understanding, bridge-building, and the transformative power of faith—informs your work.

This is an in-person event only. Online contributions will not be considered.

Submission Details

Please send an abstract (max 250 words), name, affiliation, and short academic bio (max 50 words) to:
hcoruh@csu.edu.au and bdoherty@csu.edu.au

For more information, click here.