Three UM academics from the Faculty of Theology, the Dean, Rev. Prof. Stefan Attard, Rev. Prof. Hector Scerri, and Rev. Dr Charlo Camilleri, along with UM alumnus and PhD candidate Rev. Jean Claude Attard, attended an international colloquium focusing on promoting peace and understanding in the Mediterranean region through a Theology from the Mediterranean.
The international colloquium, organised by the Institut Catholique de la Méditerranée in conjunction with the Réseau Théologique Méditerranéen (RTMed), was held from 24 to 26 June 2024, in Palermo, Italy. The interdisciplinary initiative traces its inspiration to Pope Francis's address in Naples in 2019, which emphasised the importance of academic and theological collaboration across the Mediterranean's diverse cultural landscape.
Over three days, participants engaged in various activities designed to deepen theological understanding and promote peace:
- Day 1: Presentations on the theological narratives shared over the past year and their impact on the Mediterranean region.
- Day 2: Public lectures on the significance of intercultural and interfaith dialogue in building a peaceful Mediterranean future.
- Day 3: Finalizing the co-construction of the Mediterranean Theological Network, inspired by the manifesto 'For a Theology from the Mediterranean.' This network seeks to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration among theologians, researchers, and cultural centres across the Mediterranean to contribute to regional peacebuilding efforts.
The participation of UM academics highlights Malta's active role in promoting theological dialogue and collaboration in the Mediterranean, contributing to the overarching goal of regional peace and understanding.
