Call for Papers
We are delighted to extend this special invitation for the Call for Papers for New Leaf Network’s Table Conference 2023, which will focus on "Nourishing Hope for a Flourishing Future Church in Canada." This highly anticipated event will bring together academics, theologians, pastors, students and ministry leaders from diverse backgrounds to engage in meaningful discussions, share valuable insights, and explore innovative ideas to foster hope and growth in the church within our Canadian context.
The New Leaf Network has been a bridge between academics and church leaders bringing together both research and practice. This call for papers continues in this tradition by welcoming academic research and theologically informed practical reflections.
Date: October 12-13, 2023
Location: Waterloo, ON, & online
Theme: A Shared Feast: Nourishing Hope for a Flourishing Future Church in Canada
Keynote Speakers: Joash Thomas, Dr. Hilary McBride, Nikayla Reize, PhD.
About the Conference:
As the church navigates the complexities of post-Christendom Canada, we recognize the importance of fostering hope and vitality. This conference aims to explore innovative ideas, cutting-edge research, and actionable strategies that will foster hope and empower the church in Canada to flourish. We are seeking papers that encourage fresh questions, spark our imagination, and offer both practical insights and solid academic foundations, creating a space where theory meets practice to envision and shape a hopeful and vibrant future for the Canadian Church.
Call for Papers:
We invite scholars, practitioners, leaders and community members to submit their thought-provoking papers and presentations that delve into various aspects of hope for the future of the church in Canada. Topics of interest include but are not limited to:
Innovative Ministry Models for Canada Today
Fostering Inclusivity and Diversity within Church Communities
Addressing Social Justice Issues in and through the Church
Mental Health & Spiritual Trauma
Healing and Reconciliation: The Church's Response to Historical, Cultural & Spiritual Wounds
Reimagining Worship and Spiritual Practices for the Canadian Context
Addressing Contemporary Challenges Faced by the Church
The Role of Technology in Community Engagement
Submission Guidelines:
If you wish to contribute to this significant dialogue, we encourage you to submit an abstract of your proposed paper for consideration. Abstracts should be between 250-300 words (while full papers will be 3,000, about 20 min when read aloud) and submitted in Word format via email to elle@newleafnetwork.ca by September 15th, 2023. Our committee of reviewers will carefully evaluate each submission, and notification of acceptance will be sent out by September 30th, 2023. Please include your full name, contact information, academic/professional affiliation (if any), and a brief bio with your submission.
Conference Proceedings:
Accepted papers will be published in the conference proceedings following the event, providing contributors with an opportunity to showcase their research and ideas to a broader audience. Paper presentations can be presented either in person or online, and will be followed by conversations with participants.
We believe that your expertise and insights would significantly contribute to the success of this conference and help shape the future of the Church in Canada. We eagerly anticipate your valuable contribution.
Thank you for considering our invitation. Should you have any inquiries or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at elle@newleafntwork.ca. We look forward to welcoming you to the Table 2023.
Warm regards,
The New Leaf Team