Beyers Naudé Centre for Public Theology
The BNC research centre engages the relationship between faith and public life. Through research, dialogue and community engagement, the centre contributes to conversations on justice, reconciliation and the role of religion in society.
About the Centre
The Beyers Naudé Centre for Public Theology reflects on the role of theology in the public sphere, including academic life, churches and broader society. It creates spaces for interdisciplinary engagement and dialogue on complex social and ethical issues, bringing together scholars, faith communities and public leaders.
The centre contributes to public theology through:
- Facilitating interdisciplinary dialogue on public issues
- Engaging and mediating diverse perspectives on complex societal challenges
- Supporting faith communities, institutions and public leaders
- Contributing to public discourse through research, publications and events
Units and Initiatives
Gender Unit
Head: Prof Julie Claassens
Research Fellow: Dr Funlola Olojede
The Gender Unit provides a creative and interdisciplinary space for research on gender. It equips students and communities to engage critically with gender issues and contributes to social transformation through teaching and research.
Unit for Justice and Reconciliation
Head: Prof Christo Thesnaar
This unit focuses on research and dialogue on reconciliation and justice in South Africa and the broader African context, sharing knowledge through conferences, workshops and publications.
Bonhoeffer Unit
Head: Prof Robert Vosloo
The Bonhoeffer Unit explores the life and legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, with a focus on his relevance for contemporary ethical and theological challenges, particularly in African contexts.
Unit for Religion and Law
This unit examines the relationship between religion and law, focusing on issues such as religious freedom, public policy and the role of religion in shaping societies.
Leadership and staff
- Chair of Publications – Prof Len Hansen
- Chair of Human Dignity and Human Rights – Prof Julie Claassens
- Chair of Reconciliation – Prof Christo Thesnaar
- Chair of Responsible Citizenship
- Chair of Justice, Peace, and the Integrity of Creation – Prof Nico Koopman
- Chair of Faith and Science
- Archives – Prof Robert Vosloo