5th International Conference of NIT (Network Intercultural Theology), „Intercultural and Linguistic Communication Competence in Mission, Theology, and Religious Studies“, Neuendettelsau, 30th September – 1st October 2026

Conference Theme

The NIT 2026 International Conference invites students and emerging scholars from the fields of Mission Studies, Intercultural Theology, and Religious Studies to submit papers that engage the theme of linguistic and intercultural communication competence in a globalised and religiously diverse world. In contexts shaped by migration, cultural plurality, and post-Christendom realities,communication across languages and cultures is no longer optional. It has become central to theological reflection, mission practice, and the life of faith communities. This conference seeks to explore how communication can become a space of encounter, transformation, and mutual understanding.

We particularly encourage contributions that approach communication not merely as a technical skill, but as an ethical, theological, and relational practice. Questions of language, power, identity, and belonging are deeply embedded in how people communicate across cultures. Therefore, we welcome papers that critically reflect on intercultural communication in mission and church contexts, the role of language and translation in global Christianity, and the dynamics of communication in postcolonial and decolonial perspectives. Contributions may also explore multilingual worship practices, Migration and identity in religious communities, interreligious dialogue, digital communication in global faith networks, and the role of storytelling and testimony in shaping intercultural encounters.

The conference aims to create a dialogical and intercultural space where diverse voices can meet, share insights, and learn from one another. We especially value contributions that are rooted in lived experience, empirical research, or practice-based theological reflection.

Participation

NIT promotes international and interdisciplinary debate and invites early-career academics to participate in vivid discussions and networking. Participation is open to all early-career scholars (M.A., PhD, Postdoc) in Intercultural Theology, Mission Studies, Religious Studies and related disciplines. Presenting a paper is not mandatory for participation. Papers (ENG) may address the NIT conference topic or focus on ongoing or future research projects. Each presenter has a 30-minute time slot to use as they see fit, either by drafting a short problem to discuss in depth or by giving a longer paper presentation with a brief Q&A session. We offer online panels, but in-Person participation provides a better networking experience. We, therefore, encourage everyone to attend in person whenever possible. The 5th conference of the NIT is a pre-conference of the annual conference of the German Society for Missions Studies, DGMW; hence, participating in both conferences is highly recommended.

Registration

Please submit your paper abstract by describing your topic or research question (max. 300 words) by 30th July 2026 via Google Forms (Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfdmcDDzmIvW1JxWY0ZWdSFvc_ny4E9r4lK4Us28m8T8TI6lg/viewform?usp=dialog or the attached QR code. Participation is free (incl. meals and accommodation). Due to planning issues, a fee will be charged for any last-minute cancellation. DGMW funds the conference. Each individual is responsible for covering their travel expenses.

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Missionswissenschaft (DGMW)

Please register separately for the DGMW conference (30th September —1st October 2026). For more information, visit the DGMW website or contact Birgit Wolter at birgit.wolter@evlka.de. Every Young scholar enrolled in a university receives a discount on the participation fee. NIT participants pay half the conference fee (220 Euros) if they present during the Friday junior panel; travel expenses will be covered in this case. NIT attendants who participate in the conference without contributing bear the full costs.