NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community
Explore theology, history and the practice of ministry from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and world Indigenous perspectives.
Traditionally, Indigenous people did not talk about spirituality or faith, nor did they build complex theologies. They simply lived what they believed. It was expected that one would live in such a way as to acknowledge and honour their Creator. Theology was practice!
In the 21st century, much has changed. We still focus our energies on helping people walk out life in a good way. Now however, it is a path centered in the person, work, life, teaching, death and resurrection of Jesus that is also rooted in Indigenous cultures and histories. Whether in the development of new theologies or in our forums for dialogue and teaching, it is this understanding that we speak of as our path toward wholeness.
In these units, you are invited to:
Learn about the Bible when reading it using the insights of an Indigenous Perspective
Discover perspectives on history and church history from the experience and perspective of Indigenous peoples
Engage in the process of doing theology led by Indigenous Scholars
Reflect on the implications for ministry practice, not only amongst Indigenous communities but in all of our church and ministry contexts
Each year the program offers introductory units, as well as units for continuing students, which build on the foundations from the introductory units. Some units are offered in blended delivery mode, where a four day face-to-face intensive is supplemented with additional online learning. Other units are delivered online. Indigenous and non-Indigenous people are welcome to study all units.