Oakland University
Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Expert panelists to discuss the nuances of religious conversions

Oakland University and visiting experts will host an intriguing discussion on the often-controversial nature of people's conversion from one religious group to another.

Set for 6-8 p.m. on Monday, April 2, the "Colloquium on Conversion Narratives in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam" will focus on a topic rarely discussed and nuanced among scholars of these major religious groups.

The discussion promises to be a foundational event for people interested in hearing how religious groups make sense of conversion narratives and processes, particularly in light of the religiously diverse character of southeastern Michigan's population.

After brief, opening remarks from each expert panelist, Oakland University School of Education and Human Services Dean Louis Gallien will moderate a thoughtful interchange between the panelists. Time will then be allotted for an exchange between attendees and panelists.

Expert speakers will include:

  • VĂ­ctor H. Cuartas, assistant professor of practical ministry and global missions at Regent University's School of Divinity in Virginia
  • Henri Gooren, associate professor of anthropology at Oakland University
  • Michael Weiss, assistant professor of mathematics education at Oakland University

Sponsored by the College of Arts and Sciences, the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work, the Religious Studies program and the School of Education and Human Services, the colloquium will take place in Pawley Hall on the campus of Oakland University. Interactive and printable maps area available at oakland.edu/map. Those interested in attending are asked to RSVP to Holly Smith by phone at (248) 370-3045 or by e-mail at smith211@oakland.edu.
Ronald Aronson will discuss how humanity can persevere in the midst of global warming, population growth, assaults on democracy, economic stagnation and inequality.

Created by Katherine Land - Deleted (land@oakland.edu) on Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Modified by Katherine Land - Deleted (land@oakland.edu) on Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Article Start Date: Wednesday, March 28, 2012