European theologians gather to discuss conflict, war, and nationalism

From October 10 to 13, the Fellowship of European Evangelical Theologians (FEET) gathered for its biennial conference in Golem, Albania.

The conference focused on a particularly timely and relevant theme: “Faithful in Times of Turmoil: Responses to Conflicts, War, and Nationalism in Europe.” Around forty people attended the conference, including participants who had also attended the European Evangelical Alliance conference held immediately beforehand.

All Evangelical Focus news and opinion, on your WhatsApp

The topic was approached from different angles, reflecting the diversity of theological disciplines, evangelical traditions, and national backgrounds represented.

[photo_footer] Ciprian Gheorghe-Luca, in one of the plenary sessions at FEET conference 2026. / FEET [/photo_footer] 

Each day of the conference began with biblical reflections led by Dr. Ciprian Gheorghe-Luca (Romania). The plenary sessions were rich and stimulating, highlighting the complexities and challenges surrounding nationhood.

The presentations explored the reality of being strangers and exiles (Rev. Jan Wessels, the Netherlands), the need to remain faithful to Christ in different contexts (Dr. Christoph Stenschke, Germany), biblical perspectives on nationhood (Dr. Roland Deines, Germany), nationalism and nationhood in the history of the Czech Republic (Dr. Pavel Hošek, Czech Republic), different perspectives on political engagement (Dr. Michael Agerbo Mørch, Denmark), and Christian responsibility toward the nation in times of war and conflict (Dr. Roman Soloviy, Ukraine).

In addition to the plenary sessions, the afternoons were dedicated to the presentation of short academic papers, addressing both the conference theme and other theological topics.

Regional groups were also given the opportunity to meet. Furthermore, an Albanian pastor was invited to share the history of Evangelicalism in Albania and describe its current situation in the country.

One of the insights that emerged from the conference was the significant role that each nation's political history plays in shaping contemporary attitudes toward nationhood.

[photo_footer] The conference included presentations from European speakers around a range of related topics. / FEET [/photo_footer] 

For example, those coming from nations with a history of exercising political dominance or asserting national supremacy tend to be cautious about any form of nationalism or patriotism. By contrast, those from relatively young nations that emerged after periods of foreign domination and oppression often seek to redefine these concepts, understanding them not in terms of national pride but rather as expressions of gratitude for their homeland.

More broadly, the discussions and interactions throughout the conference seemed to strengthen the awareness of the need for a theology that is both grounded in Scripture and attentive to its historical and cultural contexts.

Such a theology must also be willing to listen to and learn from the experiences of believers from other nations, recognizing that different historical backgrounds can offer valuable insights into the complex relationship between Scripture, faith, national identity, and political responsibility.

[analysis]

[title] Do you see a need for this kind of journalism? [/title]

[text] Evangelical Focus is a network of many people in Europe and beyond who strive to bring a uniquely Christian perspective to the big issues of conversation.

Through news, interviews, opinion and analysis, we seek to build bridges between evangelical churches and the societies in which they live.

As a non-profit entity, the big challenge is to be sustainable, month by month. We invite you to make a difference! Join the readers who make Evangelical Focus possible.

[/text][/analysis]