Many scholars have pointed out that the development of Christianity has become polycentric, from the Euro-American centric centers in the past turning to polycentric centers both in Europe, the United States and the Global South (Asia, Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Caribbean, etc.). In particular, Global South Christianity has displayed unique features of variety and diversity. This development with cross-cultural, transnational and diasporaic manifestations has become the core of global Christianity discussion today.
Reflection on the complex history and reality of Christianity not only as a world religion but also as a pluricultural, global phenomenon is an on-going need. For this purpose, the objective of the International Harmony Conference is to provide international and regional scholars an opportunity to:
- reflect on the theme of harmony and reconciliation from a historical, theological, biblical, socio-logical, educational and environmental perspective.
- meet and reflect critically on the theme of harmony and reconciliation.
- make policy recommendations to faith-based organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGO), international development organizations and national governments.
- publish papers with discussion and conclusion.
2019 is the 10th year of the end of the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka and the 2019 International Harmony Conference focuses on the theme of “Harmony and Reconciliation” providing an opportunity to review the past ten years and chart further directions in fostering peace and harmony based on the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, in particular the Goal 4 quality education, Goal 10 reduced inequalities, Goal 16 pertaining to peace and justice, as well ad Goal 17 partnership. This international conference is hosted by the Lanka Bible College-Centre for Graduate Studies of Sri Lanka, the Institute of International Harmony and Sustainable Development, and the China Victory Theological Seminary; co-organized by Liverpool Hope University, the University of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Baptist University.