January 2006 Published by the American Academy of Religion Vol. 21, No. 1 2006 2006 r embe M ar alend CALL FOR C e 2 e pag Se PAPERS Annual Meeting Call for Papers General Information ...... 3 Deadlines ...... 3 Religious Studies News is the newspaper of record Guidelines for Submitting Proposals ...... 3 for the field especially designed to serve the pro- fessional needs of persons involved in teaching Methods of Submission ...... 4 and scholarship in religion (broadly construed to include religious studies, theology, and sacred Sections ...... 5 texts). Published quarterly by the American Academy of Religion, RSN is received by some Groups...... 7 10,000 scholars and by libraries at colleges and universities across North America and abroad. Participant Forms ...... 8, 9 Religious Studies News communicates the impor- tant events of the field and related areas. It pro- Seminars ...... 16 vides a forum for members and others to examine critical issues in education, pedagogy (especially Consultations ...... 16 through the biannual Spotlight on Teaching), research, publishing, and the public understand- ing of religion. It also publishes news about the Election Results ...... 21 services and programs of the AAR and other organizations, including employment services Tribute to Henry Luce III ...... 21 and registration information for the AAR Annual Meeting...... 22 For writing and advertising guidelines, please see Tribute to Robert W. Funk www.aarweb.org/publications/rsn.asp. 2005 Annual Report A Message from the President ...... 25 Centennial Strategic Plan...... 25 A Message from the Executive Director ...... 26 Governance and Structure ...... 26 Membership Trends ...... 28 Meetings ...... 28 Publications ...... 29 Grants and Awards...... 30 Outreach ...... 31 The Department ...... 31 The Profession...... 32 Resources ...... 33 Benefactors...... 35 AAR Call for Papers 2006 20062005 2006 Member Calendar AAR Staff Directory Dates are subject to change. Check www.aarweb.org for the latest information. Kyle Cole, PhD Director of College Programs January March 11–13. Western regional meeting, September Executive Editor of RSN Claremont, CA. E-MAIL: [email protected] Religious Studies News January issue, including the Journal of the American Academy of Religion TEL: 404-727-1489 Annual Meeting Call for Papers, results of the March 16–17. Mid-Atlantic regional September 2006 issue. For more information on meeting, Baltimore, MD. Barbara DeConcini, PhD officer elections, and the 2005 Annual Report. AAR publications, see www.aarweb.org/ Executive Director and Treasurer January 1. Annual term of membership begins March 18. Publications Committee meeting, publications/default.asp or go directly to the JAAR E-MAIL: [email protected] for the AAR’s 10,000 members, the largest and New York, NY. home page hosted by Oxford University Press, TEL: 404-727-3049 most inclusive association of religion scholars in March 20. Nominations due for Awards for www3.oup.co.uk/jaarel/. Joe DeRose the world. Director of Membership and Technology Services Excellence in the Study of Religion book Annual Meeting Program Books mailed to E-MAIL: [email protected] January 20–21. International Connections awards. For details, see www.aarweb.org- members. TEL: 404-727-7972 wareds/book/rules.asp Committee meeting, Atlanta, GA. TBA. Regions Committee meeting, Atlanta, GA. Toby Director January 28–29. Academic Relations March 24. Executive Committee meeting, Research Project Coordinator September 9. Executive Committee Committee meeting, Atlanta, GA. Washington, D.C. E-MAIL: [email protected] meeting, Cambridge, MA. TEL: 404-727-1461 January 30. Nominations Committee March 24. Regional Secretaries meeting, Ina Ferrell meeting, Atlanta, GA. Washington, D.C. October Accountant March 24–25. Rocky Mountain–Great Plains E-MAIL: [email protected] (More information on AAR committee Religious Studies News October issue. TEL: 404-727-2331 meetings can be found at regional meeting, Colorado Springs, CO. Spotlight on Teaching Fall 2006 issue. Lauren Frazier www.aarweb.org/meetings/meetings.asp.) March 25–26. Spring Board of Directors Administrative Assistant meeting, Washington, D.C. October 1–31. AAR officer election period. E-MAIL: [email protected] February March 31–April 1. Midwest regional meeting, Candidate profiles will be published in the TEL: 404-727-7920 October RSN. Carey J. Gifford, PhD February 1. Nominations due for Best First Chicago, IL. Director of Theological Programs Book in the History of Religions award For March 31–April 1. Upper Midwest regional October 15. January 2007 Religious Studies E-MAIL: [email protected] more information, see meeting, St. Paul, MN. News submission deadline. TEL: 404-727-2270 www.aarweb.org/awards/books/rules.asp. October 15. Excellence in Teaching award Stephanie Gray (For more information on regional meetings, Office Manager February 3. Martin E. Marty Public see www.aarweb.org/regions/meetings.asp.) nominations due. For more information, see E-MAIL: [email protected] Understanding of Religion Award nominations www.aarweb.org/awards/teaching.asp. TEL: 404-727-3059 due. For more information, see April October 21. EIS preregistration closes. Steve Herrick www.aarweb.org/awards/marty/. April 1. Notification of acceptance of Annual Director of External Relations February 3. Membership Committee meeting, TBA. Finance Committee meeting, Atlanta, GA. E-MAIL: [email protected] Meeting paper proposals by Program Unit Chairs. Atlanta, GA. TEL: 404-727-7948 (For more information on regional meetings, November Myesha D. Jenkins February 3–4. Religion in the Schools Task see www.aarweb.org/regions/meetings.asp.) Associate Director of Theological Programs Force meeting, Washington, D.C. November 1. Research grant awards announced. E-MAIL: [email protected] February 4–5. Teaching and Learning May November 16. Executive Committee TEL: 404-727-3026 meeting, Washington, D.C. Aislinn Jones Committee meeting, Atlanta, GA. Religious Studies News May issue. Annual Meeting Program Director November 17. Fall Board of Directors meet- February 4–5. Graduate Student Task Force Spotlight on Teaching Spring 2006 issue. E-MAIL: [email protected] meeting, Atlanta, GA. ing, Washington, D.C. TEL: 404-727-8132 Annual Meeting registration materials mailed November 17. Chairs Workshop at the Deborah Minor February 10–11. Public Understanding of with RSN. Director of Finance and Administration Religion Committee meeting, Washington, Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C. May 1. Nominations (including self-nomina- E-MAIL: [email protected] D.C. November 18–21. Annual Meeting, TEL: 404-727-7954 tions) for committee appointments requested. February 11–12. Status of Women in the For more information, see Washington, D.C. Held concurrently with the Robert Puckett Profession Committee meeting, Atlanta, GA. Administrative Assistant www.aarweb.org/membership/volunteering.asp. Society of Biblical Literature, comprising some 9,500 registrants, 200 publishers, and 100 hir- E-MAIL: [email protected] February 15. Submissions for the May 2005 May 5–6. Eastern International regional meet- TEL: 404-727-1461 ing departments. issue of Religious Studies News due. For more ing, Quebec City, QC, Canada. Shelly C. Roberts information, see www.aarweb.org/ November 20. Annual Business Meeting. See the Associate Director of Professional Services May 5–7. Pacific Northwest regional publications/rsn/default.asp. Annual Meeting Program Book for exact time. Editor of RSN meeting, Spokane, WA. E-MAIL: [email protected] February 17–18. Theological Education TEL: 404-727-4707 Steering Committee meeting, Atlanta, GA. May 15. Annual Meeting registration & hous- December ing opens for 2006 Annual Meeting. Susan Snider February 18. Executive Committee meeting, Journal of the American Academy of Religion Associate Director of External Relations Cambridge, MA. May 15. Registration for the Employment December 2006 issue. E-MAIL: [email protected] Information Services Center opens. TEL: 404-727-4725 (More information on AAR committee December 1. New program unit proposals due. Cynthia Walsh May 30. Annual Meeting Additional Meeting meetings can be found at December 8–9. Program Committee meeting, Director of Development www.aarweb.org/meetings/meetings.asp.) requests due for priority consideration. Atlanta, GA. E-MAIL: [email protected] (For more Annual Meeting information, see TEL: 404-727-7928 March www.aarweb.org/annualmeet/2006/default.asp.) December 15. Submissions for the March Religious Studies News is published quarterly 2007 issue of Religious Studies News March issue. Religious Studies News due. For by the American Academy of Religion in June more information, see January, March, May, and October. Letters to Journal of the American Academy of Religion the editor and features examining professional www.aarweb.org/publications/rsn/default.asp. March 2006 issue. For more information on Journal of the American Academy of Religion issues in the field are welcome from all June 2006 issue. December 31. Membership renewal for 2007 readers. Please send editorial pieces in elec- AAR publications, see www.aarweb.org/ tronic uncompressed file format only (MS publications or go directly to the JAAR home June 15. Membership renewal deadline for due. Renew online at www.aarweb.org/dues. Word is preferred) to: [email protected]. page hosted by Oxford University Press, 2006 Annual Meeting participants. Subscriptions for individuals and institutions www3.oup.co.uk/jaarel/. And keep in mind are available. See www.aarweb.org/ July throughout the year… publications/rsn for more information. March 1. 2006 Annual Meeting proposals due Deadlines for submissions: to program unit chairs. July 1. New fiscal year begins. Regional organizations have various deadlines January October 15 throughout the fall for their Calls for Papers. March 1. Book award nominations due from July 15. Submission deadline for the October March December 15 See www.aarweb.org/regions/default.asp. May February 15 publishers. For more information see www.aar- issue of Religious Studies News. For more infor- October July 15 web.org/awards/book/rules.asp. mation, see www.aarweb.org/publications/ In the Field. News of events and opportunities Advertising March 1–2. National Humanities Day. rsn/default.asp. for scholars of religion. In the Field is a members- For information on advertising, please see National Humanities Day is an advocacy event only online publication that accepts brief www.aarweb.org/publications/rsn. July 31. Deadline for participants to request organized by the National Humanities Alliance audiovisual equipment at the Annual Meeting. announcements, including calls for papers, grant Publisher: news, conference announcements, and other American Academy of Religion and co-sponsored by the AAR and more than 825 Houston Mill Road, NE, Suite 300 20 organizations to promote support for the August opportunities appropriate for scholars of religion. Atlanta, GA 30329 USA National Endowment for the Humanities. For Annual Meeting Program goes online. Submit text online at www.aarweb.org/ more information, see www.nhalliance.org. publications/inthefield/submit.asp. Executive Editor August 1. Change of address due for priority Kyle Cole, PhD March 4. Religion and Disabilities Task Force receipt of the 2006 Annual Meeting Program Openings: Employment Opportunities for Editor meeting, Atlanta, GA. Book. Scholars of Religion. Openings is a members- Shelly C. Roberts March 4–5. Southwest regional meeting, August 1. Research Grant Applications due. only online publication listing job announce- © AAR, 2006 Dallas, TX. For more information, see ments in areas of interest to members; issues POSTMASTER: March 10–11. Status of Racial and Ethnic www.aarweb.org/grants/default.asp. are viewable online from the first through the Send address changes to Religious Studies News last day of each month. Submit announce- 825 Houston Mill Road, Minorities in the Profession Committee August 15. Membership renewal period for Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30329. meeting, Atlanta, GA. 2007 begins. ments online, and review policies and pricing, Periodicals postage paid at Atlanta, GA. at www.aarweb.org/openings/submit.asp.❧ March 10–12. Southeast regional meeting, August 31. Regional development grant appli- 2 • January 2006 RSN Atlanta, GA. cations due to regional secretaries. Religious Studies News Call for Papers

General Information 2006 Calendar N.B. All 2005 and 2006 members receive Alan Verskin, Princeton University this Call. To inquire about your 2006 Teaching Philosophy to the Multitude: The of Deadlines membership status, please see Thought of Nissim B. Moshe of Marseilles Meeting Location www.aarweb.org/membership. Ellen Haskell, University of Chicago The 2006 AAR Annual Meeting and Book March 1, 2006 Metaphor, Transformation, and Exhibit will be held at the Washington Deadline for proposals, participant forms, Participation Limits Trancendence: Toward an Understanding of Convention Center, Renaissance and abstracts to be received by program Each member may appear on the Annual Kabbalistic Imagering in the Book of Zohar Washington D.C. Hotel, and Grand Hyatt unit chairs. Meeting program (AAR and/or SBL side) a Washington Hotel in Washington, D.C., total of two times in any capacity (e.g., Kenneth Koltun-Fromm, Haverford April 1, 2006 November 18–21. present a paper, be a panelist, be a respon- College in Pennsylvania Notification of acceptance (or not) of pro- dent, or preside over a session). The only The Art of Writing: The Diaries of Future Annual Meeting locations include: posals by program unit chairs. All pro- exception is for business meeting presiders. Mordechai Kaplan 2007 – San Diego, CA, November 17–20 gram participants must renew/establish 2008 – Chicago, IL, October 25–28 2006 AAR memberships in order to par- Further, it is not appropriate to present A “panel” is a session with one 2009 – Montreal, QC, November 7–10 ticipate on the program. the same material in two separate sessions, announced theme and a list of partici- 2010 – Atlanta, GA, October 30–November 2 no matter the convention for describing pants who address that theme but do not April 7, 2006 2011 – San Francisco, CA, November 18–21 them. If you are proposing the same idea present separate formal papers. Panel pro- Program unit chairs submit session request to two different program units, you must posals are generally submitted as pre- information (Program Book copy, abstracts, par- Registration and Housing be prepared to choose in which you will arranged session proposals. ticipant forms) to AAR executive office online. You must be registered for the meeting in present if you are accepted onto both. Religion and Popular Culture Group order to secure a room in the Annual May 15, 2006 Meeting hotel at our specially negotiated Annual Meeting and hotel registration Multiple Submissions Gordon Lynch, University of hotel rates (which are often half the pub- opens. Forms available online and in the To foster broad participation and to facilitate Birmingham, Presiding lished room rate for the property). When May Religious Studies News. the work of unit chairs, the Program Theme: Exploring the Research Agenda for you receive your preregistration informa- Committee allows but does not encourage May 30, 2006 the Study of Religion and Popular Culture tion in the May issue of Religious Studies multiple submissions of proposals. The total Deadline for submission of Additional News (or online), carefully review and fol- limit on such submissions is two. These may Panelists: Meeting request forms. Forms are avail- low the instructions in order to secure consist of the same proposal submitted to able online at www.aarweb.org/annualmeet Tom Beaudoin, Santa Clara University your housing. Although registration may two different program units, or two different starting March 15. Lynn Schofield Clark, University of be completed without submitting your proposals to two different units. Colorado, Boulder housing request, you are encouraged to June 15, 2006 A Program Participant Form must accompa- Jeffrey Mahan, Iliff School of Theology submit both together. Deadline for participants to renew their ny each proposal (a separate participant form David Morgan, Valparaiso University AAR membership and be preregistered for is not required for OP3), and the other pro- Anthony B. Pinn, Rice University Questions about the Call the meeting. Names of participants not gram units to which you submitted proposals The work of the program unit is coordinat- registered will be removed from the must be indicated. While failure to disclose ed by the chair(s) and a steering committee Program Book. multiple submissions may well result in the who design the sessions and make the deci- Poster Session Proposals August 1, 2006 rejection of all submissions, disclosure of sions about which proposals will eventually The AAR is accepting proposals for poster Deadline for AAR members to renew and multiple submissions will not jeopardize full be on the program. Each proposal is care- sessions. A poster session presents research update their addresses for priority receipt consideration of each. The deadline for fully refereed, usually in a “blind” proce- or discourse on a topic by combining of the Annual Meeting Program Book. receipt of all submissions is March 1, dure (i.e., without the name of the propos- graphics and text on a 4’ x 8’ board. The 2006. er being provided to the referees). All pro- September 2006 poster session presenter is available during posals, abstracts, and completed participant Annual Meeting Program Books mailed to Proposal Requirements an assigned session time in order to inter- information (as well as any questions you members. act on a one-to-one basis with the You are required to submit both a propos- may have) should be sent to the individ- attendee viewing the poster. A well- November 18–21, 2006 al (not more than 1,000 words) and an ual(s) named in this Call. planned poster communicates its message AAR Annual Meeting, Washington, D.C. abstract (not more than 150 words) of in a visually and textually powerful way, Please inquire with the appropriate unit your presentation. This holds regardless of allowing the attendee to grasp the infor- chair about the amount of time granted your method of submission or the type of mation quickly. for your presentation, and by what date Guidelines for proposal you are making. Only proposals the respondent (if any) must receive your Submitting Proposals will be evaluated in the selection process, Poster session proposals should consist of completed paper. but if your proposal is accepted for the a short description of the topic and focus Annual Meeting, the abstract will be of the research, one abstract, and a single Step 1: Note acceptable method(s) of sub- Questions about the Annual included in the Book of Abstracts. participant form for all involved. mission and the persons to whom it Meeting Submissions will be reviewed and evaluat- should be sent. Proposals ed for acceptance onto the program by Concerns of a general nature may be sent Step 2: Submit all materials by one The proposal should state, as fully as you members of the AAR Program to the AAR executive office to the atten- method only (if you submit your proposal can, the proposal’s purpose and how the Committee. Submissions can be made tion of the Annual Meeting Program via e-mail, you must not fax your partici- argument will proceed. Provide enough online through the OP3 system before the Director, 825 Houston Mill Road NE, pant form — the participant form must context to show that you are aware of the March 1 deadline. Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; be sent via e-mail as well). basic literature in the field and summarize W: 404-727-3049; F: 404-727-7959; For more information on poster sessions, please the argument of your presentation. Be [email protected]. Step 3: Follow all instructions for submis- visit the AAR Web site at www.aarweb.org. specific about what sort of contribution sion requirements as outlined below, both your proposal will make. Bear in mind the Additional Meetings general guidelines and those specific to nature of the program unit to which you Organizations, persons, or program units your method of submission. are applying, particularly as reflected in Prearranged Session wishing to plan receptions and other Step 4: Note the difference between paper the Call for Papers. Proposals meetings before, during, or after the and panel proposals. Members may wish to submit a prearranged Annual Meeting should go online to Failure to submit a proposal, an abstract, session in its entirety, complete with a www.aarweb.org after March 15, 2006. Step 5: Be prepared to fulfill your AAR and/or participant form(s) may disqualify presider, respondent, and participants. You This Web site will have information membership requirement if accepted onto a submission from consideration. Further, will note in the Call that some program units regarding guidelines, necessary forms, and the program. This must be done no later submitting a proposal in a method other use this procedure more than others costs to request Additional Meeting space than June 15, 2006, or you may jeopard- than those noted after each program unit’s (Religions and South Asia Section and at the Annual Meeting and/or how to ize your participation on the program in call will result in disqualification. Japanese Religions Group, for instance). announce your event in the Annual November. Special considerations go into the submission Meeting Program Book. Paper vs. Panel of such a session. The coordinator of a pre- General Guidelines The Annual Meeting program has three Questions should be directed to arranged session must submit a proposal that Participation at the Annual Meeting types of sessions: paper sessions, panel Conferon, Inc., at 314-997-1500 after lists all the participants (presider, participants, sessions, and poster sessions. April 1, 2006. Written requests can be All participants on the AAR program and respondent [if desired]). Prearranged ses- sent to Conferon, Inc., 4 Cityplace DR, must be current (2006) members of AAR. A session with separately announced paper sions can either be for paper or panel sessions. Suite 480, St. Louis, MO 63141-7062, or Membership in SBL does not fulfill this titles is considered a “paper” session. Paper Submissions for a panel session should [email protected]. requirement. All participants must also be proposals are more often submitted individu- include a single proposal detailing the preregistered for the Annual Meeting by ally and arranged into session by the chair(s) The deadline for priority scheduling of focus of the session, one abstract, and a June 15, 2006. Any participant who is not and steering committee of a program unit. Additional Meeting requests is May 30, single participant form for all involved. (A a current 2006 AAR member or preregis- 2006. Requests after that date will be Study of Judaism Section separate participant form is not required tered for the Annual Meeting by June 15, accommodated as space allows. when using OP3.) Submissions for a 2006, will have his/her name removed Randi Rashkover, York College of paper session must include each from the printed Program Book and will Pennsylvania, Presiding jeopardize his/her participation on the Theme: Jewish Thought: Culture and program in November. Curriculum See GUIDELINES, p.4

January 2006 RSN • 3 AAR Call for Papers 2006

GUIDELINES, from p.3 Abstracts instructions listed. If no one person is E-mail specified, send your complete packet to presenter’s original paper proposal and Along with your proposal and completed par- Submit your 1,000-word proposal and either one of the co-chairs. Remember to abstract in addition to the necessary forms; ticipant form, you must submit an abstract of 150-word abstract within the BODY of include an e-mail address on your propos- one participant form for each participant. your proposed presentation in electronic for- ONE single e-mail. Locate the online al. If you do not use e-mail, include a fax (A separate participant form is not required mat. Even if you are submitting your propos- “Participant Form for E-mail Submission” number so the program unit chair can when using OP3.) Failure to send in a com- al via surface mail or fax, you must also send at www.aarweb.org/annualmeet for your par- send the notification regarding your plete prearranged proposal may disqualify one copy of your abstract electronically in ticipant form. Be sure you use the exact acceptance/rejection onto the program. an entry. Units reserve the right to accept addition to the print copies. If possible send same title on the “Participant Form for E- Send one electronic copy of your abstract prearranged session proposals in full or the abstract in the body of an e-mail with the mail Submission” as you do on the e- to the same person to whom you are send- in part. subject heading: “Abstract for [supply your mailed proposal. Proposals received without ing your proposal. See above under name].” Barring in the body of an e-mail, you the participant forms will be disqualified. Abstracts. may also send it virus-free on disk, or via Participant forms received without propos- New 90–Minute Session e-mail as an attachment. Please note some als or abstracts will also be disqualified. Surface Mail Formats program units will not accept attachments. If you are requested by the program unit to Unless otherwise instructed in the Call itself, Beginning in 2006, the Sunday after- Use the following guidelines for format: submit a copy to both co-chairs or steering submit six (6) copies of the proposal, includ- noon schedule for the AAR program committee members, follow the instruc- ing (1) copy with your name and institution • WordPerfect, MSWord, RTF, PDF, or will move from two 150-minute ses- tions listed. If no one person is specified, listed, and five (5) copies which are “blind,” ASCII text format. sions to three 90-minute sessions to send your complete proposal to either one (i.e., your name and institution are not listed be scheduled as follows: 1:00-2:30 • For transliterated characters, please of the co-chairs. anywhere on the proposal). You need only PM; 3:00–4:30 PM; and 5:00–6:30 describe them to the best of your ability submit one (1) copy of the participant form. PM. We encourage creative and inno- after the text of your abstract, under E-mail w/Attachments Be certain you include a current e-mail vative proposals for these sessions. “Diacritical Marks.” The “Diacritical address on your participant form. Submit your 1,000-word proposal, 150-word Some possibilities include: restricting Marks” portion will not be included in Notifications of acceptance/rejection will be abstract, and participant form as attachments a panel to two 30-minute papers fol- your word count. These can include ital- sent out via e-mail. in one single e-mail. Please locate the lowed by discussion; posting papers ics, macrons, under- or over-dots, etc. (i.e., “Participant Form for E-mail Attachment 1. Use plain white paper, 8.5” x 11” (or A4) in advance to focus on discussion add macrons over the first and second “a” Submission” at www.aarweb.org/annualmeet with one-inch margins. rather than presentation; topical in Yog–ac–ara; put a slash through the “o” in for your participant form; this will require panel discussions; discussion of a Søren). For non-Western characters, please 2. Do not use institutional or other letterhead. the use of MSWord. If you are unable to book or film; panel on teaching in use universal embedded fonts. use MSWord or the “MSWord Form” 3. Use a computer and printer, preferably a the field; or workshop-style sessions. • The abstract should have the exact same online, please locate the “Participant Form laser printer. (Handwritten proposals can- The 90-minute format is perfect for title as your paper, followed by your for E-mail Submission” at not be accepted.) hosting specialized conversations on name and then the name of your institu- www.aarweb.org/annualmeet for your par- an aspect of the field or “teaching” a 4. Use the following format: tion (please include city name if more ticipant form. Be sure you use the exact topic to the audience. than one school or campus bears the same title on the “Participant Form for E- a. Type title of proposal. name) or city, state, or province, or write mail Submission” as you do on the b. On one copy of the proposal, below the “Independent Scholar.” attached proposal you e-mailed. Proposals title, type name of presenter, a comma, received without the participant forms will • The body of the abstract may be no and a complete name of institution be disqualified. Participant forms received New! Wild Card Sessions more than 150 words in length. (please include city name if more than without proposals or abstracts will also be Successful proposals with abstracts longer one school or campus bears the name). To allow for more experimental ses- disqualified. than 150 words will be shortened. Or, if you are not affiliated with any sions and the development of new If you are requested by the program unit school, list city, state, or province, or and creative scholarly conversations, • Do not use footnotes; any present will to submit a copy to both co-chairs or write “Independent Scholar.” Do not the AAR Program Committee is initi- be deleted. steering committee members, follow the list this information on the other five ating a three-year experiment that • Please scan your abstract for viruses instructions listed. If no one person is copies of the proposal. will offer members direct access to before sending. specified, send your complete proposal to the Annual Meeting program for a c. Type body of proposal double-spaced. either one of the co-chairs. limited number of “wild card” ses- Proposals should not exceed 1,000 words. sions. Wild card sessions address an Participant Forms If you are requested by the program unit to area of interest that does not naturally Fax • The Program Participant Forms (see page 8) submit copies to both co-chairs or steering fall within the purview of any pro- Submit one (1) copy of the proposal, are designed to provide the information nec- committee members, follow the instructions gram unit. including abstract (with your name and essary to respond to your proposal and to listed. If no one person is specified, send institution listed). Submit one (1) copy of We invite members to submit fully organize the Annual Meeting. It is important your complete packet to either one of the the participant form. Be certain you developed proposals for an entire ses- that these forms be filled out clearly and co-chairs. Remember to include an e-mail include a current e-mail address on your sion (session proposal; presider; list of completely by the participant. Please use the address on your proposal. If you do not use participant form. Notifications of accept- participants with presentation titles participant form appropriate for your e-mail, include a self-addressed stamped ance/rejection will be sent out via e-mail. and abstracts, if applicable; etc.) via method of submission (see below). Ensure envelope with appropriate postage for the the Online Paper/Panel Proposal that the title of your proposal exactly match- 1. Use plain white paper, 8.5” x 11” (or A4) country from which the program unit System (OP3). Wild card sessions es the title you use on the participant form in with one-inch margins. chair will send the notification regarding may be in either the 150-minute or order for the two to be positively matched. your acceptance/rejection onto the pro- 2. Do not use institutional or other letterhead. 90-minute session format. gram. Send one (1) electronic copy of 3. Use a computer and printer, preferably a your abstract to the same person to whom The Program Committee will review Submission Methods laser printer. (Handwritten proposals can- you are sending your proposal. See above the proposals through the OP3 sys- (Specific Guidelines) not be accepted.) under Abstracts. ❧ tem. If a proposal covers an area that fits within an established program 4. Use the following format: unit, the proposal will be forwarded OP3 a. Type title of proposal. to the unit for possible inclusion on OP3 the unit’s program. Please go online to www.aarweb.org for full b. Below the title, type name of presenter, a submission instructions. Separate partici- comma, and a complete name of institu- The deadline for submission of wild pant forms are not required with OP3, as tion. If there is no institutional affilia- card sessions is March 1, 2006. The your participant information is integrated tion, list city, state, or province, or write Program Committee’s decisions will in the online form. NB: Do not place “Independent Scholar.” be announced by April 1, 2006. Wild your name or other identifying remarks card sessions will be subject to the c. Type body of proposal double-spaced. in the body of the proposal field or same policies as other submissions. Proposals should not exceed 1,000 words. abstract field in OP3; this may endanger the blind review process of the unit and If you are requested by the program unit acceptance of your proposal may be to submit a copy to both co-chairs or jeopardized. steering committee members, follow the

4 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Sections are the most inclusive type of program unit, aimed at reflecting the major areas of academic interest of the members of the Academy and at addressing the continuing agenda of the various SECTIONS subfields within the study of religion. Attendance at sessions of sections (as well as any of the other program units) is open to all persons who are registered for the Annual Meeting. Academic Teaching and the and responses to war; religion and the Study of Religion Section visual arts; science fiction; and the uses of the arts and literature in the Sidney Brown, University of the South, teaching of religion. We also encourage Christian Systematic Comparative Studies [email protected]. Joseph A. Favazza, proposals that relate to museum exhibi- Theology Section in Religion Section Stonehill College, [email protected]. tions that will be on view in Cynthia Rigby, Austin Presbyterian Selva J. Raj, Albion College, Department Washington, D.C., during the confer- The Academic Teaching and the Study of Theological Seminary, 100 E. 27th ST, of Religious Studies, Albion, MI 49224, ence, such as Rembrandt Prints at the Religion Section critically examines peda- Austin, TX 78705, USA; W: 512-404- USA; W: 517-629-0400; [email protected]. National Gallery, Joan of Arc at the gogical theory and practice. We are com- 4852; [email protected]. Gerard Tracy Pintchman, Loyola University, Corcoran, African Voices at the Natural mitted to creating sessions that model and Loughlin, Durham University, Theology Department, 6525 N. Sheridan History Museum, or the permanent col- foster experiential and active learning. [email protected]. RD, Chicago, IL 60626, USA; W: 773- lection at the Museum of African Arts. Noting that preference will be given to pre- 508-2372; [email protected]. Proposals for papers or panels on other General theme: Church and Mission in sentations featuring interactive formats that topics related to religion, literature, and an Age of Globalization. We invite The Comparative Studies in Religion honor adult learning, we encourage propos- the arts are also invited. We especially scholarly papers pursuing constructive Section provides the opportunity for signifi- als in the following areas: 1) For a teaching encourage submissions from African work on ecclesiology and missiology, cant cross-traditional and/or cross-cultural and learning “street fair,” we invite posters, scholars. particularly in light of globalization. inquiry. We seek proposals that provide exhibits, and/or interactive “teach-ins” that Sessions will be organized around the occasion for comparative inquiry seriously will excite or educate others about a break- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: following themes: 1) Theological engaging two or more religious traditions through moment in the classroom or a OP3 accounts/critiques of globalization. around a common topic and that also reflect great course; 2) Contemplative approaches Papers will reflect theologically on the critically on the conceptual tools employed to education (e.g., demonstration and dis- phenomenon of globalization, consider- in the inquiry. While we accept individual cussion of contemplative practices used in ing how it has impeded and/or paper proposals, we strongly encourage courses; the role of silence in learning; a Buddhism Section advanced the mission of the church. 2) group proposals either in the form of the- teacher’s own contemplative life and how Janet Gyatso, Harvard University, African ecclesiologies and missiologies. matic paper sessions (maximum four presen- that relates to teaching); 3) For a co-spon- [email protected]. Charles Hallisey, Papers will focus on distinctive contri- ters, a presider, and a respondent) or as sored session with the Wabash Center for University of Wisconsin, Madison, butions of African ecclesiologies and panel sessions (maximum six presenters). Teaching and Learning in Theology and [email protected]. missiologies, e.g., notions of communi- Thematic paper session proposals must Religion and their journal, Teaching ty, ancestors and the communion of include both an abstract and individual Theology and Religion, the scholarship of The Buddhism Section encourages pro- saints, and the politics of recognition. paper proposals. Panel proposals must teaching and learning (e.g., pedagogical posals for the round-table study of a 3) Missiology and missional theology include a 1,000 word proposal and a list of reflection and writing as scholarship; nego- portion from a primary Buddhist text (Protestant and Roman Catholic) after the panel members. The steering committee tiating institutional privileging of the schol- in any language for one of the new 90- postcolonialism. Papers will explore the reserves the right to add individuals to any arship of discovery over the scholarship of minute sessions in the 2006 meeting. It changing shape of missiology in a post- group proposal. Proposals must be made teaching; the intersections of teaching and also invites proposals for a possible colonial world. 4) Church, state, and through the online system unless alternative scholarship); 4) Teaching African religions panel discussion on “Buddhist Studies civil society in the West. Papers will arrangements have been made with one of through performance (i.e., art, drumming, at the AAR: Past, Present, and Future.” engage with the decline of Christianity, the co-chairs well in advance of the deadline. drama, etc.); 5) For a possible co-sponsored In addition, in response to new guide- the development of post-secularity, The 2006 meeting includes a focus on con- session with the Kierkegaard, Religion, and lines from the AAR, we seek to sponsor and/or the crisis of democracy in the tributions of African scholars and scholar- Culture Group, successful approaches to one panel that will appeal to nonmem- context of economic globalization. 5) ship in the study of religion. Therefore, ses- teaching Kierkegaard especially in introduc- bers of the section; for 2006 we seek Church and mission in light of the sion organizers are strongly encouraged to tory courses; and 6) For a possible co-spon- panel presentations on ways to include “Great Commission.” Papers will con- consider such scholars and scholarship in sored session with the Feminist Theory and Buddhism in introductory courses in sider the relevance, in our globalized their proposals. Themes proposed for the Reflection Group, dealing with freedom, the study of religion. Proposals are also context, of Jesus’s command to “make 2006 meeting, with organizers identified in politics, pluralism, and “combustible issues” invited for papers on these themes: disciples of all nations” (Matt. 28:19). parentheses, are: second axial age (Joanne in the religious studies classroom (e.g., Buddhist writing practices; Mahayana 6) Theological reflections on world Waghorne, [email protected]); mod- negotiating clashing political opinion in the sutras and their social contexts; hagiog- health and the environment. Papers will ernizing religion (Christian Jochim, classroom; using feminist theory; fostering raphy in Buddhism; joining up: how to reflect on the church and its mission in [email protected]); artistic process and critical thinking in emotionally charged become a Buddhist; monks and nuns as light of global crises, e.g., AIDS and religious sensitivities (Shubha Pathak, contexts). In addition, the section will co- family; monks, nuns, and magic; environmental destruction. Please note: [email protected]); legal definitions of sponsor an invited panel with the Ritual Buddhism and violence; dakinis and In all cases, we seek constructive (not religion and comparative issues (Laurie Studies Group, moderated by Catherine goddesses; rethinking the Buddhist merely descriptive) proposals that are Patton, [email protected]); postmodernism Bell, showcasing new approaches in teach- revival of late Ming China; and both informed by the historical and comparison (Katherine Ulrich, kul- ing ritual studies. Buddhism on television. Fully pre- Christian traditions and directed to the [email protected]); the state of comparative arranged panels on other topics are also SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: contemporary contexts in which theolo- enterprise in the study of religion (Selva J. encouraged, as are individual paper gy is pursued. Proposals should focus Raj, [email protected]); comparison as a OP3 proposals, at least four of which will be on the constructive argument to be pre- heuristic device (Trina Jones, tjones@ selected for an omnibus session. We sented and describe it in detail. For transy.edu); comparative religious encourage members to develop propos- planning purposes, we are choosing approaches to species depletion (Daniel als that might be co-sponsored with Arts, Literature, and general themes two years out; the theme McFee, [email protected]); what is units that are defined along thematic for 2007 will be “Sin, Grace, and comparative about comparative religious Religion Section and disciplinary lines (e.g., Academic Redemption.” ethics? (Aaron Stalnaker, astalnak@ Jennifer Geddes, University of Virginia, Teaching and the Study of Religion, indiana.edu). Please contact the organizer Department of Religious Studies, P.O. Religion and the Social Sciences, SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: of the session in which you would like to Box 400126, Charlottesville, VA 22904- Theology and Continental Philosophy, OP3 participate. 4126, USA; [email protected]. S. Brent etc.) or perhaps a program unit that is Plate, Texas Christian University, TCU specifically “non-Asian” in its defini- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA:

Box 298100, Fort Worth, TX 76129, tion (e.g., North American Religions OP3 USA; [email protected]. Section, the Afro-American Religious History Group, etc.). We also encour- The Arts, Literature, and Religion age paper or session proposals that Section invites proposals for papers and (continued on p.6) include the AAR’s 2006 international for pre-arranged sessions on the follow- focus on Africa, as well as proposals for ing topics: poets laureate and national activities that would take advantage of cultural identity; civil religion (includ- the resources, especially museums, in ing alternative experiences of civil reli- Washington, D.C. Please direct Membership Current? gion), memorials, museums, and monu- inquiries to both co-chairs. ments; propaganda and civil religion; You must be a current AAR member in order to participate on artistic responses to disaster; African SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: the program. You must also be registered for the 2006 meeting. arts, religion, and literature; Coptic OP3 Persons who do not meet the membership and registration Christian icons; the religious in requirements by June 15, 2006, will not appear in the Program African-American arts and literature; Book. To renew your membership, use the form on page 17 or hip-hop; blasphemy; art, music, and the go online to www.aarweb.org/membership. Annual Meeting reg- creation of religious subjectivity; Blake istration opens May 15th. and his religious, visual, and literary heirs; aesthetics and narrative in con- temporary theology; representations of

January 2006 RSN • 5 AAR Call for Papers 2006

Ethics Section tional politics, and prospects for future devel- opment; 2) Zora Neale Hurston as cultural Jane Hicks, St. John Fisher College, Annual Meeting AV Requests anthropologist of religion; 3) Ethnography in [email protected]. Miguel de la Torre, Iliff Every attempt will be made to meet all requests for AV equip- the study of religion: current approaches and University, [email protected]. ment. However, due to the high cost of technical electronic AV advances; 4) Religious roles and responses in equipment (computers, LCD projectors, Internet, software, etc.), The Ethics Section invites proposals provid- situations of disaster and trauma; and 5) only presentations which necessitate the use of such equipment ing ethical analyses from all religious tradi- Contributions of cognitive neuroscience to will be granted access to it. All AV requests must be tions and diverse ethical methodologies in received at the time of your proposal. AV requests the psychological analysis of religion and con- response to the following themes. Proposals received after the deadline cannot be accommodated. tributions of religious studies to neuroscientif- for co-sponsored sessions should be sent to ic models of the mind. Other paper or panel both sponsors. 1) Disciplining the body as proposals are welcome that fit with the sec- ethical training: ethical implications in and tion’s purpose: to support scholarship at the analyses of bodily self-discipline and physical intersection of the social sciences (including children, and roles /responsibilities of chil- hundred years since Azusa Street; and prayer performances for moral, spiritual, or religious psychology, sociology, political sciences, eco- dren within families and communities. and magic. We will consider proposals on improvement. 2) Getting out: ethics after a nomics, and cultural studies) and religious or Session with papers and invited panelists. 8) other topics as well. Papers should be con- war. Using contemporary or historical exam- theological studies. Topics may include: the Papers of particular excellence on other top- ceived for an effective 20-minute presenta- ples, analyses of ethical obligations and prac- study of religious and theological questions ics are also invited. Papers should identify the tion. All proposals must be submitted online tical responses for achieving reparative justice through specific social scientific methodolo- methodology used and contribution of the via OP3 and will be evaluated by blind peer after engagement in war. 3) Four blocks from gies; the contribution of religious and theo- argument to current academic conversations. review of the section steering committee. the D.C. Mall and other urban tales. Katrina logical approaches to the work of social scien- highlighted the urban plight, not limited to SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: tific disciplines; and comparative assessments the United States. Papers are invited that pro- OP3 OP3 of current issues by humanities-based and vide ethical analyses for rebuilding the city social scientific methods. In order to be while mending the urban and racial divide. accepted for presentation, a paper or panel 4) Spinning Scriptures: the use and misuse of proposal must explicitly state its author’s religious texts in political and cultural dis- History of Christianity North American Religions methodology(ies). courses (co-sponsored with the SBL Bible Section Section SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: and Cultural Studies Section). We encourage Amy DeRogatis, Michigan State John Corrigan, Florida State University, analyses from diverse cultures and religious OP3 University, [email protected]. Nathan [email protected]. Diane Winston, traditions. 5) Feminist theories of sexual Rein, Ursinus College, [email protected]. University of Southern California, ethics/sexual justice across religious traditions [email protected]. (co-sponsored with the Feminist Theory and The History of Christianity Section seeks to Religion in South Asia Religious Reflection Group). Session with present innovative and engaging research on We encourage presenters to echew the con- papers and invited panelists. 6) African liber- the history, culture, and development of ventional academic setting format and to Section ative ethics: viewing the United States from Christianity from its origins to the present, consider presenting and teaching their mate- Tazim R. Kassam, Syracuse University, African shores. Ethical analyses of African- while at the same time promoting interdisci- rials rather than reading papers aloud. To [email protected]. Parimal Patil, Harvard U.S. relations; for example, trade issues, plinary dialogue among the fields of history, spur innovative and interactive sessions, we University, [email protected]. development programs, HIV-AIDS, political ritual studies, art history, anthropology, and seek proposals for round tables, debates, We invite proposals for fully developed and military interventions, etc. 7) Children’s historical theology. We seek proposals for poster sessions, visual and musical perform- panels or paper sessions on any aspect of rights and responsibilities: interfaith perspec- individual papers or entire panels on the fol- ances, workshops, films, and other appropri- religion(s) in South Asia (including textu- tives (co-sponsored with the Childhood lowing five topics: the Christian afterlife; ate formats, as well as more standard formats. al, performative, ethnographic, historical, Studies and Religion Consultation). nationalizing Christian identities; The committee welcomes proposals that and comparative). Interdisciplinary Attention to the UN Convention on the Christianity in Africa: from periphery to examine the following topics: New Orleans; approaches and multireligious perspectives Rights of the Child, freedom of religion and center; pentecostalism in retrospect: one “key words” in American religion (each paper are encouraged. Proposals with a focus on would explore one definitive term); comparative regional Islamic traditions in American civil religion since the end of the South Asia are especially welcome. Since Cold War; religion and the Supreme Court; the international focus of the 2006 museums, memorials, and monuments; reli- Annual Meeting is Africa, topics on South gion and the founding of the United States; Asian religions in the African diaspora are Africa and the making of American religion; also invited. Specific topics suggested by and a century of pentecostalism. RISA members are listed as follows. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Beyond defining Hinduism (Jack

OP3 Llewellyn, [email protected]); popular devotional art in modern India (Richard Davis, [email protected]); religion and Indian independence (Kay Jordan, Philosophy of Religion [email protected]); religion and natural Section disasters (Selva Raj, [email protected]); pro- gressive religious movements in South Tom Carlson, University of California, AD C-Orbis Asia (John Cort, [email protected]); mas- Santa Barbara, [email protected]. culinity and violence in South Asian reli- Joseph Prabhu, California State University, gions (Jarrod Whitaker, [email protected]); Los Angeles, [email protected]. defining boundaries in pre-modern South 1/4 pg The Philosophy of Religion Section invites Asia (Andrew Nicholson, andrew. proposals for individual papers, paper ses- [email protected]); sectarian sions, or panels related to the following top- grammars (Rebecca Manring, ics: philosophy of religion between analytic [email protected]); orality in South and continental thought; cognitive theories Asian religions (Linda Hess, lionda@stan- of religion; biopolitics in the work of ford.edu); subaltern citizen and religion thinkers such as Giorgio Agamben, Jean-Luc (Laurie Patton, [email protected]); ritual Nancy, Michel Foucault, etc.; the conse- transgression (Katherine Ulrich, keul- quences of nominalism; the work of Paul [email protected]); sectarian hermeneutics Ricoeur; philosophy of religion and Africa; (Ajay K. Rao, [email protected]); philosophy and religious studies: method- transnational guru movements (Steven ological issues. We also welcome proposals Ramey, [email protected]); bioethics on topics not listed here. and responses to leprosy (M. Whitney Kelting, [email protected]); book discus- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: sions: Anandamath by Bankimcandra OP3 Chatterjee (Carl Olson, colson@ allegheny.edu); The Language of the Gods in the World of Men, by Sheldon Pollock (Jack Hawley, [email protected]). Individual Religion and the Social paper proposals will be considered, but Sciences Section fully formed, coherent thematic panels are preferred. All proposals must be submitted Douglas A. Hicks, University of through the online system. Richmond, Jepson School of Leadership Studies, Richmond, VA 23173, USA; SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA:

W: 804-484-1601; [email protected]. OP3 The Religion and the Social Sciences Section especially invites proposals in relation to the following themes: 1) Africa: religion, interna-

6 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Study of Islam Section Study of Judaism Section Theology and Religious Reflection Section wel- comes paper and panel proposals which address Omid Safi, Colgate University, Department of Aryeh Cohen, University of Judaism, the intersections of theological and religious KEY TO SYMBOLS: Philosophy & Religion, 13 Oak DR, Hamilton, [email protected]. Martin Kavka, Florida State reflection with philosophical and political issues, NY 13346, USA; W: 315-228-7690; H: 315- University, [email protected]. and with questions of literary, cultural, and criti- 824-2065; F: 315-228-7998; [email protected] In association with the Annual Meeting’s loca- cal theory. gate.edu. Nelly van Doorn-Harder, Valparaiso tion in Washington, D.C., we invite proposals University, Department of Theology, Valparaiso, SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: on Judaism in the context of American religion = Surface mail IN 46383-7493, USA; W: 219-464-5307; H: — e.g., contemporary evangelicalism, seculariza- OP3 219-462-9093; F: 219-464-5511; tion, etc. — and on representations of Jewish [email protected]. religion in American museums. (We hope to co- The Study of Islam Section encourages paper sponsor a panel with the North American Women and Religion Section proposals in all areas of Islamic studies, but suc- Religions Section in this regard.) We also invite cessful proposals will reflect theoretical and proposals on the following topics: 1) Asceticism; Jung Ha Kim, Georgia State University, •= Fax methodological sophistication and self-awareness, 2) Esotericism; 3) Stanley Cavell and the study [email protected]. Laurie Zoloth, as well as innovative examination of Islamic prac- of Judaism; 4) Law; 5) The representation of Northwestern University, lzoloth@ tices and texts. As in all years, we welcome sub- Jewish mysticism in popular culture; 6) Jewish northwestern.edu. missions dealing with the Qur’an, Islamic law, material culture; and 7) The historiography of The Women and Religion Section is Sufism, rituals, gender and sexuality construc- “rabbinic Judaism” (for a session to be co-spon- OP3 pleased to invite both individual and group = OP3 tions, engagement with modernity, teaching sored with the SBL History and Literature of (panel/paper) proposals on any aspect of Islam, interfaith, and other areas of general inter- Early Rabbinic Judaism). We also invite propos- the study of women and religion. We are est. In addition to those areas, we also invite als for 90-minute seminar-style text-study ses- particularly interested in collaborative work more particular panels on the following themes: sions. These should be proposed as panels with with scholars in the SBL. This year, since 1) Foundational textual sources of Islam; 2) one presenter and one respondent; texts need we are meeting in the U.S. capital, the sec- Teaching Islam through poetry, films, music, not already exist in English translation, but a tion especially welcomes proposals on the novels, etc.; 3) Contemporary Islamic thought; translation must be made available to the audi- = E-mail following themes and scholarly problems in 4) Islam beyond the conventional Middle East, ence by the presenter. As always, we are also method: 1) Gendering disasters: women, such as North American Islam, Islam in South eager to receive paper and panel proposals on race, ethnicity, age, and class in disaster and Asia, etc.; 5) Sacred sites and pilgrimages in other issues and topics. recovery; 2) Roe v. Wade, policy, and theolo- Islam; 6) In view of the 2006 AAR focus on SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: gy; 3) Public policy, women, and religion; Africa, all topics on Islam in Africa (includes = E-mail with attachment 4) Women and religion in Washington, Sub-Saharan, South Africa, North Africa, etc.). OP3 D.C.; 5) Women and religion as lived and We welcome both “paper sessions” and “panel theorized in Africa (Africa is AAR’s 2006 sessions.” A “paper session” has individually listed international focus); 6) “The Uber proposals and abstracts, whereas a “panel session” Theology and Religious Feminist” and her religion; 7) Women as is organized around a theme without listing indi- power figures, academic freedom, and vidual contributions. Since our review process is Reflection Section women scholars of religion; 8) Feminist identity, class, and sexuality on women and a “blind” one, we especially ask that organizers Paul F. Lakeland, Fairfield University, hermeneutics, power, and text(s); religion. The section especially welcomes pay attention to issues of diversity (ethnic, gen- [email protected]. 9) Women in the Bible: methods, sources, proposals that facilitate dialogue across dis- der, age, discipline, etc.). In order to assure coher- The Theology and Religious Reflection Section and narratives; 10) Colonial conquest(s), ciplines and/or religious traditions in the ence in the proposal, feel free to utilize the Study invites proposals for the 2006 program on the especially Hawaiian or Native American in study of women and religion. Proposals of Islam listserv to solicit other proposals on the following themes: 1) Empire and the construc- focus; and 11) Solle Dorothee retrospec- that are innovative in format, multidiscipli- theme you are putting together. We also encour- tion of religious “others.” 2) Eros, sexuality, and tives. Finally, we will be celebrating 35 nary in methodology, or that concern the age finding new formats to present the papers. empire. 3) Is “empire” a hegemonic construct? years of the Women and Religion Section intersection of activism and scholarship are For example, presenters can now post their How is it related to constructs of race, gender, and colleagues are also welcome to reflect particularly encouraged. ❧ papers online in advance and present a summary class, and so on? 4) The materiality of empire: on this topic. The section seeks proposals only during the meeting. This approach leaves SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: for example, ecology, economy, polity. that reflect critical awareness of the impor- extra time for discussion, etc. 5) Suffering, lamentation, and forgiveness: reli- tance of race-ethnicity, gender, religious OP3 SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: gious symbolizations of hope. Additionally, the OP3

Groups are established to encourage the exploration of an emergent area of study or methodology, to cultivate the relation between the study of religion and a cognate discipline, or to pursue a long-range GROUPS and broad research project. More focused than sections and less restricted in participation than seminars, groups are expected to experiment with the format of sessions at the Annual Meeting. African Religions Group Afro-American Religious History Group Cynthia Hoehler-Fatton, University of Virginia, Anthropology of Religion Group [email protected]. Samuel K. Elolia, Moses N. Moore, Arizona State University, Member ID Emmanuel School of Religion, [email protected]. Department of Religious Studies, POB J. Shawn Landres, Synagogue 3000 and UCLA 873104, Tempe, AZ 85287-3104, USA; W: Center for Jewish Studies, [email protected]. Number Papers are invited on the following themes: 480 965-8671; [email protected]. Anthea Rebecca Sachs Norris, Merrimack College, You can find your mem- 1) African indigenous religions in the 21st Butler, University of Rochester, 430 Rush [email protected]. bership ID number on any century. Topics may include the impact of Rhees Library, Rochester, NY 14627, USA; W: of the official paperwork neo-Pentecostalism, transnationalism, and We invite proposals from across anthropology 585-275-7465; [email protected]. that comes from the AAR. migration; women’s participation and roles. and religion, and especially seek papers The top line of the 2) Religion and public life in Africa. We The Afro-American Religious History Group emphasizing the following: 1) Museums and address label has your ID invite discussion of religion as it relates to invites papers or panel proposals on the follow- exhibits: drawing on Washington, D.C.’s rich number. It is a single letter politics, law, human rights, violence, peace- ing themes from a historical and/or transdisci- resources, how is religion conceptualized, followed by five (5) making, and globalization. 3) With the plinary perspective: 1) The methodological and curated, represented, and/or commodified in numbers (e.g., Z12345). Ritual Studies Group, we will co-sponsor a historiographical contributions of Gayraud and through museums? 2) For a joint panel session on ritual in contemporary Africa. Wilmore; 2) The theological, spiritual, ritual, with the Ritual Studies Group, ritual and fun: If you are a 2005 or Topics may include ritual, identity, and com- political, and organizational responses of reli- ritual restrictions and prescriptions of fun! 2006 member, the label munity; ritual responses to AIDS and other gious leaders and communities to historic and enjoyment! and pleasure! such as games, sex, on this Call for Papers crises; and theorizing African ritual. 4) With contemporary disasters; 3) The importance of and celebrations. 3) Jews on Christians: what has your ID number on it. the Religions, Medicines, and Healing the Azusa Street revival on historic and/or con- are the implications, lessons, and consequences If it is not there, please go Group, we will sponsor a session on religion temporary aspects of African/African-American when Jewish ethnographers study evangelicals to www.aarweb.org/ and public health in Africa. Topics may religion; and 4) The impact of religion (beliefs, and other Christian groups? 4) Africa: from membership and you can include religion and the politics of health; leaders, organizations) on U.S. public policy kinship and witchcraft to politics, ritual, and request to have your ID faith-based initiatives in public health; and toward Africa. We encourage interdisciplinary new religious movements, anthropology number e-mailed to you mixed health-seeking strategies in Africa. proposals as well as those that emphasize this brings a rich but complex legacy to the study immediately. year’s “African Initiative” and the Washington, of the continent. We encourage submissions SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: D.C., conference location. Proposals incorpo- from scholars using anthropology to study OP3 rating multimedia are also encouraged. diverse traditions, regions, and eras. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: (continued on p.8) OP3 OP3

January 2006 RSN • 7 AAR Call for Papers 2006

✷ ✷ Asian North American utilizing such diverse methodologies as the New Program Unit Bioethics and Religion Group Religion, Culture, and history of religion, ethnography, literary stud- Bible, Theology, and Paul Johnson, D’Youville College, ies, cultural or social criticism, and postcolo- Postmodernity Group Society Group [email protected]. Aline Kalbian, Florida nial studies in investigating how the Bible has Su Yon Pak, Union Theological Seminary, Jon L. Berquist, Westminster John Knox State University, [email protected]. been used in preaching, storytelling, religious W: 212-280-1426, [email protected]. Press, [email protected]. Catherine Keller, education, transmission of values, and social The Bioethics and Religion Group solicits Anne Joh, Phillips Theological Seminary, Drew University, [email protected]. movements in various historical periods. For papers on the theme “Bioethics, Religion, [email protected]. 2006, we especially invite submissions that This new group encourages dialogue and Public Policy.” Papers can explore the We invite papers and panels addressing: consider the history of particular biblical texts between constructive theologians and bib- confluence of these issues at local, state, 1) U.S. domestic and foreign policies — in the colonization and/or subjugation of lical scholars, dealing with themes of and/or national levels. Papers that develop e.g., the Patriot Act and immigration acts racial, ethnic minority, and indigenous peo- interest to both disciplines within the con- this theme from the experience of the — and its impact on Asian Pacific ples. We also plan to sponsor a pre-arranged text of postmodern situations. We encour- United States, other nations, or comparative American religious communities; session on biblical criticism as public dis- age creative proposals that will suggest international perspectives are invited. Topics 2) Interdisciplinary methods with particu- course. Successful proposals will demonstrate new and provocative solutions to ques- might include religious perspectives on pub- lar emphasis on gender and religion; a sophisticated and self-aware understanding tions of biblical theology. For our first lic policy in the area of bioethics; the role of 3) Comparative studies on Asian not only of biblical interpretive traditions but year, we will focus on new readings of cre- religion in forming such policy; the impact Americans’ participation in mission move- also the impact of these traditions on specific ation and genesis, from both theological of such policy on religious communities; ments; 4) South Asian diaspora in the racial, ethnic minority, and indigenous and biblical perspectives. etc. We encourage papers that address cross- United States: religious practices of Indian groups. cultural, class, and gender issues. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: remigrants from Africa; 5) Asian- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA:

American biblical hermeneutics and teach- ing Bible in local APA communities (joint OP3 OP3 session with SBL); 6) Daoism(s) in North ✃ America (joint session with the Daoist Studies Consultation); and 7) Asian Pacific Islander indigenous religious prac- tices and beliefs. Submission via the AAR’s PARTICIPANT FORM 2006 Online Paper/Panel Proposal System (OP3) is preferred, though proposals sent (PREARRANGED SESSION) through e-mail attachments to the co- chairs are also acceptable. The session organizer or chair must fill out this form in its entirety.

SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Names and institutions will appear in the Program Book as indicated below (please include city name if more than one school or cam-

OP3 pus bears the name). If you are not affiliated with an institution, list city, state, or province, or write “Independent Scholar.” (PLEASE PRINT IN BLUE OR BLACK INK.)

✷ ✷ New Program Unit Session Organizer Contact Information Augustine and Augustinianisms Group Name Robert P. Kennedy, Department of Religious Studies, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Institution CANADA, B2G 2W5; [email protected]. Kim Paffenroth, Department of Religious Studies, Iona College, 715 North AVE, Mailing Address New Rochelle, NY 10801, USA; [email protected]. City State/Province Postal Code Country Papers are invited on the following three themes: 1) Augustine and biography: Understandings of Augustine’s life in its con- Office Phone Home Phone E-mail text, with special attention to recent (or recently revised) biographies, such as those by J. J. O’Donnell and Peter Brown, and includ- ing questions of methodology and reception; 1. PROPOSED THEME of SESSION: 3b. OTHER PROGRAM UNITS in which above participants may 2) Augustine and the Holy Spirit: Augustine’s participate or to which they are also sending submissions, if any thought on the role of the Holy Spirit in (list participant name and program unit): trinitarian discussion, in worship, as guiding the church, as present in the sacraments, etc.; and 3) Augustine in the Christian East, co- 2. PROGRAM UNIT to which you are submitting this proposal: (Completed participant form(s) must accompany each submission.) sponsored with the Eastern Orthodox Studies Group: a specific theme of Augustine’s 4. AUDIOVISUAL REQUIREMENTS for the entire thought compared to that of his Eastern con- session (note number needed): temporaries; Augustine’s acknowledged and ____ Slide Projector w/Screen & Carousel unacknowledged influence upon the theologi- 2b. OTHER PROGRAM UNIT to which you are submitting this cal thought of the Christian East; critiques ____ Extra Carousel(s) proposal, if any: and reappraisals of Augustine’s theology by ____ Overhead Projector w/Screen Eastern Orthodox theologians. ____ Extra Screen

SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: ____ VCR or DVD Player with Monitor (circle one) 3. PLANNED PARTICIPANTS for this session, in order of appearance: OP3 ____ Cassette or CD Player (circle one) Presider:______Computer: ❐ Windows ❐ Macintosh ❐ Internet Panelists:______LCD Projector w/Screen ✷ ✷ ____ Other: ______New Program Unit ______Bible in Racial, Ethnic Audiovisual requests must be submitted at the same time as your proposal. ______Minority, and Indigenous Late requests cannot be accommodated. The executive office makes every ______attempt to honor the AV requests of our members. Unusual requests should Communities Group be cleared, through the appropriate program unit chair, with the executive Laura E. Donaldson, Cornell University, ______office to confirm the availability of the equipment or set-up of space. Department of English, 250 Goldwin Respondent:______Smith Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853-3201, USA; 5. SCHEDULING NEEDS due to religious observance, if any: ______W: 607-255-9312; [email protected]. ______Fernando F. Segovia, Vanderbilt University, NOTE: No individual may participate on the program more than two times. The Divinity School, Nashville, TN ______37240, USA; 615-343-3992; [email protected]. This new, interdisciplinary group emphasizes traditions of reading and interpreting the Bible in racial, ethnic minority, and indige- nous communities. We welcome proposals Also available at www.aarweb.org/annualmeet for download

8 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Black Theology Group Bonhoeffer: Theology and political climate. We are also interested in ✷ New Program Unit ✷ proposals engaging how Bonhoeffer’s writ- Stacey Floyd-Thomas, Texas Christian Social Analysis Group Buddhist Critical- ings and legacy have influenced theologi- University; W: 817-257-7140; Constructive Reflection Lisa Dahill, Trinity Lutheran Seminary, cal and/or political engagement in African [email protected]. [email protected]. Lori Christian contexts. How have South Group We invite panel and individual proposals Brandt Hale, Augsburg College, African scholars shaped Bonhoeffer stud- Roger Jackson, Carleton College, rjack- related to: 1) explorations of the intersec- [email protected]. ies? and how might pan-African context- [email protected]. John Makransky, Boston tions between psychology and black theolo- ual lenses further recast the predominantly College, [email protected]. Bonhoeffer’s work, especially Ethics, calls gy, particularly as they relate to the complex- European and North American character readers to reconceptualize God and to For its first year, the Buddhist Critical- ity of black personality, sexuality, and spiri- of much Bonhoeffer scholarship? challenge (in)actions of state and religious Constructive Reflection Group especially tuality (joint session with Person, Culture, authorities. Marking the 100th anniver- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: seeks proposals for papers on the ques- and Religion Group); 2) Black theology and sary of Bonhoeffer’s birth while meeting tions: What is the current state of human suffering; and 3) How does Africa OP3 in Washington, D.C., we invite proposals Buddhist critical-constructive reflection? figure into the doing of black theology? that engage the newly translated text(s) of Where have we come from? Where do we With this question, we are especially inter- the Ethics; that consider Bonhoeffer’s con- need to go? What issues are most pressing ested in papers addressing the manner in tributions to dialogue between religion for us? We also, however, will consider which black theology might respond to and politics; that trace developments of papers involving more particular topics issues of health care, religious pluralism, spiritualities of political resistance; or, that and approaches, which might include (but identity formation, and postcolonialism. proffer responsible ways to teach are not limited to): utilizing traditional SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Bonhoeffer in our current cultural and Buddhist thought to critically illuminate

OP3 contemporary intellectual, psychological,

social, political, or ethical concerns; using

contemporary critical methods to illumi- ✃ nate traditional Buddhist thought or prac- tice; exploring a traditional text or thinker that has contemporary relevance; or ana- PARTICIPANT FORM 2006 lyzing the thought of a major figure or work in contemporary Buddhist critical- (INDIVIDUAL PROPOSALS) constructive reflection.

SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Each presenter, panelist, respondent, and presider must fill out a form in its entirety. OP3 It is very important that the participant fill out this form. Name and institution will appear in the Program Book as indicated below (please include city name if more than one school or campus bears the name). If you are not affiliated with an institution, list city, state, or province, or write “Independent Scholar.” ✷ New Program Unit ✷ (PLEASE PRINT IN BLUE OR BLACK INK.) Buddhist Philosophy Group John Dunne, Emory University, Name [email protected]. Charles Muller, Toyo Gakuen University, [email protected]. The Buddhist Philosophy Group, while Institution accepting individual paper proposals, seeks mainly to sponsor tightly integrated group Mailing Address presentations that focus sharply on a spe- cific issue. Topics might center on the content or the interpretation of a specific City State/Province Postal Code Country philosophical problem, but they might also address methodology, style, or approach. Along these lines, one session Office Phone Home Phone E-mail might ask: What is “Buddhist Philosophy”? This question concerns both the nature of Buddhist philosophy as an object of study, and what it means to do “philosophy” in conversation with 1. TITLE OF YOUR PROPOSAL (if presenting a paper): 4. AUDIOVISUAL REQUIREMENTS (note number needed) : Buddhism. Another panel might focus on ____ Slide Projector w/Screen & Carousel the problem of personal identity, especial- ly in relation to parallel discussions within ____ Extra Carousel(s) analytic philosophy. Here, paradigmatic ____ Overhead Projector w/Screen cases include works by Parfit and (more 2. PROGRAM UNIT to which you are submitting this proposal: ____ Extra Screen recently) Siderits. Whatever the topic, the ____ VCR or DVD Player w/Monitor (circle one) group especially welcomes panels that lead to lively discussion. ____ Cassette or CD Player (circle one) SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: ____ Computer: ❐ Windows ❐ Macintosh ❐ Internet ____ LCD Projector w/Screen OP3 2b. OTHER PROGRAM UNIT to which you are submitting this ____ Other: ______(continued on p.10) proposal, if any: Audiovisual requests must be submitted at the same time as your proposal. Late requests cannot be accommodated. The executive office makes every attempt to honor the AV requests of our members. Unusual requests should be cleared, through the appropriate program unit chair, with the executive 2c. OTHER PROGRAM UNIT to which you are submitting another office to confirm the availability of the equipment or set-up of space. proposal or in which you are participating, if any: KEY TO SYMBOLS: 5. SCHEDULING NEEDS due to religious observance, if any: ______= Surface mail (Completed participant form(s) must accompany each submission.) ______3. YOUR ROLE in this session: •= Fax ❐ Presiding ❐ Presenting (titled paper) OP3 ❐ Responding = OP3 ❐ Panelist (untitled presentation) ❐ Presiding at a Business Meeting = E-mail NOTE: No individual may participate in the program more than two times. = E-mail with attachment Also available at www.aarweb.org/annualmeet for download

January 2006 RSN • 9 AAR Call for Papers 2006

✷ New Program Unit ✷ [email protected]; comparative monothe- interests, ritual and social control, tran- KEY TO SYMBOLS: Comparative Religious Ethics ism, [email protected]; Christology and scendent agency and social/cosmic order). Group theologies of Buddha, Krsna, etc., We also welcome individual proposals and [email protected]. Other proposals panels on other topics relating to theory Aaron Stalnaker, Indiana University, welcome. Preference for thematic sessions and method in the study of religion, espe- Department of Religious Studies, (maximum four presenters, respondent) or cially theoretical and methodical issues rel- = Surface mail Sycamore Hall 230, Bloomington, IN panels (maximum five presenters). evant for the study of African religions. 47405, USA; W: 812-855-8089; Thematic sessions: abstract + paper pro- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: [email protected]. posals; panels: abstract + panelist list. Steering committee may add individuals OP3 We encourage submissions that actively •= Fax to sessions. compare and contrast positions or trajec- tories from diverse religious thinkers or SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Eastern Orthodox Studies OP3 groups, rather than merely reporting views OP3 = OP3 from individual traditions. This year we Group invite papers that reflect critically and/or James C. Skedros, Holy Cross Greek constructively on the topic: “What is Orthodox School of Theology, comparative about comparative religious Confucian Traditions Group [email protected]. Paul Gavrilyuk, = E-mail ethics?” We also solicit integrated paper or Keith Knapp, The Citadel, History University of St. Thomas (MN), panel sessions on substantive topics in Department, 171 Moultrie ST, Charleston, [email protected]. comparative religious ethics. These could SC 29409, USA; W: 843-953-5044; focus on practical issues such as war, polit- The Eastern Orthodox Studies Group = E-mail with attachment [email protected]. Michael Puett, Harvard ical order, economic relations, environ- invites proposals for papers on the follow- University, Department of East Asian mental stewardship, or sexual behavior. ing three topics: 1) The doctrine of cre- Languages and Civilizations, 2 Divinity Also of interest are broader comparative ation in the Eastern Church Fathers and AVE, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; W: themes such as practices of personal for- its retrieval/ critical reception by modern 617-495-8360; [email protected]. mation; moral psychological topics such as theologians; 2) All aspects of Sergii emotions, intentions, and “the will”; the The Confucian Traditions Group wel- Bulgakov’s theology; and 3) Augustine in Chinese Religions Group general “nature” or “condition” of human comes proposals concerning any aspect of the Christian East, co-sponsored with the beings; and characteristics of different Confucianism. Topics of particular interest Augustine and Augustinianisms Group: a Daniel B. Stevenson, University of Kansas, genres of ethical reflection. are Confucianism and material culture; specific theme of Augustine’s thought com- Department of Religious Studies, Smith the religious status of Confucianism; pared to that of his Eastern contempo- Hall, 1300 Oread AVE, Lawrence, KS SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Confucian reflections on moral failure; raries; Augustine’s acknowledged and unac- 66045, USA; W: 785-864-7258; F: 785- OP3 Confucian reception theory (how do peo- knowledged influence upon the theological 864-5205; [email protected]. Chun-Fang ple react to and read Confucian texts?); thought of the Christian East; and cri- Yu, Columbia University, Department of conflicts between Confucian values; and tiques and reappraisals of Augustine’s the- Religion, 800 Claremont AVE, New York, the relationship between Confucianist ology by Eastern Orthodox theologians. NY 10027, USA; W: 212-851-4147; H: Comparative Studies in fundamentalism and evangelicalism. 212-866-1921; [email protected]. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Hinduisms and Judaisms Comparative approaches to these ques- We invite proposals related to all aspects Group tions that would result in co-sponsored OP3 of Chinese religious thought and practice, sessions or panels are encouraged, as are Kathryn McClymond, Georgia State both historical and contemporary. For panels in the new 90-minute format, University, P.O. Box 4089, Atlanta, GA 2006, we welcome proposals concerned which might take the form of a sympo- 30302-4089, USA; W: 404-651-0727; ✷ New Program Unit ✷ with the following topics: syncretism and sium on a particular text or a pedagogical [email protected]. sectarianism; textuality in popular reli- session. Although individual paper pro- Ecclesiological Investigations gion; interfaith dialogue between religions This group seeks to bring together schol- posals will be considered, coherent paper Group in China, including Islam and ars of Hinduism and/or Judaism to gener- sessions or panel proposals are preferred. Gerard Mannion, Liverpool Hope Christianity; women’s religious practices; ate thoughtful comparative conversation SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: University, [email protected]. Michael sanctity, healing, and the body; and with the intention of developing alterna- Fahey, Marquette University, Daoist and esoteric Buddhist ritual inter- tives to the Protestant-based paradigms OP3 [email protected]. actions. Dialogue across traditions, modal- that have tended to dominate the academ- ities of religious practice, and research spe- ic study of religion. For the 2006 confer- We welcome submissions in two broad cializations is encouraged. Submission by ence, we invite individual papers or panel Critical Theory and areas: 1) “The Nature and Mission of the the OP3 system is not required but pre- proposals on the following themes: Church”: ecclesial reality and ecumenical ferred. Proposals for individual papers and 1) Issues in translation and/or classical Discourses on Religion horizons for the 21st century. A panel prearranged sessions are both acceptable. languages; 2) Religion and sexuality; Group where speakers attempt to discern the sig- 3) Comparisons between Jewish iconism nificance of the 2006 document from the SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Steven Engler, Pontifícia Universidade and Hindu aniconism; 4) Domestic rituals World Council of Churches document, Católica de São Paulo, Programa de Estudos OP3 and the domestication of public rituals; offering doctrinal, theological, and Pós-Graduados em Ciências da Religião, Rua and 5) Modern thought and philosophy. hermeneutical perspectives upon its for- Ministro de Godoy, 969, Perdizes, São Paulo, Full panel proposals on other topics will mation and content and to attempt to dis- 05015-901, BRAZIL; [email protected]. be considered as well. Scholars need not cern its potential ecumenical ramifica- Christian Spirituality Group Kocku von Stuckrad, University of present comparative work; paper proposals tions. Speakers may also address futures Amsterdam, History of Hermetic Philosophy Arthur Holder, Graduate Theological may focus on one tradition. for ecumenical dialogue and the develop- and Related Currents, Oude Turfmarkt 147, Union, [email protected]. Wendy M. ment of an ecumenical ecclesiology in SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: NL - 1012 GC, AMSTERDAM; Wright, Creighton University, general. 2) Comparative ecclesiology. [email protected]. [email protected]. OP3 Topics such as the nature, method, and We encourage submissions on the follow- development of comparative ecclesiology; We welcome proposals that explore the ing themes: 1) Theoretical and method- appreciations of Roger Haight’s Christian relationship between the academic study ological issues raised by the AAR and SBL Community in History; studies in compara- of Christian spirituality and its practice, as ✷ New Program Unit ✷ split; 2) Religion and the senses (especially tive feminist ecclesiology: is Church with- well as proposals that employ multidisci- Comparative Theology the smell/taste/touch of religion); out patriarchal structures possible? We plinary perspectives. We particularly invite Group 3) Feminism and naturalistic theories of also welcome papers on the promise of proposals on the following themes: 1) religion (Griet Vandermassen’s Who’s social scientific engagements in compara- Christian spiritualities of Africa and the Francis X. Clooney, Harvard Divinity Afraid of Charles Darwin?, feminism and tive ecclesiology. African diaspora; 2) Evangelical spirituali- School, [email protected]. cognitive theory); 4) Race and ethnicity as ties; 3) Spiritual formation for social com- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Comparative Theology intends faith seek- spoken/unspoken categories in the theo- mitment; 4) For a co-sponsored session ing understanding, in rational reflection rizing of religion (neglected voices, dis- OP3 with the Wesleyan Studies Group: com- and reflective practice, in multiple tradi- torting concepts); 5) Gift, sacrifice, and munal spiritual practices in Wesleyan tra- tions, even if other terms must replace materiality (exchange relations beyond ditions (examples could include, but are “theology,” “faith,” etc. We invite propos- rational choice theory, rethinking “gift,” not limited to, the use of hymns, small als engaging multiple traditions regarding “sacrifice,” and “exchange”); 6) Religion groups, public prayer, love feasts, camp theological topics such as: What is and agency (intentionality/materiality of meetings, and sacramental practices). Comparative Theology? Responses to There will also be a pre-arranged paper group’s inaugural self-description (avail- session on emerging methodologies in the able from convener; proposals to him or academic discipline of Christian E-mail Notifications [email protected]); comparative the- Spirituality. Remember to include an e-mail address on your proposal. If you ology exemplified in practice, do not use e-mail, include a self-addressed stamped envelope SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: [email protected]; doctrinal, systematic the- with appropriate postage for the country from which the pro- ologies compared, [email protected]; tra- OP3 gram unit chair will send the notification about your ditions’ theologies of religions, acceptance/rejection onto the program. [email protected]; BU Comparative Religious Ideas Project five years later,

10 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Evangelical Theology Group Hinduism Group John R. Franke, Biblical Theological Sushil Mittal, James Madison University, Checklists Seminary, [email protected]. Department of Philosophy and Religion, Prearranged Paper/Panel Session Proposals MSC 7504, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, The Evangelical Theology Group is accepting USA; W: 540-568-6137; H: 540-433- ❐ Proposal being sent via proper method paper and panel proposals for the following 0543; F: 540-568-8072; themes in 2006: 1) Evangelical theology and ❐ Current 2006 memberships for all participants including presider [email protected]. Balagangadhara Rao, science. Proposals are welcomed that engage Ghent University, VG Vergelijkende ❐ Completed Prearranged Session Participant Form listing all contemporary and/or historical issues sur- Cultuurwetenschap, Apotheekstraat 5, participants including presider (not necessary in OP3) rounding evangelical theology and science. Universiteit Gent, B-9000 Gent, OV, Special attention will be given to papers or ❐ Proposal (1,000 words or fewer, double-spaced) BELGIUM; W: 329-264-9371; H: 329- panel discussions that go beyond 329-4566; F: 329-264-9483; ❐ For paper sessions: individual abstracts for all participants creation/evolution debates. 2) A discussion of [email protected]. Kevin Vanhoozer’s book The Drama of ❐ For panel session: single abstract for the entire session Doctrine and its implications for evangelical We invite panel proposals for the 2006 meet- ❐ Abstract(s) in an electronic format (150 words or fewer) theology. 3) Evangelicals and the media. ing on any aspect of Hinduism in any part of Papers or panels for this session may discuss the world. Interdisciplinary and comparative Individual Proposals the issue from either a historical trajectory or proposals are also welcome. Proposals must be a current affairs perspective on evangelical use made through the online system. Individual ❐ Proposal being sent via proper method of media for social, political, or evangelistic paper proposals are not accepted. Suggested ❐ Current membership for 2006 use; or papers may focus on media portrayals topics are: problematizing hindutva (Rita of evangelicalism as a political, social, or reac- Sherma); religious meanings of trees and ❐ Completed Participant Form (not necessary in OP3) tionary movement. forests (Eliza Kent); literary and oral poetics ❐ Proposal (1,000 words or fewer, double-spaced) (Leela Prasad); beyond defining Hinduism SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: (Jack Llewellyn); ecology and Hinduism ❐ Abstract, in an electronic format (150 words or fewer) OP3 (Pankaj Jain); rethinking the formulaic and the ideal of the fixed (Laurie Patton); “Introduction to Hinduism” textbooks (Linda Hess); Lipner’s translation of the Anandamath Feminist Theory and Japanese Religions Group approach, resource, and pedagogy in the (Carl Olson). teaching of Japanese religions; and 7) Religious Reflection Group Paula Arai, Carleton College, parai@ SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Religion and ritual theory. Proposals that Rosemary P. Carbine, College of the Holy carleton.edu. Jay Ford, Wake Forest include explicit reflection on the relevance Cross, [email protected]. M. Gail OP3 University, [email protected]. of Japanese religiosity to human religiosity Hamner, Syracuse University, We invite proposals related to all aspects and the study of religion more broadly are [email protected]. of Japanese religious practice and thought, encouraged. Panels, creative formats (film, Paper and panel proposals are invited that Indigenous Religious both historical and contemporary. The fol- organized discussion, “workshop,” etc.), critically engage feminist theory and reli- Traditions Group lowing themes and topics, suggested in and individual proposals will be considered. gious reflection. Preference is given to pro- the 2005 business meeting, are encour- Jacob K. Olupona, University of SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: posals with substantial feminist theoretical aged: 1) Religion and politics in the mod- California, Davis, African American & argument and with cross-cultural perspec- ern period; 2) Religion and modernism; OP3 African Studies, 2201 Hart Hall, Davis, tives, especially African. We welcome 3) Religion and popular culture (manga, CA 95616, USA; W: 530-752-8354; H: papers on the following topics: anime, etc.); 4) Religion and folklore; 530-758-7977; F: 530-752-9704; (continued on p.12) 1) Feminist theories of sexual ethics/jus- 5) Religion and healing; 6) Issues of [email protected]. Ines M. tice across religious traditions (co-spon- Talamantez, University of California, sored with the Ethics Section); and 2) Santa Barbara, Department of Religion, Responses to Saba Mahmood, The Politics HSSB 3069, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, of Piety. We are soliciting both papers and USA; W: 805-893-4326; H: 805-962- panels that address: 3) Challenges and 9668; F: 805-893-2059; talamant@ opportunities of teaching feminist theory religion.ucsb.edu. in religious studies/theological classrooms (possibly co-sponsored with Academic The Indigenous Religious Traditions Group Teaching and the Study of Religion welcomes proposals on the following Section); and 4) Conceptions and dynam- themes: 1) Theorizing spirit possession in ics of innocence and purity in definitions indigenous religions; 2) Elderhood, authori- or constructions of victimization, especial- ty, and knowledge in indigenous religions ly in relation to subjectivity/agency and and cultures; and 3) Indigenous understand- religious traditions of fault, pollution, and ings of and responses to natural disaster. We redemption. welcome interdisciplinary and innovative proposals that address indigenous modes of SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: interpretation and construction of meaning. AD E-Perkins OP3 The AAR meeting in 2006 is focusing on Africa, so we especially welcome papers from scholars who are based on the continent. 1/4 pg Gay Men’s Issues in Religion SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA:

Group OP3 Jay Emerson Johnson, Pacific School of Religion, [email protected]. The Gay Men’s Issues in Religion Group Islamic Mysticism Group explores the multiple intersections of reli- Vincent J. Cornell, University of gion and gay male experience. We wel- Arkansas, Fayetteville, [email protected]. come proposals on all aspects of this Carl W. Ernst, University of North dynamic, but are particularly interested in Carolina, Chapel Hill, [email protected]. the following themes for 2006: gay spiri- tual practices; new and ongoing cultural The Islamic Mysticism Group invites panel manifestations of gay religiosity; inten- and individual paper proposals addressed to tional gay communities; gay mystical writ- the following topics: mystical topography and ing; negotiating nomenclature; colonial- space in Sufism; Sufism and conflict; contem- ism, homosexuality, and religion in porary Sufism; Hagiography; Sufism and African cultures. Proposals for possible embodiment; Sufism and musical perform- joint sessions with the Religions, Social ance (possibly co-sponsored panel). Proposals Conflict, and Peace Group and the SBL are especially encouraged from younger schol- African-American Biblical Hermeneutics ars and those who have not regularly made Section are especially welcomed, as are presentations at the AAR. In view of the paper and panel proposals on African AAR’s 2006 focus on Africa, papers on Africa scholarship or from African scholars. are also particularly welcome.

SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: OP3 OP3

January 2006 RSN • 11 AAR Call for Papers 2006

Kierkegaard, Religion, and concerning the U.S. Latino/a communi- Culture Group ties such as immigration, national identity, political economy, and race relations Lee Barrett, Lancaster Theological among others. Seminary, 555 West James ST, Lancaster, SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: PA 17603, USA; W: 717-393-0654 x103; [email protected]. Marilyn OP3 Piety, Drexel University, 3141 Chesnut ST, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; W: 215-895-2879; [email protected]. Law, Religion, and Culture Two sessions are planned. One is our reg- Group ular single session. The other, subject to AD A-NYU PRESS Robert Yelle, University of Illinois at participant response, is a joint session with Urbana-Champaign, 805 West the Academic Teaching and Study of Pennsylvania AVE, Urbana, IL 61801, Religion Section. For our single session, USA; [email protected]. 1/2 pg entitled “Kierkegaard and the Spiritual Life,” we invite papers that address We invite paper and panel proposals on the Kierkegaard and: discipline; interiority; following themes: 1) Legal Paideia, or the con- formation; and/or prayer. For our joint texts of legal doctrine and interpretation in session with the Academic Teaching and different cultures, beyond the “rule of law.” 2) Study of Religion Section, we invite Law, human rights, and religion in Africa, papers or panel proposals that address including indigenous traditions, colonial inter- Kierkegaard and pedagogy. For example, a ventions, and modern developments. paper or a panel might examine strategies 3) Co-sponsored with the SBL’s Biblical Law for teaching Kierkegaard to undergradu- Section, we invite proposals on law and cul- ates, the uses of Kierkegaardian pedagogy tural narratives, or the uses and interpretations in teaching religious studies, Kierkegaard’s of biblical law in various cultural and historical reflections on education, or the pedagogi- settings. 4) Co-sponsored with the Native cal strategies used in Kierkegaard’s litera- Traditions in the Americas Group, we invite ture. proposals exploring the intersection of law, religion, and native traditions, including mat- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: ters of religious freedom and tribal sovereignty. OP3 SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: OP3 Korean Religions Group John I. Goulde (Sweet Briar College), 231 Lesbian-Feminist Issues and Ridge DR, Amherst, VA 24521-3107, USA; W: 434-381-6172; H: 434-946- Religion Group 9073; F: 434-381-6173; [email protected]. Gayle R. Baldwin, University of North Dakota, [email protected]. The Korean Religions Group invites panel Elizabeth A. Say, California State and/or paper proposals on the following University, Northridge, [email protected]. topics: 1) Korean religions in modern film and literature; 2) Korean religious material We invite proposals on the following topics: culture; 3) What makes Korean religions lesbian life and experience in Africa; strategies Korean?; and 4) Religion in North Korea. for survival in a politically conservative cli- We also welcome proposals on different mate; lesbian presence in anti-war move- topics. Please submit panel and paper pro- ments; academic freedom and lesbian schol- posals via the AAR OP3 system no later ars; visions of social conflict and peace in les- than March 1, 2006. If you have any bian/feminist speculative fiction; and lesbian questions or additional suggestions, please voices in Pagan, Neo-Pagan religious move- contact John Goulde at [email protected]. ments. We also encourage thoughtful, well- developed ideas on any range of topics falling SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: under the rubric of lesbian-feminist issues in OP3 religion. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA:

OP3 Latina/o Religion, Culture, and Society Group Carmen Marie Nanko-Fernandez Men’s Studies in Religion (Catholic Theological Union), 1425 4th ST SW, Apt. A610, Washington, DC Group 20024-2223, USA; W: 773-753-5317; David Livingston, Mercyhurst College, W: H: 202-554-1584; [email protected]. 814-824-2502, [email protected]. Benjamin Valentin (Andover Newton Mark Justad, Vanderbilt University Theological School), 210 Herrick RD, Divinity School, W: 814-322-0882, Newton Centre, MA 02459-2248, USA; [email protected]. W: 617-964-1100 x245; H: 617-851- Submissions are sought in the following 3103; [email protected]. areas: 1) Papers which reflect on how straight The Latino/a Religion, Culture, and men read gay men’s theology and/or queer Society Group invites paper and panel theory. 2) Reflections on men’s studies in reli- proposals on the following two gion from a variety of cultural contexts, themes/topics: 1) “The Colonized specifically papers which assess the role of Children of the Americas”: comparative men’s studies in religion in a specific country religious and theological reflections on or region of the world. 3) Papers on the way America from the margins; and in which religion and masculinity combine 2) Latinos/as, religious discourse/practice, in the political life of significant leaders on and U.S. politics and public policy. The the national or international stage. 4) first session especially allows for proposals “Religious Reflection on Masculinities in that place the Latino/a experience (past, Context.” Papers from various religious tradi- present, and hopeful future) and Latino/a tions engaging masculinities and nationality, religious experience in comparative dia- race, class, sexual orientation, social roles, logue with that of other colonized, mar- etc., are also sought. Possible themes: war, ginalized, and “minoritized” U.S. social empire, aging, embodiment, fathering, groups, such as Asian Americans, Pacific sports, and global economics. Islanders, Native Americans, and African SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Americans, among others. The second ses- sion permits for any range of proposals OP3 that address contemporary political issues

12 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

WILD CARD Nineteenth-Century Theology ments, both traditional and nontraditional. Reformed Theology and Group Papers should address the influence of neo- History Group SESSIONS platonic theory and/or its practice (i.e., Wild card sessions deliver the Garrett Green, Connecticut College, theurgy), whether they are found in recog- Robert Sherman, Bangor Theological opportunity for new scholarly [email protected]. nized religious traditions or in lesser known Seminary, [email protected]. Katherine conversations that fall outside communities. If Neoplatonism constitutes a Sonderegger, Virginia Theological 1) Exploration of the wide-ranging contri- the AAR program unit struc- living tradition, in what forms can it be Seminary, [email protected]. butions of Samuel Taylor Coleridge in ture. See page four for more found? 2) Hierarchy in Neoplatonism: delineating responses to major concerns of “What has Geneva to do with Washington?” information. Were the Neoplatonists elitists? How did the nineteenth century, e.g., the signifi- The Reformed tradition has influenced the Neoplatonists account for hierarchy among cance of the sciences, thinking of God, culture and history of the United States from human beings and on what basis were hier- moral formation, and socio-religious life. the colonial period to today. Puritan America archical distinctions made? Papers are invit- Contact: Daniel W. Hardy, dwhardy@btin- is the familiar early example of such influ- ed to examine how the Neoplatonists Mysticism Group ternet.com. 2) Responses to Hans Schwarz’s ence, but the impact of the Reformed ethos themselves addressed this question and may new history of modern Christian thought, on American institutions, law, and politics June McDaniel, College of Charleston, also consider the social and cultural con- Theology in a Global Context: The Last Two extends far beyond that. This influence Department of Religious Studies, texts that may have influenced the shaping Hundred Years (Eerdmans, 2005). Papers includes, e.g., the ideals and practice of reli- Charleston, SC 29424, USA. Neil of neoplatonic hierarchies. may respond to Schwarz’s book, or com- gious pluralism; traditions of covenant and Douglas-Klotz, Edinburgh Institute for pare it to another recent history of SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: contract; American exceptionalism; providen- Advanced Learning, 42/4 Sciennes, Christian thought. Contact: Lori Pearson, tial history and expansion; social gospel Edinburgh, Scotland EH9 1NL, UNITED [email protected]. 3) “Uses and Abuses reform; and anti-Catholic reactionary move- KINGDOM. of Schleiermacher in the (Long) ments. Acknowledging our meeting in the We focus on the comparative, philosophical, Nineteenth-Century”: This joint session nation’s capital and the role of religion in our theological, psychological, historical, theoreti- with the Schleiermacher Group will exam- ✷ New Program Unit ✷ current cultural and political landscape, the cal, cross-cultural, and transnational nature of ine a variety of representative and influen- Practical Theology Group Reformed Theology and History Group mysticism, religious experience, and spiritual tial appropriations, reinterpretations, and invites papers considering historical and/or Bonnie Miller-McLemore, Vanderbilt practice. Creative, imaginative, and scholarly distortions of “the church father of the theological elements in this broad interaction University, The Divinity School, Nashville, proposals with a clear methodology are invit- nineteenth century” by his later nineteenth- of the Reformed and American traditions. TN 37240-2701, USA. James Nieman, ed for 2006 on: 1) Mysticism and healing; 2) and early twentieth-century sympathizers Hartford Seminary, Hartford Institute for SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Mysticism and extreme experience (pain, and critics. Proposals should be submitted Religion Research, 77 Sherman ST, asceticism, drugs); 3) Memories, dreams, and to both groups simultaneously. Contact: OP3 Hartford, CT 06105-2260, USA. psychic powers; 4) The participant/observer Ted Vial, [email protected]. problem in the study and teaching of mysti- The Practical Theology Group invites SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: cism; 5) Daoism and mystical experience papers and panel proposals that engage Religion and Disability (with the Daoist Studies Consultation). OP3 practical theology and religious practice, reflect critically on religious tradition and Studies Group SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: practice, and/or explore issues in particular Deborah Creamer, Iliff School of Theology, OP3 Person, Culture, and Religion subdisciplines of practical theology and 2233 S. University BLVD, Denver, CO ministry. We welcome proposals on the fol- 80210, USA; W: 303-765-3178; F: 303- Group lowing topics related to the goals of this 777-0164; [email protected]. Kerry Wynn, Native Traditions in the Pamela Cooper-White, Lutheran group: 1) Particular religious practices; Southeast Missouri State University, 1609 Theological Seminary at Philadelphia, W: 2) Theological education, pedagogy, and Price DR, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701- Americas Group 800-286-4616 x7375, [email protected]. formation of teachers; 3) Different religious 3045, USA; H: 573-651-6651; Michael McNally, Carleton College, W: Kathleen Bishop, Madison, NJ, W: 973- and ethnic perspectives on ecclesiology; [email protected]. 507-646-4232, [email protected]. 514-1185, [email protected]. 4) Congregational studies as a practical the- We invite papers that examine relationships Ken Mello, University of Vermont, W: ological field; and 5) Practical theological Proposals are invited on 1) Ritual and/or between religion, disability, and concepts of 802-656-0230, [email protected]. perspectives on technology and Western liturgy: embodied religious practices, across the other, particularly emphasizing ways in lifestyle. We are especially interested in We invite individual paper and group proposals cultures, in psychological perspective; which this otherness relates to understand- explorations of the development of congre- on any aspect of native traditions of the 2) International perspectives on postmod- ings of community. Topics may include gational studies and its impact on the shape Americas. On the occasion of the Washington, ern identities and spiritual care (e.g., what hospitality, borderlands, images of the way- of practical theology, the impact of technol- D.C., meeting, we especially encourage propos- are the contemporary challenges of provid- farer or traveler, construction of communi- ogy on religious practice, and comparative als exploring: 1) The intersection of law, religion, ing spiritual care in diverse cultural con- ty, distinctions between guest/host/stranger, study of religions through religious practice. and Native American traditions, including mat- texts, religious and nonreligious?); 3) Co- new vantage points, communal versus indi- ters of “religious freedom” (protection of sacred sponsored with Black Theology Group: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: vidual journeys, values of creativity or lands, free exercise of ceremonial practices in The souls/psyches of black folks: black the- OP3 beauty, the role of invitation or love, the prisons and schools, or that conflict with con- ology, spiritual formation, and the African- importance of struggle, and eschatological trolled substance or wildlife protection laws, American self. Papers that reflect on the images. We also invite proposals that focus repatriation of human remains and ceremonial complexity of African-American personali- on deaf churches and deaf culture, particu- items) but also matters pertaining to tribal sover- ty, African/African-American sexuality/spir- Pragmatism and Empiricism larly those that highlight the significance of eignty, treaty rights, and the doctrine of discov- ituality, and African-American identity in American Religious the Washington, D.C., area. ery; 2) Transformation of representation of through a synthetic conversation between Thought Group SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: native traditions in contemporary museums, black theology, psychology, anthropology, cultural centers, and ethnographies; 3) Religion ethnography, and cultural criticism. Papers Eddie S. Glaude, Princeton University, OP3 and Native American art; 4) Dialogue between that focus on African-American psychologi- Department of Religion, 1879 Hall, Native American studies and African studies; cal/theological anthropology are also wel- Princeton, NJ 08544, USA; W: 609-258- and 5) The legacy of Vine Deloria, Jr. Proposals come. PCR also welcomes proposals on 1419; [email protected]. David C. (continued on p.14) must be submitted electronically, preferably by other themes dealing with psychology, cul- Lamberth, Harvard University, The OP3 interactive Web site or by e-mail w/attach- ture, and religion. To learn more about Divinity School, 45 Francis AVE, ment to both co-chairs. PCR, see our Web site: Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; W: 617- http://home.att.net/~pcr-aar/. 495-9578; [email protected]. KEY TO SYMBOLS: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA:

OP3 SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: We invite proposals for papers on: 1) Pragmatic contributions to current OP3 methodological discussions in the study of = Surface mail religion; 2) The relevance of Nancy Fraser’s New Religious Movements work for the study of religion and pragma- Group Platonism and Neoplatonism tism more generally; 3) Pragmatic contribu- tions to and issues in environmentalism Douglas Cowan, University of Missouri, Group (historically construed or contemporary); •= Fax Kansas City, [email protected]. Willemien Otten, University of Utrecht, and 4) in light of the conference’s location Department of Theology, Heidelberglaan 2, Proposals are invited on the following topics: in Washington, D.C., the tensions between PO Box 80105, NL-3508 TC Utrecht, 1) NRMs in Africa; 2) Church and state issues the pragmatic tradition and the politically NETHERLANDS; W: 011-31-30- OP3 concerning NRMs; 3) Political activism in “pragmatic.” In addition to these areas of 2531843; H: 011-31-30-2734908; F: 011- = OP3 NRMs; 4) Theories and ideal typologies of interest, we welcome proposals on other 31-30-2533241; [email protected]. NRMs; 5) Youth and NRMs; and 6) NRMs topics relevant to pragmatism and empiri- Gregory Shaw (Stonehill College), 36 and Tantra (to be co-sponsored with the cism, as well as panel proposals. Church ST, Bridgewater, MA 02324, USA; Tantric Studies Consultation, so please submit W: 508-565-1355; H: 508-279-0466; F: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: = E-mail to both of us). Also, we welcome papers on all 508-565-1444; [email protected]. aspects of the study of NRMs. OP3 We invite papers to address one of two SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: themes: 1) Living tradition: To examine the = E-mail with attachment OP3 influence of Neoplatonism in contempo- rary religious and/or philosophical move-

January 2006 RSN • 13 AAR Call for Papers 2006

Religion and Ecology Group Religion and Popular Caribbean; 2) From Azusa Street to Pará: Religions, Medicines, and A centenary reevaluation of pentecostalism Beth Blissman, Oberlin College, Culture Group Healing Group in Latin America, with a special focus on [email protected]. Laurel D. Sarah McFarland Taylor, Northwestern political activism, transnational develop- Linda L. Barnes, Boston University, Kearns, Drew University, University, W: 847-602-2613, ments, and/or national idiosyncrasies; 3) [email protected]. Suzanne Crawford, [email protected]. [email protected] or [email protected]. From Bush to Chavez: religion and poli- Pacific Lutheran University, The Religion and Ecology Group invites Richard Callahan, University of Missouri, tics (subtopics may include: violence, eco- [email protected]. all paper proposals or young scholar poster Columbia, W: 573-882-0060, callahanrj@ nomics, empire building); 4) Engaging the Papers are invited on the following three proposals exploring (inter)relationships missouri.edu. eye: religion and the arts (from film to themes. 1) “Healing Movement”: The role between religions, cultures, and environ- performance to literature — an explo- We invite both organized sessions and of movement in healing. Topics might ments. We encourage thematically coher- ration of the intersection of religion and individual paper proposals that explore the address participation in ceremony, ritual, ent session proposals and/or panels, and artistic expression; 5) Beyond Mestizaje: intersections of religion and popular cul- sacred dance, worship, or practices like all individual paper proposals related to revisiting race, syncretism, and hybridity. ture. This year we especially encourage yoga or taiqi. Approaches can include the following themes: eco-religious prac- A variety of methodological approaches presentations that examine the workings philosophies of physical practice, phenom- tices, movements, or environmental issues and styles of presentation is encouraged. of religion in following contexts: 1) enological discussions of embodiment, in Africa or the Chesapeake Bay bio- Global media; 2) Cultures of war, anti-war SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: analysis of conceptualizations of subtle region; African-American religious protest, and related responses to war; bodies and spiritual energy in such prac- responses to environmental challenges; OP3 3) Monuments, museums, and memory, tices, or the impact of these traditions on place and religious experience: travel, jour- especially (but not necessarily) related to the individual and community. ney, pilgrimage; current issues/trends in Washington, D.C.; 4) Reconstructions of 2) Teaching religion and healing: presenta- ecological theology; religious bases of con- ancient religions (neo-Druidic, Celtic, Religion, Film, and Visual tions teaching about religion and healing sumerism; ecological restoration: physical Hellenic, etc.); 5) Queered cultural per- traditions that exhibit pedagogical creativi- or spiritual; religion, ecology, and policy; Culture Group formances. Proposals for performance- ty, analysis, and “best practices.” 3) With “nature” in political or religious rhetoric; Amir Hussain, Loyola Marymount related sessions relating to religion and the African Religions Group, we will environmental health and healing; ecology University, Department of Theological popular culture are also welcome. Our sponsor a session on religion and public and epistemology: critical tools for analy- Studies, 1 LMU DR, Suite 3700, Los unit strongly encourages alternative inter- health in Africa. Topics can include reli- sis; teaching, religion, and the environ- Angeles, CA 90045-2659, USA; W: 310- active and creative formats for panels and gion and the politics of health, faith-based ment. Visit www.religionandnature.com/aar 338-5987; [email protected]. John presentations. Accompanying audiovisual initiatives in public health, and mixed or www.religionandecology.org for more Lyden (Dana College), 9837 Grover ST, and other supplements are also encouraged. health-seeking strategies in Africa. information, additional suggestions, Omaha, NE 68124-3717, USA; W: 402- details regarding the poster session, and SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: 426-7247; [email protected]. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: information for organizing sessions. OP3 We invite proposals for panels or individual OP3 SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: papers on: 1) Representations of Africa; 2) Ritual, sacrifice, and sacrament; 3) Ghosts, OP3 Religion in Latin America mediums, and the afterlife; 4) The ethnogra- Religion, Politics, and the phy of spectatorship; 5) War in television, and the Caribbean Group film, and video games; 6) Hyphenated State Group Jeanette Reedy Solano, California State American narratives; 7) Pedagogy of film and Barbara A. McGraw, Saint Mary’s College University, Fullerton, [email protected]. visual culture in theology and religious stud- of California; W: 925-377-0333; H: 925- Nelson Maldonado-Torres, University of ies; 8) Psychoanalytic and spectator films; and 631-0945; F: 925-376-5625; California, Berkeley, [email protected]. 9) Studies of Islam and visual culture. We are [email protected]. Andrew Murphy, also interested in co-sponsoring panels on Valparaiso University; W: 219-464-5006; We invite papers on the following topics any of the above topics. Proposals are H: 219-938-3432; F: 219-464-5159; for 2006: 1) Religion in the black especially encouraged from younger schol- [email protected]. Atlantic: Africa, Latin America, and the ars and those who have not regularly The group invites proposals on the role of made presentations at the AAR. In view of religion in the body politic, domestic and the AAR’s 2006 focus on Africa, papers on international, historic and contemporary, Africa are also particularly welcome. employing a diversity of methods. General SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: topics include religion and politics

OP3 (including political discourse); religion and the courts (including court decisions); and religion and legislation. This year we especially seek proposals addressing: Religion, Holocaust, and 1) Religion and electoral politics; 2) Genocide Group Political theology; 3) Religion and eco- nomic policy, including political rhetoric Oren Baruch Stier, Florida International regarding economic issues; 4) Critical eth- University, Department of Religious ical or sociological analyses of faith-based Studies, DM301C, 11200 SW 8th ST, political efforts, which may address why AD D-Wabash Miami, FL 33199, USA; W: 305-348- such efforts were/were not successful. 6729; F: 305-348-1879; [email protected]. (The last topic is for a potential joint ses- Katharina von Kellenbach, St. Mary’s sion with Religion, Public Policy, and College of Maryland, Department of Political Change Consultation.) 1/4 pg Philosophy and Religious Studies, St. Nevertheless, submissions generally within Mary’s City, MD 20686, USA; W: 240- the group’s statement of purpose are wel- 895-4277; F: 240-895-4436; come. [email protected]. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: We invite individual paper or panel propos- als, from any methodological perspective, OP3 on the following topics: 1) Religion and genocide in Africa (in conjunction with the 2006 international focus on Africa) and Religions, Social Conflict, 2) Mass death and the status of the body (including religious approaches to the sanc- and Peace Group tity and treatment of the body in the after- Susan Windley-Daoust, Saint Mary’s math of genocide, and challenges thereof; University of Minnesota, 700 Terrace the presence of bodily remains at memorial HTS, #1450, Winona, MN 55987, USA; sites of mass death; debates over displaying [email protected]. Marla J. Selvidge, and/or returning remains of native and Central Missouri State University, M118, indigenous peoples; exhumation of bodies Warrensburg, MO 64093, USA; 660-543- for war crimes trials; the religious signifi- 8674; [email protected]. cance of the absence of human remains Since we are in the U.S. capital in 2006, (Auschwitz, Hiroshima/Nagasaki, 9/11); we seek paper proposals largely focusing ethical debates over the use of victims’ bod- on religion as a source of conflict or reso- ies and body parts for medical research, lution in political arenas worldwide. teaching and learning; religious responses Specifically, we will focus on these topics: to torture; and related issues). 1) Religious influence on governments of SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: African countries; 2) Social conflict and

OP3 the Bush theocratic agenda: his “divine mission”; 3) Social conflict born of the African AIDS pandemic: religious

14 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News responses: case studies/analyses of how the sacraments, eschatology, God’s attrib- ✷ New Program Unit ✷ Tillich: Issues in Theology, theologies/religious institutions have utes, and the Trinity. Novel avenues of Signifying (on) Scriptures Religion, and Culture Group responded to conflicts — political, cultur- approach are encouraged (historical, con- Group al, and gendered — born of the African structive, comparative, structural), as are Robison B. James (University of (or other) AIDS crisis; and 4) Ecological papers that seek to continue the conversa- Vincent L. Wimbush, Claremont Richmond), 7914 Alvarado RD, justice, the poor, and religions: religious tion from 2005 and set forth issues for Graduate University, 1017 N. Dartmouth Richmond, VA 23229, USA; W: 804-288- explorations of social conflicts found at 2007. 2) Papers are invited on the topic AVE, Claremont, CA 91711, USA; W: 2142; F: 804-287-6504; rjames@ the nexus of ecological issues such as water “Uses and Abuses of Schleiermacher in the 909-621-8504; F: 909-607-1213; richmond.edu. Mary Ann Stenger, and electricity rights, poverty, conflict, (Long) Nineteenth-Century”: This joint [email protected]. University of Louisville, Humanities, and religion. session with the Nineteenth-Century Louisville, KY 40292, USA; W: 502-852- Programming for 2006 will center on the Theology Group will examine a variety of 0457; F: 502-852-0078; SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: theme “Scriptures and Race.” The two ses- representative and influential appropria- [email protected]. sions will be organized as round-table OP3 tions, reinterpretations, and distortions of seminars to address issues pertaining to We invite proposals that use Paul Tillich’s “the church father of the nineteenth cen- these two complex and fraught categories. theology/philosophy, or that relate to his tury” by his later nineteenth- and early Panelists will be encouraged to engage thought, on: 1) Ecstasy, revelation, and twentieth-century sympathizers and critics. Ritual Studies Group “race” and “scriptures” as invented cate- ways of knowing; 2) Tillich’s relation to SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: gories; racialisms/racisms as they relate to postmodernity or postmodernism (how Nikki Bado-Fralick, Iowa State University, “scriptures” in explicit or indirect ways; Tillich’s German idealism figures in this [email protected]. Donna Lynne OP3 how “race” is masked, manipulated, or connection is one interest here, “gift and Seamone, McMaster University, (over)determined by scriptures; and so on. grace” another); 3) Tillich, St. Paul, and [email protected]. Invited persons from different the turn to religion in recent philosophy Proposals welcomed on: ritual identity Science, Technology, and cultural/religious traditions, disciplines, (Taubes, Zizek, Badiou, Agamben, etc.; and human diversity; ritualizing by/with Religion Group and fields will comprise two roundtable for this option, the St. Paul-related ele- youth; ritual, food, and gender; ritual discussions. Six panelists and one modera- ments in Tillich’s theology/philosophy of Greg Peterson, South Dakota State analysis or critique of social protest move- tor will interact with attendees in a semi- history are assumed, including the event University, [email protected]. Lisa ments, such as civil rights, gay rights, etc. nar format around a large central table. that gives history its “center”); Stenmark, San Jose State University, With the Anthropology of Religion One session will concentrate on wide- 4) Christology and the Jewish dimension. [email protected]. Group, we seek papers on ritual restric- ranging theoretics; the other may be more Tillich-related papers on other themes will tions, prescriptions of fun, pleasure, and Invitations are extended to papers and directly related to texts of different cultur- be seriously considered, with specific enjoyment, such as games, sex, and cele- panels that 1) Address the intersections of al traditions. themes for sessions determined by the brations. With the African Religions religious and scientific perspectives in the merit of the proposals received. A winning SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Group, we seek papers on ritual in con- construction of gender and sexuality, espe- student paper will receive the $300 temporary Africa. Topics may include rit- cially in response to Joan Roughgarden’s OP3 Annual Tillich Prize. ual, identity, and community; ritual Evolution’s Rainbow (for a joint session SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: responses to the AIDS pandemic/other with the Queer Theory and LGBT Studies crises; and theorizing African ritual. With in Religion Consultation); 2) Reflect on Theology and Continental OP3 the Academic Teaching Section, we will the intersection of indigenous religions • co-sponsor a prearranged panel on teach- and scientific theory and practice, espe- Philosophy Group ing ritual. Send proposals for co-spon- cially considering the legacy of Vine Ellen Armour, Rhodes College, sored sessions to both program units. Deloria, Jr., for understanding the relation [email protected]. Bruce Ellis Benson, Wesleyan Studies Group Individual paper and panel proposals are of science and religion; or 3) Analyze the Wheaton College, bruce.ellis.benson@ Sarah Heaner Lancaster, Methodist welcome. Papers should attend to theory use and abuse of science by theology wheaton.edu. Theological School in Ohio, and method in the study of ritual. and/or religious communities, including [email protected]. Steve McCormick, We invite paper or panel proposals that but not limited to analysis of fundamen- Nazarene Theological Seminary, SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: reflect theologically and/or philosophically talist movements, new age religions, new [email protected]. on the following: 1) The work of Frantz OP3 religious movements, and categories of Fanon; 2) The work of Henri Bergson in The group is open to any proposals pro- “east” and “west.” relationship to continental philosophy viding historical or constructive engage- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: (e.g., Spinoza, Merleau-Ponty, Deleuze), ment with the Wesleys or Wesleyan/

Roman Catholic Studies OP3 and/or Anglo-American philosophy (e.g., Methodist traditions. This year we partic- Group James, Whitehead); 3) Religious identity ularly solicit papers in these areas: 1) and the enemy, religion and violence; Historical and theological approaches to Jeff Marlett, College of Saint Rose, 4) Belief and/or practice in figures such as challenges for what it means to be a con- Department of Religious Studies, 432 Scriptural Reasoning Group Certeau, Asad, Bourdieu, Zizek, and nectional church. Papers are invited which Western AVE, Albany, NY 12203, USA. Vattimo; and 5) Other topics in continen- explore topics such as denominational Vincent J. Miller, Georgetown University, Rachel Muers, Department of Theology, tal philosophy. Proposals from scholars schism, the road to ordaining women, Theology Department, Washington, DC University of Exeter, The Queen’s Drive, working in all religious traditions are wel- what constitutes membership, the inter- 20057-1135, USA. Exeter EX4 4QH, UNITED KING- come. face between church and culture, or other DOM; W: 44-1392-264240; The group welcomes proposals for indi- issues that raise ecclesiological questions. [email protected]. Randi Rashkover, SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: vidual papers or full sessions on any topic 2) For a co-sponsored session with the York College of Pennsylvania, Country concerning theological, historical, and cul- OP3 Christian Spirituality Group: communal Club RD, York, PA 17405, USA; W: 717- tural studies of Catholicism. Session pro- spiritual practices in Wesleyan traditions. 815-1943; [email protected]. posals may be edited. Particular interests Examples could include but are not limit- include: The fate and future of the Scriptural Reasoning gathers Jewish, Tibetan and Himalayan ed to the use of hymns, small groups, Catholic left — its intellectual, cultural, Christian, and Muslim thinkers for the public prayer, love feasts, camp meetings, institutional, and psychological spaces; study of scriptural texts that speak to Religions Group and sacramental practices. Catholics in Africa; global Catholicisms; themes of contemporary importance. Frances Garrett, University of Toronto, SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Catholic biblical scholarship (in light of Papers should examine brief scriptural pas- [email protected]. Kurtis R. separation from SBL); homosexuality, the sages (drawing on both textual scholarship Schaeffer, University of Virginia, OP3 ministry, and hierarchy; Catholicism and and reception history) and suggest how [email protected]. public life; Catholicism in the capitol; they address contemporary readers’ con- The Tibetan and Himalayan Religions Catholicism and public interest/advoca- cerns. Participants must complete drafts Group is accepting proposals for panels in (continued on p.16) cy/political groups; new Catholic move- by July and revise their papers in conversa- the following areas: the theory and prac- ments; Catholicism and the media; tion with each other. We invite proposals tice of ritual in Tibetan and Himalayan Catholic education, Catholicism, and in the following areas: A) for full paper religions; Tibetan Buddhism and violence; childhood; and Catholicism in Maryland, session: 1) Paul and prophecy, 2) Land, narrative religious art; Tibetan religious Virginia, and Washington, D.C. messianism, and the other, or 3) Women poetry; interiority and subjectivity in and scripture; B) for text study session: 1) SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Himalayan religions; cave culture in 90-MINUTE Holiness and practice: Lev. 19, Matt. 5, Himalayan religions. The group also OP3 Surah 2: 177-85 or 2) Reconciliation and SESSIONS accepts proposals for individual papers. how to achieve it; C) for joint session with Sunday afternoons will be The mission of the Tibetan and SBL’s Biblical Ethics: 1) Resident aliens scheduled with three Himalayan Religions Group is to create an and the ethics of immigration or 90-minute time slots to Schleiermacher Group environment that promotes conversation 2) Diplomacy among the nations. allow for more intense between different approaches to the study Brent Sockness, Stanford University, scholarly explorations on a SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: of Tibetan and Himalayan religions. [email protected]. topic. See page four for Please contact the co-chairs, Frances OP3 more information. 1) This third in a four-year reexamination Garrett and Kurtis Schaeffer, for of Schleiermacher’s magnum opus, The information. Christian Faith, will be devoted to the sec- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: ond half of Part II (propositions 113–172). Proposals are invited on: eccle- OP3 siology, election, pneumatology, scripture, •

January 2006 RSN • 15 AAR Call for Papers 2006

Western Esotericism Group Womanist Approaches to 37th and O STS NW, Washington, DC The AAR solicits Religion and Society Group 20057, USA; W: 202-687-5846; Allison P. Coudert, University of [email protected]. nominations for the California, Davis, [email protected]. Evelyn L. Parker, Perkins School of Wouter J. Hanegraaff, University of Theology, Southern Methodist University, World Christianity is an interdisciplinary Ray L. Hart Amsterdam, [email protected]. W: 214-768-2069, [email protected]. Linda field that seeks to understand Christian E. Thomas, Lutheran School of Theology faith and practice on six continents, The Western Esotericism Group at the Service Award. at Chicago, W: 773-256-0778, informed by the multitude of world histori- AAR invites proposals for papers dealing [email protected]. cal and cultural experiences, and expressed with European and American esoteric tradi- through diverse local religious traditions. It tions (e.g., alchemy, astrology, hermeticism, The Womanist Approaches to Religion and This award is given to pursues a three-fold conversation, across kabbalah, magic, mysticism, rosicrucianism, Society Group invites papers or panels that borders of religious faiths (historically the persons whose secret societies, occultism) and their ramifi- seek to explore Alice Walker’s full definition domain of comparative religious studies); cations in art history, history, literature, of the “spirit,” including humanism, mysti- borders of culture (historically the domain dedication and service politics, and religion. We welcome scholars cism, and goddesses of Africa; the impact of of “mission studies”); and borders of reli- from a wide range of perspectives, includ- religion (beliefs, leaders, organizations) on gious confession (historically the domain of have made significant ing critical theory, anthropology, American U.S. public policy toward Africa; the influ- ecumenical theology and related enterpris- studies, art history, history, history of reli- ence of religion and HIV/AIDS, children es). This new program group welcomes contributions to the gions, literature, philosophy, religious stud- soldiers, the tsunami’s affect on East Africa; paper proposals on related themes from ies, sociology, and the full range of academ- religion and issues of asylum/displacement/ anthropology, religious studies, theology, or AAR’s mission of ic disciplines and fields that bear upon this immigration of African, Afro-Caribbean, related fields that offer unique perspectives area of study. For 2006, we especially wel- Afro-Brazilian, and African-American fostering excellence in on local Christianities in diverse parts of come papers on the following topics as women; and intimate violence in Africa the world or comparative perspectives. This related to Western esotericism: 1) Method and throughout the diaspora. the field of religion. year we welcome in particular papers on and theory; 2) Altered states of conscious- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: African Christianity in diaspora, particular- ness; 3) Theurgy; and 4) Ritual and reli- ly in the United States. Please send submis- For more information, gious practice. However, proposals on any OP3 sions by e-mail to Peter Phan (pcp5@ other appropriate topic are welcome as well. please see georgetown.edu) or proposals on African SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Christianity to Patrick Provost-Smith ✷ ✷ ❧ www.aarweb.org/ OP3 New Program Unit ([email protected]). World Christianity Group awards/hart.asp. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Peter Phan, Georgetown University OP3 Theology Department, 120 New North,

Seminars are highly specific projects driven by a collaborative research agenda leading toward publication. They are expected to eventuate in publication(s). They are strictly limited in duration (five SEMINARS years) and membership (20). Members agree to continue the work of the seminar between Annual Meetings through correspondence, ✷ New Program Unit ✷ in and without themselves? The topics exchange of papers and bibliographies, and on listservs, etc. The Religions in Chinese and should be broad and focused on single session at the Annual Meeting is devoted to consideration of Indian Cultures: A methodology. The expectation is that previously distributed papers and to foster collaborations in a public Comparative Perspective experts on either India or China, setting that allows auditors to gain insight into the project, the while dealing with the issues from Seminar process, and the people involved. While no new papers are present- within their area of expertise, will ed at the session, auditors are welcome to attend. Chakravarthi Ram-Prasad, Lancaster articulate comparativist questions and University, [email protected]. remarks with regard to the other area. Tao Jiang, Rutgers University, These presentations are expected to be [email protected]. exploratory and interactive. Zen Buddhism Seminar scholarship in the last 30 years. Papers that focus on institutional forms of Zen We invite papers addressing how the SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Jin Y. Park, American University, Buddhism, Zen Buddhist practices both terms “religion” and “religious plurality” Department of Philosophy and Religion, OP3 in the East and the West, Zen Buddhist are understood in the Chinese and 4400 Massachusetts AVE NW, encounters with contemporary Western Indian cultures. Topics of inquiry may Washington, DC 20016, USA; discourses including postmodernism and include: Are there terms in native [email protected]. Gereon Kopf, postcolonialism, as well as responses by Chinese and Indian languages equiva- Luther College, Department of Religion Zen Buddhist thinkers and institutions to lent to the word “religion” used in and Philosophy, Decorah, IA 52101, recent challenges are especially invited. ❧ English? What are the different shades USA; [email protected]. of meanings of those terms reflective of SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Zen in the contemporary world: We are the traditions they represent? How do looking for proposals concerning the sta- OP3 the Chinese and Indian religious tradi- tus of Zen Buddhism and Zen Buddhist tions deal with religious pluralism with-

Consultations are exploratory opportunities to test the degree and breadth of interest among CONSULTATIONS members of the Academy in areas and topics of academic Animals and Religion monsters and deities; ecological hermeneu- Biblical/Contextual Ethics Consultation interest not currently included Consultation tics and animals; A Communion of Subjects integrates study of biblical teachings in in the concerns of existing sec- volume by Waldau and Patton. their social/ethical context with critical tions, groups, or seminars. Laura Hobgood-Oster, Southwestern study of present social/ethical contexts. We University, [email protected]. Paul SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: seek insights from ethical disciplines for Waldau, Tufts University, [email protected]. OP3 self-critical awareness of assumptions that the biblical text for insights on the use of We invite proposals on the following top- influence scriptural interpretation, and political power today; or, for the joint ses- ics: food issues and animals; comparative insights from biblical disciplines for self- sion with Scriptural Reasoning, on 2) studies in Hinduism and Judaism; racism, critical awareness in ethics. Papers may ✷ New Program Unit ✷ Resident aliens and the ethics of immigra- food, and ecojustice; animals in African employ methods that come primarily from tion; or on 3) Diplomacy among the indigenous traditions; religious aspects of Biblical/Contextual Ethics either ethical or biblical disciplines; we ask nations. wildlife conservation; comparative religious Consultation proposers to identify the specific method(s) attitudes toward wild and domesticated that they will employ. For 2006, we invite SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Glen Stassen, Fuller Theological Seminary, animals; animals, holocaust, and genocide proposals on 1) Scriptural/ethical reflec- [email protected]. Thomas Ogletree, Yale OP3 (Patterson’s Eternal Treblinka); animals as tions on political power — grappling with University, [email protected].

16 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Childhood Studies and and children, and roles and responsibilities of (declining?) role of denominations in church- Religion Consultation children within families and communities. related institutions; issues surrounding institu- This session will combine invited panelists tionally sponsored worship and worship Marcia Bunge, Christ College, Valparaiso and submitted papers. spaces; the challenges for non-Christian faculty KEY TO SYMBOLS: University, [email protected]. at church-related institutions, and the con- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Barbara Pitkin, Stanford University, verse; fundamentalism(s) on campus; the post- = Surface mail [email protected]. OP3 modern student (visual culture, embrace of personal spiritualities, “incredulity toward We invite proposals for the following ses- metanarratives”); the perception and reception sions: 1) “Children as Moral and Religious of theology among other academic disciplines; •= Fax Agents in Literature and Film”: We invite ✷ New Program Unit ✷ the role of external funding in shaping the the- papers that elucidate and analyze images of Christianity & Academia ological orientation of institutions; and the children and youth as moral and religious OP3 Consultation idea of a “theology of administration” for = OP3 agents in children’s fiction and recent cine- church-related colleges and seminaries. We matic adaptations thereof; e.g., Harry Potter, David S. Cunningham, Hope College, prefer papers that move beyond mere descrip- The Chronicles of Narnia, Charlie and the P.O. Box 9000, Holland, MI 49423, tion and that endeavor to analyze the issues = E-mail Chocolate Factory, A Series of Unfortunate USA; W: 616-395-7320; F: 616-395- from a theological perspective. Events. 2) “Children’s Rights and 7490; [email protected]. = E-mail with attachment Responsibilities: Interfaith Perspectives” (co- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: This new consultation explores issues at the sponsored with the Ethics Section): We invite intersection of Christian theology and higher papers that draw particular attention to reli- education. Papers are invited on such topics as: OP3

gious responses to the UN Convention on

theological accounts of academic freedom; the (continued on p.18) the Rights of the Child, freedom of religion ✃

MEMBERSHIP FORM Future AAR 2006 Calendar Year Annual You may also establish your membership online at www.aarweb.org/membership. AMERICAN ACADEMY OF RELIGION Meeting Dates Please make any corrections necessary in your contact information ❒Dr. ❒Prof. ❒Ms. ❒Mr. ❒Other ______and Sites Name: ______ID Number (for renewals):______If your surname is not the last word in your name, please circle it (e.g., Kim Kyong Min, Juana González Nuñez ). Address: ______Office Phone: ______2006 ______Home Phone: ______City: ______State/Province:______Fax: ______November 18–21 Postal Code: ______Country: ______E-Mail: ______Washington, D.C.

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* Card Identification Number (required for Discover cards): 4 digits on front of American Membership dues cover less Express, 3 digits on back of other cards. than 30 percent of programs Please fill in the demographic information below (optional). This is for AAR aggregate statistical use only. and services. Gender: ❐ Male ❐ Female Renew online at Citizenship: ❐ U.S. ❐ Canada ❐ Other (specify): ______Year of Birth:______www.aarweb.org/renewal. Ethnic Background: ❐ Asian or Pacific Islander ❐ Black, Not Hispanic ❐ Native American or Native Alaskan Or contact us at ❐ Hispanic ❐ White, Not Hispanic ❐ Other: ______TEL: 404-727-3049 Return to: E-MAIL: [email protected]. AMERICAN ACADEMY OF RELIGION Please see the membership page, 825 HOUSTON MILL ROAD, SUITE 300 • ATLANTA, GA 30329 • USA www.aarweb.org/membership. TELEPHONE 404-727-3049 • FAX 404-727-7959 • E-MAIL [email protected] RSN211 www.aarweb.org January 2006 RSN • 17 AAR Call for Papers 2006

Cultural History of the Study Foucault Consultation of Religion Consultation Tom Beaudoin, Santa Clara University, W: 408-554-4668, [email protected]. Richard M. Jaffe, Duke University, Department of Religion, CB #90964, The Foucault Consultation welcomes pro- Durham, NC 27708, USA; W: 919-660- posals for papers or panels concerning 3502; F: 919-660-3530; Foucault and Islam. Proposals on any [email protected]. Tisa Wenger, dimension of this theme are encouraged, Arizona State University, Department of especially those that incorporate contempo- Religious Studies, P.O. Box 873104, rary scholarship (particularly Foucault and Tempe, AZ 85287-3104, USA; W: 480- the Iranian Revolution, by Janet Afary and 727-6111; [email protected]. Kevin Anderson [University of Chicago, AD B-Orbis 2005]). We also invite any other proposals We seek papers concerned with historical for papers or panels related to Foucault and inquiry into the social and cultural contexts religion or theology. of the making of the study of religion and 1/4 pg the constructions of “religion” as an object SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: of inquiry. The consultation strives for a OP3 diverse representation of cultural/geograph- ic locations in our panels. This year we par- ticularly invite papers concerning the fol- lowing three topics: 1) The medicalization/ Liberal Theologies biologizing of religion: How is religion Consultation being utilized by the medical profession? Christine Helmer, Harvard Divinity How are medicine/science changing the School, 45 Francis AVE, Cambridge, MA way scholars in a variety of fields under- 02138, USA; W: 617-495-3301; stand religion? 2) How is popular culture [email protected]. Stephen G. Ray, (Barnes and Noble, Oprah, Amazon.com) Lutheran Theological Seminary at affecting the construction of religion? Philadelphia, 7301 Germantown, Where does the public get their under- Philadelphia, PA 19119, USA; W: 215- standing of religion? To what extent is this 248-4616; [email protected]. informed by academia? 3) How do various communities contest and utilize scholarship Papers are welcome addressing challenges to concerning their religious life? liberalism from liberation theologies, post- colonial theories, post-Eurocentric theolo- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: gies, etc., and liberal responses. Papers may OP3 consider the liberatory dimensions of liber- alism as expressed in theology’s relations to politics, economics, and history; the ways Daoist Studies Consultation in which theological liberalism conveys a prophetic message; and the intersection in Louis Komjathy, Shandong University, Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and other reli- [email protected]. Jonathan gious traditions between liberalism and cul- Herman, Georgia State University, tural/political concerns. For a joint session [email protected]. with the Martin Luther King Jr. Consultation, we invite papers on how the The Daoist Studies Consultation invites connections between African-American panel and/or paper proposals on the follow- thought and 20th-century liberal theologies ing topics: 1) Daoist mysticism; shaped the modern civil rights movement ✷ ✷ and “nature natured” as providing the occasion 2) Daoism(s) in North America (including New Program Unit and how they may build coalitions that are for semiotic plenitude — the resonating rich- popular culture); 3) Daoism in East Asia; Contemporary Islam prophetic in intellectual and practical ways. ness encountered in sacred places and sacred and 4) Daoist material culture. We also Consultation Papers are particularly welcome that focus moments. To explore the dynamics of sacred welcome proposals on different topics. on figures, groups, and movements meld- Rosalind Gwynne, University of Tennessee, space and time, the Contemporary Pagan Please submit panel and paper proposals via ing these concerns (e.g., King and SNCC). Knoxville, [email protected]. Richard Martin, Studies Consultation seeks papers that examine the AAR OP3 system no later than March Emory University, [email protected] the experience of the holy, the persistence of 1, 2006. If you have any questions or addi- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: commemorative celebration, and the attraction tional suggestions, please contact Louis The consultation encourages proposals in OP3 of pilgrimage and numinous places within the Komjathy or Jonathan Herman. all areas that broadly fall under the rubric context of popular culture and spiritual ecolo- of contemporary Islam, referring to the SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: gy. In connection with the AAR 2006 overall period of the last two centuries. These theme, papers that explore an African dimen- OP3 Open and Relational include, but are not limited to, the realms sion are particularly welcomed. Other thematic of: gender debates in contemporary Islam; Theologies Consultation areas include the Euro-American arena and the global spread of Revivalist/Salafi move- Thomas Jay Oord, Northwest Nazarene global environment as a religious concern, as ments; movements of Islamic reform; Islam Death, Dying, and Beyond University, [email protected]. well as papers that focus on contemporary in North America: immigrant Islam, pagan studies in general. Consultation “What God Does, Might, or Cannot Know African-American Islam, etc; and contem- Christopher Moreman, St. Francis Xavier about the Future.” Open and relational porary Muslims in minority settings SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: University, [email protected]. Kathleen theologies are distinguished by their claim (Europe, South Asia, etc.). The consulta- OP3 Garces-Foley, California State University, that God does not foreordain or foreknow tion welcomes proposals from all geograph- Northridge, [email protected]. all things that will occur in the future. The ical areas, as well as a variety of approaches, future is genuinely open. This belief affects which utilize textual, ritual, institutional, We invite papers addressing: 1) The politics how one might think about eschatology, etc. perspectives. We are also interested in ✷ New Program Unit ✷ of death and memorialization, with possi- prayer, ecological responsibility, etc. Given proposals that engage the members of the ble topics including international disaster Coptic Christianity particular beliefs about God’s power, AAR who are not Islamic studies experts, response, public memorials, and the funer- Consultation nature, and relation to time, however, per- e.g., pedagogy panels on how to incorpo- als of public figures such as Rosa Parks and haps God may know some things about the rate material from contemporary Islam into Lois Farag, Luther Seminary, Princess Diana; 2) Fear and attraction to future. And given beliefs about God’s religion courses. [email protected]. the dead, with possible topics including promises, purposes, and love, perhaps God contact with the dead in popular entertain- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: A new consultation on Coptic Christianity knows other things about the future. We ment or religious practices; 3) Views of the extends a warm invitation for paper proposals invite papers that use resources from scrip- OP3 afterlife, with possible topics including on the subject of Coptic monasticism. tures, theological traditions, science, and afterlife beliefs across religious traditions, Submission on the early, medieval, and mod- philosophy to explore what God does, across cultures, or across time periods; and ern periods are encouraged, with special atten- might, or cannot know about the future. 4) Papers or panels that critically reflect tion given to monastic literature, theology, Contemporary Pagan Studies upon the ramifications of the mass media- SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: material culture, and the role male and female Consultation tion of death and dying on television, monks have played in society. The field of Internet, and film for a possible co-spon- OP3 Wendy Griffin (California State University, Coptic studies intersects with a variety of aca- sored session with the Religion, Media, and Long Beach), 739 Junipero AVE, Long demic areas, and the organizers want to culti- Culture Consultation. We also welcome Beach, CA 90804, USA; W: 562-985- vate interdisciplinary contributions by both papers on other themes dealing with death 5798; H: 562-434-7338; F: 562-985-1868; graduate students and established scholars. and religion. [email protected]. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: In Nature’s Religion (1997), Robert Corrington OP3 discerns the coinciding of “nature naturing” OP3 18 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Queer Theory and LGBT ✷ New Program Unit ✷ ✷ New Program Unit ✷ The Sacred Space in Contemporary Asia Studies in Religion Religion in Europe Consultation Rethinking the Field Consultation solicits papers that employ a Consultation Consultation broad range of methodological approaches Robert E. Alvis, St. Meinrad School of to the study of sacred sites in the pan- Melissa M. Wilcox, Whitman College, Theology, [email protected]. Andrii Bradley Herling, Boston University, Core Asian sphere today. Special consideration Religion Department, 345 Boyer AVE, Krawchuk, University of Sudbury, Curriculum, 685 Commonwealth AVE, will be given to the following topics: 1) Walla Walla, WA 99362, USA; W: 509- [email protected]. Room 119, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Islam in Asia; 2) Pilgrim’s progress/ 527-5247; F: 509-527-5039; [email protected]. digress?; 3) Lies, legends, and histories in The Religion in Europe Consultation is [email protected]. the narrative construction of sacred sites; devoted to the interdisciplinary study of reli- The Rethinking the Field Consultation, a 4) Outer/inner landscapes (in possible The Queer Theory and LGBT Studies in gion in relation to the social, cultural, and program unit designed to promote intellectu- conjunction with the Tantric Studies Religion Consultation invites proposals on political evolution of Europe. We welcome al engagement primarily (but not exclusively) Consultation); and 5) Other topics wel- all issues relating to the connections papers on any religion connected to Europe among graduate students in the study of reli- come, especially women’s issues, urbaniza- between LGBT studies, queer theory, and in any historical period, and we encourage gion, invites proposals for the subfields to be tion, tourist/environmental challenges to the study of religion, especially those submissions from a variety of disciplines, discussed during our session this coming year sacred sites in Asia today. Full panel pro- focusing on non-Christian religions. Of including political science, history, sociology, (last year’s session was devoted to Philosophy posals are also welcome. E-mail co-chairs particular interest in 2006 are the follow- anthropology, law, philosophy, and theology. of Religion and Religion and Literature). The for initial inquiries; abstracts of 150 words ing topics: 1) Intersections of religious and This year we are especially seeking proposals consultation is committed to innovative and and proposals of 1,000 words should be scientific perspectives in the construction on the following themes: 1) Religion, law, and interactive forms of programming: proposals submitted via OP3. of gender and sexuality, especially in the definition of identity in Europe; 2) The from prospective conveners (a maximum of response to Joan Roughgarden’s Evolution’s moral dimensions of memory and forgetting two conveners for any given topic, preferably SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Rainbow; 2) Gender diversity and gender in relation to European conflicts; 3) Religion graduate students) should briefly justify the OP3 transgression in holy figures; and the evolving conceptualization of choice of the selected discipline and include a 3) Secularization and sexuality; “Europe” and/or the “West.” In light of the plan for one half of the session, lasting (continued on p.20) 4) Academic and activist perspectives on regional focus of the 2006 meeting, we also approximately one hour and fifteen minutes, the relationship between sexualities, gen- welcome papers that explore religious linkages that will promote interaction with and ders, and religions in Africa; and between Europe and Africa. among the audience members. Possible sen- 5) Queer/LGBT issues in Pagan studies. ior respondents may also be identified, and KEY TO SYMBOLS: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: the consultation steering committee will SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: OP3 assist in inviting them to participate. OP3 = Surface mail SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Religion, Media, and Culture OP3 ✷ ✷ •= Fax New Program Unit Consultation Religion and Colonialism Stewart Hoover, University of Colorado, OP3 Consultation Sacred Space in = OP3 [email protected]. Michele Rosenthal, Contemporary Asia Mark Elmore, University of North University of Haifa, [email protected]. Florida, [email protected]. Caleb Elfenbein, Consultation The consultation invites submissions of indi- University of California, Santa Barbara, Steven Heine, Florida International = E-mail vidual papers and panels that further our the- [email protected]. University, [email protected]. Pamela oretical, empirical, and historical understand- Winfield, Meredith College, The Religion and Colonialism ings of religion, media, and culture. Although [email protected]. = E-mail with attachment Consultation invites papers on the theme relevant papers and panels on any topic will of “colonialisms of modernization.” In be considered, this year we are particularly particular, we are interested in proposals interested in the following areas: 1) that examine how strategies designed to Transnational African media and religious “modernize” colonial and postcolonial effects; 2) The role of the media in (un)civil subject populations envisioned, forged, religion; 3) Religious and secular bias in the and transfigured existing “religious” beliefs media; 4) Media, propaganda, and religion in and practices. We welcome proposals the public sphere; and 5) Theories of media- employing historical, ethnographic, philo- tion and the study of religion, media, and cul- sophical, or other methodological ture. In addition, we solicit papers or panels The Committee on approaches. Further, we encourage sub- that critically reflect upon the ramifications of missions from diverse geographic areas the mass mediation of death and dying on Teaching and Learning including Africa, the Middle East, Asia, television, Internet, film, etc., for a possible and the Americas. co-sponsored session with the Death, Dying, and Beyond Consultation. seeks nominations for the SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: OP3 2006 AAR Award for OP3 Religion and Sexuality Excellence in Teaching. Consultation ✷ New Program Unit ✷ R. Marie Griffith, Princeton University, Religion, Public Policy, and [email protected]. Catherine Roach, Political Change Nominations of winners University of Alabama, [email protected]. Consultation We invite proposals on religion and sexuality, of campus awards, Joe Pettit, Morgan State University, broadly conceptualized and focused on ques- [email protected]. tions of why and how sex matters for particu- or any other awards, lar religious persons, communities, or tradi- For our inaugural session this year we will tions. Topics may be historical or contempo- have a panel discussion by leaders in reli- rary, and we especially encourage interdiscipli- gious studies and public policy that will are encouraged. nary approaches, interest in gender (broadly not involve a general call for papers. In defined), and strong attention to theoretical addition, however, we plan to co-sponsor and methodological issues. We welcome pro- a session with the Religion, Politics, and posals for papers or full sessions on all topics the State Group. For this purpose we seek Procedures for the nomination under this rubric. This year we particularly proposals for individual papers or paper encourage submissions that treat sexuality in sessions that present critical analyses (not process are outlined on the Islam and/or in regions beyond the United narratives) of actual faith-based political States; we are also interested in topics pertain- efforts. Papers might present ethical or ing to debates over marriage and the politi- sociological analysis, but we are especially AAR Web site at cization of sexuality. We welcome innovative interested in political analyses that consid- program formats that allow for in-depth dis- er reasons why these efforts were or were www.aarweb.org/awards/ cussion and hope to foster cross-cultural not successful. approaches to this subject. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: teaching.asp. SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: OP3 OP3

January 2006 RSN • 19 AAR NEWS

Tantric Studies Consultation rights movement. We especially encourage proposals that bring into conversation vari- Glen A. Hayes, Bloomfield College, ous expressions of African-American reli- Department of Religion, 467 Franklin ST, gious thought with themes of nonviolence, Bloomfield, NJ 07003, USA; W: 973-748- liberal and postliberal theologies, justice, 9000 x236; [email protected]. and social transformation. The consultation The Tantric Studies Consultation invites will also be hosting a panel discussion on papers and preformed panels dealing with the theme “Quest for the Postmodern King: recent research in Tantric studies, including The Theological Legacy of Martin Luther AMERICAN ACADEMY OF RELIGION but not limited to the following topics: King, Jr. at the End of History.” 1) Tantric studies and cognitive science; SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: 2) “Outer/inner landscapes” (with Sacred Fostering excellence in the study of religion Space in Contemporary Asia Consultation); OP3 3) Tantra and new religions (co-sponsored with New Religious Movements Group); 4) Intersections of yoga and tantra (with ✷ New Program Unit ✷ The Theory and Practice of Yoga Visit Consultation); 5) Embodiment of deities, Theory and Practice of Yoga spirits, and transpersonal realities; Consultation 6) Medical tantra and healing; 7) Reading www.aarweb.org Stuart Ray Sarbacker, Northwestern and reinterpreting tantras; 8) Senses and the University, Department of Religion, 4-140 transcendent — consciousness and the Crowe Hall, 1860 Campus DR, Evanston, body; and 9) Reading tantric images. The ➣ Extensive online teaching resources at our IL 60208, USA; W: 847-491-2615; consultation supports the collaboration of [email protected]. Christopher Virtual Teaching and Learning Center and the scholars in Tantric studies that crosses the Key Chapple, Loyola Marymount AAR Syllabi Project traditional boundaries of research based on University, Department of Theological geographic regions, specific traditions, and ➣ Access to members-only pages, including: Studies, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA; W: academic disciplines. It is a cross-cultural 310-338-2846; [email protected]. ➣ Electronic library of issues of the Journal of and cross-disciplinary enterprise. All propos- the American Academy of Religion and als must be made through the AAR’s OP3 This new consultation seeks to elucidate Religious Studies News online system. historical and philosophical issues related to the theory and practice of yoga in its histor- ➣ SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: Membership directory ical contexts and contemporary manifesta- ➣ Employment information from OP3 tions. We are interested in proposals that Openings address thematic issues in the study of yoga and those that address issues of sectarian ➣ Listing of events and opportunities and religious identity associated with yoga. ✷ ✷ for scholars of religion from New Program Unit For 2006, we especially welcome proposals In the Field Theology of Martin Luther relating to the following topics: 1) Buddhist ➣ King, Jr. Consultation and Jaina yoga; 2) The “dark side” of the Online Annual Meeting guru; 3) Meditation and ethics in yoga; 4) Johnny B. Hill and Henry J. Young, Program Book Late medieval to early modern yoga; and 5) Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Yoga and Tantra. We particularly welcome ➣ Surveys of religion and 2121 Sheridan RD, Evanston, IL 60201, proposals that address issues such as the USA; W: 847-971-9897; johnny.b.hill@ theology programs relationship between theory and practice in sbcglobal.net. sectarian traditions and the pervasiveness of With the joint session of the Liberal spiritual and religious ideologies in manifest Theologies Consultation and the Theology or latent form within contemporary yoga. of Martin Luther King, Jr. Consultation, we SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED VIA: invite papers on the connections between King’s thought and 20th-century liberal the- OP3 www.aarweb.org ologies focusing on their unique theological contributions in fueling the modern civil

New Departments and Programs: BE COUNTED! If you are a member of an undergraduate department or program of religion that was established after 1999, please contact Kyle Cole, AAR’s Director of College Programs, in order to be included in the 2005 Survey of Undergraduate Religion Programs. You may reach him at [email protected] or 404-727-1489.

The survey needs your input!

20 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

In Memoriam Henry Luce III

Philanthropist and publisher Henry Luce ship, and his contributions are remem- “It was in his role as senior officebearer of so concrete a memorial to his energy and III, who gave generously to theological bered with gratitude and celebration,” said the Henry Luce Foundation that the commitment.” education interests, died September 7, Daniel Aleshire, executive director of ATS. Center of Theological Inquiry owes its In 2003, AAR and SBL hosted a reception 2005. Luce was chairman emeritus of the “[He] devoted almost 50 years of his life greatest debt of gratitude to Hank Luce. at the Luce Center to honor Luce. At that Henry Luce Foundation, having served as to the work of the foundation created by The foundation funded the building of time, we unveiled a dedicatory plaque for chairman from 1990 to 2002 and as presi- his parents in honor of his grandparents, the center’s home, Luce Hall in Princeton, the entrance hallway, which reads, “In dent and chief executive from 1958 to who had been Presbyterian missionaries in opened in 1984 in memory of his father. tribute to successive generations of the 2002. China. A fine portrait of Henry R. Luce in the Luce Family and the Luce Foundation for public rooms serves to remind succeeding Luce served many years in leadership roles “Through those years, he supported the their vision, leadership, and generosity in generations of scholars-in-residence from at Time magazine, and was the son of the foundation’s initial commitments in theo- support of the study of religion and theol- around the world of the living legacy of founder and editor-in-chief of Time Inc., logical education, the arts, and Asian stud- ogy.” Hank Luce and his family in the fine Henry R. Luce. In 1969, he became pub- ies. As the foundation’s assets grew building and international ethos of this James L. Waits, president emeritus of FTE lisher of Time, where he’d worked as a cor- through the years, he guided efforts that unique center for advanced study in theol- and former executive director of ATS, said respondent covering national and interna- made significant and continuing contribu- ogy.” Luce’s contributions to the field were tional news, and served as vice president tions in these areas.” extensive. “Hank Luce was an important and director of research and development The AAR has been a beneficiary of Luce’s William F. Storrar, director of the Center friend of religion and theological educa- of Time. He also was instrumental in plan- generosity. The Luce Center, where the for Theological Inquiry, said Luce was one tion,” Waits said. “A churchman himself, ning and supervising the construction of AAR’s offices are located, is named for the of the founding trustees of the Center of his contributions to excellence in ministry the Time-Life Building at Rockefeller Luce family, following a major gift from Theological Inquiry who responded to the through the FTE and the Center of Center in Manhattan, and was publisher the foundation. Over the years, the foun- call of James McCord, then president of Theological Inquiry at Princeton were an of Fortune magazine. dation has supported AAR teaching work- Princeton Theological Seminary, to estab- enormous influence, and his support of shops, and most recently, the AAR Career Luce’s philanthropy in theological educa- lish an independent and ecumenical insti- creative programs, arts in religion, and Guide for Racial/Ethnic Minorities in the tion is far-reaching. The Henry Luce III tution for advanced theological research in theological studies was groundbreaking for Profession. Fellows in Theology program at the Princeton in 1978. this field. His patronage of the arts gener- Association of Theological Schools is “We in the AAR have been blessed by ally was sustained and far-sighted.” “Hank Luce gave generously of his time named in his honor, and he was a guiding Henry Luce III’s vision and commit- and talents to the foundation and devel- Luce is survived by his wife, Leila Hadley presence in the formation of the Center of ment,” Barbara DeConcini, AAR execu- opment of the center,” Storrar said. “He Luce, two children, a brother, and many Theological Inquiry at Princeton tive director, said. “This beautiful build- was a supportive friend of CTI over his 27 other family members. ❧ Theological Seminary; the Henry Luce III ing, which houses AAR, SBL, and the years of service on the Board of Trustees, Library at PTS was dedicated in 1994. Fund for Theological Education, is a testa- latterly as chair of its development com- ment to his enduring influence in religion “Henry Luce III has been a friend of theo- mittee. and theology. We are honored to inhabit logical education and theological scholar-

The American Academy of Religion is pleased to announce the results of the elections for 2006. A total of 1,680 votes were cast.

President: Diana Eck President-Elect: Jeffrey Stout Vice President: Emilie Townes Student Director: Davina Lopez

January 2006 RSN • 21 AAR NEWS

In Memoriam Robert W. Funk

Robert W. Funk, founder of Scholars Press and the Jesus Seminar, died September 3, 2005, at his home in Santa Rosa, Bob Funk: California. Funk, 79, was one of the most influential religion scholars in the An Interview with James Wiggins world, taking his — and others’ — schol- arship beyond academia and into the James B. Wiggins is Professor Emeritus at contentious and difficult event for public arena. Syracuse University, where he was chair of the Religion Department from 1980– both organizations, and deeply hurt Funk was born July 18, 1926, in him personally. Overtures of reconcili- Evansville, Indiana. He received his PhD 2000. He served as Executive Director of the American Academy of Religion from ation over the years since then never in 1953 from Vanderbilt University, and completely healed his wounds. was a faculty member of Texas Christian 1983 until 1992. RSN: Discuss the impact Funk has University, Harvard Divinity School, RSN: Tell me about Robert Funk’s had on religion scholarship, with par- Emory University, Drew University, role in the founding of Scholars Press. Vanderbilt Divinity School, and the ticular emphasis on his work with the How important was that for the aca- University of Montana, where he found- Jesus Seminar. ed the Religious Studies Department with demic study of religion? Wiggins: Funk became convinced colleague Ray L. Hart. He is survived by Wiggins: Bob Funk realized that after departing from Scholars Press his wife, Charlene Matejovsky, two the Council for the Study of Religion that scholarship had to be taken to the daughters, and three grandchildren. was concentrating significant near con- public in more direct and effective trol of the scholarly world of the aca- Religious Studies News invited long- ways than many scholars were capable time colleagues Hart, James B. Wiggins, demic study of religion in the late of doing or interested in doing. He and John Dominic Crossan to share their 1960s. The CSR had become the generated the Westar Institute and thoughts on Funk’s life and legacy. depository of membership data for Polebridge Press to become vehicles for both the AAR and the SBL; it was the attempting to do what he was deter- agency that had responsibility for all mined to try. The Jesus Seminar was the logistics of the annual meetings of one project within that larger project the AAR and SBL. Honest to Bob (Westar). Few undertakings by scholars Funk was the SBL executive secretary have had greater visibility or evoked In Memory of Professor Robert W. Funk from 1968–1973, and had moved such widespread public interest and By John Dominic Crossan, DePaul University from the faculty of Vanderbilt awareness. The publication of the University’s Divinity School to the translations of the Five Gospels that University of Montana with Ray Hart, came out of the Jesus Seminar was a his colleague dating back to their time very significant event. John Dominic Crossan, Professor Emeritus In that same period, Bob left Vanderbilt together at Drew University and at DePaul University, delivered this address Divinity School, where he had been from RSN: Describe Funk’s contribution Vanderbilt. Funk persuaded the at a session on November 21, 2005, at the 1966 to 1969, to found along with Ray to raising awareness of the academic University of Montana printing Society of Biblical Literature’s Annual Hart the Department of Religious Studies study of religion. Meeting. He is a former co-chair of the Jesus department to assume responsibility at the University of Montana, where he Seminar and a former chair of the for the publication of the journals of Wiggins: In my opinion, Funk’s remained until his retirement in 1986. Historical Jesus Section of the Society of the SBL and the AAR, strengthened contribution to raising awareness of That deliberate move from divinity school Biblical Literature. by Hart’s appointment as editor of the academic study of religion has to state university revealed much more JAAR by President Jack Neusner. hardly been matched by anyone else in clearly what was behind all those SBL the last 35 years. Both through the I became a member of the Society of changes as far as Bob himself was con- Funk envisioned a new entity to be conception of Scholars Press and then Biblical Literature in 1964, which meant cerned. named Scholars Press (founded in the Westar Institute, Funk refused to that my first experience of the Annual 1972) that would make the societies I first came to know Bob by working fairly surrender to the religious right in their Meeting was sitting in classrooms at Union fully in control of all their publications closely with him during the 1970s — years mastery of the public media. Instead Theological Seminary — one for Old and would expand them greatly vitally important for the SBL’s future and he has brought careful scholarly con- Testament papers and one for New through the primary plan of scholars for Bob’s career. Between 1972 and 1976 I clusions to the attention of the public. Testament papers — staying at a nearby assuming the roles of more traditional was chair of the Parables Seminar — a Martin Marty, though different in hotel, and doing all of that between presses — editorial decisions, acquisi- seminar proposed not by me but by Bob almost every way, has probably been Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. I was tions, copy editing, etc. — and would and Norman Perrin. And between the only major competitor for this then still a monk and would have preferred expand the categories to include genres 1974–1980 I was, along with other col- title. to stay in my Chicago monastery than in a not often picked up by commercial leagues, an associate editor as Bob founded New York hotel under those conditions. If presses, such as dissertations and very RSN: What, in your opinion, is the journal Semeia. It was only then that I that was to be the future of my life in the specific monographs. Both the AAR Funk’s most enduring contribution to slowly realized that Bob’s vision for the SBL, I dreaded even to think about it. and the SBL significantly did increase the field? future of biblical studies was a breakout their publications and thereby their Between 1968 and 1973, Bob was execu- from the closed world of academic scholar- Wiggins: Imagination, thinking visibility and attraction in the academ- tive secretary of the SBL and, under his ship towards a lay audience eager to under- outside the parameters of received ic world at a time when the academic brilliant leadership, the Annual Meeting stand what was happening. That is my opinion, lasting scholarly works. study of religion was growing through- changed forever into what most of us now basic understanding of Bob’s basic inten- out higher education. RSN: How was Funk as a teacher? A experience every year. The venue became a tion and fundamental purpose. He colleague? A friend? hotel rather than a seminary and the pro- believed that the Bible and its interpreta- Initially under Funk, Scholars Press gram diversified into sections, consulta- tion were too important to be nothing assumed responsibility for arranging Wiggins: I never experienced Funk tions, and seminars. Then in 1974 Bob more than a playing field for scholarship. annual meetings for the two organiza- as a formal teacher, although through created Scholars Press and was its director tions, and during that period the basic contacts with him over a number of In theory, of course, the seminaries and until 1980. That represented a total format for the programs of both soci- decades and with several of his writ- divinity schools were supposed to train remake of the SBL and I, for one, am eter- eties was established and has largely ings, I learned of his meticulous atten- ministers and pastors in biblical scholarship nally grateful to Bob for that “extreme been left in place ever since. In short, tion to scholarly detail and his high and they, in turn, were supposed to teach makeover.” Scholars Press took the academic study expectations of his students. I was not and put into parish practice the implica- of religion in new, creative, and expan- a close friend either, but in our contin- It would, however, be very inaccurate and tions of all that research. But, like all other sive directions under Funk’s leadership uing occasional contacts over the inadequate to think that Bob’s purpose in trickle-down theories, it was not working. and vision during the decade of the decades, including most recently a those changes was simply to make the SBL Maybe the professors could not teach or ’70s. Of course, many leaders in both memorial weekend with him two years more like most other learned societies or the ministers could not preach but, for the AAR and the SBL shared the ago in Santa Clara, I found him win- simply to improve the society’s annual whatever reason, the power of the biblical vision and worked diligently to actual- some, charming, full of great good meetings, research programs, or publica- vision was not reaching the laity — except ize it. Funk’s departure from Scholars humor, a generous and consummate tion options. All of that was intended, to maybe as literalism or fundamentalism. Press — shortly after its move to host, and a bon vivant. I will miss him be sure, but there was something even In 1980 Bob was fired as director of Chico, California, from Missoula, greatly. ❧ more fundamental driving Bob in wrench- Scholars Press and he broke completely Montana, in 1980 — was a highly ing the SBL (kicking and screaming?) into with the SBL. I have never heard the full the late twentieth century. See CROSSAN p.23

22 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Robert W. Funk: Selected Memories CROSSAN, from p.22 Bob’s argument was that it was not ethi- cally correct to keep saying and dis- By Ray L. Hart, Boston University story of that breach from either side, and cussing in scholarship what we were not I never heard Bob speak about either willing to state in public discourse. To Scholars Press or the SBL again (that is my mind, that was the single point on just my own experience). In founding which we all agreed in starting the Jesus Ray L. Hart is Dean and Professor of offices and Bob took all the SBL publica- the Westar Institute, Polebridge Press, Seminar. Philosophy of Religion and Theology at tions; by then he was executive director of and eventually the Jesus Seminar in Boston University School of Theology. He SBL as well. Most of these activities were An extremely literalist and fundamental- 1986, Bob was recreating in microcosm has taught at Drew University School of funded through the departmental budget. ist understanding of the Christian Bible Theology, Vanderbilt University Divinity what he had helped create in macrocosm is presently dominant not just in many School, the University of Montana at Scholars Press began from the financial exi- with the SBL itself. He once told me American denominations and churches, Missoula, the State University of New York gencies of AAR and SBL publication pro- that, before the break, he had imagined a but as the basis of matters from medi- at Stony Brook, and now at Boston grams. The cost of publishing even slim vol- Jesus Seminar inside the SBL just as cine through education to foreign policy. University. umes of JAAR and JBL were then exorbitant another of its standard seminars. I do Bob’s vision of a laity schooled in biblical (the experience of other learned societies as not know when that would have been or scholarship — schooled, that is, in an well). So through the genius of Al Madison, whether there are any documents about I am in my 49th year of teaching and admin- alternative understanding of the Bible director of the University of Montana Press, it in the SBL files. istering within five institutions in American based on historical context — is even all printing of AAR and SBL publications higher education; for over 30 of those years, With that triple creation, Bob’s hope to more desperately needed right now than was done on site. At the end of my decade as in three institutions (Drew, Vanderbilt, break biblical studies out into the lay when Bob created the Jesus Seminar in editor of JAAR we had quadrupled the size of University of Montana), Bob Funk was my world was triumphantly successful. Our 1986. But, it is his abiding success to the journal and yet the annual cost was less colleague and friend at the closest of quarters. colleagues who said the Jesus Seminar have informed a laity inside and outside than it was with the original printer on issues We met at Drew in 1956, I a theologian and was after publicity were, of course, churches all over this country about that one-fourth the size (the same was true of philosopher, he a scholar of classics and New absolutely correct. That was our purpose. alternative vision. ❧ JBL). Scholars Press emerged “naturally” Testament. Like his venerated mentor at from this process, and Bob was its originat- Vanderbilt, Kendrick Groebel, Bob was early ing and guiding hand. He brought in the obsessed with Bultmann (whose work I did- other major humanistic learned societies as n’t really know); unlike any of my Yale men- sponsors through our respective work in the tors, I was deeply “into” Martin Heidegger American Council of Learned Societies. I do WHEN JOURNALISTS CALL (whom Bob didn’t really know). I claimed he not trust myself to start talking about the couldn’t really know Bultmann without demise of Scholars Press, but it is a disaster knowing Heidegger; he claimed I couldn’t for the field, and nobody knows this better know where Heidegger led theologically Get tips on responding than young, aspiring scholars. without knowing Bultmann. So for two years, over brown-bag lunches, we read Bob Funk was a visionary, and I think it will Click on “Scholars Only” at Bultmann and Heidegger (in German) be a long time before the mark he has made together, “going to school to each other” (his on the field becomes obvious. He and I www.religionsource.org conviction, and mine, as to what challenging organized the first International Congress in colleagues are “for”). Religious Studies in Los Angeles in 1972, long before AAR and SBL made efforts to We also shared a common although dissimi- Find out incorporate international members into the lar preacademic background: Bob referred to national meeting. He encouraged and facili- both of us as “born-again boy evangelists.” ☛ tated regular intercourse between the com- How journalists work and what He had been a revival preacher, I a revival mittees and boards of SBL and AAR, and song leader. We joked that when we sickened they find most useful those of other humanistic learned societies. of academic life or flunked out, whichever Above all, he was devoted to the formation came first, we would catch the bus for ☛ of younger scholars in the field, getting the How to deal with broadcast media Valdosta, Georgia, head for the Gospel Tent habits of scholarship and publishing Co., buy ourselves a big tent, and hit the ingrained in them early on. He did this not ☛ How to get your points across and sawdust trail again. Bob came out of the only with his own graduate students, but Alexander Campbell tradition of biblical lit- wanted the learned societies to provide them what to avoid eralism/fundamentalism, I out of a liberal with lifelong venues and structures for con- (remember?) “social gospel” brand of tinuing these habits. ☛ How to take initiative with the media Methodism. I never quite understood his passion to “defeat the bastards” (aka, funda- As a teacher Bob was demanding but in ☛ mentalism), an enduring passion that I think unconventional ways: he often said one has And more! is the root inspiration of his founding of the to catch students “off guard” to get them out Jesus Seminar once he left the academy. He of accustomed patterns of thinking. He always despised the reluctance of academic refused to teach such standard courses as biblical scholars to speak to the “consuming” “The Life and Teachings of Jesus.” For that religious public, preferring only to do aca- course he substituted “The Parables of Jesus.” demic-speak amongst themselves. I say For the first month students read only Kafka “never quite understood his passion” for and Borges; he told them if they couldn’t “defeating” the biblical literalists because of understand their parables, they couldn’t pos- Provided free by the American Academy of Religion his answer to my question once put to him: sibly understand Jesus’s. While Funk (with When will the hordes of students who want James Robinson, who was a colleague of his to study the Bible wither? His answer: When at Emory) had much to do with “the new there are no more fundamentalists! In eco- Quest of the Historical Jesus,” I think it is nomic terms, he addressed the matter of his work on the parable as a distinctive mode demand by attempting to destroy the source of discourse and instruction that will be his of supply (assuming his understanding of most enduring contribution. As for manner, what the source of supply actually is)! I remember many times overhearing students who would knock on his door and, when he Drew University in those days had, in my came out, ask him, “Are you busy?!” To judgment, the best theological faculty in the which he invariably responded, “Of course I country (under the leadership of Bernhard am. Aren’t you?” Then he would smile and The AAR Public Understanding of Religion Committee “Barney” Anderson as dean). In 1963 Drew say, “But I’m never too busy to discuss with threatened to come apart at the seams owing invites nominations and self-nominations for the Martin E. you what you’re busy with,” and ask the stu- to manipulation of the theological school’s dent to come into his office. He frequently Marty Award for Contributions to the Public endowment by senior university officers, and said that the best way to teach a student is to I left for Vanderbilt. In 1964 Bob joined me Understanding of Religion. The award is intended to bring invite him/her to look over his shoulder at Vanderbilt (the remainder of the Drew fac- while he worked. greater recognition to scholars whose relevance and eloquence ulty also departed), replacing his beloved Groebel. By then I was actively engaged in Like any professor who is always “up to speak not just to scholars, but more broadly to the public as AAR, and Bob was chair of the SBL something” substantive, Bob made enemies. well. Nominees for this award do not have to be AAR Publications Committee. He and Jacob The only thing more difficult than being his Neusner, president of AAR, connived to enemy was being his friend. He exacted far members. Nominate online at www.aarweb.org/awards/marty appoint me as editor of JAAR in 1969. more of his friends than of his enemies. or mail the name of nominee, his or her affiliation, and sup- Sensing a sea change in religious studies at There is but one question of such a friend: Is the beginning of a decade of rapid expansion, he worth the candle? That’s a question over porting information so that it is received by February 3, I decided in that year to go to the University which I never hesitated: He is. ❧ 2006, to Marty Nominations, AAR, 825 Houston Mill Road, of Montana to found and chair a new Department of Religious Studies, and Bob Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA. went with me. I took the JAAR editorial

January 2006 RSN • 23 Ad F-Sau Salam AD

24 • January 2006 RSN 2005 ANNUAL REPORT A Message from the President

Dear AAR freestanding annual meeting after 2007 19 new units that will meaningfully lowing general notions of thoughtful exec- Colleagues and may be realized. From the time the deci- enrich future annual meetings. I have utive searches, first spent considerable Friends, sion was made, awareness prevailed that every reason to anticipate continuing posi- time discussing the qualities and qualifica- the new type of annual meeting must tive and significant outcomes. tions that are needed at this particular I am pleased to enhance, rather than impoverish, its rich- juncture. The committee began to evalu- share with you a A second item of great importance over ness and quality in two respects — by ate candidates for the executive director report of the work the past months has been Barbara speaking to the needs of those who bene- position this fall. of the American DeConcini’s decision to step down from fited from the availability of sessions on Academy of her position as executive director of the We support the AAR because we realize biblical studies and of those whose fields Religion during AAR next year. Barbara has been our exec- the need for a professional and scholarly have had little presence at the annual this past year. utive director since 1991, and these years association in the field of religion. While meeting. Both the Board of Directors and This work has been done, once again, have been marked by a dynamic expan- the AAR intersects directly with our roles the Program Committee have remained through the involvement of countless sion in all areas of Academy activities. as scholars and teachers, this connection is alert to this challenge. AAR members who serve on committees, Many important features of the AAR not always readily seen. I want to assure read papers at regional gatherings or the Last year’s report of the task force chaired today — the enhanced grants and publica- all of you that those who serve in leader- annual meeting, or contributed, beyond by Judith Berling and distributed to all tion programs, Religionsource, data collec- ship roles in the AAR are committed to their regular dues, to the Academy Fund members offered some illustrative sugges- tion and services to departments, and the making the Academy play an ever-increas- of the AAR. Our association would not be tions on how the range of papers and ses- Academy Fund, to name but a few — ing part in our professional lives. as robust and dynamic as it is were it not sions at the annual meeting can be broad- bear Barbara’s mark. During the summer I Faithfully yours, for the support that many of you offer. So ened. At the same time, the task force appointed a search committee, composed I begin with a word of deep appreciation. challenged all AAR members to creative of exceedingly talented and committed thinking with regard to these areas. Many colleagues, to find a successor to Barbara. The main effort during the past months proposals for new program units and ses- The public announcement of the opening has gone into serious and specific reflec- sions have been submitted, and the brought a great many applications and Hans Hillerbrand tions on how the positive potential of a Program Committee has already approved nominations. The search committee, fol- President ❧ Centennial Strategic Plan 2004 –2009 Vision 3. To facilitate our members’ profession- use of adjunct teachers, the erosion of 6.To enhance the international dimen- al development. tenure, the growing corporate culture sion of the AAR. The American Academy of Religion (AAR) is in college and university administra- 4. To develop programming and partici- By its nature, the academic study of the preeminent scholarly and professional tion); keeping members apprised of pation in AAR regional groups. religion is an international enterprise. society in the field of religion, recognized as such developments; and taking action What is more, enhancing the AAR’s the field’s leader in critical scholarship; teach- 5. To advance publication and scholarly whenever appropriate on behalf of the international connections is increasing- ing and learning about religion; and resources communication in the field. field and its professors. ly important for the work of religion for pedagogy, programs, the professoriate, and 6. To contribute to the public under- 3. To enhance the identity of the AAR scholars and the flourishing of the field the public understanding of religion. standing of religion. within the larger scholarly community. itself in today’s interconnected world. Mission 7. To welcome into our conversation the As the field of religion continues to 7.To diversify the Academy’s leadership various voices in the field of religion develop and to change its contours, and nurture leaders for the future. In a world where religion plays so central a and to support and encourage diversi- there is growing interest and need to At the same time that colleges and role in social, political, and economic events, ty within the Academy. relate the field to cognate fields. At universities are decreasing their his- as well as in the lives of communities and the same time, we have not yet made 8. To enhance awareness of the interna- torical support of scholarly societies, individuals, there is a critical need for ongoing a thoroughly convincing case for our tional context for the study of reli- the AAR’s growth and ambitious pro- reflection upon and understanding of reli- field within the liberal arts setting, gion and to increase involvement in gramming need more dedicated and gious traditions, issues, questions, and values. among college and university admin- the AAR by scholars and teachers competent volunteers to provide The American Academy of Religion’s mission istrators and colleagues. from around the globe. intellectual and strategic leadership. is to promote such reflection through excel- 4.To clarify the identity and mission of As the field’s contours continue to lence in scholarship and teaching. 9. To advance and secure the future of the AAR vis-à-vis other scholarly soci- change and succeeding generations of the academic study of religion. As a learned society and professional associa- eties in religion, holding stand-alone scholars and teachers join the tion of teachers and research scholars, the annual meetings beginning in 2008. Academy, it is important to nurture American Academy of Religion has over Strategic Objectives and cultivate new cadres of leaders, Currently the number of scholarly 9,500 members, most of whom teach in both regionally and Academy-wide, As we prepare for the Academy’s centenni- societies dedicated to the study of more than 1,500 colleges, universities, semi- and to foster greater racial, ethnic, al in 2009, 100 years from the founding religion is growing, and on a global naries, and schools in North America and and gender diversity in the field and of its predecessor organization, we identify scale. Some have a general focus; oth- abroad. The Academy is dedicated to further- the Academy. To remain vital, the the following strategic objectives. The ers very specific areas of interest. In ing knowledge of religions in all their forms AAR must regularly review organiza- attention given to these objectives simply order to insure a fruitful interaction and manifestations. This is accomplished tional structures to assure access and highlights them for special focus within with these societies, it is important through Academy-wide and regional confer- openness to change, as well as conti- the AAR’s continuing commitment to cur- that the AAR have a clearly defined ences and meetings, research support, publi- nuity and tradition. rent and ongoing programs and services. identity and mission of its own. cations, professional development and out- 8.To prepare for the AAR’s centennial reach programs, and member services. 1.To attract new members to the AAR. 5. To foster scholarly interaction among in 2009. all approaches to the study of religion, Within a context of free inquiry and criti- The notable growth of the AAR including the ethical and theological The forthcoming AAR centennial cal examination, the AAR welcomes all membership over the past ten years perspectives that arise within particu- offers the opportunity to strengthen disciplined reflection on religion — from still leaves many scholars and teachers lar religious traditions. Our objective the institutional memory of the both within and outside of communities in the field of religion unaffiliated is to welcome reflection from within Academy and to take steps to maxi- of belief and practice — and seeks to with the AAR. Both the field and the and among particular religious tradi- mize continuing leadership and serv- enhance its broad public understanding. Academy will be stronger and intel- tions into our conversation. ice in the field far into the future. lectually richer if these colleagues Goals choose to join our ranks. As the Academy continues to grow in 9.To enhance the financial security of size and scope, it is important that the AAR. 2.To enhance the role of the AAR in the To accomplish this mission, the AAR sets the AAR stand-alone meeting not be profession. The AAR’s continued striving toward forth the following goals: misunderstood as a gesture in favor of excellence as the leading scholarly and As a professional association, the AAR any single approach to the study of 1. To promote research and scholarship professional association in the field of includes among its primary responsi- religion. The AAR must make ever in the field of religion. religion is related to the financial bilities collecting and analyzing data clearer its mission to welcome critical resources available to imagine and 2. To foster excellence in teaching and about the field; monitoring trends in reflection from all scholarly vantages undertake these and other emerging learning in the field. the profession that affect individuals and perspectives, from both within objectives. ❧ and departments (e.g., the increasing and outside of living faith traditions. January 2006 RSN • 25 AAR Annual Report

A Message from the Executive Director

Dear AAR having achieved financial stability and commitment, prodigious accomplishment, To me, Raymond, you represent the best Colleagues and impressive increases in membership. I will and steady support: Judith Berling, Robert in our Academy and our field. Friends, leave to others the task of taking the meas- Neville, Edith Wyschogrod, Catherine I have come to understand that the tru- ure of how we have grown since then — Albanese, Peter Paris, Lawrence Sullivan, I love Henry ism, “Wisdom is knowing the time that as a field and as a scholarly society — in Robert Detweiler, Judith Plaskow, David Thoreau’s belongs to things,” is as applicable to the members, programs, resources, outreach, Margaret Miles, Ninian Smart (dec.), simple way of lives of organizations as it is in our own and visibility. For my part, I welcome this Rebecca Chopp, Vasudha Narayanan, summing up his lives. Thoreau understood when it was opportunity to acknowledge a few of the Robert Orsi, Jane McAuliffe, and Hans Walden venture. time to leave his green world: “It is hundreds of AAR members who have Hillerbrand. “I went to the remarkable how easily and insensibly we worked with me to envision and nurture woods,” he writes, How I wish I could name here every col- fall into a particular route, and make a our accomplishments. “because I wished to live deliberately.” league with whom I have had the honor beaten track for ourselves.” He understood And later, “I left the woods for as good a In last year’s Annual Report, I introduced of serving on the Board, on committees that new trails all too quickly become reason as I went there. Perhaps it seemed to you each current AAR executive office and task forces, as editors and award well-worn paths. It is time for fresh winds to me that I had several more lives to live, staff member, with whom I have lived and jurors, and in Annual Meeting program to blow and new gifts to be brought to and could not spare any more time for worked in recent years and who continue unit leadership! At any one time, a stun- bear, time to welcome new leadership in that one.” to amaze and delight me with their devo- ning 10% or more of our members engage the AAR executive office. I ask you to join tion to our common work. Now it is time in leadership and service positions in the me in proffering hospitality and full-throt- Over the years, these words have held for a little retrospective. AAR. You are the people who make the tled support to our next AAR Executive peculiar resonance for me in my own pas- Academy work. Director. sages in life. As I write this letter to mem- Our “small but mighty ”original team in bers in September 2005 at the start of my the Atlanta office — Warren Frisina, As is perhaps not infrequently the case in For my part, I intend to embrace T. S. final year as AAR Executive Director, my Ondina Gonzalez, and Bradley Herling — member organizations, the person who Eliot’s advice: “Old men ought to be mind and heart are replete with begin- remain to this day the best colleagues I has in my experience contributed the most explorers.” Old women too! For now, nings and endings, memories and imagi- have ever had the privilege to work with to the Academy — and certainly to me — then, les cérémonies des adieux. There is a nations. And so I ask your leave for reflec- in a long career. Warren, Ondina, and during the past 14 years has worked quiet- lot still for us to do in this final year of tions that are more personal than is tradi- Brad are — each one of them — already ly and without sufficient recognition. It is my tenure as AAR Executive Director. I tional in an Annual Report. accomplished scholars and gifted adminis- my honor to acknowledge him here. relish all of it. And I will take my leave trators. I cherish their friendship, and I Raymond Williams gives fresh meaning to having “learned by heart” that it has been In September 1991, I began this work in a cherish them. the phrase “a gentleman and a scholar.” a privilege and a joy to serve this field and flurry of activity. We were relocating the His contributions to our life and work are this association that I love. AAR offices from Syracuse to Atlanta. The Academy has been blessed with like the sands of the sea. To name just a There were staff to hire, office space to extraordinary leaders as presidents during Yours, few: strategic planning, teaching work- find, furniture and equipment to buy, and my tenure. Unlike most association presi- shops in all ten regions, regional direction, so much to be learned. While in many dencies, the AAR’s is not only an honor AAR governance restructuring, leadership ways we felt like explorers, starting from that marks a distinguished career, but also of the officer nominations process, and scratch, in the most important sense we a heavy burden of work over several years board service for well over ten years. were not. Thanks to the fine work of my of service. As I know so well and want Beyond this, I have counted on his predecessor, James Wiggins, and the group everyone to understand, our presidents are Barbara DeConcini integrity and called repeatedly upon his of AAR leaders who worked closely with unparalleled among our collegial learned Executive Director ❧ capacious understanding of the field and him, the AAR was a strong organization, societies in all they do. I am deeply grate- of organizations, his generous service, and in the midst of its first capital campaign, ful to each of you, for your consistent wise counsel more times than I can count.

Governance and Structure New AAR Committees and Task Forces 2005 Board and Committee Members Academic Relations the AAR and the academy as a whole. The Douglas R. McGaughey, Willamette GSTF has developed as the result of the Board of Directors University Committee Board’s initiatives in the 1990s to be more Mary McGee, Columbia University In April 2005, the AAR Board approved intentional in including student members Officers standing committee status for the in the formal planning and structure of the Linda A. Moody, Antioch University, Los Hans J. Hillerbrand, President, Duke University Academic Relations Task Force. The com- AAR. To achieve this goal, the Board for- Angeles mittee is charged to promote attention to mally authorized the Student Liaison Diana L. Eck, President-Elect, Harvard Corrie Norman, Converse College and develop resources for enhancing mem- Group (SLG), representing institutions University bers’ professional development and the granting PhDs in religion and theology Peter J. Paris, Princeton Theological Jeffrey Stout, Vice President, Princeton institutional forms within which the study (most from North America with a few Seminary University of religion takes place. To fulfill its charge from abroad). The SLG serves as a vital Jacqueline Z. Pastis, La Salle University the Academic Relations Committee gener- link between the AAR and students in Michelene Pesantubbee, Secretary, ates programs, undertakes studies, articu- graduate programs. The representatives University of Iowa Stacy L. Patty, Lubbock Christian lates best practices, and develops electronic answer questions, provide guidance, and University Barbara DeConcini, Treasurer, American and other resources for the undergraduate introduce students to the AAR. The SLG Academy of Religion Mark Lloyd Taylor, Seattle University and graduate study of religion. has become a strong contributor to Annual Meeting programming, sponsoring up to Deanna A. Thompson, Hamline University This committee’s work has become an inte- eight sessions per meeting. The GSTF will Members gral part of the Academy’s work. Since the Glenn E. Yocum, Whittier College work with the SLG, as well as other stu- task force began in 1999, this group has Rebecca T. Alpert, Temple University dent members, to implement its plans. promoted religion as a major field of study Carol S. Anderson, Kalamazoo College and as a central component of the liberal Standing Committees arts. The task force spearheaded the data Theological Education Linda L. Barnes, Boston University studies of the field and has generated a Academic Relations and College Theology Kimberly Bresler, Princeton University number of programs and activities aimed at Fred Glennon, Chair, Le Moyne College providing support and guidance for depart- Steering Committees Francis X. Clooney, Harvard University Richard Carp, Appalachian State ment chairs and other institutional leaders This year the AAR launched the Dena S. Davis, Cleveland-Marshall University in managing and strengthening their aca- Theological Programs Initiative (TPI), College of Law demic units. which seeks to offer programs, services, and Chester Gillis, Georgetown University resources to faculty in theological educa- Frederick M. Denny, University of Laurie L. Patton, Emory University Graduate Student tion and theology. Two steering committees Colorado, Boulder are being formed to give guidance to this Chung-fang Yu, Columbia University Eugene V. Gallagher, Connecticut College Task Force initiative — one in theological education and one in college theology. ❧ Fred Glennon, Le Moyne College At its November 2004 meeting, the AAR Executive Board approved the creation of the Kwok Pui Lan, Episcopal Divinity School Hans J. Hillerbrand, Chair, Duke Graduate Student Task Force (GSTF). The Jane Marie Law, Cornell University University GSTF addresses the needs and concerns of graduate students and promotes their pro- Jane Dammen McAuliffe, Georgetown Carol S. Anderson, Kalamazoo College fessional development and participation in University Francis X. Clooney, Harvard University

26 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Diana L. Eck, Harvard University Public Understanding Graduate Student Elizabeth Barre, Florida State University Eugene V. Gallagher, Connecticut College Whitney Bauman, Graduate Theological of Religion Kimberly Bresler, Chair, Princeton Union Kwok Pui Lan, Episcopal Divinity School Theological Seminary Dena S. Davis, Chair, Cleveland-Marshall Matt Blackmon, Dallas Theological Seminary Jane Dammen McAuliffe, Georgetown College of Law Richard Amesbury, Valdosta State University University Annie Blakeney-Glazer, University of Michael Barkun, Syracuse University Bradley L. Herling, Boston University North Carolina, Chapel Hill Michelene Pesantubbee, University of Iowa Shaun Casey, Wesley Theological Seminary Melissa Johnston-Barrett, Emory University Kathryn Blanchard, Duke University Jeffrey Stout, Princeton University David G. Hackett, University of Florida Maurice Lee, Yale University Jillian Brown, Luther Seminary Debra Mason, Religion Newswriters Finance Julianne Buenting, Chicago Theological Association Religion and Seminary Barbara DeConcini, Chair, American Sarah Pike, California State University, Chico Disabilities Academy of Religion Charles Camosy, University of Notre Dame Kerry Wynn, Chair, Southeast Missouri Robert D. Flanigan, Jr., Spelman College Donna DeSarro-Raynal, Union Theological Regions State University Seminary and Presbyterian School of Eugene V. Gallagher, Connecticut College Stacy L. Patty, Chair, Lubbock Christian Kent A. Eaton, Bethel Seminary, San Diego Christian Education Margaret Healy, Rosemont College University Mary Jo Iozzio, Barry University Darren Josico Dias, University of St. Mark Lloyd Taylor, Seattle University Linda L. Barnes, Boston University Michael’s College, Toronto School of F. Rachel Magdalene, Appalachian State Theology Jacqueline Z. Pastis, La Salle University University International Nathan Eric Dickman, University of Iowa J. Eric Pridmore, Drew University Connections Status of Racial and Miriam Perkins Fernie, Catholic University of America Mary McGee, Chair, Columbia University Ethnic Minorities Religion in the Schools Meredith Hammons, Vanderbilt University Elias Bongmba, Rice University in the Profession Marcia Beauchamp, Chair, California Kwok Pui Lan, Chair, Episcopal Divinity Institute of Intergral Studies Jennifer Hart, Indiana University Jonathan Brockopp, Pennsylvania State School University Betty DeBerg, University of Northern Iowa Laura Hartman, University of Virginia Karen Baker-Fletcher, Southern Methodist Jin Hee Han, New York Theological Seminary Bruce Grelle, California State University, Chico Rosemary Hicks, Columbia University University Richard Jaffe, Duke University Stephanie McAllister, Brookline High School Johnny Hill, Garrett-Evangelical Miguel De La Torre, Iliff School of Theological Seminary Nancy M. Martin, Chapman University Theology Diane L. Moore, Harvard University H. Chad Hillier, Toronto School of Theology Laura Donaldson, Cornell University Timothy L. Morehouse, Trinity School Nominations Natalie Houghtby-Haddon, George Daisy L. Machado, Texas Christian Washington University Peter J. Paris, Chair, Princeton Theological University Awards for Excellence Seminary Craig Hovey, Cambridge University Anthony Pinn, Rice University M. David Eckel, Coordinator of Juries, Harold G. Coward, University of Victoria Boston University John A. Jones, Marquette University James Donahue, Graduate Theological Status of Women Shawn Krause-Loner, Syracuse University Union Analytical–Descriptive Studies in the Profession Chrissy Lakusta, University of Calgary, Alberta Catherine M. Bell, Santa Clara University Nancy Frankenberry, Dartmouth College Rebecca T. Alpert, Chair, Temple Laurie Lamoureux Scholes, Concordia Laurie L. Patton, Emory University Jane Dammen McAuliffe, Georgetown University University University Steven Wasserstrom, Reed College Mary C. Churchill, University of Iowa Day Lane, University of Missouri, Kansas City Constructive–Reflective Studies Program Alice W. Hunt, Vanderbilt University Jay Laughlin, University of Washington Linell E. Cady, Arizona State University Janet R. Jakobsen, Barnard College Davina C. Lopez, Union Theological Barbara DeConcini, Chair, American Julia A. Lamm, Georgetown University Seminary Academy of Religion Stephanie Mitchem, University of South Carolina Dale S. Wright, Occidental College Saneta Maiko, Concordia Theological John Cavadini, University of Notre Dame Seminary Karen Pechilis Prentiss, Drew University Michel Desjardins, Wilfrid Laurier University Historical Studies Mariana Mastagar, Trinity College, Gwendolyn Zoharah Simmons, University Anne M. Blackburn, Cornell University Diana L. Eck, Harvard University University of Toronto of Florida Bruce B. Lawrence, Duke University Hans J. Hillerbrand, Duke University Katelyn Mesler, Northwestern University Laurie Maffly-Kipp, University of North Jane Dammen McAuliffe, Georgetown Teaching and Learning Ann M. Michaud, Fordham University Carolina, Chapel Hill University Eugene V. Gallagher, Chair, Connecticut Jarett Myskiw, University of Manitoba Michelene Pesantubbee, University of Iowa College Best First Book in the Kirsten Oh, Fuller Theological Seminary Jeffrey L. Stout, Princeton University Nicola Denzey, Harvard University History of Religions Kevin Osterloh, Princeton University Emilie Townes, Union Theological Seminary Joyce Burkhalter Flueckiger, Emory University Karen McCarthy Brown, Chair, Drew Ryan Overbey, Harvard University Nellie Van Doorn-Harder, Valparaiso University Tazim Kassam, Spotlight Editor, Syracuse University Myron Penner, Purdue University University Glenn E. Yocum, Whittier College John Carman, Harvard University, emeritus Josh Peskin, Stanford University Sheila McGinn, John Carroll University Thomas P. Kasulis, Ohio State University Santiago Pinon, Jr., University of Chicago Publications Timothy M. Renick, Georgia State Ursula King, University of Bristol University Grant H. Potts, University of Pennsylvania Francis X. Clooney, Chair, Harvard University Gerald J. Larson, Indiana University & Christina Reimer, University of Toronto Kimberly Ray Connor, Academy Series, University of California, Santa Barbara, University of San Francisco Ad Hoc Committees, emeritus Michelle Voss Roberts, Emory University Susan E. Henking, Teaching Religious Studies Bruce B. Lawrence, Duke University Robert Smid, Boston University Series, Hobart and William Smith Colleges Task Forces, and Juries Sherry A. Smith, McMaster University Jacob Kinnard, Cultural Criticism Series, Research Grant Jury Employment Samuel Snyder, University of Florida Iliff School of Theology Information Services Ellen T. Armour, Rhodes College Anais Spitzer, Pacifica Graduate Institute Kevin Madigan, Texts and Translations Advisory John Berthrong, Boston University Series, Harvard University Masen Uliss, University of California, Shelly C. Roberts, Chair, American Kathleen M. Erndl, Florida State University Santa Barbara Anne E. Monius, Texts and Translations Academy of Religion Series, Harvard University R. Marie Griffith, Princeton University Daniel Ullucci, Brown University Wade Clark Roof, University of James Wetzel, Reflection and Theory in the Patricia O’Connell Killen, Pacific Lutheran Elisabeth Vasko, Loyola University, California, Santa Barbara Study of Religion Series, Colgate University University Chicago Jason Steuber, University of Missouri, Glenn E. Yocum, JAAR Editor, Whitter David Wright, Drew University Kansas City College Student Liaison Group Stephanie Yuhas, Iliff School of Theology Laura Ammon, Claremont Graduate ❧ University

January 2006 RSN • 27 AAR Annual Report

Meetings

Annual Meeting The AAR Annual Meeting is large both in size and in complexity, from the number of regis- Independent Meeting trants, sessions, and exhibitors to the number of special workshops and conferences of related and New Program Units scholarly organizations. It is the largest scholarly conference on religion and, for the four days In 2003 the AAR Board of Directors approved the Centennial Strategic Plan, 2005 – of the conference, the largest religion “bookstore.” In 2005, the AAR program structure 2009. The plan calls for the Academy to begin holding independent annual meetings comprises 15 sections, 55 groups, 1 seminar, and 16 consultations, for a total of 87 program in 2008. A 2004 Task Force on the Independent Meeting made recommendations on units. Plenary lectures, arts events, business meetings, professional development sessions, and how best to implement this decision. The task force presented recommendations to a whole range of special events for various constituencies enhance the program. Twenty-two the AAR Board of Directors in 2004, and every AAR member received a copy of this scholarly organizations have formal ties with the Academy, and some 88 others hold their report early in 2005. The report addresses the future structure of the annual meeting meetings at the AAR conference. ❧ program, enhanced programming, and a phased program expansion over the next several years. Annual Meeting Registration Trends, 2000–2004 The report’s recommendations center on ameliorating the losses that will occur, 10,000 increasing the scope of the offerings, and diversifying the program format. A timeline 9,000 for implementing the program recommendations is included. The task force also rec- 8,000 ommends that a similar task force be formed in 2014 to review the process once 7,000 again. In September 2005, the Program Committee approved the following 19 new 6,000 program units for 2006: 5,000 4,000 Bible in Racial, Ethnic, and Indigenous Practical Theology 3,000 Communities 2,000 Religion in Europe Bible, Theology and Postmodernity 1,000 Religion, Public Policy, and Political Change 0 Biblical/Contextual Ethics AAR SBL Dual Registrants Other Total Religions in Chinese and Indian Cultures: A Nashville 2000 3,216 2,321 1,395 1,389 8,321 Denver 2001 3,965 2,721 157 933 7,776 Buddhist Critical-Constructive Reflection Comparative Perspective Toronto 2002 4,145 3,086 404 982 8,617 Atlanta 2003 4,278 2,847 828 799 8,752 Buddhist Philosophy Science, Technology and Religion San Antonio 2004 3,987 3,018 531 830 8,366 (expansion of Religion and Science Christianity and Academia Group) Comparative Religious Ethics Annual Meeting Sessions by Program Unit, 2000–2004 Signifying (on) Scriptures Comparative Theology 300 Theology of Martin Luther King, Jr Coptic Christianity 250 World Christianity Especially for Graduate Students Yoga in Theory and Practice ❧ 200

150 Related Scholarly Organizations 100 The American Academy of Religion welcomes opportunities to cooperate with organizations whose missions are similar to our own. The Board has formally recognized the following 50 organizations: 0 Special Topics Sections Groups Consultations Total Forums (STF) Association of Practical Theology Person, Culture, and Religion Nashville 2000 85 121 9 11 226 Denver 2001 87 115 18 13 233 Christian Theological Research Fellowship Schleiermacher Society Toronto 2002 88 131 18 13 250 Atlanta 2003 88 122 20 19 249 Evangelical Philosophical Society Société internationale d’études sur Alfred San Antonio 2004 84 135 22 25 266 Loisy Hermetic Academy Society for Asian and Comparative International Bonhoeffer Society: English Philosophy Future AAR Annual Meeting Dates and Sites Language Section Society for the Study of Chinese Religions 2006 Washington, D.C., November 18–21 The International Institute for Field-Being Society for the Study of Christian Spirituality 2007 San Diego, CA, November 17–20 International Society of Chinese Philosophy Society of Christian Spirituality 2008 Chicago, IL, October 25–28 Karl Barth Society of North America Society of Christian Philosphers 2009 Montreal, Canada, November 7–10 La Communidad of Hispanic Scholars Søren Kierkegaard Society 2010 Atlanta, GA, October 30–November 2 North American Association for the Study of Religion Theta Alpha Kappa 2011 San Francisco, CA, November 18–21 ❧ North American Paul Tillich Society Thomas F. Torrance Theological Fellowship ❧

Membership Trends 2006 Regional Meetings AAR membership has grown substantially since 1995, with 2004 membership figures over 28% higher than at the beginning of this ten-year period. The 2004 membership closed Eastern International Rocky Mountains–Great Plains May 5–6, 2006 March 24–25, 2006 just below the record high in 2003: total membership was down by only 8 members, driven Laval University Colorado College by a decline in student and retired members that slightly exceeded the rise in regular mem- Québec City, Canada Colorado Springs, CO bers. Additionally, the regular membership percentage has been expanding over the last five years, from 63% in 1995 to 2000, to the current 66%; typically just under a third of mem- bers are students, a figure that is on a downward trend at 29% this year. AAR membership Mid-Atlantic Southeast March 16–17, 2006 March 10–12, 2006 runs for the calendar year. ❧ Radisson Hotel at Cross Keys Marriott Century Center Baltimore, MD Atlanta, GA 10,000 9,000 Midwest Southwest 8,000 March 31–April 1, 2006 March 4–5, 2006 7,000 Chicago, IL Harvey Hotel, DFW Airport 6,000 Dallas, TX

5,000 New England–Maritimes

4,000 In 2006, the region will co-sponsor various Upper Midwest conferences proposed by regional members. March 31–April 1, 2006 3,000 Luther Seminary 2,000 Pacific Northwest St. Paul, MN 1,000 May 5–7, 2006 0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 Gonzaga University West Total 7,701 7,867 8,435 8,701 9,189 8,800 8,920 9,383 9,879 9,871 Spokane, WA March 11–13, 2006 Retired 354 404 435 458 448 445 501 551 548 536 Claremont Graduate University Student 2,484 2,482 2,702 2,721 2,975 2,772 2,581 2,786 2,917 2,852 Regular 4,863 4,981 5,298 5,522 5,766 5,583 5,838 6,046 6,414 6,483 Claremont, CA ❧

28 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Publications Tribute to Glenn Yocum JAAR Editors-Designate The Academy has colleagues as generous, collegial, and just. The been privileged to editorship of the journal is one of the most JAAR will be served by new edi- R. Marie Griffith, Princeton have Glenn Yocum important — and arduous — positions with- tors beginning in 2006. Charles T. University serve as the Editor in the Academy. As a major repository of the Mathewes, University of Virginia, of JAAR for 11 scholarship in our field, both reflecting and Jonathan Schofer, University of begins his duties as editor. His years (1995– shaping it, a scholarly society’s journal is (along Wisconsin, Madison research interests are religious 2005). During his with the Annual Meeting) the sine qua non of ethics and the history of Christian Mark Csikszentmihalyi, tenure, he has membership in the American Council of Anne E. Monius thought. University of Wisconsin, Madison broadened the Learned Societies. Because of this, the editor (photo not available) journal’s editorial must have an expansive and balanced under- Corey D. B. Walker, University of representation and standing of the field. Yocum combines such an Virginia, assumes the role of book Anna M. Gade, Oberlin College scholarship to include multiple and emerging understanding with an equally capacious gen- review editor. Critical religious (photo not available) sub-disciplines from a variety of scholars, per- erosity, an unfailing sense of responsibility, and and theological studies are the We are happy to remind members spectives, geographical regions, and institu- a gracious spirit. We honor his achievement focus of his scholarship. that back issues of JAAR can be tions. Glenn has been lauded by his editorial and his contribution. ❧ R. Marie Griffith Five new associate editors join the accessed online through ATLAS, journal staff: J-STOR, and Project Muse. ❧ Series and Editors Anne E. Monius, Harvard AAR’s book series, published by Oxford University Press, are thriving. Over the past year Divinity School six new titles have appeared, and 11 new titles were contracted. Oxford also publishes JAAR, for which library sales continue to grow. The Academy has published two issues of Spotlight on Teaching (“Embracing Disability in Teaching Religion” and “Reflections on a Teaching Career in Religion”) and four issues of the field’s newspaper of record, Religious Jonathon Schofer Studies News.

Academy Series Teaching Religious Studies Series James H. Foard, Arizona State University Kimberly Rae Connor Susan Henking American Studies Department of Religious Studies Mary McClintock Fulkerson, Duke University of San Francisco Hobart and William Smith Colleges University 2130 Fulton ST Geneva, NY 14456-3382 Volney Gay, Vanderbilt University San Francisco, CA 94117-1047 E-MAIL: [email protected] Eddie S. Glaude, Jr., Princeton University PHONE: 415-422-2869 Terry F. Godlove, Jr., Hofstra University FAX: 415-422-5036 Texts and Translations Series JAAR Editorial Board E-MAIL: [email protected] Sunil Goonasekera, University of Anne E. Monius EDITOR Peradeniya Harvard Divinity School Glenn Yocum, Whittier College Cultural Criticism Series 45 Francis AVE Yudit K. Greenberg, Rollins College Jacob N. Kinnard Cambridge, MA 02138-1911 EDITOR-DESIGNATE Christine Gudorf, Florida International Iliff School of Theology PHONE: 617-495-5736 University 2201 South University BLVD FAX: 617-496-0585 Charles Mathewes, University of Virginia William David Hart, University of North Denver, CO 80218 E-MAIL: [email protected] (2006 Editor-Designate) Carolina, Greensboro PHONE: 303-765-3164 Kevin Madigan Nancy Howell, Saint Paul School of Theology FAX: 303-777-0164 Harvard Divinity School ASSOCIATE EDITORS E-MAIL: [email protected] Martin S. Jaffee, University of Washington 45 Francis AVE Gary Laderman, Emory University Cambridge, MA 02138-1911 David Jasper, University of Glasgow Reflection and Theory in the Joseph L. Price, Whittier College Study of Religion Series PHONE: 617-496-6673 Mark Juergensmeyer, University of FAX: 617-496-8459 BOOK REVIEW EDITOR California, Santa Barbara James Wetzel E-MAIL: [email protected] Tazim R. Kassam, Syracuse University Villanova University Sheila Greeve Davaney, Iliff School of Zayn R. Kassam, Pomona College Department of Philosophy Publication Committee Chair Theology 800 Lancaster AVE Olga Kazmina, Moscow State University Francis X. Clooney, S.J. Villanova, PA 19085 Harvard Divinity School PRODUCTION EDITOR Hans G. Kippenberg, University of Bremen PHONE: 610-520-0560 45 Francis AVE Jessica Efird, Oxford University Press and University of Erfurt E-MAIL: [email protected] Cambridge, MA 02138 Kwok Pui Lan, Episcopal Divinity School PHONE: 617-495-5761 EDITORIAL BOARD Bruce Lincoln, University of Chicago E-MAIL: [email protected] ❧ Maria Pilar Aquino, University of San Diego Colleen McDannell, University of Utah John Barbour, St. Olaf College Margaret R. Miles, Graduate Theological Union Monographs under Catherine Bell, Santa Clara University Anselm Kyongsuk Min, Claremont Contract Maria Clara Bingemer, Pontifical Catholic Graduate University University of Rio de Janeiro Ebrahim Moosa, Duke University Carol S. Anderson, editor. Teaching about Brouria Bitton-Ashkelony, Hebrew Women and Religion. Vasudha Narayanan, University of Florida University of Jerusalem Michiaki Okuyama, Nanzan University Linda Barnes and Ines Talamantez, eds. Rudiger V. Busto, University of California, Robert A. Orsi, Harvard University Teaching Religion and Healing. Santa Barbara Peter J. Paris, Princeton Theological New Monographs Catherine Bell. Teaching Ritual. Caroline Walker Bynum, Princeton Seminary University Carolyn M. Jones and Theodore Louis Stephen C. Berkwitz. The History of the John K. Roth, Claremont McKenna College Trost, eds. Teaching African American Buddha’s Relic Shrine. José I. Cabezón, University of California, Religion. July 2005. Santa Barbara Abdulaziz Sachedina, University of Virginia David G. Bromley. Teaching New Religious Geoffrey Samuel, University of Newcastle Joy Ann McDougall. Pilgrimage of Movements. Linell Cady, Arizona State University Love: Moltmann on the Trinity and Elizabeth A. Castelli, Barnard College Mona Siddiqui, University of Glasgow Arnfridur Gudmundsdottir. Meeting God Christian Life. Oct. 2005. Brian K. Smith, University of California, on the Cross: Feminist Christologies and David Chidester, University of Cape Town Riverside Christian Moevs. The Metaphysics of the Theology of the Cross. Francisca Cho, Georgetown University Dante’s Comedy. March 2005. John Strong, Bates College Gerardus van der Leeuw. Sacred and Francis X. Clooney, Harvard Divinity Lucian Turcescu. St. Gregory of Nyssa and Profane Beauty. School Randall G. Styers, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill the Concept of Divine Persons. Feb. 2005. Paul B. Courtright, Emory University John L. Meech. Paul’s Story of the Self Richard Valantasis, Iliff School of Theology John Wall. Moral Creativity: Paul Ricoeur and Community. Barbara DeConcini, American Academy of and the Poetics of Possibility. Aug. 2005. Religion Manuel A. Vasquez, University of Florida Susanne Mrozik. Virtuous Bodies. Miroslav Volf, Yale Divinity School Donna Yarri. The Ethics of Animal James J. DiCenso, University of Toronto Habibeh Rahim. The Rasa ’El of Abdallah Experimentation: A Critical Analysis and Paul Dundas, University of Edinburgh Jace Weaver, University of Georgia Ansari. ❧ Constructive Christian Proposal. Aug. Jean Bethke Elshtain, University of Dale S. Wright, Occidental College 2005. Sara L. Rappe, trans. Damascius Chicago Problems and Solutions Concerning First Principles. ❧ January 2006 RSN • 29 AAR Annual Report

Grants and Awards

Research Grant Awards Excellence in Teaching Award Each year, the AAR awards some $50,000 to members in support of their research. Over the past 15 years, these grants have totaled close to three-quarters of a million dollars. The American Academy of Religion Award for Excellence in Teaching both recognizes Information on the proposal process can be found on the AAR Web site. Here we pres- the importance of teaching and honors outstanding teaching in the field. We congrat- ent this year’s awardees. ulate this year’s winner. Zayn Kassam, Pomona College Collaborative Jane Naomi Iwamura, University of Southern California Georges Dreyfus, Williams College, and Altared States: A Cultural History of the Martin E. Marty Public Understanding David Germano, University of Japanese American Home Shrine Virginia of Religion Award A Web-Based Study of Drepung Meritxell Martin-I-Pardo, The The Martin E. Marty Award for the Public Understanding of Religion, established in Monastery University of the South 1996, recognizes extraordinary contributions to the public understanding of religion. The Role of Multicultural Festivals in the Tomoko Masuzawa, University of The award goes to those whose work has a relevance and eloquence that speaks not Creation of Hindu Discourses of Michigan, and Jun’ichi Isomae, Japan just to scholars, but more broadly to the public as well. The contribution can be in Religious Self-Representation Women’s University any medium (e.g., books, films, TV, public speaking), so long as it is based on scholar- Modernity, University, the Science of David L. McMahan, Franklin and ship in religion. We congratulate this year’s awardee. Religion: History of the Study of Marshall College John L. Esposito, Georgetown University Religion in Japan, 1877–2000 The Making of Modern Buddhism Colleen McDannell, University of Utah Lori Pearson, Carleton College Ray L. Hart Service Award Catholics in the Movies Gendered Elements in Troeltsch’s Theories of Protestantism and Modernity The Ray L. Hart Service Award is given periodically in recognition of extraordinary Collaborators: contributions to the field of religion in and through the AAR. Robert Sklar, New York University Michael Penn, Mount Holyoke College Lary May, University of Minnesota Imaging Islam: Syriac Christian Judith Berling, Graduate Theological Union Judith Weisenfeld, Vassar College Responses to the Islamic Conquest Thomas Ferraro, Duke University Craig R. Prentiss, Rockhurst University Paula Kane, University of Media Awards “Terrible, Laughing God”: Challenging Pittsburgh Divine Justice in African-American Annually the AAR honors the best in-depth reporting on topics related to religion. Anthony Smith, University of Anti-Lynching Plays, 1916–1945 There are three contests. Our congratulations to this year’s winners. Dayton Theresa Sanders, Georgetown Timothy M. Renick, Georgia State University University News Outlets with more than 100,000 circulation Jeffrey Marlett, College of St. Rose Preemptive Justice? Just Cause, First Place Kimberly Winston, freelance, Pinole, CA Carlo Rotella, Boston College Unrealized Threats, and the Grounds Peter Gardella, Manhattanville of War Second Place Bill Tammeus, Kansas City Star College Omid Safi, Colgate University Third Place David Van Biema, Time James Fisher, Fordham University The Many Lives of Rumi — Textual and Tracy Fessenden, Arizona State Oral University News Outlets with less than 100,000 circulation Amy Frykholm, Colorado Julius N. Tsai, Texas Christian First Place Linda Leicht, The News-Leader, Springfield, MO Mountain College University Second Place Burton Bollag, Chronicle of Higher Education Timothy Meagher, Catholic The Cult of the Master in Late Tang University of America Daoism Third Place John Dart, The Christian Century Darryl V. Caterine, LeMoyne Hugh B. Urban, Ohio State University, College Columbus Opinion Writing Matrix of Power: Blood, Kingship, and First Place Steven Waldman, Beliefnet Individual Sacrifice in the Worship of Mother Second Place Tracey O’Shaughnessy, Sunday Republican, Waterbury, CT Grace G. Burford, Prescott College Goddess Kamakhya ❧ I. B. Horner and the Transmission of Third Place Douglas Todd, Vancouver Sun Buddhism to the West Jamsheed K. Choksy, Indiana University, Bloomington Book Awards Whither the Zoroastrian Minority The American Academy of Religion offers Awards for Excellence to recognize new Amidst Sectarian Sociopolitics in scholarly publications that make significant contributions to the study of religion. Contemporary Iran These awards honor works of distinctive originality, intelligence, creativity, and impor- tance — books that have a decisive effect on how religion is examined, understood, and interpreted.

Awards for Excellence 2004 Best First Book in the History of Religions Analytical– Sylvester A. Johnson. Descriptive The Myth of Ham in Nineteenth-Century Joanne Punzo American Christianity: Waghorne. Diaspora Race, Heathens, and the of the Gods: Modern People of God. Palgrave Hindu Temples in an Macmillan, 2004. ❧ Urban Middle-Class World. Oxford University Press, 2004.

Constructive– Reflective Robert Orsi. Between Heaven and Earth: The Religious Worlds People Make and the Scholars Who Study Them. Princeton University Press, 2004.

30 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News

Outreach

Resources for the Public National Association of Black Journalists, Religionsource in providing access to scholars the American Correctional Chaplains National Association of Hispanic Journalists, who can offer insight into issues involving reli- Association and the directors of chaplaincy This year Religionsource has responded to National Conference of Editorial Writers, gion and public affairs. programs for the Federal Bureau of Prisons and more than 1, 700 news queries, including jour- Public Radio News Directors Inc., Religion for six state prison systems attended four brief- nalists from ABC’s 20/20, American Journalism Eighty-three journalists — the most ever — Newswriters Association, and South Asian ings by AAR scholars. In addition, four other Review, Associated Press, Beliefnet, Canadian entered the 2005 contest for the AAR Awards Journalists Association. Religionsource staff briefings were presented for five FBI officials. Broadcasting Corporation, CBS Radio for Best In-Depth Reporting on Religion. The spoke to journalism students or fellows at the When the 2006 Annual Meeting takes place in Network, Chicago Tribune, Congressional judges were Mark Silk, former journalist and Poynter Institute, the Johns Hopkins School of Washington, D.C., the Library of Congress has Quarterly, Dateline NBC, Fox News, Life, Los now director of the Center for the Study of Advanced International Studies, and agreed to co-sponsor two forums at the Angeles Times, Minnesota Public Radio’s Religion in Public Life (Trinity College, Northwestern University. At annual meetings Library. Speaking of Faith, National Geographic, Hartford); Joyce Smith, former journalist and of the Canadian Society for the Study of Newsweek, Mother Jones, New York Times, now professor of journalism at Ryerson AAR members Paul Levesque and Sarah Pike Religion and of the Society for the NPR’s All Things Considered, PBS’s Frontline, University; and Michael Barkun, member of reviewed middle school social studies textbooks Anthropology of Religion and at an interna- Religion News Service, Reuters, Time, United the Committee on the Public Understanding currently proposed for adoption in California, tional conference on the Middle East and Press International, USA Today, Wall Street of Religion and professor of political science at whose texts are used in many states. They Central Asia, we offered Religionsource work- Journal, and Washington Post. Syracuse University. reported to the state curriculum commission shops on talking to the media. on the extent to which the textbooks meet Religionsource was promoted at annual confer- Twenty-five journalists attended the 2004 AAR Lilly Endowment Inc. has awarded the AAR a California’s standards for learning about reli- ences of the Asian American Journalists Annual Meeting, including journalists from three-year grant to support Religionsource. gion. AAR member Jeffrey Brodd monitored Association, Canadian Association of PBS, Beliefnet, Christian Century, Christianity The Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life is the commission’s hearings. ❧ Journalists, Association of Capitol Reporters Today, and the San Antonio Express-News. Also matching the grant, partnering with and Editors, Investigative Reporters & Editors, during the Annual Meeting, the president of

U.S. State Department The Department Tour For the fourth year in a row, over 20 profes- sors on a Fulbright program sponsored by versities that offer religion programs on University, and Richard M. Carp, Theological Programs the religion department of the University of the undergraduate level. For the first time, Appalachian State University. Additional California, Santa Barbara, visited the AAR Initiative the AAR is using an online format to panelists were Linell Cady, Arizona State executive offices in Atlanta. Executive office The AAR has launched a major new proj- gather the data. This longitudinal project University; Tom Coburn, Naropa staff made presentations on the evolution of ect for our members in the theological will compare how religion courses and University; Zayn Kassam, Pomona religious studies in North America, the cur- education community, the Theological faculty have changed since the 1999– College; Tom Kasulis, Ohio State rent regional demographics of American Programs Initiative (TPI). The TPI’s goal 2000 academic year, when the first such University; Dianne Stewart, Emory faith communities, and the role of the AAR is to enhance the Academy’s contribution survey was completed. We will be report- University; and Deanna Thompson, in the field. The professors were from facul- to the scholarly and professional lives of ing various data by Carnegie classification Hamline University. ties of law, language, and the humanities at theological faculty. Beginning last June, and aggregate numbers regarding religion At the Eastern International regional universities in Africa, Asia, and Eastern we have hosted a series of six regional majors, courses, departmental characteris- meeting, AAR sponsored a workshop on Europe. ❧ consultations — in Atlanta, Berkeley, tics, and enrollments. The surveys are part “Tenured Professor or Temp Instructor? Boston, Chicago, New York City, and of the signature program of the Lilly Maintaining the Profession in a Wal-Mart Philadelphia — to solicit ideas about new Endowment Inc.–funded Strengthening Economy.” Ten participants heard services, programs, and resources to meet College and University Programs in Richard Ohmann, Professor Emeritus of the needs of our theological constituency. Religion and Theology (SCURT) initia- English, Wesleyan University, and author tive. Data analyses will be published in The scholarly vocation of the theological of Politics of Knowledge [Wesleyan the October 2006 Religious Studies News educator and the varying contexts of the- University Press, 2003] and G. Victor and discussed at the 2006 Annual ological education are topics that helped Hori, former Graduate Program Director, Meeting in Washington, D.C. shape each discussion. Since faculty in Faculty of Religious Studies, McGill theological education invariably stand at University, discuss “Professional the intersection of theory and practice, Community College Standards in the Rationalized Academy.” the theory/praxis relation emerged as a Survey Following a round-table discussion, useful rubric for many of our conversa- Victoria Smallman, Professional Officer, tions. We heard from a broad range of For the first time, the AAR has surveyed Canadian Association of University educators, including faculty, deans, and community colleges to determine Teachers, and Marc Bousquet, presidents from the full gamut of institu- whether, where, and how religion is Department of English, University of tions: freestanding, denominational, and taught. In collaboration with the Louisville, and author of Tenured Bosses interdenominational seminaries; universi- Community College Humanities and Disposable Teachers [SIUP, 2004], ty divinity schools; theology departments Association, the AAR surveyed colleges to addressed “Temp Instructors: The New in colleges and universities; and theologi- gather information on courses, faculty, Academic Working Class.” A round-table cal institutes. and enrollments. discussion followed. We are in the process of forming a Theological Education Steering Leadership Virtual Teaching Committee to advise the AAR on poli- Workshops and Learning Center cies, practices, and programs. The data underpinning our efforts are drawn from At the 2005 Annual Meeting, the Under the guidance of the Teaching and three detailed demographic reports that Academic Relations Committee spon- Learning Committee, the online center identify where theology is taught in the sored a workshop on “Enlarging the Pie: consolidates the many curricular and ped- United States and who among our mem- Strategies for Managing and Growing agogic resources developed by the AAR bership teaches in the theological disci- Departmental Resources.” The workshop over the years and makes them more plines. As the Theological Programs addressed the increasing demands made widely available and usable in digitized Initiative develops, we will continue to on department chairs to cope with scarce form. The resulting Teaching & Learning work with our members, as well as with resources — economic, physical, and Center online data bank gathers impor- our colleagues in the Association of human. The following topics were dis- tant teaching tools in one searchable Theological Schools, to identify and pro- cussed. online location, making scholarly contri- mote concrete ways to buttress our servic- butions to teaching available to the entire • Defining a resource and determining es to the theological education enterprise field. To streamline updates to the center, the local environment — in our roles as convener, publisher, it is now being edited by Kyle Cole, validator, and facilitator of scholarship • Growing funds and physical space Director of College Programs, and the and the professional life. staff liaison to the committee. ❧ • Growing faculty and students Undergraduate • Budgeting and financial management Survey • Growing links to other departments Co-leaders of the workshop were The American Academy of Religion is in Timothy Renick, Georgia State the process of surveying the 1,100+ uni-

January 2006 RSN • 31 AAR Annual Report

The Profession POSITIONS CANDIDATES RATIO Job Classifications 2003 2004 2003 2004 2003 2004 The Job Market in Religion Administration (e.g., President, The AAR administers the Employment All candidates and employers registered for Dean, Director, Program Information Services for the field, providing the EIS Center select job classifications from Director, Coordinator) 1 1 0 0 1:0 1:0 opportunities for communication between a provided list. Candidates select the classifi- Ancient Near Eastern Languages N/A 0 N/A 0 N/A 0:0 employing institutions and candidates cations that they consider to be their special- Archaeology – Ancient Near East N/A 0 N/A 1 N/A 0:1 through Openings Online and the EIS Center ties, and employers select the classifications Archaeology – Greco-Roman N/A 0 N/A 0 N/A 0:0 at the Annual Meeting. that best fit the description of the available Arts, Literature & Religion 0 0 5 3 0:5 0:3 position. The chart to the right compares Openings Online appears monthly, offering the Asian Religions the candidates’ primary choices to those of most comprehensive listing available of faculty (general or not listed separately) 3 10 2 7 1:0.7 1:0.7 the employers. Because the chart includes and administrative positions for scholars in data about only the primary choices, when Biblical Languages N/A 1 N/A 1 N/A 1:1 the field. Candidates can conduct searches of drawing conclusions it is important to note Buddhism 1 2 7 11 1:7 1:5.5 the positions based on a variety of criteria, that many jobs fall under classifications that Catholic Studies 1 3 2 0 1:2 3:0 including the location of the position and the candidates are less likely to use to describe employer’s preferred subspecialty. They can Catholic Theology (all areas) 8 8 8 15 1:1 1:1.9 their primary field, but might well select as a choose to save particular ads to their personal- Central and South American and secondary or tertiary specialization (World ized “My Openings” Web page. Caribbean Religions 1 1 1 0 1:1 1:0 Religions, for example). Christian Ethics 5 5 25 28 1:5 1:5.6 The EIS Center serves hundreds of interested Additional data, including secondary and ter- scholars and employers by centralizing infor- Christian Studies 3 1 1 2 1:0.3 1:2 tiary classifications and job data from mation about position announcements and Christian Theology 1990–2002, are available upon request from candidate qualifications onsite at the Annual (general or not listed separately) 7 5 23 23 1:3.3 1:4.6 Shelly Roberts at [email protected]. Meeting. The center also facilitates the inter- Christian Theology: Practical/Praxis 0 0 8 8 0:8 0:8 view process by providing semi-private space EIS has also launched an effort to collect data Christian Theology: in the Interview Hall, arranging access to pri- on the outcome of searches conducted at Systematic/Constructive 5 5 35 26 1:7 1:5.2 vate interview rooms, administering a message EIS. Employers submit information about Critical Studies/Theory/Methods center for communication between candidates whether the position was filled, whether the in Religion 1 0 5 5 1:5 0:5 and employers, and offering programs on appointee was interviewed at the EIS Center, Classics N/A 0 N/A 0 N/A 0:0 career development. and the rank, position type, education, and gender of the appointee. Candidates are Comparative Religions 3 2 6 7 1:2 1:3.5 At the 2004 EIS Center, 115 institutions con- asked about their overall experiences of the Early Christianity/Church History N/A 0 N/A 12 N/A 0:12 ducted interviews for 140 positions. The total search process and whether they received an Early Judaism N/A 0 N/A 2 N/A 0:2 number of registered candidates was 442, and offer. Analysis of the resulting data will reveal the ratio of positions to candidates was 1:3.16. East Asian Religions the types of jobs offered and the characteris- The AAR collects statistics on the use of the (general or not listed separately) 4 3 3 5 1:0.8 1:1.7 tics of the successful candidates. Results will EIS Center. Candidates and jobs registered Editorial 0 0 0 0 0:0 0:0 be available in the EIS Center at the 2005 with EIS do not represent all jobs in religion, Epigraphy N/A 0 N/A 0 N/A 0:0 Annual Meeting. In December, results will be nor even all jobs advertised in Openings. They posted on the AAR Web site. Gay/Lesbian Studies in Religion 0 0 1 1 0:1 0:1 do, however, provide some indicator about the Hebrew Bible 9 9 48 34 1:5.3 1:3.8 state of the market. Hinduism 1 0 6 6 1:6 0:6 EMPLOYERS 2003 2004 History of Christianity/ Church History 3 7 24 30 1:8 1:4.3 Positions Registered 121 140 History of Religion (general) 0 4 5 5 0:5 1:1.3 Total Institutions Registered 98 115 Indigenous/Native/Traditional Religions 0 4 0 4 0:0 1:1 Preregistered 76 89 Introduction to Religion 0 0 2 1 0:2 0:1 Registered On-site 22 26 Islam 7 9 8 7 1:1.1 1:0.8 Ratio of Positions to Candidates 1:3.35 1:3.16 Judaism 1 2 5 2 1:5 1:1 Library 0 0 0 0 0:0 0:0 CANDIDATES 2003 2004 Missiology 1 0 0 2 1:0 0:2 Total Registered 405 442 New Religious Movements 0 0 0 0 0:0 0:0 Preregistered 331 368 New Testament 13 12 40 56 N/A 1:4.7 Registered On-site 74 74 North American Religions 3 4 15 21 1:5 1:5.3 Old Testament 4 1 9 31 1:2.25 1:31 Female Participants 144 145 Other 8 9 4 5 1:0.5 1:0.6 Male Participants 261 237 Pastoral Care 1 2 4 1 1:4 1:0.5 Did Not Report Gender 0 60 Philosophy of Religion 1 1 16 11 1:16 1:11 Preaching/Ministry 2 3 0 0 2:0 3:0 Ratio of Female to Male 1:1.8 1:1.6 Rabbinic Judaism N/A 0 N/A 1 N/A 0:1 Racial/Ethnic Minority Studies in Data Analysis Religion 1 1 3 5 1:3 1:5 Subfields with the most positions: Most common primary sub- Religious Ethics 3 3 10 14 1:3.3 1:4.7 fields of candidates: Religion/Theology: Two or • New Testament More Subfields 6 3 11 13 1:1.8 1:4.3 • Hebrew Bible/Old Testament • Asian Religions Second Temple Judaism N/A 2 N/A 4 N/A 1:2 • New Testament • Hebrew Bible/Old Testament Septuagint N/A 0 N/A 0 N/A 0:0 • History of Christianity/Church • South Asian Religions Social Sciences and Religion History • Islam (e.g., Religion & Society, • Christian Ethics Anthropology, Economics, • Christian Theology: Systematic Political Science, Psychology, Constructive Sociology) 1 1 7 8 1:7 1:8 South Asian Religions Also noteworthy are some of the ratios of employer classifications to candidate classifications. It (general or not listed separately) 6 10 5 14 1:0.8 1:1.4 is important to remember, however, that only primary classification choices are shown. Many Women’s Studies in Religion 1 0 4 1 1:4 0:1 jobs fall under classifications that candidates are less likely to use to describe their primary field, but might well select as a secondary or tertiary specialization (e.g., World Religions). World Religions 6 6 0 4 6:0 1:0.6 Not Reporting 0 0 47 5 0:47 0:5 Classifications with the highest Classifications with the lowest Total 121 140 405 442 1:3.35 1:3.16 job-to-candidate ratio: job-to-candidate ratio: • Catholic Studies • Early Christianity/Church History • Central and South American and • Christian Theology: Practical/Praxis Caribbean Religions Status of Racial and Ethnic Minorities • Administration • Hinduism Online Career Guide • Pastoral • Philosophy of Religion The Luce Foundation awarded the AAR a grant to support development of an AAR career • World Religions guide for ethnic and racial minorities. Under the editorship of Miguel De La Torre, the guide • Social Sciences and Religion ❧ has been completed and will be published in early 2006. Writers include members of the Committee on the Status of Racial and Ethnic Minorities in the Profession and other volun- 32 • January 2006 RSN teers. The guide will be previewed at the 2005 AAR Annual Meeting. Religious Studies News

Resources

Independent Accountant’s Report

To the Finance Committee American Academy of Religion Atlanta, Georgia We have audited the accompanying statements of financial position of the American Academy of Religion as of June 30, 2005 and 2004, and the related statements of activi- ties and net assets, and cash flows for the years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the management of the American Academy of Religion. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with U.S. generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Academy’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the American Academy of Religion as of June 30, 2005 and 2004, and the changes in its net assets and its cash flows for the years then ended in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Our audit was conducted for the purpose of forming an opinion on the basic financial statements taken as a whole. The additional information on pages 15 and 16 are pre- sented for the purpose of additional analysis and are not a required part of the basic financial statements. Such information has been subjected to the auditing procedures applied in the audit of the basic financial statements and, in our opinion, are fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole. September 12, 2005 Jones and Kolb, Certified Public Accountants

2005 2004 Unrestricted Temporarily Permanently Total Total Restricted Restricted 2005 2004

ASSETS REVENUES Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,351,647 $ 1,009,270 AND GAINS Marketable securities 5,730,484 5,468,879 Membership dues $ 648,925 $ - $ - $ 648,925 $ 633,188 Accounts receivable, net 42,529 12,107 Grants 167,000 167,000 569,779 Pew grant receivable 66,000 343,000 ARP dues 4,648 4,648 5,000 Prepaid expenses 40,545 45,748 Annual meeting 907,052 907,052 947,722 Furniture and equipment, net 28,596 31,713 Employment Share of Luce Center assets, net 2,180,710 2,212,231 information services 171,971 171,971 145,204 Total assets $ 9,440,511 $ 9,122,948 Label sales 49,104 49,104 63,364 LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS Advertising and publications 17,290 17,290 15,567 Liabilities Royalties 2,833 1,554 4,387 4,053 Accounts payable and accrued expenses $ 127,264 $ 95,969 Book sales 25,457 25,457 21,479 Accrued vacation 70,128 60,868 Contributions 34,667 2,391 37,058 35,846 Deferred revenue - memberships 305,956 294,997 Luce Center rental Deferred revenue - annual meeting 470,621 420,727 income 109,729 109,729 106,798 Total liabilities 973,969 872,561 Interest and dividends 120,441 31,892 152,333 117,363 Net assets released Net Assets from restrictions 420,255 (420,255) Unrestricted 6,178,747 5,782,302 Total revenues and gains $ 2,512,372 $(217,418) $ 2,294,954 $2,665,363 Temporarily restricted 1,187,795 1,368,085 Permanently restricted 1,100,000 1,100,000 Total net assets 8,446,542 8,250,387 Total liabilities and net assets $ 9,440,511 $ 9,122,948

January 2006 RSN • 33 AAR Annual Report

Unrestricted Temporarily Permanently Total Total 2005 2004 Restricted Restricted 2005 2004 EXPENSES Cash flows from operating activities Research and publications $ 167,038 - - $ 167,038 $ 274,365 Change in net assets $ 216,155 $ 744,818 Member services 307,193 307,193 263,270 Adjustments to reconcile change in net assets to net cash provided by (used in) Professional operating activities: development services 227,175 227,175 225,006 Depreciation 69,225 69,498 External relations 389,122 389,122 462,323 Unrealized (gain) loss on investments (146,132) (410,113) Annual meeting 600,444 600,444 612,231 Change in marketable securities (10,542) (10,959) Luce Center expenses 146,435 146,435 134,224 (Increase) decrease in receivables 246,578 201,357 General and administration 276,826 276,826 282,861 (Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses 5,203 (5,178) Fundraising 60,698 60,698 76,378 Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued expenses 31,296 (27,146) Total expenses $2,224,931 $2,224,931 $2,330,658 Increase (decrease) in accrued vacation 9,260 5,036 Change in net assets before investment Increase (decrease) in deferred revenue 60,853 42,337 gains 287,441 (217,418) 70,023 334,705 Total adjustments (265,741) (537,882) Net cash provided by (used in) Investment gains 109,004 37,128 146,132 410,113 operating activities 481,896 206,936 Cash flows from investing activities Change in Acquisition of equipment (8,938) (10,476) net assets 396,445 (180,290) 216,155 744,818 Purchase of marketable securities (130,581) (252,819) Net cash provided by (used in) investing activites ( 139,519) (263,295) Net assets Beginning of Net increase (decrease) in cash the year 5,782,302 1,368,085 1,100,000 8,250,387 7,505,569 and cash equivalents 342,377 (56,359) Cash and cash equivalents Net assets Beginning of year 1,009,270 1,065,629 End of the year $6,178,747 $1,187,795 $1,100,000 $8,466,542 $8,250,387 Cash and cash equivalents End of year $1,351,647 $1,009,270

[Note: Audit reports are accompanied by many pages of footnotes, giving further information and describing the accounting methods used. Please contact the AAR for these footnotes.]

Sources of Revenue Distribution of Expenses Marketing 3% Growth on Investments Fundraising 7% General and 3% Administration 12% Annual Meeting EIS Annual Meeting 28% 7% 39% Luce Center Luce Center 6% 5% Book Sales 1% External Relations Grant/Contributions 17% Research and 10% Publications 8%

Member Services Professional 14% Membership Dues Development Services 28% 12%

34 • January 2006 RSN Religious Studies News The American Academy of Religion deeply appreciates our loyal and generous contributors.

The Academy expresses our gratitude to the foundations that have supported our G. Byrns Coleman Bonnie Pattison Donald M. Braxton ✧ ✧ work during the last several years. Special appreciation goes to the boards and Reginald Crenshaw Michelene Pesantubbee Kimberly Bresler executive staffs of the following. Helen Crovetto Thomas V. Peterson Celia Brickman David R. Crownfield Mark Plaushin Jeffrey Brodd The Ford Foundation, Inc. David S. Cunningham Albert Plotkin Leila Leah Bronner The Henry Luce Foundation Edward E. Curtis Andrew P. Porter Jeanne M. Brown Gary Delaney Deangelis Sally M. Promey Jonathan Todd Brown Lilly Endowment Inc. Dedunupitiye Upananda • Rodney Purvis Don S. Browning The Pew Charitable Trusts Devin DeWeese Christopher Queen Pamela K. Brubaker Bert B. Dominy Anthony G. Reddie Sharon Peebles Burch AAR’s development activities are a crucial part of our programs and services. Joseph D. Driskill Fred N. Reiner Grace G. Burford Members’ and friends’ generous contributions to the Academy Fund year after Bruce Duncan Frank Reynolds Laura Busch • year support programs and important initiatives for religion scholars and the Riggins R. Earl Ralph Reynolds José I. Cabezón field. We are grateful for all contributions from members and nonmembers alike, Kent A. Eaton Marian Ronan Jacqueline Cameron whether these gifts come to us through membership renewals, Annual Meeting Edward J. Enright Letty M. Russell Melinda Campbell • registrations, direct mail solicitations, or spontaneous gestures of generosity. Eileen M. Fagan Judy Saltzman Juan E. Campo Most donors do not restrict their gifts, though the AAR also welcomes contribu- Charles Ferguson Lamin Sanneh Heyward Canney tions directed to special programs. Since membership dues accounted for 26% of Betty Ferrell • Richard S. Sarason Andrea Cartwright our annual budget in fiscal year 2005, all contributions to the Academy Fund Ina Ferrell Jonathan D. Sarna Steven Chase have a meaningful impact. Bernadette Flanagan Karen D. Scheib Dean Chiasson • The following list reflects donations received from July 1, 2004, through Amy Flynn • Stephanie Schlosser • Shin Young Choi • June 30, 2005. Please notify the AAR office of any incorrect listings, Andrew O. Fort Philip C. Schmitz B. Hyun Choo as we strive for accuracy in our records. Jerome A. Frumento A. Gregory Schneider Pamela Chrabieh • Richard Gelwick Susan L. Schwartz Judith F. Clark Members and friends who would like to remember the American Academy of Lynne Gerber • William Schweiker Paul Collins Religion in their wills or estates are asked to contact the AAR Executive Director, June-Ann Greeley John C. Shelley Francis Connolly-Weinert Barbara DeConcini, for information (404-727-3049). Gretchen Grimshaw Kim Shively Sister Nancy H. Corcoran Diana L. Hayes Wade H. Singletary Charlene Cox Susan E. Henking Robert London Smith • Gladys M. Crane James Wetzel Michael M. Mendiola Gregory A. Hillis Frederick Sontag Donald A. Crosby Morton J. Merowitz Cynthia Hoehler-Fatton Jacqueline I. Stone Wardene M. Crowley ✧ James B. Wiggins indicates current board Glenn E. Yocum ✧ Scott Nesbitt • Betty Holley • David Suiter Kristine A. Culp members Tokiyuki Nobuhara Susan T. Hollis Paul L. Swanson Leslie Cunningham Gifts of $100 or more indicates current commit- Fumiko Nomura Heath Howe Civetta Joanne M. Swenson Nancy Danger • tee members, JAAR edito- Ernest Z. Adelman Dennis A. Norlin Cynthia Ann Humes Ines M. Talamantez E. Randolph Daniel rial board, or jurors Catherine L. Albanese Jim O’Connor Mary Jo Iozzio Barbara Brown Taylor Michael I. N. Dash Rebecca T. Alpert ✧ Claude D. Oliver Anne Joh Jesse Terry Todd Susan E. Davies indicates current program Carol S. Anderson ✧ Kofi A. Opoku Diane Jonte-Pace Iain Torrance Kari-Shane Davis • unit chairs or steering Ann Marie B. Bahr Park Joon Surh Harold Kasimow Emilie M. Townes Corinne Dempsey committee members Robert D. Baird Jacqueline Z. Pastis ✧ Laurel D. Kearns Walker Trimble • Sharon Doerre ✧ • indicates current students Elizabeth Barberi Stacy L. Patty R.W. Keith • Yen-Zen Tsai Jane Donovan Linda L. Barnes ✧ Judith B. Perkins Aaron Kerr • James L. Waits Eric Dubuis Gary Bedford Karl E. Peters Wonil Kim Michael J. Walsh Alvin Edwards Catherine Bell Sylvia Picard Schmitt Kerri A. Kor Watanabe Manabu Eileen Engle • David S. Blix Richard Pilgrim Kwok Pui Lan ✧ Preston N. Williams R. Daren Erisman • Gifts of $1000 or more Jonathan E. Brockopp Timothy M. Renick William R. LaFleur W. Waite Willis Frank Ferreri • ✧ Barbara DeConcini Bernadette Brooten Charles H. Reynolds Sarah Heaner Lancaster Vincent L. Wimbush Millicent Feske & Walt Lowe Frank Burch Brown Martin Rumscheidt Francis Landy Tyanna Yonkers Day • Timothy Fitzgerald ✧ Hans J. Hillerbrand Susanna Bede Caroselli Don E. Saliers Jennie Latta • Bryan Zervos Aileen Fitzke Huston Smith William J. Cassidy Kathleen M. Sands Bruce B. Lawrence Frank K. Flinn Gifts of $25 or more Gifts of $500 or more John B. Cobb Elizabeth A. Say John K. Leonard Marie W. Flood Kimberly Rae Connor Jan Shipps Blake Leyerle Anonymous Jim Fodor Julianna Lipschutz Allison P. Coudert Jonathan Z. Smith James R. Linville David H. Aaron Peter Foley Martin Marty Susan Abraham ✧ S. D. Crites Herbert B. Strange John D. Loftin Joe Forman Mary McGee John Crossley Winnifred Fallers Sullivan David W. Lotz Judith Z. Abrams Stanley Fowler Robert A. Orsi Wade Dazey Mark Lloyd Taylor ✧ Francis Madsen Scott Adams • Oliver Freiberger Steven C. Rockefeller Robert Detweiler Sarah McFarland Taylor ✧ Lois Malcolm Ridgeway Addison • Kjetil Fretheim Gifts of $200 or more Dyan Dietz • Mary Evelyn Tucker Gary A. Mann Afe Adogame Steve Friesen Jualynne E. Dodson Catherine Tinsley Tuell Joan M. Martin Sonja Allen • Albert L. Garcia Anonymous George F. Dole Cynthia Walsh Steven Masood Philip Amerson Stephen Garfinkel Mary F. Bednarowski William G. Doty Carol Welles Michael Merrill • Thomas Arnold • Laurie Wright Garry Michael Berenbaum George Elder Paul B. Whittemore Jeffrey F. Meyer Margaret Ayers • Paul R. George • Irvin J. Borowsky Antoine Faivre Jerry D. Meyer Margaret Aymer Hans Geybels Kent Brintnall • David Noel Freedman Gifts of $50 or more Rochelle L. Millen Alice Bach Cheryl Townsend Gilkes John E. Burkhart J. Truett Gannon Peter J. Awn David L. Miller Thomas G. Bandy Ariel Glucklich Peter Cha Edmund T. Gilday David L. Barr Julie Miller Aleeze Arthur Banks • John D. Godsey Frederick M. Denny ✧ P. Roger Gillette Whitney S. Bodman Robert N. Minor Claude Barbre Bruce Grady Charles C. Dickinson James Hearn • Jean-Pierre Brach Mozella G. Mitchell Robert M. Baum Mark W. Graham Chris Downing Peter C. Hodgson Rita Nakashima Brock Anne Moore Timothy K. Beal C. Jarrett Gray Diana L. Eck ✧ Jess Hollenback Ken Brooker Langston Mary Moorman Guy Beck Ronald Green Martha L. Finch G. Victor Sogen Hori Gennifer Brooks • Raymond T. Moreland Michael Becker Stephen Green Warren G. Frisina Margaret D. Hutaff Marcus Bruce Tomoe Moriya Elisabeth Benard William Scott Green Eugene V. Gallagher ✧ Jerry A. Irish Robert A. Bruttell Lucinda Allen Mosher Stephen C. Berkwitz R. Marie Griffith Amir Hussain Ishii Kosei Harry M. Buck Eric Mount Barbara Bernstengel John A. Grim Tazim Kassam Martin S. Jaffee Jorunn Jacobsen Buckley Leslie A. Muray Neelima Shukla Bhatt Galen J. Guengerich Zayn Kassam Robert A. Jonas Hugh Burtner Nakano Tsuyoshi Kune Biezeveld Walter B. Gulick Charles L. Lloyd Robert P. Kennedy Linell E. Cady Linda Lee Nelson Moses Biney • Natalie Gummer Lynne Faber Lorenzen Ursula King Joseph H. Cannon Gordon D. Newby Bonnie Birk Rosalind I. J. Hackett Lewis S. Mudge William L. Blizek Timothy Light Nancy Cater Vivian-Lee Nyitray Jennifer Hamilton Vasudha Narayanan Charles H. Long Gail Chin Thomas Oord Donald L. Boisvert Michael Hamilton Robert C. Neville Michael B. Lukens Laura Chinchilla • Christopher Osgood Roger S. Boraas Rex E. Hamilton Peter Ochs William K. Mahony Min-Ah Cho • Benjamin W. Owens Frederick H. Borsch Roy Hammerling Peter J. Paris ✧ Lawrence Mamiya Dolores L. Christie JungEun Park • Donna Bowman Vincent Harding Bill Pitts ✧ Barbara Boyd E. Ann Matter Francis X. Clooney Kyung Suk Park Daniel Hardy Mary Ann Stenger ✧ Carlo Cogliati Donald Brash ✧ Douglas R. McGaughey • Parimal G. Patil Joan R. Harrell Jeffrey L. Stout David L. Coleman Susan Power Bratton

January 2006 RSN • 35 AAR Annual Report

Joseph R. Harris Anselm K. Min Britt-Mari Sykes Kevin Daugherty Cleo McNelly Kearns Autumn Ridenour • John P. Harrison Yuki Miyamoto Anthony J. Tambasco Maria T. Davila Alan Kelchner Philip Boo Riley Molly Haslam • Paul D. Molnar Weijen Teng • Iris De La Rosa • Mary Keller Svein Rise James Hataway • Laura B. Moore • Carolyn Thomas • Susana de Sola Funsten • Scott Kelley • Luis Rivera-Pagan Anthony Healy Kenneth Morgan Gregory Thomas • Robin Deich Ottoson Christopher Kelly • Tyler T. Roberts Roy Leslie Heller Marcia Mount Shoop Curtis L. Thompson Ellen M. Delaney Matthew Keyes • Deborah Rogers • Patrick Henry Victoria Mouradian • Frank H. Thompson Kenneth M. Diable Young Kim • Matthew Rogers • Phyllis Herman Camilla Mryglod • David Toole Nathan Eric Dickman • Kim Yunseong Robert G. Rogers Naoko Frances Hioki • Isabel Mukonyora Carlton Turner • Mara Donaldson Heerak Christian Kim Jean E. Rosenfeld Titus Hjelm Nakamura Nobuhiro Jeanne Turpin Margaret H. Dornish Virginia Kimball Rosetta E. Ross Barbara A. Holdrege Nam Ji Man Ellen M. Umansky John Doutre Martha Ann Kirk Donatella Rossi Adam Hood Kathleen S. Nash Umeda Yoshimi Alexandra Duenow Nathan Kirkpatrick Angela Rudert • Michael A. Hoonhout Mary Kaye Nealen Harold Van Broekhoven Jerry Dell Ehrlich Gritt Klinkhammer Douglas Ruffle Brett Hoover • Marcello Neri John van den Hengel Nate Elkington • Lisa Knaggs • Mark Ryan • Sue Horner Corrie Norman • Hans D. Van Hoogstraten Koenraad Elst Jennifer Wright Knust Abdullah Saeed Robert Hughes Mark Nowacki Ken Vandergriff Andrew S. Eshleman Gretchen Koch • Prasanna Samuel • Alice Wells Hunt Yoshiko Oda Rudy Vela Elizabeth Esposito Elisabeth K. J. Koenig Sarah Bowen Savant Rodney J. Hunter Kang-nam Oh Cynthia Visscher • Brandon Evans • Kelly Koonce Christian A. B. Scharen Robert Hutcheon Michiaki Okuyama C. Howard Wallace John P. Falcone Jeffrey J. Kripal Timothy Schehr Massimo Introvigne Jacob K. Olupona Andrew Finlay Walls Ina Johanna Fandrich Michihiko Kuyama Scott Schuller Ishii Kiyozumi Lieve Orye Tony Washington Alina Feld • Shira L. Lander Robert C. Schultz Luther D. Ivory Patricia O’Sullivan Chad Michael Wayner • Bruce L. Fields Day Lane • Shawn Schuyler • Diana R. Jackson Jesse Palsetia Lisa Webster • Gavin Flood Dominic LaRochelle • Gretchen E. Selinski- Michael Jagessar Chung Park • Shelley Wiley Carol R. Fox • Robert A. Lassalle-Klein Johnston E. H. Jarow Laurie Louise Patton James Woodley • David R. Fox • Ben Lewinger • Samuel Sheldon Lionel M. Jensen Kusumita P. Pedersen Keping Wu • Brian Foxworth • K. Renato Lings Sheila Shiki-y-Michaels David L. Johnston David H. Perkins • Yohan Yoo • Nathan Frambach Maria Claudia Livini • Thomas R. Shrout Norman Jones Ronald E. Peters Wojciech Zalewski J. Jeff Fugitt • Jeffery D. Long Linda Shubert • Janet Kanter Regina Pfeiffer Earl Zimmerman Satoko Fujiwara Vanessa Lovelace • Zachary Smith • Stephen Kaplan Lauren F. Pfister Jun Fukaya Frieder Ludwig Angella Son Gifts up to $25 Thomas P. Kasulis Tina Pippin Bennett Furlow • F. Stanley Lusby Carole Dale Spencer Felicity Brock Kelcourse Chomingwen Pond Valerie A. Abrahamsen Doris J. Garcia-Mayol • Kathryn Arata Lyndes Charlene M. Spretnak Catherine Keller Joni Powers Elizabeth J. Adams-Eilers Elizabeth Gardner • Robert MacSwain • Richard N. Stewart Minowa Kenryo Patrick Pranke E. Obiri Addo Phillip Garver • Wilson Maina • Dan Stiver Mari Kim • Herbert Prince Taekyun Ahn Abilio Jose Gaz Susan M. Maloney Robert J. Straub • Paul Hyoshin Kim Eugene Frederick Quinn Nick Alexander • James V. Geisendorfer Gary Marrs • David Sturtz • Yong Pyo Kim Stephen Rankin Peter Antoci Ann Lynette Gilroy Matt Marston Laura S. Sugg Mark Kjellman • Lallene Rector Maria Antonaccio Naomi R. Goldenberg Theresa Mason Richard N. Taliaferro David E. Klemm Jeanette Reedy Solano Catherine Armer Elizabeth Goodine H. John McDargh Justin Tanis Kenneth Kraft Martha J. Reineke Ma. Christina Astorga James Grady • James J. Megivern Phyllis J. Taylor Seth Kunin Yuan Ren Janel Baker • David Gray Steven Meigs • Allen Tennison • Nadia M. Lahutsky Gerdie Rene Robert Anthony Barbato • Bridgett Green • Sandy Mergenschroer- Gene R. Thursby John Lang • Leah Renold Charles J. Beard • William Greenway Livingston • Ama’amalele Tofaeono Christian Lange • Edmund Rhee • Maria Clara Lucchetti Russell I. Gregory Alex Mikulich John Tolley Emmanuel Lartey William Rich Bingemer Terrence Grey Lea Millay Hojo Tone Terri Laws • Cynthia Rigby Kathleen Bishop Constance D. Groh Adam S Miller • Theresa Torres Mel Leaman Christopher Robinson Peter Bisson Maxine Grossman Amy S. Miller Theodore Trost • Sang Hyun Lee Jose D. Rodriguez Beth Blissman David P. Gushee Johnny Miller • E. Frank Tupper Solange Lefebvre Cornish R. Rogers Robert T. Bobilin Antoinette Gutzler Merrill P. Miller Swami Tyagananda Elizabeth Lemons Steven Rowitt • Helena Botros • Conrad R. Haglund Paul Minifee • Kathryn L. Valdivia • Bill J. Leonard Noriyuki Sakai Kimberly Braxton • Amy Laura Hall • Ann Mongoven Benjamin Valentin David B. Levenson John E. Sallstrom Kathlyn A. Breazeale Jack Hanford Daniel Morehead • Robert Van der Waag • Todd T. Lewis Andy F. Sanders Ginny Brewer-Boydston Mark Hanshaw • Gwyn Moser John M. Vayhinger Reid Locklin David Sandmel J. Charles Brock Beverly W. Harrison Christiaan Mostert Amy Black Voorhees • Michael Lodahl Erik E. Sandstrom Anne Clarke Brown Betty C. B. Harwick Henry Moyo Dale Wallace • Friedrich Lohmann Carmelo Santos • Michelle Bryan • Stanley Hauerwas Vijaya Nagarajan • Charles D. Walters Christo Lombard Sasaki Kei J. Lanier Burns Sophia Heller Arlene Nehring James Watson Grace Cumming Long Yoshitsugu Sawai Ellen Cahn Joan M. Henriksen Hellyer • Astrid M. O’Brien Linda Watson Lois Ann Lorentzen Andreas Schuele Paul H. Carr Gray Henry Masahiko Okada Caroline Webster Josef Lossl Barbara J. Searcy Jeremy R. Carrette Barbara Hester • Irfan A. Omar George Weckman Tim Macquiban Vanina G. Sechi Joan L. Carter Devan M. Hite David Oringderff Richard John Wiebe F. Rachel Magdalene Alan Segal Thomas Cattoi • Travis Hodges • Cyril Orji • Roger Willer Aditya Malik Leanne Simmons James Cavill William Hoverd Zoltan Ormoshegyi • Jane Williams-Hogan Charles Marsh Michael Slater • Alejandro Chaoul Thomas Hughson Douglas Osto Charles A. Wilson Paul Martin • Robert Smith Christopher W. Chase • Greta G. F. Huis Dorothy M. Owens Cynthia B. Witt Kakuju Matsubara • Robert V. Smith Glenn A. Chestnutt • Michael Humphreys • Sang-un Park Ariana Kateryna Wolynec- Brian Rice McCarthy Sodiq Yushau Emily J. Choge Matthew Hunter • Ann Pearson Werner • Jim McCurdy Mark Soileau • William Chu • Roger Huston • Josue Perez Amber Wood • Rachel Fell McDermott Eric Sonnicksen • Shannon Clarkson Nancy Hutton • Mary Lou Pfeiffer Dean Worthington Eunice T. McGarrahan George S. Spink David Cockerham • Madoka Inoue • G. Philip Points Siri A. Worthington • John A. McGrath Ralph Steele • Angela Coco Jih Chang-shin Arlette Poland • Kelly Wyman • Alexander C. McKay Matthew Stefon • Jane Compson Howard R. Johnson Damon Powell Tadanori Yamashita Anne G. McWilliams Karin Juliana Steiner Maryanne Confoy Kathy Johnson • Kim Elaine Power Edward A. Yonan Gary Meegan Daniel B. Stevenson Claude Conyers Todd E. Johnson Virginia Kaib Ratigan Alfred P. Zarb Larry Menyweather- David T. Stewart Isaac Crawford Ann Johnston David Redles Wanda Zemler-Cizewski Woods • Robert L. Stivers Garry J. Crites Charles B. Jones Austra Reinis Cosimo Zene Alan G. Meyers Horace H. Stoddard John W. Crossin Jaewan Joo Kristan Reutlinger • Peter Zografos Carol Miles Bev Stratton Randal Cummings Jane Kanarek • Cheryl Rhodes Zion Zohar ❧ Charles William Miller Frederick J. Streets Lars Johan Danbolt Toyofumi Kato Allen Richardson Kenneth H. Miller David Stubbs Frederick W. Danker

HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED US? When making your will and thinking about charitable bequests, why not include the AAR? Your gift to the future will help us provide for the ongoing needs of the field. Our legal title is American Academy of Religion, Inc. • 825 Houston Mill Road, Suite 300 • Atlanta, GA 30329

36 • January 2006 RSN