The Sixteenth International Conference of the Ecclesiological Investigations International Research Network

Dissent, Power, and Christian Identity after Nicaea

17-20 September 2025, Thessaloniki, Greece

Register

You will be able to choose between different registration options.

Paper Proposal

Call for Papers is now open. We look forward to receiving your proposal.

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Please consider donating to support students and emerging scholars.

Contact Us

If you have some questions please contact us and we will be happy to help.

About the Conference

Dissent, Power, and Christian Identity after Nicaea

The First Council of Nicaea, convened in 325 AD by the Emperor Constantine I, inaugurated an enduring paradigm not only in ecclesial administration but also in church identity.  The Council’s processes and conclusions remain broadly normative with regard to church polity and the limits of Christian diversity.

Given that Nicaea took place at a time of remarkable religious pluralism and diversity and was convened in response to the disputes over “what is the Church” within that context, that early ecclesial reality shares an important resonance with our current historical moment.

The purpose of the conference is to pose the questions: In what ways does Nicaea continue to shape how we configure the Church today, with what opportunities and at what cost? 

About Ecclesiological Investigations

Who we are, What we Do

Ecclesiological Investigations brings together quality research and inspiring debates in ecclesiology worldwide from a network of international scholars, research centres and projects in the field.

Some of Our Previous Conferences

Thessaloniki 2025

Conference Registration

To register for the conference, you have two options: standard registration or reduced registration. Reduced registration is available for students, retirees, and individuals without institutional support or permanent positions.

Standard

$150

Reduced

$75

Explore the vibrant city of Thessaloniki, host to our conference.

Nestled along the azure shores of the Aegean Sea, this historic metropolis boasts a rich tapestry of culture, history, and spirituality. Wander through its ancient streets lined with Byzantine monuments, including the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia and the stunning Rotunda. Marvel at the intricate mosaics of the Church of Saint Demetrius, a testament to the city’s Byzantine legacy. Delight in the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine at bustling tavernas and cafés. Immerse yourself in Thessaloniki’s dynamic atmosphere, where the past meets the present in an unforgettable fusion of faith and discovery.

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Meet the Conference

Keynote Speakers

Emilio Alvarez

Associate Provost of Lifelong Learning at Asbury Theological Seminary and the Primate of the Union of Charismatic Orthodox Churches

Marco Demichelis

Associate Professor in History of Islamic World and Islamic Thought of the Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna.

Susan Durber

A minister of the United Reformed Church and the present World Council of Churches President for the Europe region.

Leo D. Lefebure

The inaugural holder of the Matteo Ricci, S.J., Chair and Professor of Theology at the Georgetown University.

Elizabeth Prodromou

Professor in the International Studies Program at Boston College and Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center.

Geraldine Smyth

A theologian and educator in Ecumenics, working in academic, civic and church settings and dialogue.

Meet the Conference

Organizing Team

Nikolaos F. Dimitriadis

Professor of World Religions at the American College of Thessaloniki, President of the Center of Ecumenical, Missiological and Environmental Studies

Miriam Haar

Pastor of the Evangelical–Lutheran Church in Württemberg and consultant at the Institute for Ecumenical Studies and Research in Bensheim

Aaron Hollander

Associate Director of Graymoor Ecumenical & Interreligious Institute, Editor of Ecumenical Trends, and Adjunct Faculty in Theology at Fordham University.

Elizabeth Prodromou

Professor in the International Studies Program at Boston College and a Non-Resident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center.

Jason Welle

Assistant Professor of Comparative Theology at Boston College. He serves as a vice-chair and secretary of Ecclesiological Investigations Research Network.

Please consider donating

To ensure the active participation of emerging scholars at this conference, we depend on your generous contributions. Every donation received will be exclusively allocated towards facilitating their presence and engagement. Your support will directly empower the involvement of emerging voices in shaping the discussions and outcomes of the event.