Prophesying Peace Amid the Noise of War: Peacemaking in an Age of Militarism

The Mediterranean Theological Meetings (MTM) 2026 will be held from 12–18 July 2026 at the Pastoral Meeting Center in Lovran, Croatia. The program brings together theology students, scholars, and emerging researchers to reflect on the role of religious communities in addressing contemporary challenges related to conflict, violence, and peacebuilding.

The 2026 theme, “Prophesying Peace Amid the Noise of War: Peacemaking in an Age of Militarism,” invites participants to critically examine the ethical and theological implications of the current global climate marked by renewed armed conflicts, rising geopolitical tensions, and increasing militarization. In this context, the Mediterranean region—historically a crossroads of cultures, religions, and political encounters—offers a particularly meaningful setting for exploring how religious traditions can contribute to a constructive discourse on peace.

The program will provide a space for interdisciplinary and interreligious dialogue, focusing on how contemporary Christian and Muslim communities can articulate and embody a renewed commitment to nonviolence. Particular attention will be given to the role of prophetic witness within religious communities and to the ways theological reflection may inspire concrete practices of reconciliation and solidarity in societies shaped by fear, polarization, and conflict.

Speakers

The 2026 program features contributions from scholars and church leaders representing diverse theological traditions and institutional contexts:

• Sihem Djebbi – Sorbonne Paris Nord University
• Bishop Grigorije Durić – Diocese of Düsseldorf and Germany, Serbian Orthodox Church
• Stipe Odak – Catholic University of Louvain
• Viola Raheb – Pro Oriente, Vienna

By bringing together Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, and Muslim voices, the Mediterranean Theological Meetings aim to foster a genuinely ecumenical and interreligious academic environment, encouraging participants to engage critically with different theological perspectives while contributing to a shared reflection on peace and reconciliation.

Eligibility

Applications are welcome from:

• Undergraduate theology students in their third, fourth, or fifth year of study
• Recent graduates of Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, or Islamic theological faculties
• Graduate and postgraduate students specializing in theology
• Individuals holding a degree in theology.

Application Procedure

Applications must be submitted no later than 15 April 2026 via the online application form. Applicants are required to provide:

• A transcript of academic records from the most recent year of study (for current students)
• A motivation letter outlining their academic interests and reasons for applying.

Further Information

Additional details about the program can be found at www.mtm.hr.

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