NTI Student Announcements

NTI Conversations - Beyond Othering: Buddhist and Christian Relational Perspectives in Dialogue

by Gabrielle Harding -

Beyond Othering: Buddhist and Christian Relational Perspective in Dialogue

Presented by Philip Bewley

16 July 2025

1-2pm (AEST)

This event will be held online via zoom. A zoom link will be sent the day prior and the day of the event


This conversation looks at Thich Nhat Hanh’s idea of interbeing, which teaches that everything is connected, and nothing exists on its own. It compares this idea with a similar way of thinking from the Christian tradition. Together, these views show how understanding our deep connection with others can lead to more compassionate actions, help us overcome division, and encourage a more welcoming and inclusive way of living.


About the Presenter:

Philip Bewley is an alumnus of Nan Tien Institute and a doctoral candidate at the Catholic Theological College, University of Divinity (Melbourne), where he researches comparative theology at the intersection of Buddhist-Christian dialogue. With a longstanding interest in interfaith engagement, his academic work bridges traditions—from his MA at the University of Wollongong (examining the Dutch Catholic Church’s progressive pastoral care of LGBTQIA+ individuals in the 1960s) to his current project comparing the relational ontologies of Orthodox theologian John Zizioulas and Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. His research highlights how both thinkers challenge notions of ‘othering’ and ‘otherness,’ offering transformative frameworks for identity, belonging, and embodied praxis.


NTI conversations are free; however, registration is essential. Register here


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NTI Conversations - Kindness and Compassion in Interreligious Perspective

by Gabrielle Harding -

Kindness and Compassion in Interreligious Dialogues

Presented by Professor Leo D. Lefebure  

25 June 2025

1-2pm (AEST)

This will be a hybrid event. You are most welcome to join us on campus, or online via zoom

 

This conversation will explore the resources of the Buddhist and Christian traditions, for building relationships based on kindness and compassion. We will share examples of interreligious dialogues based on mutual understanding, shared values, and an intention to shape global citizenship.

 

About the Presenter:

Leo D. Lefebure is Professor of Theology and the inaugural holder of the Matteo Ricci, S.J., Chair at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. He is the author of the award-winning Transforming Interreligious Relations: Catholic Responses to Religious Pluralism in the United States. His other award-winning books include Revelation, the Religions, and Violence; True and Holy: Christian Scripture and Other Religions; and The Path of Wisdom: A Christian Commentary on the Dhammapada, coauthored with Peter Feldmeier. Lefebure is the president of the American Theological Society, a former president of the Society for Buddhist-Christian Studies, a research fellow of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and a trustee emeritus of the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions.

NTI conversations are free; however, registration is essential. You can register here

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NTI Virtual Open Day - June 4 2025

by Gabrielle Harding -
Is there anyone you know who is interested in studying at NTI? Why not invite them to our Virtual Open Day!

 Our Virtual Open Day is a short, rich program where interested people will meet faculty and past students and hear how our educational programs can help you extend their professional practice and knowledge in ways that acknowledge contemporary challenges and current stressors.  

 Invite them to experience: 

  • a guided meditation practice 
  •  information about our graduate courses in Health and Social Wellbeing; Applied Mindfulness; Mental Health; Applied Buddhist Studies; and Humanistic Buddhism  
  • and our staff and students sharing their experiences of NTI

 Hear how these courses can enable students to serve others in their communities and effect profound personal, professional and societal change. 

Virtual Open Day 

June 4 2025 

4.30-5.30pm (AEST) 

Registration is free but Essential. Register here

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