The second International Research Conference on Christian Studies (IRCCS-2) jointly organized by the Department of Christian Civilization of the University of Jaffna and the Asian Network for Public Theology, was held on the 1st & 2nd of February at the University of Jaffna.
The theme of the conference was “The Role of Religions in Challenging Times”. The opening ceremony of the conference, chaired by Rev. Fr. Paul Rohan, the Head of the Department of Christian Civilization, was held on Thursday the 1st of February at the Kailasapathy Auditorium.
At this initial event, the Bishop of Jaffna, Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin Gnanapragasam, participated as the Chief Guest. Other Guests of Honour were: the Bishop of the Mannar Diocese Rt. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Fernando, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Jaffna, Professor Sri-satkuna-rajah, the former chair of the Global Network for Public Theology Professor Rudolf von Sinner, the Co-ordinator of the Asian Network for Public Theology Reverend Professor Gnaanaa Patrick, Reverend Professor Chandra-kanthan of the University of Toronto, the Dean of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, University of Jaffna Professor Kanna-thasan, Venerable Professor Muwa-eta-gama Gnanananda Thera of the University of Peradeniya, the President of the Jaffna District Inter-Religious Council Siva-sri Kiruba-nantha Kurukkal, and Member of the Jaffna District Inter-Religious Council Ash. Shaikh Sufiyan.
After speeches made by the various guests, a cultural item entitled “Sempaathaal” (செம்பாத்தாள்) was staged by the artistes of the Centre for Performing Arts, Jaffna. It was a drama modelled on the நாட்டுக்கூத்து art form, and received the appreciation of all.
The proceedings of the second day of the Conference were held at the premises of the Graduate Studies Faculty of the University of Jaffna. At this International Conference, close to 75 researchers participated and submitted their research findings. At the end of the Conference, they were awarded Certificates of Participation. Further, a Conference Declaration was formulated and announced.
