IBTS is an international centre for education and research serving the Baptist community in 53 countries of Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East. In 2013 IBTS was looking for a new academic home and it was at that time we were visited by the Dean of the Faculty of Theology, Prof Wim Janse who presented a compelling vision for forging a partnership which would enable advanced theological research in the context of important social and cultural situations. In response IBTS relocated from Prague to Amsterdam in 2014 and was welcomed formally as a Collaborative Partner of the Faculty of Theology.
Over the years we have found a deep and mutually enriching partnership taking place. From the perspective of IBTS we have found in VU-FRT an amazing space to conduct research which is not only academically rigorous but is respectful of the values and convictions of a Baptist faith community. Being situated in an environment which holds together a stimulating synergy of multi-faith theological perspectives with a critical and questioning secularity is an ideal location for IBTS. As the collaboration has evolved the ‘icing on the cake’ has been the appointment of Prof David Gushee to the Chair of Chrisitan Social Ethics which exemplifies the essence of our work which is grounded in theology but motivated by a love and concern for the world and the neighbour.
We look forward to many more years of fruitful collaboration.