Through her work as professor at VU Amsterdam, her history with Russia and her personal involvement, Katja Tolstoj is able to interpret as no other the current political and religious developments in Europe.
"As professor of theology and religion in post-traumatic societies, I want to nuance simplistic discourses. What are historical, theological and political lines that define 1 conflicts—including the current war in Ukraine?"
In her role as Theologian of the Fatherland, Katja Tolstoj passionately and diligently focuses on three core themes: the future of theology and study of religion; developing a Theology after Gulag, Bucha and beyond; and 'De Thuisgevers', a solution to bogged down asylum seekers.
The future of the theology and study of religion
As vice-dean and portfolio holder for Research at the School of Religion and Theology at VU Amsterdam, Katja is passionate about contributing to the national vanguard of theology and religious studies. Her focus is on academic excellence, renewal of theoretical and methodological framework, and forging cross-links with other disciplines within the university and theological institutions throughout the Netherlands. Moreover, Katja attaches great importance to working with religious communities and increasing the social relevance of theology and religious studies.
Theology after Gulag,Bucha, and beyond
What started in 2016 as "Theology after Gulag" has been renamed "Theology after Gulag, Bucha, and beyond" due to current circumstances. This interdisciplinary and inter-religious initiative highlights the healing power of theology after violence and trauma. It builds on "Theology after Auschwitz", which contributed to a shift in mentality in post-war Germany. It makes connections with other post-trauma theologies, such as post-Apartheid and liberation theologies, and with theories of transitional justice. But "Theology after Gulag, Bucha and beyond" is not just academic, but deeply practical and personal. We explore theological responses to human tragedies, the influence of religion on geopolitics and the potential of theology in (post-)conflict situations. Together with an international network of experts, we search for meaning and reconciliation, trying to find light in the darkness.
Read more about the education and research of Katja here
The 'Thuisgevers': together for refugees
Katja is also an ambassador for 'Thuisgevers', a project supporting refugees in the Netherlands. Where official asylum reception in the Netherlands has stalled, Thuisgevers helps people build a new existence, in particular by providing (temporary) accommodation. There are also buddies who help show people around in their new place of residence. The fast-growing initiative from Kampen seeks to connect with social and church partners and is active in more and more municipalities.