research impact
Research at St Mark’s has a multifaceted impact: advancing theological scholarship, informing Anglican practice, engaging broader society, and shaping future church leaders. This page provides a brief overview of the principal ways in which St Mark’s research makes a difference.
Ways in which St Mark’s research makes a difference
As part of the School of Theology at Charles Sturt University, St Mark’s integrates scholarly rigour with practical relevance, ensuring its research reaches beyond academia to influence faith communities, public discourse, and Christian practice. St Mark’s research makes an impact in the following ways:
Enriching Theological Scholarship
Peer-Reviewed Publications: Through its flagship journal St Mark’s Review, which has been in continuous publication since 1955, scholars at St Mark’s contribute original research on biblical studies, systematic theology, ethics and more—fostering rigorous dialogue within Australia and internationally
Monographs and Edited Volumes: Faculty members and HDR candidates regularly publish books and edited collections that push the boundaries of theological thought, providing resources for both academic and church contexts.
Informing Anglican Ministry Formation
Curriculum Development: Research findings directly shape the content of Charles Sturt-accredited programs delivered at St Mark’s (BA, MTh, PhD, etc.), ensuring that clergy formation is underpinned by the latest insights in pastoral theology, liturgical studies and ethics
Practice-Based Inquiry: Projects on topics like rural ministry, leadership resilience and intercultural mission feed into field education and mentoring, equipping ordinands to meet the real-world challenges of parish ministry.
Engaging Public Theology and Social Policy
Chaplaincy and Trauma Research: A notable HDR study by Rev Layson explores how theological frameworks can aid in preventing and healing moral injury among emergency workers—insights now being adopted by NSW’s Centre for Work Health and Safety to support first responders
Public Lecture Series: Regular seminars and symposia at St Mark’s bring scholars, church leaders and policymakers together to tackle issues such as Indigenous reconciliation, bioethics and environmental stewardship, thus influencing public debate and policy.
Advancing Community Well-Being
Interfaith and Ecumenical Dialogue: Research initiatives often include partnerships with other faith traditions and community organizations, promoting social cohesion and mutual understanding across cultural divides.
Applied Ministry Projects: Studies in pastoral counselling, aging and mental health translate into community outreach programs, enhancing the well-being of vulnerable groups in Canberra and beyond.
Training the Next Generation of Theologians and Church Leaders
Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Supervision: St Mark’s hosts a vibrant HDR cohort, mentoring candidates whose theses address both scholarly gaps and ecclesial needs—thereby multiplying the centre’s impact as graduates take up roles in academia, diocesan leadership and parish ministry
Writing and Publication Skills: Through supervised contributions to St Mark’s Review and other outlets, emerging scholars gain experience in formal publication, ensuring their work reaches both academic and church audiences.
In Summary
Research at St Mark’s NTC drives theological innovation, equips clergy for effective ministry, informs public policy, fosters community engagement, and cultivates future leaders; making a lasting contribution to both church and society.
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