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Our research

Research and publication

St Mark’s National Theological Centre (NTC) is a vibrant hub of theological research and publication, contributing significantly to both academic scholarship and practical ministry.

St Mark's Review

Our flagship publication is St Mark’s Review, a peer-reviewed journal of Christian thought and opinion that has been in continuous publication since 1955. Each issue is dedicated to a specific theme, featuring scholarly articles that engage with theological, ethical, and ecclesial topics pertinent to the Australian and global contexts. The journal aims to foster lively, responsible, and relevant discussions on matters significant to the Christian community and society at large.

St Mark’s Review is published biannually and is available in both print and electronic formats. It is accessible through various academic databases, including AtlaSerials PLUS, Informit Humanities and Social Sciences Collection, and the Australian Public Affairs Full Text. The journal serves as a platform for both established and emerging scholars, including students, to contribute to theological discourse.

Research publications & contributions​

Beyond the journal, St Mark’s researchers contribute to a diverse array of publications, including books, book chapters, and articles in other academic journals. Our scholar’s work encompasses various fields such as biblical studies, systematic theology, pastoral care, ethics, and public theology. For instance, Dr. Michael Gladwin, a senior lecturer at St Mark’s, has published extensively on topics like the role of religion in Australian military history and the intersections of theology and culture.

Additionally, St Mark’s faculty and researchers often engage in editorial responsibilities, peer-review activities, and collaborative research projects, further enriching the Centre’s academic output and influence.

For a comprehensive overview of St Mark’s research publications and activities, you can explore the Charles Sturt University Research Output portal.

Quick overview

Here is a quick overview of the main types of research conducted here at St Mark’s:

Bible studies

  • Research in Old and New Testament texts, languages, and interpretation.
  • Contextual biblical theology with relevance to contemporary issues such as justice, gender, and ecology.
  • Exploration of how Scripture informs preaching, worship, and community life.

Systematic & historical theology

  • Doctrinal studies (e.g. Christology, ecclesiology, pneumatology).
  • Anglican theology and church history, especially within the Australian and Asia-Pacific contexts.
  • Intersections between theology and philosophy, science, and culture.

Practical & pastoral theology​

  • Ministry leadership, resilience, and vocation—particularly in rural and regional settings.
  • Pastoral care, chaplaincy, spiritual direction, and trauma-informed ministry.
  • Field education, supervision, and ministerial formation.

Ethics & public theology​

  • Christian ethics related to contemporary social issues (e.g. climate change, gender, bioethics, Indigenous justice).
  • Public theology and the role of faith in secular democratic societies.
  • Theological responses to emerging moral questions in health, technology, and law.

Intercultural & contextual theology

  • Theological engagement with multiculturalism, postcolonialism, and migration.
  • Theology in Australian, Indigenous, and Asia-Pacific contexts.
  • Dialogue with other religious and cultural traditions.

Liturgical and Worship Studies​

  • Anglican liturgy and sacramental theology.
  • Liturgical innovation for contemporary worship contexts.
  • Theological aesthetics, music, and ritual.

Education and Formation Research​

  • Theological education methodology and curriculum design.
  • Integration of research and practice in clergy and lay formation.
  • Supervision models and adult learning in ministry settings.

Higher Degree by Research (HDR) Projects​

HDR candidates at St Mark’s (studying through Charles Sturt University) undertake original research in all the above areas. Many focus on applied topics directly relevant to ministry practice, such as:

  • Moral injury in emergency services chaplaincy.
  • Church responses to mental health and trauma.
  • The role of preaching in contemporary mission.

Interested in studying a research degree?

Explore our higher degrees by research today!

Research degrees

Meet our academic staff

Meet St Mark’s dedicated team of researchers.

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