Author:
ZHANG Haoran, Associate Research Fellow, Institute of Sino-Christian Studies; Honorary Research Associate, Faculty of Arts, Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Abstract:
This article explores ecological theology in mainland China from 1990 to 2024 through the lens of Stephen B. Bevans' contextual theology. By analyzing its reception, it becomes clear that a distinctly contextualized ecological theology has not yet emerged in China. The article examines potential directions for Chinese ecological theology across four dimensions of contextual theology, suggesting that China should not rely on a single model. Instead, the academic and religious communities should focus on different yet overlapping approaches to develop Chinese ecological theology collaboratively. From the perspective of mutual learning between Chinese and Western civilizations, Chinese ecological theology should both integrate traditional Chinese concepts of "Heaven-Nature-Human" and respond effectively to local and global challenges. A synthetic, sinicized/Chinese model of ecological theology could become a significant voice in the international theological community, contributing to a sustainable global prosperity.
Keywords:
ecological theology, Sinicization of Christianity, reception, contextual theology
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