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Association of Theologically Trained Women of India

The Association of Theologically Trained Women of India (ATTWI) is an Indian ecumenical body that brings together women who have received formal theological education. It serves as a professional and fellowship network for women theologians, biblical scholars, ordained ministers, lay workers and students engaged in Christian theological study and ministry across India.

Name Association of Theologically Trained Women of India
Abbreviation ATTWI
Type Ecumenical professional association
Field Christian theology, women's studies in religion
Country India
Membership Theologically trained women across Indian churches and seminaries

Overview

ATTWI functions as a forum where theologically trained women across denominational lines can share scholarship, ministry experience and concerns specific to women in the Indian church context. Its work intersects with feminist theology, contextual Indian theology, and the wider movement for women's leadership and ordination within Indian Christianity.

Background

Theological education for women in India developed alongside the growth of seminaries and Bible colleges from the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries. As more women obtained degrees such as the Bachelor of Divinity (BD), Master of Theology (MTh) and doctoral qualifications from institutions affiliated with the Senate of Serampore College (University) and other accrediting bodies, the need for a dedicated professional association became increasingly evident. ATTWI emerged in this context to provide a collective platform for such women.

Activities

  • Convening conferences and consultations on theology, ministry and gender.
  • Encouraging research and publication by women theologians in India.
  • Networking among alumnae of seminaries and theological colleges.
  • Engaging with churches on issues of women's ordination, leadership and theological formation.
  • Mentoring younger women pursuing theological studies.

Significance

ATTWI is significant as one of the few India-wide forums focused specifically on women with theological training. It contributes to discussions on contextual and feminist theology in Asia and complements the work of bodies such as the Ecumenical Association of Third World Theologians and Indian seminary networks. Through its members, ATTWI has influenced curriculum development, biblical interpretation and pastoral practice in several Indian denominations.

References