Acta Theologica

Scope & Guideline

Fostering interdisciplinary insights in Religious Studies.

Introduction

Welcome to the Acta Theologica information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of Acta Theologica, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1015-8758
PublisherUNIV FREE STATE, FAC THEOLOGY
Support Open AccessYes
CountrySouth Africa
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2002 to 2023
AbbreviationACTA THEOL / Acta Theol.
Frequency2 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPUBLICATIONS OFFICE, UFS-SASOL LIBRARY, PO BOX 301, BLOEMFONTEIN 9300, SOUTH AFRICA

Aims and Scopes

Acta Theologica is dedicated to the exploration of various theological topics, with a significant focus on contextual and practical theology. The journal aims to provide a platform for scholarly discussions that bridge traditional theological frameworks with contemporary issues, especially within African contexts.
  1. Contextual Theology:
    The journal emphasizes the importance of contextual theology, addressing how theological concepts apply and adapt to diverse cultural and social settings, particularly in Africa.
  2. Practical Theology:
    There is a strong focus on practical theology, exploring how theological insights can inform and transform practice within church communities and society.
  3. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    Acta Theologica encourages interdisciplinary research, integrating insights from various fields such as sociology, anthropology, and environmental studies to enrich theological discourse.
  4. Decolonial Perspectives:
    The journal frequently addresses decolonial themes, examining how colonial histories shape contemporary theological thought and practice, and advocating for a re-examination of theological foundations.
  5. Gender and Social Justice:
    There is a consistent engagement with issues of gender, sexuality, and social justice, reflecting a commitment to exploring the intersection of faith and societal challenges.
  6. Ecological Theology:
    The journal includes discussions on ecological theology, particularly in relation to African perspectives, highlighting the need for a theological response to environmental crises.
Recent publications in Acta Theologica reflect emerging trends that highlight the journal's responsiveness to contemporary issues facing theology today. These trends indicate a growing engagement with pressing social, cultural, and ecological challenges.
  1. Ecological Hermeneutics:
    There is a rising interest in ecological hermeneutics, emphasizing the relationship between theology and environmental stewardship, particularly within the context of African theology.
  2. Gender and Leadership:
    Emerging themes around women's leadership within religious contexts are gaining traction, reflecting broader societal movements towards gender equality and empowerment.
  3. Digital Theology:
    The exploration of digital theology, including the implications of digital spaces for faith and community, is increasingly relevant, particularly in the wake of global shifts towards online engagement due to the pandemic.
  4. Indigenous and African Theologies:
    A notable trend is the exploration of indigenous theologies and their interplay with Christian beliefs, which reflects a commitment to understanding and integrating local cultural contexts.
  5. Resilience and Trauma in Theology:
    Recent publications are increasingly addressing themes of resilience and trauma, particularly in the context of societal upheavals and personal crises, suggesting a shift towards pastoral care and emotional support within theological practices.

Declining or Waning

While Acta Theologica continues to address a wide range of theological issues, certain themes appear to be waning in prominence based on recent publications. This may reflect shifts in the academic focus or changing societal concerns.
  1. Traditional Doctrinal Debates:
    There seems to be a decline in papers focused solely on traditional doctrinal disputes without contextual application, indicating a shift towards more practical, real-world theological applications.
  2. Historical Theology:
    The emphasis on historical theological debates and figures has decreased, suggesting a move away from purely historical perspectives towards contemporary relevance and application.
  3. Eurocentric Theological Frameworks:
    There is a noticeable reduction in the use of Eurocentric theological frameworks, as the journal increasingly prioritizes African and contextual approaches to theology.
  4. Individualistic Spirituality:
    Themes centered around individualistic spirituality and personal piety are less frequently addressed, reflecting a growing emphasis on community and collective faith practices.

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