Project to Prepare Dictionary of South Asian Christianity Underway
By SAR NEWS
GUWAHATI, Assam (SAR News) -- In an effort to document and preserve
Christianity's critical role in South Asian history, a major project is
underway to prepare a Dictionary on South Asian Christianity (DSAC). The
project is headed by Chennai-based Dr. Roger E. Hedlund.
The dictionary is a major international ecumenical venture with scholarly
contributions by Catholic, Orthodox, Protestant, Pentecostal churches and
independent scholars with expertise in various disciplines.
Project director and chief editor of the 1000-page dictionary Dr. Hedlund
said it is an "instrument to support, preserve, and enhance
Christianity's integral role in nation building and socio-economic
development throughout the region. Rising religious extremism has led to
an alarming disregard of the historical impact of Christianity on the
history and culture of South Asia. Human rights are violated, and the
historic presence and contributions of Christians are deliberately
ignored. Against this trend, the dictionary will present a witness and
defense of the gospel."
To be published in 2006, the dictionary is expected to provide a basic
reference tool for Christian laity, students, scholars, historians,
researchers, church leaders, pastors and missionaries.
The research project is guided by a panel of international consultants,
heads of churches, and an editorial board consisting of seven South Asian
scholars.
Regional and country editors as well as leading scholars from the region
are already working to compile the dictionary. The project team is
organizing a series of writers' workshops in different parts of South
Asia to prepare the dictionary.
Dr. Hedlund said the dictionary is aimed at contributing towards the
growth and preservation of the Christian Faith in South Asia at a time of
tension in the region springing from militant religious fundamentalism.
Persecution is on the rise. Hindu nationalism in India, Buddhist
resurgence in Sri Lanka, and Islamic fundamentalism in Pakistan are on
the increase, he said.
During this time of strident religious rhetoric and growing religious
nationalism in South Asia, Dr Hedlund this project is critical to the
quest for a clear and confident Christian identity and witness in South
Asia.
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