Professor and Consultant - Lutheran Theology and Identity Project

Description

The purpose of the position of Professor and Consultant in the Lutheran Theology and Identity Project within the National Committee of the Lutheran World Federation (KNLWF) Indonesia is to promote and strengthen the understanding, practice, and dissemination of Lutheran theology and identity among members, communities, and institutions associated with LWF Indonesia. The position aims to deepen the theological knowledge and enhance the identity formation of individuals and communities within the Lutheran tradition, contributing to the growth and vitality of the Lutheran churches in Indonesia.

Pematangsiantar

Full Time, Four Years

July 12, 2026

Long-term

• Application Opens:
  February 2026
• Interviews:
  February 2026 - April 2026
• Onboarding:
  May 2026 - June 2026
• ELCA Orientation in-person:
  July 2026
• Deploy to Indonesia:
  Late Summer/Fall 2026

The Indonesian National Committee of the Lutheran World Federation (KNLWF) has its offices in the North Sumatran city of Pematangsiantar (Siantar for short). Siantar also has the theological seminary of the HKBP (STT‑HKBP), the largest Lutheran church in Indonesia; a campus of Nommensen [Lutheran] University; and headquarters of several Lutheran church bodies. While proximity and collaboration with STT‑HKBP is important, this position also works with other Lutheran theological institutions and training programs located in other parts of the country;

as well as working with the 14 Lutheran church bodies that are under the umbrella of KNLWF. Preservation and Promotion of Lutheran Theology:
The Lutheran Theology and Identity Project plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the unique theological perspective and heritage of Lutheranism. As a professor and consultant in this project, the person would contribute to deepening the understanding of Lutheran theology within the Indonesian context. This is important in a diverse religious (primarily Islam) landscape, where it is crucial to maintain the distinctiveness and relevance of Lutheran teachings.

The location also requires contextualization of Lutheran theology to make it accessible and meaningful to the local context. This position would have the opportunity to engage in research, teaching, and theological reflection to help Indonesian Lutherans understand how their theological tradition can address contemporary challenges and issues faced by the society.

• Work closely and consult with Indonesian theologians (and beyond) in shaping Lutheran identity programs, projects, and processes.
• Assist with the administration and implementation of Lutheran identity programs, projects and processes.
• Teach courses that relate to Lutheran distinctives, particularly in the area of specialty of the missionary.
• Help coordinate courses and teachings in other areas Lutheran distinctives.
• Assist in the development of literature and other learning tools, scholarship, as well as teaching tools, in Lutheran distinctives.
• Attend conferences and consultations on Lutheran identity and other areas of theology.
• Conduct research on the history and development of Lutheran theology in Indonesia, including its unique identity and contributions to the wider Christian community in the country.
• Help organize curricula for Lutheran Theology teaching through seminars, courses, training program or conference on Lutheran theology and identity for scholars, theologians, pastors, and members of the Lutheran community in Indonesia.
• Develop and implement a training program for pastors and lay leaders in Lutheran churches throughout Indonesia, focusing on topics such as Lutheran theology, liturgy, and spiritual practices.
• Work with the Indonesian National Committee of the LWF (KNLWF) to develop resources and materials to promote the understanding and practice of Lutheran theology and identity among its member churches and the wider Christian community in the country.
• Collaborate with other Lutheran churches and organizations in Indonesia and internationally to foster greater cooperation and dialogue on issues related to Lutheran theology and…