This study examines how monks (bhakats) at Hindu monasteries (satra) in Assam become legitimate members of their monastic community. Rooted within the Neo-Vaishnavite tradition of the fifteenth century, satras were established to foster an egalitarian society and became vital spiritual and cultural institutions where religious teachings were…

The last three decades have witnessed an exponential growth of the Church in South Asia. Regions that have been formerly closed to the gospel, are beginning to witness an unprecedented harvest. However, South Asia continues to present a daunting challenge to proclaim the uniqueness of Christ within its multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and…

This article employs Catholic social thought as a lens to situate the work of Sister Cyril Mooney, Principal emerita at Loreto Day School Sealdah in Kolkata, India. Drawing on the Canadian authors' personal experiences of the school over several years, supplemented by a two day in-depth interview conducted at Loreto Convent in Altrincham, England…

This volume brings together the work of a wide range of scholars to explore the long and complex history of the relationships between churches and education. Christianity has always been involved in education, from the very earliest teaching of those about to be baptised, to present-day churches' involvement in schools and higher education.…

The study examined the discourse structure of homily as a genre. It investigated homilies delivered by Filipino and Indian priests that represent varied types of Englishes in the Outer Circle. It described the organizational moves present in the two sets of homilies. The data which consisted of sixty orally delivered homilies transcribed into…

Archbishop Mar Ivanios (1882-1953) was a visionary and his educational vision has relevance for today. He emancipated the socially marginalized and disenfranchised people of his time through his educational vision and practice. This article is the story of a small community of Christians and their leader who made a difference in their society.…

A major historical shift is taking place in Tibetan Buddhism with the relocation of large numbers of monks from Tibet and the establishment of monasteries in Dharamsala, India and other parts of South Asia. This has created a shift in the way that young men are joining these monasteries and leading this age old religious tradition. Fifteen college…

The main research question of this study was, "What effects does a university education have on the ministerial behaviors of Indian Pentecostal Church of God (IPCG) pastors in Kerala, India?" Three data collection methods were used: interview, questionnaire, and participant observation. There were 10 university-educated (UE) pastors…

This essay traces the development of the Zarathushtrian (Zoroastrian) priesthood from the time of the prophet Zarathushtra, through the Median priestly tribe as Magi, and the Macedonian and Arab invasions. This sets the stage for the separation of the Zarathushti priesthood between Iran and India and the generation of independent training methods.…