The Faith and International Development Conference
From Here to Shalom: Participating in God's Plan for Universal Flourishing
January 31 - February 2, 2013
Calvin College, Grand Rapids, MI

Conference Description

We invite you to the Faith and International Development Conference 2013, an opportunity to gather as students, professors, practitioners, and believers to engage in discussion of holistic development in the context of our vibrant faith. The theme we wish to delve into and explore together is: From here to Shalom. From a unique faith based perspective we will address the questions of how and to what ends does God guide our development work and thinking. Living in the “now and not yet of the Kingdom of God” we are acutely aware of the brokenness, injustice, and poverty evident here in the world. Yet we are redeemed as a new creation in Christ, empowered by God’s Holy Spirit to be agents of renewal, and reveal The Kingdom here and now. Dr. Cornelius Plantinga paints a picture of Life in the Kingdom of God in his definition of shalom as “universal flourishing, wholeness and delight – a rich state of affairs in which natural needs are satisfied and natural gifts are fruitful employed, all under the arch of Gods love.” Shalom. This is the end to which God has called us to continually strive for in our thoughts, words, and deeds. Let us gather as development minded people to participate in rich discussion and mutual encouragement in running the race Christ has set before us, From Here to Shalom.

Conference Schedule

Information coming soon.

Plenary Speakers

• Leroy Barber, President of Mission Year

• Roland Hoksbergen, Economics & Development Studies Professor, Calvin College

• Ravi Jayakaran, Vice President of Global programs, MAP International

• Steve Radelet, Chief Economist at USAID

• Carl and Carolyn Stauffer, Development and Justice Studies Professors, Eastern Mennonite University

Cost:

The registration fee for this event is listed above. Registration fees includes admission to all sessions and meals during the conference. See the registration page www.calvin.edu/academic/ids/conference/ for more information.

Lodging:

Student registration (ages 18-25) includes on-campus housing in the dormitory with Calvin host students. If you are commuting to Calvin or making your own housing accommodations, please notify us on the registration form.

Faculty, staff, and other registered conference participants are responsible for their own lodging accomodations. Book a room at the Prince Conference Center on Calvin College's Campus (616-526-7200) or the Holiday Inn, located 1.92 miles from Calvin College (616-285-7600). Let the hotel receptionist know you are attending the Faith and International Development Conference to receive a special rate. If you are flying to Grand Rapids, please coordinate an airport shuttle with your hotel at least three days prior to your arrival.