Scholars, researchers and church members gathered last month to discuss Christianity’s importance to society, new views on issues like Sabbath rest, and living a Christian life in a secular world. The “New Perspectives on Christianity” (NPC) conference ran January 15 to 18 at Seventh-day Adventist-founded Avondale College in Cooranbong, Australia.

Academics from various institutions including Avondale College and Pacific Adventist University and participants from other denominations presented a total of 36 papers at the conference for discussion and planned publication.

“There are many reasons we should be Christians in society today, and there are many contributions we can make in response to issues and problems in our society,” said Dr. Vivienne Watts, vice-president for administration and research at Avondale College.

Interfaith discussions ranged from the changing role of Christianity within Australian society to relating to other believers, Christian responses to environmental concerns and various aspects of church, theology and education.

Keynote speaker David Tacey, associate professor at La Trobe University, Australia, spoke about the role of spirituality in Australian society and his view of its importance in addressing environmental issues in contemporary society.

“Once sanctity is restored to Creation, respect is restored to the environment,” Tacy said.

Professor Tacey said he feels optimistic about current Adventist contributions to Australian society.

“It seems to me as an outsider that the Adventist movement is very concerned with making a difference,” he said. “It’s trying to impact ... society and people’s wellbeing in very practical ways, in looking at things like spirituality, health and social justice—and that’s where I certainly join forces with Adventists.”