Call for Papers for 2026 Spring Issue "Hermeneutics of Ethical Life: Christian Responsibility During a Crisis"

Theological Reflections: Eastern European Journal of Theology invites researchers to submit scholarly articles for publication in the spring 2026 issue (24:1) titled “Hermeneutics of Ethical Life: Christian Responsibility During a Crisis.” The spring issue will focus on the core principles of church doctrine, Christian ethical values, and the role of believers during socio-political upheavals. In this context, it is important to explore how church teachings have shaped understandings of crises and how these crises have prompted a reevaluation of those teachings, leading to the renewal of traditional principles and practices.

German historian Reinhart Koselleck analyzed the concept of crisis and described it as a “structural feature of modernity.” He argued that it represents a process where a system fails because of the accumulating effects of multiple conflicts, resulting in the development of a new post-crisis state. As the boundary between life and death or between salvation and destruction, a crisis requires action and decisions. However, without a thorough theological interpretation, it is impossible to make ethical decisions and lead a responsible Christian life in new circumstances. In this sense, a crisis can be described as a situation in which we cannot move forward without fundamental changes. Therefore, a crisis is not only destruction but also a catalyst for progress, which becomes an opportunity only for those who understand its meaning and are willing to reflect on established theological views in the face of new challenges. Periods of crisis reveal problems, forcing the church to rethink the purpose, content, and form of its existence in the world.

The editorial board accepts articles that cover the following topics:

  • The effect of crises on Biblical hermeneutics.
  • The concept of crisis in secular and theological interpretations: convergences and differences.
  • Traditional church doctrines on social ethics in light of traumatic experiences caused by a crisis.
  • Christian communities amid the challenges of globalization and isolation.
  • The church’s ethical stance in the face of challenges caused by military aggression and existential crises.
  • War as a catalyst for a rupture in the church's historical consciousness and its ethical paradigms.
  • The digital crisis and ethical considerations in the information realm: the Christian responsibility.
  • Ethical dilemmas of Christian leadership in conditions of uncertainty.
  • Socio-political instability and the rise of populism as a challenge for Christian churches.
  • The cultivation of ecological virtues as a response to the environmental crisis.
  • Theological and ethical responses to the crisis: isolationism, confrontation, adaptation, or creative tension.
  • Crisis as a catalyst for the creative development of theology and ethical thought.
  • Ethical responsibility in light of eschatology: the connection between the doctrine of last things and the formation of daily ethical behavior and responsibility.

The editorial board welcomes original articles and reviews that explore this complex topic. Articles should not exceed 7,000 words (including references and bibliography). 

The submission deadline is February 15, 2026. The publication date is May 15, 2026. 

To submit an article or review, please upload it to the journal's website at http://reflections.eeit-edu.info/about/submissions. Guidelines for authors are available here http://reflections.eeit-edu.info/guidelines. Should you have any questions, please contact us by e-mail: reflections@eeit-edu.info.

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