AÖF-ERF

Welcome and thank you for having chosen to learn more about the international Ecumenical Research Forum (ERF-AÖF).

The AÖF (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Ökumenische Forschung) was launched on 24-25 May 1988 at the Evangelical Academy at Iserlohn (Germany). Having always been an 'open forum' for all involved in academic ecumenical research, the AÖF wanted to include English and well as German-speaking scholars of ecumenism in its discussions. Hence the translation of its name in English as the Ecumenical Research Forum.

The AÖF-ERF aims at facilitating encounter and exchange of ideas and information over current research projects relating to ecumenism, missiological studies and challenges the churches are facing in the contemporary world.

Throughout the past years, the AÖF-ERF has become an established forum for a fruitful dialogue on various topics related to ecumenism and mission. Discussions have taken place in both German and English. Since 2000, the AÖF has been a member of the Societas Oecumenica, the European association for ecumenical research.

The Annual Meetings are the main activities of AÖF-ERF. These are normally organised by an international continuation committee.

Participation in the Annual Meetings is open to all interested in exchanging ideas, discussing research projects and networking.

The AÖF-ERF through its academic meetings aims:

• to establish networks, contacts and friendships among graduate students, teachers and those interested in ecumenism and mission

• to promote the exchange of ecumenical research projects

• to enhance ecumenical formation

• and to provide an open forum where ecumenical research is discussed, evaluated, and eventually published