“The Protestant Church in China and the U.S. in the 21^st Century”

Its Development and Contributions to Society
Over the Last Decade and Looking Forward

September 26-27, 2011, Washington, D.C.

Summit Summary:

The Summit on the Protestant Church in China and the U.S, to be held in Washington, D.C., will bring together individuals from multiple disciplines to engage in dialogue on the role of the faith in Chinese and American societies. The development of the Protestant church in both societies will be discussed. Cooperation in a multi-faith society will be considered. A particular focus will be on the role of churches in providing social services and its contribution as a stabilizing force in society. The benefit quality theological education provides in church development will be explored.

This multidisciplinary event will bring together from China and the U.S. pastors and church leaders, theologians, religious scholars from academia, and government leaders for keynote presentations and round-table discussions. This gathering will create a new opportunity for leaders from China and the U.S. who have not previously come together to have formal and informal discussions on Protestantism and the church in both nations. A final report will be issued with recommendations for post-conference collaboration and next steps.

Summit Goals:

1.  To explore the development of the Protestant church in Chinese and U.S. societies

2.  To serve as a catalyst for progress in independent and collaborative research on the development of
     Protestantism in China and the U.S.

3.  To analyze the role Protestantism plays in society in social harmony and as a stabilizing force

4.  To engage in dialogue on the relationship of church and state in both China and the U.S.