MM

initiative to organize a seminar on the theological contributions of M.M. Thomas and to
SAHTRI’s
the presentations is greatly appreciated. M.M. Thomas is one of those thinkers and leaders
publish
have inspired a whole generation of Indian theologians and ecumenists, whether or not they
who
with him. His addresses, articles and books are thought-provoking and can hardly be ignored.
agreed
his visible role in debates in India and outside ended, one got the impression that his influence
After
fading. New concerns and developments in India and in the world and new theological trends
was
and seminaries. New issues that were not at the heart of Thomas’ reflections increasingly
faculties
attention, for instance, the perspectives offered by feminist and Dalit theologians, the concerns
needed
of the changing agendas in theological reflection and urged younger theologians to take up
aware
new subjects in their study.
these
volume shows that this is not the case. The centenary celebrations of his birthday have revived
This
interest in his writings. Several platforms and institutions, including the Mar Thoma Church to
the
Foreword
were determining the agenda of
debates in churches, the ecumenical movement and theological
around ecological justice and, later,
increasing religious radicalism and violence. Thomas was fully
It was felt that with these changing agendas
the relevance of Thomas’ thinking would also diminish.
which he belonged, have felt that it is worth going back to his writings. They try to discern what his