The Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS) recently became a hub for a timely and far-reaching conversation on the future of theological education in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In collaboration with Mesa Global and Langham Publishing, the seminary convened leaders, faculty members, and doctoral students from around the world to reflect on how emerging technologies are reshaping teaching, learning, and leadership formation in theological institutions.
The hybrid gathering featured Dr. Perry Shaw, one of the most respected voices in global theological education today. Known for his ability to integrate academic rigor, cultural intelligence, and practical wisdom, Dr. Shaw guided participants through the challenges and opportunities presented by AI. Rather than beginning with institutional policies, he urged educators to start with values asking what kind of people theological schools seek to form, and how AI might either support or undermine that calling.
Central to the discussion was the conviction that while AI can rapidly generate information, it cannot produce wisdom, spiritual maturity, or discernment. Participants explored how theological education must continue to prioritize holistic formation, contextual awareness, and missional faithfulness. Dr. Shaw emphasized that educators play a crucial role in helping students engage AI critically, using it as a learning partner rather than a substitute for thinking, creativity, or embodied community
The initiative emerged from the shared vision of Dr. Joanna Feliciano-Soberano, Southeast Asia Consultant for Mesa Global, and Dr. Joy Faraz, Academic Dean of APNTS. Their collaboration brought together institutions committed to strengthening theological education globally, creating a learning space that addressed both present realities and future challenges facing seminaries and churches.
The scope of the event reflected its global significance. A total of 142 participants joined online and in person, representing more than 90 organizations across over 20 countries. Voices from the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Vietnam, Africa, Europe, and North America contributed to a rich exchange of perspectives. This diversity underscored that while contexts differ, theological educators worldwide face shared questions about integrity, assessment, formation, and leadership in an AI-shaped world.
Founded in 1983, APNTS has long been committed to providing contextualized, rigorous theological education for the Asia-Pacific region. Hosting this conversation was a natural extension of its mission to serve as a hub for leadership development and missional engagement. As AI continues to transform global learning environments, APNTS and its partners reaffirm their commitment to faithful innovation. This gathering made clear that the heart of the conversation is not technology itself, but how educators can steward new tools in ways that serve the church’s mission and nurture wise, discerning leaders for the future.
