Insights –
International Summer School 2026 in the Philippines
The second international summer school—organized by the IWM—is in full swing. Seven students from Frankfurt are exploring how theology and mission can be shaped interculturally in a globalized world.
The trip began on February 20. The first stop was the Diocese of Alaminos, where the students lived in a fishing village and were able to learn about the local church, social issues, and cultural characteristics. Highlights of this “exposure” phase included meetings with Bishop Napoleon Sipalay and Vicar General Fr. Mel, participation in the founding of a Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC) in the fishing village of Bolo 2, and visits to church-run social institutions.
A week later, the “enclosure” phase began at Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City. The group from Sankt Georgen met here with students from the guest lectures given by Fr. Prof. Luber SJ.
The program included modules on topics such as postcolonial mission theories, contextual theology of the Philippines, ecological mission, interreligious dialogue, pastoral care for migrant workers, synodal processes, and social justice. Practical excursions, encounters with local church representatives, and students from Ateneo complemented the lectures and presentations.
