The Arts, Media, Literature, and Religion

2026 Call for Papers

Brent Little, Sacred Heart University (CT)

littleb3@sacredheart.edu

Christine Mellick Stropky, University of Dayton (OH)

mellickc1@udayton.edu

The Arts, Media, Literature and Religion (AMLR) section of the College Theology Society cordially invites proposals in light of the 2026 convention theme—“Reclaiming Faith Amid Christian Nationalism.” This theme invites us to consider how art, literature, and media might respond both to the historical development of Christian nationalism as well as contemporary forms, both domestically and internationally. The section also warmly welcomes proposals that take more systematic, historical, theoretical, practical, or constructive approaches to these topics.

Non-specialists in the study of the arts, media, literature or religion and theology are encouraged to consider submitting to this section. Graduate students and newer members of the CTS have also found a warm reception in our section. We welcome proposals from CTS members for non-traditional presentation formats that incorporate ministers and/or artists from outside the academy as guest speakers in conversation with yourself.

Suggested topics include but are not limited to:

●      How might art, media, and literature assist in drawing attention to the way that Christianity is used to justify nationalism? How might art, media, and literature assist theology to address the problems caused by Christian nationalism?

●      How can art, media, and literature call attention to marginalized peoples who are particularly vulnerable in a context of Christian nationalism?

●      How has art, media, and literature justified Christian nationalism?

●      What are some challenges and possibilities related to interdisciplinary conversations around art, literature, and media? What distinguishes a theological approach to art, literature, and media from other disciplines and methodologies?

●      How have newer forms of media (like social media, digital humanities projects, public online writing forums, etc.) facilitated the extension of theological conversations and theological education beyond university bounds? Alternatively, how might newer forms of media (such as generative AI and/or the forms of media mentioned above) surface new challenges for theology?

Please e-mail your 200-300 word abstract to BOTH mellickc1@udayton.edu AND littleb3@sacredheart.edu by December 15, 2025. In your proposal, please include the title of your project, your name, institutional affiliation, and any audio/visual needs. Feel welcome to contact Christine Mellick Stropky and Brent Little at the above addresses with any questions or concerns.