05.04.2024

In Conversation with Research Alum Rev. Dr. Michael Phiri

In this interview, Rev. Dr. Michael Phiri talks about his work on Dietrich Bonhoeffer and his time in Tübingen.

In our interview series "In Conversation with Research Alumni," we talk to researchers who previously conducted research at the University of Tübingen and are now based in other countries. Our aim is to learn more about their current projects and gain insights into their future plans.

Dear Rev. Dr. Michael Phiri, where are you currently based?
I am based in the Blantyre district, Malawi. Blantyre is in the Southern region of Malawi.

What do you work on?
I am currently focussing on two interrelated areas: First, I am engaging with Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s theology within the theological and socio-political context of Malawi. Secondly, I am conducting research on the broader field of theology and development, where I explore the impact of theology on ecology, gender, and socio-political development.

What is the most exciting aspect of your research?
The most exciting aspect of my research is the opportunity to apply Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s insights to the context of Malawi. In so doing, I introduce new perspectives and conceptual frameworks into the theological discourse within Malawi. Despite the geographical and spatial distances between Bonhoeffer’s Germany and 21st century Malawi, Bonhoeffer’s theology can inform Christian spirituality and theology in present-day Malawi.

Please share a memorable experience from your time as a researcher abroad.
One of the most memorable experiences during my time as a researcher abroad was at Adolf Schlatterhaus in Tübingen, where I first learnt German. This helped me to study Bonhoeffer’s writings in their original language and thus delve deep into Dietrich Bonhoeffer research. The instructors were student-centered and the environment was notably conducive to learning Deutsch.

If you could teleport to any place in Tübingen for a quick visit, where would you go and why?
If I could teleport to Tübingen, I would visit the Christliche Gemeinde at Mohlstraꞵe 26, where Pastor Jim and Naomi Kautt provided spiritual nourishment during my time as a guest doctoral student at the University. Additionally, the international atmosphere at Christliche Gemeinde was both edifying and inspiring.

Please share some aspects of your academic and professional involvement.
I am a Lecturer, Quality Assurance Officer and Head of Research at Evangelical Bible College of Malawi. I am a member of the following societies (1) International Bonhoeffer Society – English Language Section, (2) Society of Christian Scholars Africa and (3) Theological Society of Malawi. My desire is to rework my doctoral thesis into a book and have it published in the International Bonhoeffer Interpretations series by Peter Lang.