Rev Mashudu Muthivhi – Practical Theology lecturer
Rev Mashudu Muthivhi, a Practical Theology lecturer and Coordinator of the Theology Section in the Department of Human Sciences under the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Education, has been selected to participate in the highly competitive Study of the United States Institute (SUSI) for Scholars Programme. The selection follows an extensive process of application and interview finals. SUSI for Scholars Programme, an intensive post-graduate level academic programme, endeavours to strengthen curricula and enhance religious teaching and research quality. Rev. Muthivhi jetted off to US on 23 June 2022 and will return on 08 August 2022.
Rev Mashudu Muthivhi, a designated Religious Specialist by the Association of Christian Religious Practitioners (ACRP) and an NIHSS-SAHUDA doctoral scholarship fellow, will join a multinational group of up to 18 experienced foreign university faculty, scholars, researchers, and religious leaders. The multinational group will among others examine religious pluralism in the United States and its intersection with American democracy. They will have opportunities to meet U.S. community leaders of different faiths who advocate for collaboration and tolerance among religious groups.
Seattle University will conduct and host the Study of the U.S. Institute (SUSI) for Scholars on Religious Pluralism in the United States, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). The Institute will explore, through the study of the religious landscape of the United States, the historical and contemporary relationship between church and state in the U.S. The programme draws from a diverse disciplinary base and will include site visits to diverse local communities and an integrated study tour to different regions of the United States. The programme will also examine how religious thought and practice have been modified and influenced by the development of American-style democracy.
Rev Muthivhi, in his specialisation in pastoral care and counselling, is currently a Ph.D. candidate in Theology at the University of Venda. His research project has a dual purpose to identify, describe and analyse deviant healing practices in contemporary religious movements and to investigate how these practices blend African religiosity with European religious expression and identity.
The Executive Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education, Prof Bongani Bantwini, on behalf of the University, wishes him a safe and successful trip to Seattle University (SU) in Seattle, Washington.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: (015) 962 8525 / 8710
Date: 05 July 2022
