By Karren Jay G. Asgar
Asst. Prof. Rodmar B. Lilla joins the Global Summer Institute of Theological and Intercultural Studies 2026 at the Divinity School of Chung Chi College, Chinese University of Hong Kong, for intercultural theological formation.
Asst. Prof. Rev. Rodmar B. Lilla, a faculty member and Spiritual Formation Program Coordinator of Central Philippine University College of Theology (CPU-COT), participated in the Global Summer Institute of Theological and Intercultural Studies 2026 held at the Divinity School of Chung Chi College, Chinese University of Hong Kong.
Organized by the Divinity School of Chung Chi College at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the program officially kicked off on May 26, 2026, featuring international scholars and students from across Asia.
In an online interview with Asst. Prof. Lilla, he shared that, “I got interested considering the nature of my work in ministering, teaching and student formation. I understand that in these ministries I would encounter individuals from different backgrounds. Thus, developing intercultural competence is a necessity that I need to engage myself with.” He also said the program would help develop his sensitivity, skills, and open-mindedness necessary for his meaningful engagement with people of varying perspectives and personalities shaped by diverse experiences and backgrounds.
He also expressed appreciation for institutional support from Central Philippine University, noting its role in making his participation possible. “I am deeply grateful for the university’s unwavering support, particularly through the encouragement and prayers of my colleagues and the approval of my study leave,” he said.
He underscored that the impact of international academic exposure extends beyond the individual. He explained that “the knowledge, skills, and experiences gained by university personnel through international academic exposure are not confined to the individual participants,” but contribute to a wider academic community through a “ripple effect of positive change and continuous development.”
During the Farewell Session, he joined organizers for a photo opportunity marking the conclusion of the program.
Reflecting on the experience, Asst. Prof. Lilla described it as transformative. “This learning exposure has truly broadened my perspective on doing theology in a pluralistic society. The experience was unique, thought-provoking, humbling and life-changing,” he said.
He also shared encounters during the program, including interactions with people from diverse faiths and backgrounds, as well as witnessing the realities of Overseas Filipino Workers in Hong Kong.
Emphasizing the importance of humility and respect in diverse contexts, he said, “We must commit to transformative efforts that dismantle power differentials and resist the marginalization of others,” adding that “true interconnectedness… is experienced when we humble ourselves, edify one another, respect our differences, and unconditionally love one another just like what Jesus taught us.”
He also encouraged colleagues to pursue similar international opportunities, noting that such experiences broaden perspectives and deepen understanding of global realities.
Asst. Prof. Lilla’s participation in the program reaffirms the University’s commitment to academic excellence, intercultural engagement, and the continuous development of its faculty through global academic exposure.