A Global Gathering of Faith and Fellowship
In July, Whitley had the tremendous privilege of participating as a Gold Sponsor at the Baptist World Congress in Brisbane. What an incredible joy it was to connect with our global Baptist family from around the world! Former students, partners, and friends from near and far stopped by the Whitley stand, sharing stories that reminded us just how wide-reaching and impactful our community is.
Our theme at the Congress Exhibition stand, ‘Understanding the Good News – Faithful – Contextual – Global’, resonated deeply. As our Principal, Rev Associate Professor Darrell Jackson, shared:,
“We were present because the theme of ‘Living the Good News’ is central to who we are as Baptists. For a College like Whitley, we have a key role in helping people to ‘Understand the Good News’ – faithfully, contextually, and globally.”
The success of Whitley’s presence at Congress was the result of the dedication and teamwork of all staff who attended and supported from afar. Each played a vital role, from engaging visitors at our stand to representing the College in conversations, connections, and shared moments of hospitality. Several of our academic staff also facilitated breakout sessions, bringing their expertise to the global Baptist community.
Rev Dr Andrew Mitchell delivered a session titled “Listening: Reflections on Historic Australia Baptist Engagement with First Nations.” Andy explored how history continues to shape the present, drawing from the story of Australian Baptist engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. He invited participants to reflect on a couple of historical examples of Baptist allyship, to talk about how a genuine relationship is transformative and creates an impetus toward action and advocacy.
Rev Associate Professor Darrell Jackson and Rev Dr Titus Olorunnisola presented the draft version of the new BWA e-Guide ‘Many places, many voices: polycentric and polyvocal mission’ during the meetings of the Commission for Mission. Darrell presented in the breakout sessions, addressing the theme of ‘Kinesis, diaspora, and unsettling theology’ in which he highlighted the theological work of former migrant students and members of the College community.
We were also delighted to host the Whitley Dinner, a beautiful evening of fellowship that brought together friends new and old. It was a joy to share a meal, reflect on our shared mission, and celebrate what God is doing through theological education across the globe. During that session, we were honoured to sign a new partnership agreement with Kowthoolei Hope Theological Seminary in Thailand.
A Special Announcement: Darrell Jackson’s New Global Role
We are also very pleased to share that Rev Associate Professor Darrell Jackson was officially announced as the incoming Chair of the Baptist World Alliance’s Commission on Baptist Doctrine and Christian Unity, commencing in 2026.
This is a significant and well-deserved recognition of Darrell’s deep commitment to Baptist theology and global Christian unity. It is both an enormous privilege and a weighty responsibility. This voluntary role will see Darrell contributing his expertise to strengthen and serve the worldwide Baptist movement.
We invite you to join us in prayer for Darrell, for wisdom, clarity, and grace, as he takes on this meaningful role alongside his continued leadership at Whitley.
To all who joined us in Brisbane, thank you! Whether you visited the Whitley stand, attended a session, shared a conversation, or supported from afar, we’re grateful. As Darrell put it:
“Congress showcased the global Baptist family at its best!”
We couldn’t agree more. We return inspired, connected, and excited for what lies ahead.
