We were delighted to participate in an inspiring “Nepalese Conversation” recently held at the Oxford Town Hall.
This thought-provoking event, organised by Langham Partnership UK and Ireland, featured a conversation with siblings Kiran and Karuna Sharma, both Langham Scholars pursuing their PhDs at OCMS. The host and conversation partner was Chris Wright from Langham Partnership.
The Sharma Siblings: A Legacy of Faith and Scholarship
Kiran and Karuna’s journey in Christian scholarship is rooted in a remarkable family history. Chris Wright, who introduced the siblings, shared that he had taught their father while in Nepal, remembering him as a brilliant scholar. He even gave them a copy of his ‘marks record.’ The siblings then recounted their father’s inspiring journey to Christianity.
Despite being raised in a Hindu household, their father had an early desire to become a Christian. In a touching anecdote, Kiran and Karuna shared how their father, after an arranged Hindu wedding, revealed his Christian beliefs to his new bride. To their father’s relief, she understood and supported his decision to adopt Christianity. At the time there were only about 500 Christians in the country. The siblings went on to explain that this commitment to faith led their father to become a Christian evangelist, traveling extensively to spread the Gospel throughout Nepal. This foundation of faith and dedication to spreading Christian teachings has clearly influenced Kiran and Karuna’s own academic pursuits and life missions as Christians.
Cutting-Edge Research in Nepali Christian Context
Kiran and Karuna are conducting research addressing crucial issues in the Nepali Christian context:
Kiran Sharma’s research focuses on “Contextually and biblically appropriate financial stewardship in Nepal: socio-cultural analysis and theological reflection.” As the current Principal of Ebenezer Theological Seminary, Kiran’s work is particularly relevant given the rapid growth of churches in Nepal since the restoration of democracy in 1990.
Kiran’s research aims to develop theologically sound financial practices that resonate with the Nepali cultural context.
Karuna Sharma is investigating “Inter-Caste Marriages Among Nepali Christians.” As a faculty member at Nepal Theological College in Kathmandu and a teacher, Karuna is deeply aware of the societal constraints still faced by girls, particularly in terms of marriage choices. Her research promises to shed light on how Christian communities in Nepal are navigating the complex intersections of faith and caste.
The Nepali Context: Christianity in a Changing Landscape
The Sharma siblings’ work is set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving religious landscape in Nepal. The country has seen a significant rise in Christianity, especially since the 1990s when it transitioned from a Royal Family to a secular state. This growth has created a pressing need for theologically trained leaders and institutions to support and guide the burgeoning Christian community.
Langham Partnership: Nurturing Global Christian Leadership
The event highlighted the crucial role of Langham Partnership in equipping scholars from the Majority World. Their commitment to helping emerging Christian leaders earn PhDs in Bible and theology complements OCMS’s mission. Langham Partnership plays a vital role in funding scholars who pursue their doctoral studies at OCMS.
A Call for Prayer and Support
In a poignant moment, Chris Wright asked the Sharma siblings about their prayer requests. Both emphasised the need for continued freedom of worship in Nepal and an end to persecution. Karuna added a heartfelt plea for prayers for Nepali women, hoping for improved life chances and opportunities.
Reflecting on the Evening
This Nepalese Evening served as a powerful reminder of the importance of contextual theological education and the impact of organisations like OCMS and Langham Partnership. The Sharma siblings’ research not only contributes to academic discourse but also has the potential to effect real change in their communities.
The event was well-attended, bringing together a diverse audience including OCMS students and staff. The historical connection between Langham Partnership and OCMS is deeply rooted in their founding figures. John Stott, the renowned theologian and founder of Langham Partnership, played a crucial advisory role when Vinay Samuel and Chris Sugden were establishing OCMS. This early guidance from Stott underscores the long-
standing collaboration between the two organisations in nurturing global Christian scholarship.
Support
As we reflect on this inspiring event, we are reminded of our mission at OCMS to support and nurture scholars like Kiran and Karuna. Their work exemplifies the critical intersection of faith, scholarship, and social impact that lies at the heart of our vision.
We welcome your support for our students. If you’re interested in making a difference, please consider contributing to our Scholarship Fund. Your donation will help students from the Global South pursue impactful studies at OCMS.
