This autumn, nine new students began the OCMS Programme for Research Induction (OPRI), the first stage of their research journey with the Oxford Centre for Mission Studies. During an intensive period of teaching, guided practice and independent study, they began developing their research proposals and the academic skills needed for postgraduate work. Alongside serious study, they also had the chance to get to know one another and start building a community to share the journey — and plenty of coffee breaks — together.
This cohort brings a wide range of experience and research interests. Théophile Muyisa Katuka, who works in a Christian University in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is exploring whether Protestant churches can contribute to poverty alleviation in eastern DRC. Christopher Sullivan, who serves with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship in New York, is developing a theopolitical reading of Genesis 1–11. Hannah Bossers, who works in Bible translation with Wycliffe Bible Translators, is asking what role local languages can play in the Great Commission today.
The other research projects span theology, mission, scripture and social engagement. Kaitlin Kirk is interested in theology and ethics in accounting, with a focus on cross-cultural mission.
Kate King’s research considers how mission organisations navigate change in a changing global mission landscape. Mosammat Suraiyea Begum, who works in Bangladesh, is exploring how the Book of Acts can be understood in the context of Muslim-background believers there. Samuel Y. Chiu, who works with A Rocha Canada, is examining creation care as an issue of Christian formation. Stephanie Robinson from the USA, is researching unaccompanied minors, transformational development and liberation theology. Youssry Guirguis, an assistant professor at the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies in the Philippines, is researching dreams in the Qur’an.
What is OPRI?
OPRI is a structured programme of academic and research formation. It helps students refine a viable research question, engage with relevant literature, explore suitable research methods and prepare a proposal for doctoral study.
Three students joined the teaching and lecture sessions online for health or visa reasons. They remained part of the cohort, and OCMS hopes they will be able to join a future residency in Oxford and spend time in person with their peers and the wider student community.
Fellowship and a taste of Oxford
For students in Oxford, the programme also offered opportunities to learn beyond the classroom. They attended in-person lectures, travelled by minibus to Middlesex University, OCMS’s validating partner for its PhD programme, and learned how to use the Bodleian Libraries’ systems and resources to support their research.
There was time to enjoy Oxford together, too. Nicky, OCMS’s Finance Manager, led the group on a walk around the Blenheim estate, followed by a meal at a traditional English pub — yes fortifying chips were included. Community lunches also gave the students a chance to get to know other students currently in residency.
We are pleased to welcome the 2026 OPRI cohort and look forward to seeing how their studies develop.
