The Rev. Dr. Augustine Jeyakumar Endowment Lecture 2026-2027 was held on Friday, August 7th, 2026, at 4:30PM in the Ziegenbalg Auditorium, Gurukul Lutheran Theological College and Research Institute, Chennai. The lecture was delivered by Dr. Rebekah Dass Zechariah, Senior Faculty, Department of Distance Education, and Coordinator for International Programmes and Partnerships at Christian Medical College, Vellore, on the theme “Reimagining the Medical Ministries of the Church for Our Times.” The speaker critically examined the contemporary relevance of Christian medical ministries in the context of public health, social justice, human dignity, and compassionate care. Drawing upon interdisciplinary perspectives from theology, medicine, and ethics, the lecture highlighted the need for holistic and contextually responsive healthcare ministries within the church and for the society at large. The programme facilitated meaningful academic interaction among theologians, healthcare professionals, students, and church leaders. Participants appreciated the lecture for its scholarly depth, practical relevance, and prophetic challenge to ecclesial engagement in healthcare. The event reaffirmed Gurukul’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary theological reflection and public witness in service to church and society. The lecture concluded with an engaging discussion and a vote of thanks, marking the successful completion of the First Endowment Lecture for the Academic Year 2026–2027.
Rev. Prof. Dr. Nagaiyasamy N S Samuel
Convenor
Endowment Lecture Committee – 2026-2027