CBA in Australia: Panels, Conversations, and Gatherings

The Catholic Biblical Association of America (CBA) is partnering with the Australian Catholic Biblical Association (ACBA) and the Australian Catholic Theological Association (ACTA) during the 2026 SBL International Meeting in Adelaide, Australia. 

Two hybrid panels in Adelaide, Australia

• “Teaching Difficult Texts: Interpretation, Pedagogy, and the Challenge of Antisemitism”

July 7, 2026: 2:00-3:30 pm ACST (UTC+9:30) in Room Ligertwood 333 at Adelaide University.

This case-study workshop addresses the challenge of antisemitism in biblical interpretation and teaching through three concrete examples. After an opening framing by Prof. Archie Wright, three scholars will each present a brief case study focused on a distinct problem: a text historically weaponized against Jews, a misuse of a biblical text in a classroom or church setting, and a hermeneutical problem in scholarship or preaching. The session will conclude with a guided discussion exploring how biblical texts may be interpreted and taught more responsibly in academic and religious contexts. By moving from specific cases to broader reflection, the workshop aims to foster constructive scholarly and pedagogical responses.

Speakers:
Prof. Amy-Jill Levine and Prof. Christopher Seeman 

• "Facing Antisemitism Today: Scholarship, Faith, and Public Responsibility”

July 7, 2026: 7:00-8:30 pm ACST (UTC+9:30) at Scots Church

As antisemitism continues to persist and resurface in public life, churches, classrooms, and civic discourse, it is increasingly important for scholars and religious leaders to respond together with clarity and practical wisdom. This public-facing panel will feature Profs. AJ Levine and Michael Trainor in conversation with invited Jewish and Catholic leaders about the challenges antisemitism poses today and the responsibilities that follow for both academic and faith communities. The discussion will address how antisemitism should be understood in the present moment, the role Christian interpretation and institutional habits have played in shaping anti-Jewish attitudes, and how sacred texts may be taught more responsibly. Panelists will also consider what concrete responses are needed when antisemitism appears in religious, educational, or public settings.

Speakers:
Prof. Amy-Jill Levine, Prof. Michael Trainor, Archbishop Anthony Ireland, Rabbi Dr. Benjamin Elton