This international call for papers forms part of a Special Issue of Religions, an open-access journal by MDPI, themed “Life-and-Death Education at the Intersection of Public Theological and Secular Sciences.” The issue seeks to deepen understanding of how the intertwined realities of life and death can enrich both secular scientific thought and public theological reflection, offering holistic perspectives on human well-being, ethics, and education. The submission deadline is April 30, 2026

Why Life-and-Death Education Matters? Originally developed as an academic discipline in Taiwan in the late 1990s, Life-and-Death Education unites philosophical, spiritual, psychological, sociocultural, and scientific dimensions to help individuals confront mortality, grief, and meaning-making in life. It promotes emotional resilience, ethical awareness, and intercultural understanding — qualities urgently needed in modern societies facing mental health challenges, ecological crises, and growing secularism.

From a public theological perspective, Life-and-Death Education provides fertile ground for dialogue between faith and science. It invites theology to engage secular disciplines — biology, psychology, sociology, economics, literature, and even mathematics — in a shared exploration of life’s purpose and the ethics of living and dying. Dr. Anthony envisions this as “a comprehensive, life-orienting project” that empowers learners and institutions to promote human dignity, interreligious dialogue, and the common good.

An Invitation to Collaborate

The Special Issue encourages contributions that explore how Life-and-Death Education can intersect with scientific disciplines and enrich public theology. Topics may include youth mental health, ethical decision-making around death, ecological awareness, interreligious understanding, and the moral dimensions of technological or biological life.

The initiative aligns with the Salesian educational vision of forming “honest citizens and good believers,” integrating academic excellence with moral and spiritual growth. Scholars and practitioners from theology, education, psychology, the sciences, and humanities are encouraged to participate and help shape this new, humanizing paradigm of education.

For submission details and guidelines, visit: https://www.mdpi.com/si/257639

Contact: bircpt_director@shctpt.edu | vinanth@gmail.com