On the Origin of Mandatory Blessing for the Election of Professors at Faculties of Theology – National and Comparative Perspective

Abstract

Protection of nascent university autonomy, recognition of professor status and validity of acquired diplomas – all provided by the Church throughout history – were crucial for the development of universities during their early existence, at the time when they acquired their present reputation and influence. Denominational theology, based on the authority of higher education in modern society, has the capacity to exert dominant influence on the identity, doctrine and perception of a certain denomination, requiring the safeguarding of the church’s right to maintain such influence within the confines of its self-determination. Appointments of theology professors is an indispensable instrument for ensuring such a right. The right of self-determination of the church represents the framework within which university autonomy in the domain of denominational theological study may be exerted. Absence of the right of the church to influence appointment of theology professors would amount to the negation of its right to religious self-determination.