Jione Havea Receives Prestigious International Mentoring Award

At the recent Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Annual Meeting in Boston, Jione Havea -- known across our Synod as the “Climate Catalyst” -- received one of the most significant mentoring honours in global biblical scholarship.

He was presented with the Outstanding Mentor Award from the SBL’s Underrepresented Racial and Ethnic Minorities in the Profession Committee. The award was handed to him by Steed Davidson, Executive Director of the SBL, during the association’s annual gathering of scholars, teachers and theologians from around the world.

The award recognises mentors who have supported and lifted up scholars from underrepresented racial and ethnic communities. It honours not only academic supervision, but the quiet, consistent work of encouragement, advocacy and hospitality that helps emerging scholars find direction and confidence.

For many in the Uniting Church, this description fits Jione almost exactly.

His years as a lecturer at United Theological College left a deep mark on ministers and lay leaders across our Synod. Students often speak of his honest, generous approach to theological learning — grounding biblical study in lived experience, Pacific identity, and the call to justice for creation.

Even after moving into new roles, including his current appointments at Charles Sturt University and Pilgrim Theological College, he continues to mentor, guide and challenge people in ministry. His capacity to hold space for others, particularly those navigating questions of identity, culture or vocation, remains one of his most valued gifts.

The Society of Biblical Literature is the peak international body for the field. To be honoured by this community signals both the depth of Jione’s scholarship and the impact of his mentoring across continents.

For our churches, the recognition serves as a reminder that voices formed in local congregations and regional colleges can influence the global conversation. Jione’s work brings the concerns of our region — climate justice, the wisdom of Pacific communities, and the realities of colonisation — into dialogue with the broader world of biblical studies.

Many in our Synod continue to be shaped by Jione’s teaching and witness. His insistence that theology must engage the world as it is — fragile, diverse, interconnected — continues to inform ministry in congregations, presbyteries and community spaces.

This award affirms what many here have long known: that Jione Havea is not only a scholar of international standing, but a mentor whose influence continues to change lives and strengthen the church’s commitment to stewardship of the earth.

Many in our Synod continue to be shaped by Jione’s teaching and witness. His insistence that theology must engage the world as it is — fragile, diverse, interconnected — continues to inform ministry in congregations, presbyteries and community spaces.

Jione is pictured here with the Executive Director of SBL and another colleague.