Investigative Body

New Institute for Practical Theology Focuses on Church Law at University of Innsbruck

The University of Innsbruck is set to establish a new entity, the Institute for Practical Theology, which will commence operations on September 1, 2024. The Institute's area of focus is solely Church Law.

Prof. Dr. Sabine Konrad, a renowned scholar in the field, has been appointed as the head of the Church Law department. She brings a wealth of experience to the role, having completed her Diploma in Catholic Theology in Munich in 2006, followed by a Licentiate in Canon Law from the same university in 2015. In 2008, she obtained a doctorate in Theology with a focus on Canon Law from Munich University.

Throughout her academic career, Prof. Konrad has spent time abroad, gaining insights into local situations and shaping her understanding of Canon Law. She has taught at the Hochschule Sankt Georgen in Frankfurt am Main and spent a research stay at the Pontificia Universidad Comillas in Madrid.

Prof. Konrad's research interests are diverse, encompassing marriage process law, the relationship between state and religions, religious practice or religious symbols in public life, the design of religious freedom, cooperation between the state and churches and religious communities, and copyright in church music. Her research, particularly in the area of copyright, personality rights, and their protection, has a strong focus on Austria's church music scene.

Prior to her appointment at the University of Innsbruck, Prof. Konrad served as a university professor and head of the Institute for Canon Law at the University of Graz from 2020 until the end of August 2024.

As for the Institute for Practical Theology's structure, governance, or location, these details have not been disclosed. It is also unclear who the founding members, if any, may be. However, as of September 1, 2024, the Institute will be led by Prof. Dr. Ingrid Storka, who will take over the Church Law department from Prof. Konrad.

The Institute for Practical Theology operates within the domain of theology, contributing to the University of Innsbruck's rich academic landscape and furthering the study of Church Law.