Religion Forum with Dr. LaBianca

The Andrews Legacy and a More Inclusive Future

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At the Religion Student Forum, Øystein S. LaBianca revisits the heritage of biblical archaeology at Andrews University, from the pioneering era of Siegfried H. Horn to today’s work at Tall Hisban in Jordan. While early generations sought to illuminate the biblical world through excavation, the field now faces new ethical and intellectual responsibilities. Drawing on a deep-time perspective, LaBianca argues that archaeology in the lands of the Bible must move toward partnership with local communities, fuller inclusion of Islamic and Ottoman pasts, and practices that build long-term trust. This shift—from expedition to collaboration, from extraction to stewardship—offers students a path to meaningful service and scholarship while sustaining the Adventist commitment to sharing the good news of the gospel.