Theodicy and the Existence of Evil

On November 10th, 2025, at the University of Toronto, join us at 6PM-8PM for this event, where we will explore how the Qur’an and the Bible confront the question of evil and suffering in a world understood to be shaped by divine mercy and justice and yet shaken by calamities and privations. Together, we will reflect on how both scriptures may point beyond temporal suffering toward the hope of ultimate wisdom, compassion, and restoration.

Let’s come together to share perspectives and foster deeper understanding. Join us for a shared meal after the discussion, offering a chance to connect in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

All are welcome to this engaging and thought-provoking discussion, jointly hosted by the Intercultural Dialogue Institute (IDI) GTA, and the Shi’a Research Institute, and to be held within the Toronto School of Theology building, at the University of Toronto.

Registration is required by November 6th, 2025.

Facilitators:

Vinay Khetia

Vinay Khetia

Academic Director, Shi‘a Research Institute

Dr. Vinay Khetia holds a Ph.D in Religious Studies from McMaster University.

He has also attained a Master of Arts in History and Philosophy of Religion from Concordia University, and a Bachelor of Arts in History, Religious Studies, & Near & Middle Eastern Studies from University of Toronto.

He currently serves as the Academic Director at the Shi‘a Research Institute, in Toronto, Canada.

Jean-Pierre Fortin

Jean-Pierre Fortin

Associate Professor, University of St. Michael's College

Dr. Jean-Pierre Fortin is Associate Professor of Practical Theology in the Faculty of Theology of the University of St. Michael’s College. Dr. Fortin holds a PhD in systematic theology from the University of St. Michael’s College, a PhD in philosophy from Université Laval and a Licentiate in Sacred Theology from Regis College. He serves as Director of Field Education and Pastoral Formation, overseeing the field placements of students completing the Master of Divinity, Master of Religious Education and Master of Theological Studies programs.

His teaching and research are interdisciplinary in approach and focus, geared towards producing a spiritual theology centered in a multi-level understanding of the human person combining the inputs of theology, philosophy, literature and natural science. Topics of particular interest are the spiritual formation of the human person through the processing of traumatic events and experiences, as well as the rethinking of fundamental theological notions such as sin and grace in light of the Jewish experience of the Holocaust, the African American experience of slavery and systemic racism, and the Indigenous experience of cultural genocide.

Toronto School of Theology