Dr. Sunil Chandy is an interdisciplinary theologian and sound artist, working at the intersection of sound studies, theology, and biblical engagement. His PhD focused on Reading Aloud the Bible, where they explored how sound art can reveal hidden and silenced voices in scripture, particularly those from marginalized communities. Sunil’s work engages with the auditory dimensions of scripture, using sound as a methodological tool to expand traditional interactions with the Bible.
His academic interests are grounded in diverse theologies, including Black, feminist, postcolonial, womanist, and disability theologies. As a teacher, Sunil leads the Worship Curation Pathway, exploring how creative skills beyond music can enhance worship experiences. He is particularly passionate about emphasizing diverse theological voices, fostering worship practices that are inclusive and sensitive to a wide range of experiences.
Having grown up in India and later lived in the UK, Sunil is curious to the complexities of diasporic life, migration, and multicultural identity. These themes inform much of his reflection on identity and belonging. His ecumenical background—having been part of Anglican, Methodist, and Vineyard churches, with family ties to the Mar Thoma Syrian Orthodox tradition—has shaped his understanding of the diversity within the body of Christ. Sunil has also worked in a Roman Catholic college and served as a lay minister in the Anglican church. He has been a music director and worship leader in churches in both India and the UK, further enriching his perspective on global worship practices.
Currently, Sunil’s research focuses on the interaction between music and violence in the Bible, examining how these themes converge in scripture and how sound-based interpretations can offer fresh theological insights. His broader research interests include how sound and music function within worship, the ethical implications of sound, and the role of sound in shaping identity within theological contexts.
Research Interests:
- Sound and Theology
- Black, Feminist, Postcolonial, Womanist, and Disability Theologies
- Inclusive Worship Ethics and Curation
- Marginalized Voices in Scripture
- Music and Violence in the Bible
- Diasporic Life, Migration, and Multicultural Identity
- Ecumenical Perspectives on the Body of Christ
Through his work, Sunil aims to cultivate a deeper understanding of worship and theology that is inclusive, creative, and sensitive to the voices and experiences of those often marginalized or overlooked within the church.
Currently, he is working on releasing a book titled Bible Noise: Reading Aloud, Listening Anew, a resource for churches to engage with the Bible through their voices.
