School of Theology
Welcome to the School of Theology’s 2025 programme, a thought-provoking series of lectures, workshops, and discussions designed to inspire spiritual renewal and promote wellbeing within our community. As part of the Diocese of St Albans's Year of Spiritual Renewal and Wellbeing, this series invites participants to explore complex issues of faith, society, and personal growth in an inclusive, reflective space.
Each event, held either in the historic surroundings of St Albans Cathedral or accessible online, features distinguished speakers and practitioners who bring fresh insights to essential questions of theology, spirituality, and social justice. From reimagining the education system and confronting cultural narratives of motherhood, to reflecting on the themes of joy in Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s prison letters, this programme explores the intersections of faith with contemporary life, inviting participants to discover new ways of seeing and understanding.
Whether you’re seeking theological insight, creative inspiration, or simply a place to deepen your spiritual practice, we welcome you to join us. Please see individual event listings for specific details on dates, times, and venues.
An Introduction to the Life and Theology of Dietrich Bonhoeffer
In the first part of this online lecture join the Revd Dr Stephen Plant, as he explores the compelling details of Bonhoeffer’s life and his powerful ideas and theology. Then, delve deeper as Plant unpacks Bonhoeffer’s bold and often controversial political thought, culminating in a timely discussion on how Bonhoeffer’s vision can inspire new approaches to peacebuilding and justice in today’s world.
About the Revd Dr Stephen Plant | Stephen Plant is Runcie Fellow, Dean and Associate Professor at Trinity Hall, Cambridge. He is the author of Bonhoeffer (2004), Taking Stock of Bonhoeffer (2014) and a regular contributor to BBC Radio 4’s In Our Time.
The strange joyfulness of Bonhoeffer’s prison letters
Eighty years after Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s martyrdom, his letters from prison reveal a surprising focus on joy amidst hardship. In this lecture, Dr Ashley Cocksworth explores how Bonhoeffer’s reflections from Tegel Prison can offer fresh insights for living the Christian life today.
Creative Meditations of Faith
Join a contemplative, creative workshop inspired by Romola Parish’s exhibition Crying in the Silicon Wilderness, featuring 14 embroidered panels on themes of brokenness and restoration. Through guided exercises, engage deeply with the artwork and spark your own creative ideas. No prior experience needed; materials provided.
Unmaking Mary: shattering the myth of perfect motherhood
Join Chine McDonald as she deconstructs the myth of perfect motherhood that has been shaped by presentations of Mary.