The Ken Leech Memorial Lecture 2026

The Ken Leech Memorial Lecture 2026:

Where are the prophets of revolutionary orthodoxy? 

‘The gospel, socialism, and lace.’ 

Christina Beardsley SMMS 

This year’s lecture considers prophecy and politics, by reflecting on the clergy’s political engagement through three preaching scenarios. Structured by three timelines – the recent right-wing swing in British politics; the demise of the post-war consensus and socialism; increased central control in Church of England governance – it asks, ‘where are Ken’s successors today?’ while promising to end on a slightly lighter note. 

Christina Beardsley SMMS is a visiting scholar at Sarum College, and co-author of a trilogy of books about trans people and the Church. Tina has been a parish priest, a hospital chaplain, and a lecturer in healthcare chaplaincy, and now helps in her local parish in London. 

The lecture is sponsored by Luther King Theological College, the Society of Catholic Priests and One Body, One Faith.

Please note that this is an online event.

There is no fee to book tickets, however any donations are encouraged and hugely appreciated. All funds raised will go towards the Transgender Theology Conference, taking place in Autumn 2026 at Luther King.