Living Faithfully in a Violent World, Ridley Hall Theology Conference 2026

Ridley Hall Theology Conference 2026
Living Faithfully in a Violent World: Christian Wisdom for Times of Conflict and War

In a world shaped by the constant reality of violence and war - both near and far - this conference asks a vital question: How does one live faithfully in a violent world?

Drawing on Scripture, tradition, and the lived experience of the Church, our speakers and panellists will explore how Christians can live well, respond faithfully, and pray honestly in a violent world. Alongside the main sessions, small-group workshops will offer space for deeper reflection and conversation.

This conference is for anyone seeking a wiser, more faithful response to conflict and violence, wherever they are called to serve.

Joining in us at this years Ridley Hall Theological Conference is 
🗣 Professor Walter Moberly – Professor Emeritus, University of Durham, C. F. D. Moule Lecturer 2026
🗣 +Guli Francis-Dehqani – Bishop of Chelmsford
🗣 Dr Brian Powers – University of Durham
🗣 +Anthony Poggo – Secretary General of the Anglican Communion

Conference Schedule

10:00 AM – Arrivals
Enjoy tea & coffee and browse our bookstall.

10:30 AM – Welcome by Revd Dr Isabelle Hamley (Principal, Ridley Hall) 

10:40 AM – C. F. D. Moule Keynote Lecture by Professor Walter Moberly followed by questions

12:05 PM – Workshops
📖 Deborah Davies (Tutor in Mission, Ridley Hall) - A Pacifist Walks into a Culture War: Holistic Mission in a Violent World [Seminar Room 2]
📖 Isabelle Hamley (Principal, Ridley Hall) - Preaching the Hard Texts [Lecture Hall]
📖 Rob McDonald (Academic Dean & Tutor in Christian Doctrine, Ridley Hall) - The Corruption of Calling: Biblical and Theological Reflections on Violence [Marquee]
📖 Brian Powers (University of Durham) - Understanding and Responding to Moral Injury Theologically: Betrayal, Hope and Promise [Chapel]

1:00 PM – Lunch Break 
Enjoy a barbecue lunch and browse our bookstall, featuring amazing exclusive discounts from SPCK Publishing and Ridley's staff books, along with an opportunity to learn more about some rare books stored at Ridley Hall's library.

1:30 PM – [Optional] Exploring a Vocation to Theology, Ministry, and Mission
We are offering a drop-in session for those exploring a call to ordained ministry. Hear about the centrality of theology in ministry training, and our various training pathways at Ridley Hall. Whether you are in the formal discernment process or only just starting to think about the future, come and join the conversation!

2:00 PM – Panel Discussion
Revd Dr Isabelle Hamley, Dr Brian Powers, +Guli Francis-Dehqani, +Anthony Poggo, facilitated by Dr Andy Byers

2:45 PM – Q&A Session

3:15 PM – Closing Remarks by Isabelle Hamley (Principal, Ridley Hall)

3:30 PM - End of the main session 
Continue to browse our bookstall and enjoy the discount!

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with renowned scholars, church leaders, and theological educators.

📌 Limited seats available – book now!

Standard tickets are £40, with a discounted price of £25 for students.

We look forward to seeing you at the conference!

Views Expressed Disclaimer

Ridley Hall is hosting this conference as a space for thoughtful discussion on complex and important topics. The views expressed by speakers, panellists, and participants are their own and do not necessarily represent the views, positions, or policies of Ridley Hall.