About this Event
Grass Roots Theology is an initiative organised by a couple of parish priests, The Revd Jo Stobart (Vicar, Ilminster and Whitelackington) and The Revd Martin Little (Vicar of Highbridge) who want to weave a bit more theology into everyday life and ministry. It is from a Christian perspective, but is open to all who are interested in theology, lay and ordained, of all faiths and none. Our first event, 'The Life Everlasting', was held in January 2023 in Wedmore and featured The Revd Canon Dr James Woodward of Sarum College.
The theme of this second Grass Roots Theology Day is 'Redeeming Power.' Christians believe that God has the power to positively transform our lives, bringing freedom and purpose. But how does this actually happen? What parts are played by our emotions, psychology, relationships and environment? Secondly, how can theologians and the Church speak positively of power when it has been so often abused? Can power itself be redeemed?
To help us explore these questions and others we are delighted to welcome our keynote speaker Dr Lucy Peppiatt. Lucy is Principal of Westminster Theological Centre, an innovative, hub-based theological college based in Cheltenham. Lucy has degrees in English and theology, and her interests include the Trinity, charismatic theology, discipleship and 1 Corinthians. Lucy's books include 'The Disciple: on Becoming Truly Human', 'Rediscovering Scripture's Vision for Women: Fresh Perspectives on disputed texts', and 'The Imago Dei: Humanity Made in the Image of God.' She is in demand as a speaker and lecturer, and as well as teaching doctrine and spiritual formation at WTC, Lucy also jointly leads Crossnet church in Bristol with her husband Nick Crawley.
We also welcome submissions for short papers of no more than 10 minutes (with 5 minutes of questions) to be given on any aspect of theology related to the theme. We welcome submissions from lay or ordained people, those with or without academic qualifications. All submissions gratefully considered; we reserve the right to choose which ones make the programme, to ensure balance and quality. Papers which are devotional or homiletic in tone will be considered, but we are looking for some critical engagement with your chosen subject matter, with some evidence of secondary sources.
Contact: [email protected] for more details, short paper submissions and questions
0900 Morning Prayer (optional)
0930 Tea/coffee and pastries
1000 Welcome and keynote speech: Dr Lucy Peppiatt, Principal of Westminster Theological Centre
1100-1130 Group discussions
1130-1200 Plenary
1200-1300 Lunch (please bring your own, or there are plenty of options nearby)
1300 Short papers
1430 Plenary Panel featuring Dr Lucy Peppiatt and others
1500 Closing prayer (optional)
There is no charge for the day, but a retiring collection will be taken for our host church.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
St Peter's Church, Church Road South, Portishead, United Kingdom
