Call for Papers: the Centre for Catholic Studies third Lived Catholicism Online Conference
Papers are invited for the 2025 Lived Catholicism Conference, focusing on synodality, possibilities, and tensions
The third Lived Catholicism Conference will take place online on 2–3 December 2025, exploring the theme: “The Church’s ordinary way: synodality, possibilities and tensions.” Building on the conversations of the first two conferences, this year’s gathering will invite papers and presentations from across disciplines and contexts worldwide, with a particular focus on lived experiences of synodality and its challenges and opportunities.
See full Call for Papers details below.
If you wish to propose a 15 minute paper or a 5 minute presentation, please complete the form here by 1st October. The programme will be confirmed by mid October.
The Distance Learning Programmes in Catholic Theology
The Distance Learning Programmes in Catholic Theology, led by Durham University’s Centre for Catholic Studies.
The Distance Learning programmes in Catholic Theology, led by Durham University’s Centre for Catholic Studies (CCS), are designed so that participants can work through material at their own pace, studying equally well in any time zone and in many different life situations, alongside work, ministry, family or caring obligations.
In addition to the Postgraduate Certificate, the Postgraduate Diploma, and the MA, students can enrol for a single module. Students with a BA or BSc who have not studied Theology or a related discipline before, are able to apply for the single module, ‘Catholic Theology: A Preliminary Tour’ and proceed to the MA following its successful completion. Further details are available at Distance Learning – Durham University including videos from current students.
NEW BURSARY FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR 2025-26 – The Janet Erskine Stuart Scholarship Fund, funded by the Society of the Sacred Heart (RSCJ), intended primarily to support teachers or chaplains. Applications are especially invited from:
Teachers of RE wishing to pursue an MA to enhance the quality of their subject knowledge.
Teachers of any discipline who wish to retrain to teach RE.
Other bursary funds are also available. Full information can be found at CCS Bursary for Distance Learning 2025-26 - Durham University
If you have any questions about the Distance Learning programmes or bursaries, please contact the CCS Manager - theresa.phillips@durham.ac.uk - 0191 334 3952.
Living Theology Summer School
The Living Theology Summer School provides an opportunity for Christians of all denominations to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith, and develop their personal reflection on Christian living and belief.
Friday 28th – 30th June
The Living Theology Summer School provides an opportunity for Christians of all denominations to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith, and develop their personal reflection on Christian living and belief.
The Keynote Lecture will consider Listening Ideals in the Old Testament, followed by a choice of courses on New Testament Christology, God East and West and Liberation Theology – Origins and Enduring Relevance.
No prior knowledge is required, just an open mind and willingness to engage.
For further information and bookings click here.