Public lecture to explore how ancient Christian practices can help us navigate turbulent times
A former director of the UK’s largest religion think tank will be coming to the Leicester to explain how ancient Christian practices might be the key to navigating today’s turbulent times.
Elizabeth Oldfield, a former Director of Theos and host of The Sacred podcast, has been chosen to deliver the 2026 edition of the Bishop of Leicester Chaplaincy Lecture Series.
The free public lecture takes place on Thursday 30 April at the University of Leicester – reserve your place on the website.
Elizabeth said: “When the times are turbulent, we need wisdom. We look back to see how humans have survived and even sometimes thrived through more turbulent times than ours. This may be partly driving what looks like an increased willingness, especially amongst young people, to look for wisdom in a potentially unlikely place: religion.
“In this lecture, I’ll unpacks why, somewhat to my surprise, there may be much wisdom for these times to be found in the ancient practices of Christianity. This event will explore how, whether you feel drawn to its metaphysical claims or not, this tradition might hold tools and spiritual technologies to help us navigate whatever is coming next.”
Established in 2022, the Bishop of Leicester Chaplaincy Lecture Series is a joint venture between the University and its Chaplaincy and the Anglican Diocese, designed to offer a Christian perspective on important issues of our day. It is funded by a legacy donation from the late Rev Derek Hole.
Following the lecture there will a Q&A session with the speaker, followed by a reception at the Chaplaincy Gatehouse.