International Conference
The Future of Christian Doctrine
A Global Conversation Hosted by Belfast School of Theology
Date: 23rd & 24th June 2026
Location: Belfast School of Theology at Stranmillis & Online
Belfast School of Theology is delighted to host a landmark conference this June exploring The Future of Christian Doctrine from Irish, European and global perspectives.
Our Speakers
Keynote Speaker:
Prof Alister E. McGrath
Oxford UniversityÂ
Alister E. McGrath was born in Belfast in 1953 and educated at Down High School and Methodist College Belfast. Formerly an atheist, he discovered Christianity while studying at the University of Oxford, where he earned first-class degrees in Chemistry and Theology, alongside doctorates in molecular biophysics, theology, and intellectual history.
He began teaching at Oxford in 1983 and went on to hold senior roles including Professor of Historical Theology, Professor of Theology at King’s College London, and Andreas Idreos Professor of Science and Religion at Oxford (2014–2022). He now serves as Senior Research Fellow at the Ian Ramsey Centre for Science and Religion, Oxford.
McGrath has also served as President of the Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics and Professor of Divinity at Gresham College, London. He holds British and Irish citizenship and lives near Oxford with his family.
Prof Stephen
N. Williams
Honorary Professor
of Systematic Theology
at Union Theological
College, Belfast
Prof Musa
Gaiya
Professor of African
Church History,
University of Jos,
Nigeria
Prof Gladys
Ganiel
Professor of Sociology
and Religion,
Queen’s University,
Belfast
Dr Hans
Madueme
Professor of
Theological Studies,
Covenant College,
Georgia, USA
Dr Patrick
McGlinchey
Adjunct Assistant
Professor of Theology,
Trinity College,
Dublin
Prof Veli-Matti
Kärkkäinen
Professor of Systematic
Theology,
Fuller Theological
Seminary, California, USA
About The Conference:
Headlining the event is world-renowned theologian Alister E. McGrath, alongside a wealth of distinguished contributors joining from across the globe. Together, they will engage one of the most pressing questions facing the Church today: how Christian doctrine can be faithfully articulated and imaginatively applied in a rapidly changing world.
This conference offers a rare opportunity to reflect on the Christian worldview with some of the leading theological minds of our time. By bringing together voices from Ireland, across Europe and beyond, BST seeks to foster thoughtful dialogue that is both academically rigorous and pastorally relevant.
Lunch & Refreshments Provided.
Limited in-person tickets available.
Register
Delegate Info
Venue:
Craigantlet, Business Centre, Refectory Building.
Stranmillis University College.
Stranmillis Road, Belfast, Co. Antrim.
Northern Ireland, BT9 5DY.
Find us on Google Maps
Dogs:
Dogs are not permitted on campus, assistance dogs are the only exception.
Car Parking:
Parking on campus is extremely limited. It may be necessary to find alternative parking off campus. Allowing extra time for parking is advisable.
Accessibility:
If you require assistance in the event of an emergency, please contact us in advance of the event for support. Please inform us in advance if you are a blue badge holder and require use of the disabled parking spaces around Refectory Building.
Dietary Restrictions:
The lunchtime meat option will be gluten free. The vegetarian option will be vegan and dairy-free. The Catering Team will be available on the day to provide advise on allergen information.
Online Tickets:
A link for the stream will be provided on the day prior to the event start time. Please note all session will be recorded in case of technical difficulties.