Theology from the Margins: Laidlaw Lectureship 2026
Coming up in January 2026, th R. Laidlaw Memorial Lectureship will feature South African theologian and activist Dr. Stephan de Beer, along with the work of the Centre for Faith and Community at the University of Pretoria.
This year’s theme,Theology from the Margins, invites us into a week of learning rooted in the lived experience of urban communities, where faith, justice, and local transformation meet. The entire series is virtual, free, and open to all.
The 2026 Lectureship runs from Monday, January 19 to Friday, January 23, with new content released each day:
January 19–22: A daily lecture video premieres at 10:00 AM EST on the Ministry Forum YouTube channel (you will need to register to receive the links)
Monday, January 19 – Research
Exploring how the Centre uses grounded, community-based research to inform theology, advocacy, and practical ministry.
Tuesday, January 20 – Transformation
An overview of the centre’s work in personal, communal, and systemic transformation. Highlighting how deep-rooted engagement with the urban poor leads to renewed relationships, restored dignity, and empowered leadership.
Wednesday, January 21 – Theology
Focusing on “theology from below”. Reflecting on how the centre reimagines theological education and reflection in response to real-life urban challenges.
Thursday, January 22 – Community Engagement
Practical models of urban ministry and partnership, including stories of collaboration with churches, nonprofits, and city networks to create safer housing, trauma-informed care, and more.
January 23: A LIVE Zoom finale at 10:00 AM EST with Dr. Stephan de Beer and Rev. Dr. Ernest van Eck (Principal, Knox College), including discussion and Q&A
About Stephan de Beer
Stephan de Beer is an urbanist theologian, directing the Centre for Faith and Community at the University of Pretoria. He is professor of Practical Theology, and his research interests include theology in the African city; liberative urban pedagogies; and homelessness, housing and spatial justice. Fusing research, teaching, activism and action, his work seeks to contribute to urban transformation from below, with a special concern for the city's most excluded or marginalized populations. Apart from his academic work, he is involved in social housing and housing advocacy in the inner city of Pretoria.
About the Centre for Faith and Community
The Centre for Faith and Community is based in the Faculty of Theology and Religion at the University of Pretoria. Its work is envisioning healthy communities through the formation of community- and faith-based leaders. It does so, through practicing evidence-based theology, that is change-making and life-affirming, in and with local communities. Its research focuses on faith in the African city, pathways out of homelessness, social justice and reconciliation, spirituality and health care, and doing theology with children. It works with partners in 14 African cities. In addition, it offers 30 continued education programmes involving 600-700 students per year, ranging from transformational urban leadership and pastoral care, to youth ministry, trauma counselling and community development. It works with almost 200 non-profit and faith-based partners, supporting and documenting good practices, informing policy, and supporting advocacy on a range of issues.
About the Laidlaw Lectureship
Walter C. Laidlaw and Robert Laidlaw, the two sons of Robert Laidlaw, established The Robert Laidlaw Memorial Lecture in 1953 by to honour their father by bringing distinguished scholars to Knox College. Income from the endowed funds has hosted more than 30 distinguished theologians from all over the world.