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St Mary’s University is hosting a ground-breaking conference, in partnership with the Aquinas Centre for Theological Renewal, aimed at reigniting theological dialogue in the UK and engaging a wider audience. Called "The Royal Priesthood and the Renewal of the Church", the conference will take place over three days from Thursday 20 to Saturday 22 June in Twickenham, examining the theme of the Royal Priesthood and its significance for the renewal of the Church. Drawing from the first letter of St Peter, "You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession",, this event promises both deep theological insights and practical applications.

The Royal Priesthood is a rich scriptural theme which draws together God's work of creating and saving humanity in Christ. With implications for the Church and the sacraments, the theology of nature and grace, and many other central Catholic doctrines, it has great potential to aid the renewal already well underway in contemporary Catholic theology, and, more concretely, to direct this renewal towards an awakening and revival of the Church in our times.

Supported by Bishop Richard, the conference will feature renowned academics and scholars delivering keynote speeches, addressing the relevance of theological concepts for our daily lives. Among them are Professor John Bergsma, Vice-President, St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology and Professor of Theology at the Franciscan University of Steubenville; Professor Matthew Levering, James N. Jr. and Mary D. Perry Chair of Theology at Mundelein Seminary; and Professor Lawrence Feingold, Assistant Professor of Theology at Ave Maria University’s Institute for Pastoral Theology with Bishop Erik Varden, Bishop of Trondheim present throughout the three days, celebrating Mass and enriching discussions with his unique insight.

Speaking about the event John Bergsma, Professor of Theology at the Franciscan University of Steubenville said:

“The royal priesthood of the Christian faithful is one of the most profoundly neglected doctrines of the Catholic faith, but has remarkable practical relevance for how we live our daily lives as laity. I welcome the opportunity this conference presents to bring this neglected doctrine back to the fore!”

In addition to established scholars, the conference will provide a platform for early-career academics and theologians to present their research, promoting their work and encouraging their professional development and contribution to the field of theology.

Tickets for the conference are available to purchase now with full priced tickets (which include accommodation and meals for all three days) costing £350 and day tickets starting at £90 (includes all meals). For more information and tickets, please visit W: royalpriesthoodconference.com‍