Events

Come expand your theological imagination, grapple with practical problems, and be equipped to continue a journey of reconciliation within a wider community.

Our focus on reconciliation is grounded in a distinctively Christian vision and a framework that is richly practical, contextual, and theological. Rooted in Duke Divinity School’s conviction that reconciliation is at the heart of the gospel, the Summer Institute for Reconciliation draws on the strengths of a faculty of world-class scholars and practitioners. Since God’s ministry of reconciliation is entrusted to all Christians, the institute is designed to cultivate leaders who “carry the marks of Jesus” on their body (cf. Galatians 6:17). These cross-shaped or cruciform reconcilers will have a robust vision and practice of Christian reconciliation that is faithful to the scriptural witness, discerning of the signs of the times, and sensitive to the life of the church. The institute is nurtured by the deepening formation, teaching, and content of a biblical vision of reconciliation that inspires and ferments a movement of transformed communities and relationships. This formation of communities is nurtured by each other’s witness that Christ is strengthening us to the end, affirming us so that we do not “lack any spiritual gift” in our life together (1 Corinthians 1:4-9). As an integral part of the Divinity School at Duke University and rooted in a Christian vision of God’s ministry of reconciliation, the institute aims to serve the academy, the church, and the world.

Registration opens the end of February 2020.

Political Civility: Gospel-Driven Discourse that Promotes Harmony and Civic Engagement
Featuring Rob Barrett, The Colossian Forum | Dr. Amy Black, Wheaton College | Justin Giboney, AND Campaign

In a shifting political climate, Christians are called to maintain a posture of the Church as the Body of Christ. Negative political discourse does not belong in the kingdom of God, yet the Church is mirroring society’s divisive partisanship. Moving from political discord to political civility extends far beyond the ballot box and requires listening, respect, and Christ-like love. What can the Church do differently during and after this coming election? How can we best participate in civic and community engagement while influencing culture as followers of Jesus? Join us as we learn to identify the core of the Church’s political dissonance, exercise civil discourse, and practically begin to implement change in our congregations. As a divided Church, we invite you to confront biblical truths with us and share a unified vision around God’s calling in each of our lives. 

Registrations opens March 20, 2020.

What if your church or organization became a place that transformed disagreements into opportunities for healing and discipleship? The Colossian Way is a method that equips Christians to recover their ability to stay in relationship with and love one another, despite disagreement. By adopting The Colossian Way, your Christian community can become a place of reconciliation. You can guide your organization through this transformation by becoming a Colossian Way Leader. Over three days, you’ll receive instruction from experienced Colossian Forum staff, who will equip you to lead Colossian Way groups on any TCW topic – Origins, Sexuality, or Political Talk. Once you complete the training, you’ll be able to help others learn how to reflect the beauty of Christ when they disagree.  

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