Eschatology, Christian hope focus for Fresh Streams Theology School 2026

The Fresh Streams Theology School returns in June 2026, bringing together thinking charismatics to explore eschatology and reflect on how Christian hope shapes faith, leadership, and mission today, writes Andy Glover

 
The Fresh Streams Theology School will return to Stafford on 10–11 June 2026, inviting ministers and church leaders to engage deeply with one of the most significant themes in Christian theology: eschatology.
 
Now in its sixth iteration, the biennial Theology School has developed a strong reputation for engaging with challenging theological questions in a spirit of generous orthodoxy. Rooted in the life of the local church and shaped by the charismatic tradition, the event is designed especially for those who want to think theologically and lead pastorally.
 
Reflecting on the focus for 2026, Mark Elder, a member of the Fresh Streams Leadership Team, highlights the importance of grounding theological reflection in lived faith:

'Eschatology isn’t about speculation or end‑times charts, but about Christian hope and how our understanding of the future shapes the way we live and lead now.

'At the Theology School we’re not just listening to speakers — we create space for conversation, questions and reflection, trusting that the wisdom of the Spirit is present across the whole room.'

The programme will explore how Christian understandings of the future inform discipleship, mission, and engagement with the world, addressing questions about heaven, creation, the book of Revelation, and the nature of Christian hope.

Speakers for the 2026 Theology School are Dr Jill Duff, Bishop of Lancaster; the Revd Dr Simon Woodman, minister of Bloomsbury Baptist Church; and the Revd Dr Steve Finamore, former Principal of Bristol Baptist College and recent Baptist Union President, alongside additional contributors joining online including the Revd Gavin Calver, Dr Ruth Valerio and the Revd Dr Helen Paynter. The Revd Dr Claude A. Halm has been confirmed as the final contributor - Claude is an ordained Baptist minister with over 26 years of pastoral experience, who serves as Pastor of International Praise Centre in East London and as Ecumenical Lead for Churches Together in Essex and East London. A practical theologian and educator, his work brings together theological reflection, urban ministry, and intercultural engagement.

What makes the Theology School so valuable is the way serious theological reflection is held alongside space to listen, question and learn from one another. It’s theology that doesn’t stay abstract, but feeds directly into preaching, mission and pastoral leadership. The Theology School is about making space for careful, generous theological reflection in service of the Church - and Claude brings a depth of pastoral and theological wisdom that will greatly enrich our shared conversations about Christian hope.

The Theology School will once again be hosted at Rising Brook Community Church, Stafford. The cost is £90, with a reduced £50 rate for young adults, including lunch and hospitality across both days. 
 
As Fresh Streams continues its commitment to resourcing “thinking charismatics”, the 2026 Theology School promises to be a timely and hope‑filled opportunity to reflect together on the future to which God is calling the church.