Overview

For over forty years Jesuits and their associates have supported a residential summer school of Christian Faith in the Catholic tradition. In recent years, in addition to the annual residential summer school, various non-residential events have also taken place at several other venues.

We seek to provide opportunities for Christians of all denominations

• to deepen their knowledge of the Christian faith,
• to learn new and helpful ways of looking at the whole Christian tradition,
• to develop their personal reflection on Christian living and belief.

We strive to create an environment in which

• liturgies of prayer, Eucharist and reconciliation enrich the experience of the reflecting community,
• real questions of Christian living can be discussed frankly, intelligently and without prejudice.

The courses are taught by Jesuits and their associates - some university lecturers, some engaged in academic study and some involved in a variety of pastoral work.

It was my first experience at Living Theology and I was a little nervous before going but as soon as I arrived, my fears completely disappeared.  I had an amazing week at Ushaw College and I feel the experience has refreshed and strengthened my faith.  The teaching was superb and I got a great deal out of both my courses.  The evening key-note speeches were cutting-edge and always led to interesting discussions at the bar afterwards.  It is a place to ask questions and there are plenty of scholars to help you address these.  The liturgy adds a special focus to each day and there are plenty of opportunities to participate if you want to.  A special sense of community at Ushaw College blossoms immediately and it is no surprise that people become hooked and return every year.  Mealtimes were a real treat, the food is delicious and it is a wonderful time to meet people and share experiences.  The setting is beautiful and I enjoyed going for walks in the countryside in my free afternoons and also visiting Durham cathedral; although so much happens each day, there is time for rest and relaxation.Holidays are a precious time and this is definitely one of the most rewarding weeks I have spent.

Caroline Child (34)

Having heard great stories about Living Theology from my friends, who studied with me at the Institute of Ecumenical Studies (http://www.iespraha.cz), Charles University, Prague, really encouraged me to sign up for LT 2008. The summer school fully met my expectations. Taking place in a beautiful Durham countryside the Living Theology summer school offers high quality academic lectures, great friendships across generations and traditions as well as time for prayers and liturgies. Well, equally important is the delicious food provided five times a day and stimulating late night discussions at the bar. 

The highlight of the week was however the Wednesday afternoon trip to Hadrian's Wall. This enjoyable trip to the impressive Roman fortresses remains provided an unexpected level of adrenalin. No wonder we ended up having to boost our calorie levels by delicious homemade scones, raspberry jam and cream in a traditional country Tea Room.  The Friday night leaving party was an unforgettable experience too - a series of singing, dancing and comedy followed by an African drumming and all join in dancing finale made it even harder to accept that the enjoyable and so enriching week is really over. Look forward to LT 2009!

Patty Kostkova

Dell Computers Online Discount

Living Theology is under the auspices of the Trustees for Roman Catholic Purposes
Reg. No. 230165

All material (c) copyright 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009. Terms and conditions for use of this web site apply