Our Life in Common
Theology plays a powerful role in our shared experience. Good theology breathes life into our communities. Bad—or perhaps misguided—theology can foster intolerance and injustice. We believe world-changing theological discussions can take place beyond church walls, and that theological thinking impacts every person in our community. These webinars provide a space for community learning through a theological lens.
Community learning through a theological lens
Webinars led by subject matter experts
2025-2026 Series
This year’s webinar series “Prayer in an Age of Authoritarianism” will be hosted online on Wednesdays from 12-1pm Eastern. Participants will delve into theological reflection and learn practical tools designed to empower and strengthen our communities. Each webinar is led by a subject matter expert who offers valuable perspectives and resources for navigating the challenges of our times and fostering resilience, connection, and growth within congregations. Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in webinars that aim to equip us all for meaningful engagement and flourishing in today’s complex world.
The Role of Prayer in Community Solidarity
September 24 – 12-1pm Eastern
Nick Peterson, PhD
As Christians, we are formed in and through prayer. Though often practiced in community, prayer is still frequently imagined as a private act, focused on our personal relationship with God. This webinar explores how prayer can reorient communities toward the horizon of this world’s violent sociality by invoking the God whose name is salvation into the depths of our social, spiritual, and personal brokenness. Together, we will reflect on how communities of faith have materialized prayer through song, art, text, and movement, abiding in solidarity with one another and bearing witness to the truth of God’s love for all creation.
When Prayer Meets Protest
November 19 – 12-1pm Eastern
Keri Day, PhD
This webinar explores the inextricable link between prayer and protest. Prayer is often seen as antithetical to protest, a move away from the political into the inward life. Protest, on the other hand, is seen as purely political, unrelated to prayer and piety. The group will explore prayer as a form of protest and protest as a form of prayer. We will look at key scriptural texts and contemporary movements to illuminate the relation between prayer and protest.
Prayer as Political Response and Accompaniment
February 25 – 12-1pm Eastern
Yara González-Justiniano, PhD
In Dr. González-Justiniano’s work with hope and ecclesial social participation, prayer serves as a form of political witness through its proclamation and accompaniment among participants, even as remote participants. She proposes examining this practice through the lens of cultural organizing as a strategy for unity and resistance.
Registration
Each webinar is free, but registration is required.
Contact lifeincommon@cts.edu for more information.
About the Courses
This course series is open to all and provides a space where community members can engage with vital theological and ethical questions. There are no preconditions for prior education or formal religious commitment—everyone is welcome. Come be a part of community learning through a theological lens.
Online webinars
(3 topical offerings)
Top instructors
and in-depth content
Hosted by CTS faculty
to facilitate conversation
The webinars examine topics from the theme "Navigating a Disorienting Age: Tools for Faith Communities" including:
- How do immigration concerns impact child welfare?
- What nuanced explorations of religious texts might inform and shape our understanding of sexuality and personal identity?
- How can we protect vulnerable children in our society?
- What are the intersections between the complexities of faith and human experience that shape community life?
- How do spirituality and mental wellness interact for help, harm, and healing?
