Community Theology Thursdays
At St Nicholas, we believe theology isn’t just for scholars - it’s for everyone.
Community Theology Thursdays are open evenings where the local community can gather, hear from thoughtful speakers, and reflect together on faith, history, and the world we share.
Christ, Creed & Caste: Dalit Life, Dignity & Theology in the light of the Nicene Creed
This year, Community Theology Thursdays turns to the intersection of caste and Christianity in India. Caste is one of the world’s oldest systems of social division-deeply embedded, self-perpetuating, and often seen as divinely sanctioned. India also holds one of the earliest Christian traditions, with roots traced back nearly two millennia. Together, these legacies create a complex and challenging space for reflection on faith, justice, and human dignity.
Our series will explore how Christianity has engaged with caste-at times resisting it, at other times complicit in it-and what we can learn from the development of Dalit theology.
SPEAKERS
Meet Our Inspiring CTT Speakers
Our speakers will guide us through the theme of Christ, Creed & Caste, exploring how faith has engaged with one of the world’s oldest systems of division.
Rev’d Dr Raj Bharat Patta
From Discrimination to Dignity
What does justice as God’s love looks like today, and how can communities resist caste through theology?
september 25, 7pm-9.30pm
Rev’d Canon Peniel Rajkumar
A history of Caste in India & the appearance of Dalit Theology in the aftermath of the Nicene Creed
A deep dive into the justice-driven heart of Dalit Theology, its impact across communities, and how it confronts the intertwined realities of race and caste.
october 30, 7pm-9.30pm
Right Rev’d Dr Anderson Jeremiah
A living hope and future
This session reflects on the lived reality of Dalit communities today, exploring their hope and future, and the transformative insights Dalit Theology brings to Christology, justice, and global struggles against caste and racism.
november 27, 6.30pm-9pm
Discover Inspiring Conversations on our Community Theology Thursdays Podcast
Missed a session or want to go deeper?
Our Community Theology Thursdays podcast revisits key moments, big questions, and reflections from our speakers - plus thoughtful follow-up inspired by the conversations in the room. Listen in, reflect, and continue the journey with us.
Looking Back at 2024: Jesus and Recommendation 32
In 2024, Community Theology Thursdays opened with a powerful series titled “Jesus and Recommendation 32.” Together, we explored how Christian theology has been used — and misused — to dehumanise African peoples and discredit traditional spiritual practices, and how that history continues to shape our present.
Rooted in Recommendation 32 of the Church Commissioners’ report on the Church of England’s historic links to Transatlantic Chattel Slavery, this series created space for honest conversation, learning, and deep theological reflection.
Join our Community Conversations
and Support Us
Community Theology Thursdays is a shared space shaped by thoughtful speakers, honest questions, and the people who show up. Whether you’re attending, donating, or simply curious, your presence matters.
Together, we’re creating something sacred and open to all.
get involved
If you believe in broadening access to theology and thoughtful faith, please consider donating to help us sustain and grow this work.
Questions or Ideas?
Whether you have a question, want to get involved, or are thinking about bringing a group along — just reach out.