The 2026 Missiology Lectures

Spiritual Formation in World Christianity: Global Conversations on Discernment, Discipleship, and Christlikeness

October 14–16, 2026

Christianity is a world religion, in the sense that it is globally widespread, locally rooted, and interconnected. It has always been so but today, as globalization, migration, and technology bring diverse peoples into closer contact, it has become more obvious. We realize that there are many different expressions of Christianity; that Christians do not share a single history which passes only through the West; and that the Christian movement is polycentric. This heritage explains why what is discerned as “spiritual,” the nature of discipleship, and perceptions of maturity and the kingdom can vary widely, not only across Christian traditions but also across varied geographical and social locations.

For 60 years, Fuller’s Missiology Lectures have hosted global conversations to promote mutual learning and cross-fertilization of ideas and practices. This year’s lectures aim to de-center Eurocentric thought and practice in matters of formation. With that goal in mind, we have invited scholars from different traditions, cultures, and contexts to contribute their perspectives on practices of spirituality, methods of spiritual formation, and ideals of spiritual maturity. In each of these three areas, nine keynote contributors will consider how their perceptions of discernment, discipleship, and Christlikeness differ. In light of this, they will suggest implications for spiritual formation in theological education, both locally and globally, including formation into mission and world Christianity. Fuller faculty and PhD students will also contribute to these discussions.

“Spiritual Formation in World Christianity” will be offered both in-person on Fuller’s Pasadena campus (where the contributors will be staying) and online through the Whova app. Spanish and Korean translation will be provided. This year’s lectures form part of a wider project led by David C. Wang, Cliff and Joyce Penner Chair for the Formation of Emotionally Healthy Leaders and professor of psychology and spiritual formation. Other members of the planning committee are Kirsteen Kim, Paul E. Pierson Chair in World Christianity; Euiwan Cho, professor of Christian spirituality and ministry; and E. Trey Clark, assistant professor of preaching and spiritual formation.

This event will be livestreamed. Find the link here.