The 2026 Missiology Lectures: “Spiritual Formation in World Christianity”

Fuller Theological Seminary is pleased to be holding the 2026 Missiology Lectures, “Spiritual Formation in World Christianity: Global Conversations on Discernment, Discipleship, and Christlikeness,” on October 14–16, 2026, in person or online.

Formation is a key process in individual lives, in church life, and in mission. It has been discussed across world Christianity since ancient times, and today, as globalization, migration, and technology bring diverse peoples into closer contact, it has become more obvious that there are many different ways of formation. 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 diverse geographical and social locations. However, despite the varieties of Christian formation, Western practices and ideals from the global North predominate in the literature.

For 60 years, the Missiology Lectures hosted by the School of Mission and Theology, have convened 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.We are bringing nine scholars from different traditions, cultures, and five continents to Pasadena, California in person to contribute their perspectives on questions of discernment, discipleship, and Christlikeness. As they interact, they will suggest implications for spiritual formation in churches and theological education, both locally and globally, including formation into mission and world Christianity. Fuller faculty and PhD students will also participate in these discussions.

The missiology lectures will be held both in-person on Fuller’s Pasadena campus and also 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.

Register now at fuller.edu/missiology.