Open & Relational Theology in Conversation with Psychology with Dr. Thomas Jay Oord

What if God is not distant, fixed, or controlling—but deeply relational and open to the future? Join us for an evening of conversation with Dr. Thomas Jay Oord, theologian, philosopher, and leading voice in Open and Relational Theology, as we explore fresh ways of thinking about God, the self, and human relationships at the intersection of theology and psychology. Dr. Oord—founder and director of the Center for Open and Relational Theology—is widely known for his work on love, freedom, science and religion, evil and power, and the transformative implications of relationality. He will be joined by Dr. Paul Hoard and Dr. Joel Kiekintveld for an engaging dialogue that brings theological insight into conversation with psychological theory and lived experience. Open and Relational Theology proposes that God is inherently relational and that the future is genuinely open. Rather than controlling all outcomes, God gives and receives in a dynamic relationship with creation, moving with creatures into an unfolding future. Together, we will explore questions such as: How does Open and Relational Theology intersect with psychology? What changes when we understand God as infinitely loving and relational? How does an open future—one not fully determined by God or humans—shape our individual and collective psyches? In what ways might these ideas invite us to relate to one another differently? This informal yet scholarly event welcomes students and members of the public who are curious about new frameworks for thinking about faith, psychology, and what it means to be human.