Why Should You Come to Southern Lights?

For the last several years, I have co-led and co-organized (with colleagues and friends Diana Butler Bass and Jim Chafee) a joyful gathering of progressive Christians from across the South (and beyond) called Southern Lights. Here are 4 reasons you should consider coming  – January 23-25, 2026:

First, the big idea: The American South is, in many ways, the epicenter of the White Christian Nationalism that is trying to dominate the nation and distort the faith. Many people are unaware of how many committed, sincere, and joyful Christians in the South stand strong for a different, deeper, wiser, and more compassionate understanding of Christian faith. We are rooted in the deep historic tradition of Christian contemplatives and activists from Jesus, Mary, Paul, John, and James to the desert sages, from St. Patrick and St. Columba to St. Francis and Julian of Norwich and Meister Eckhart and Teresa of Avila … from Howard Thurman and Dr. King and Mother Teresa and Pope Francis to amazing spiritual leaders today.

Southern Lights is one of the primary ways forward-leaning, compassion-based, contemplative and activist Christians across the South (and beyond) gather for mutual support, encouragement, learning, and inspiration.

Second, the theme. This year’s theme could not be more relevant:

Wisdom From the Edge, When the Center Can Not Hold

For many of us raised in the cultural center—shaped by privilege, security, and the stability of institutions—it once seemed unthinkable that the moral and societal frameworks we trusted could fracture. But for those raised on the margins—where life was harder, systems less reliable, and injustice more visible—the cracks have long been evident.

And now, here we are. In a moment of deep uncertainty and upheaval, the invitation is clear: to listen. To step back from certainty, and tune in to voices that have too often been silenced or overlooked—voices from the edge.

This year at Southern Lights, we will gather with open hearts and open eyes, seeking wisdom from outside the cultural mainstream. We will hear from Black voices, Jewish voices, queer voices—each carrying hard-earned truths and sacred insights. In their stories, we’ll discover a throughline: many of our greatest prophets, reformers, and visionaries were themselves born on the margins.

Their wisdom is not just needed—it is essential. In listening, we may find not only a way forward, but a deeper understanding of our shared humanity and of the Spirit who speaks most clearly from the edge.

Join us. The light is rising from unexpected places.

Third, the speakers, musicians, and artists: Every year, Diana and I are joined by an amazing team, and this year is no exception:

… my dear friend Rabbi Or Rose, who brings deep Jewish wisdom to these troubled times.

… one of my favorite communicators and analysts of our current moment: professor, celebrated author, and activist Jemar Tisby.

… one of my favorite poets, Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer.

… the amazing Dr. Jennifer Harvey – a seminary professor and theologian, writer, pastor, and insightful leader.

… Ken Medema, one of the most brilliant songwriters, astounding musicians, and inspired improvisational composers alive today …

Frankly, any one of these people would be worth your time and energy to enjoy … but all of them together make for a real feast for the mind and heart. You can learn more here: https://southernlightsconference.com/speakers

And fourth, the people. If you feel alone, isolated, and maybe even a little afraid … intimidated by the forces of corruption, authoritarianism, conspiracy theories, and anger, and you need to be around some good-hearted and intelligent people … the people you’ll meet at Southern Lights will uplift you and encourage you. Not only that, but the staff and volunteers of Southern Lights do everything they can to maximize your experience … which is enhanced by the beautiful and history-rich setting on the Georgia Coast, Epworth by the Sea.

You’ll find everything you need to know at the website: https://southernlightsconference.com/

PS: If you can’t come in person (or if we reach capacity before you register), you can attend online (synchronously or asynchronously). More information here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/southern-lights-conference-2026-registration-1138009349599?aff=oddtdtcreator

PPS: Because I’m taking 2026 off from travel, this is the only major public event I’ll be participating in. Just fyi.