As one of Trinity’s oldest societies (the third-eldest, in fact), the Theological society, or known more lovingly as the Theo, has had many iterations with this year proving to be no different. Heading the academically driven yet still devoted society is Poppy Pender-Cudlip, rising Senior Sophister studying Religion. As Auditor, Pender-Cudlip has many plans for the society, but her main focus is fostering inclusivity within the society.
“The Theo is different to other religious societies on Trinity’s Campus, in that no religion is practised: it is purely academic”
Theology at its core is the study of the nature of religion and religion itself. Even for those who do not study religion, it is a space to come together to enjoy and discuss different texts, news within the realm of theology, and to host top theological thinkers of our time. One such guest being Tom Holland, renowned author and historian most known for his documentaries made with the BBC, who later this year will be speaking to the Theo about Christianity’s profound role in shaping Western Morality.
Other planned events include open discussions on the inclusion of the LGBTQ+ community in the Church, women’s participation in religious and politically violent groups, migration, and a feminist theology panel in celebration of International Women’s Day. They will be held on Mondays at 18:30 in the GMB and will be fuelled by pizza and wine. As well as these, the society aims to host an event addressing the abuse allegations of the Spiritan Order.
Theo events aren’t all highly intellectual panels (although those above seem promising). The group also offers lunch time events during which members can have a chat over tea and biscuits, exchange essay advice, or peruse the society’s extensive library of texts. These “Library Lunchtimes” are held in the Bram Stoker room at the top of the GMB every Wednesday from 12:00 – 14:00.
“For those looking to deepen their writing and academic skills, the Theo plans to relaunch two journals this year”
Each comes with the opportunity to have an essay published in an academic journal, as well as winning a Theo medal. For those who are more keen on short form writing, the Theo aims to have an exclusively online magazine up and running during the year.
Pender-Cudlip aims to maintain and continue to foster the welcoming and inclusive environment, given that she once joined as an OCM herself. While the Theo’s focus is theology and academia, it is all built upon a foundation of community, a caring and thoughtful committee, and a dedicated and well-rounded Auditor.
To join this dynamic and inclusive community, those who are interested can sign up via the CSC website for a fee of only €2 for a yearlong membership. Pender-Cudlip also invites any and all who think they may be interested in the society to visit their Freshers stand to have a chat. For those who are ready to get involved, the society is opening up applications for OCMs, which will be elected in the first few weeks of college. The Theo is open and welcome to new members of all interests, with many events lined up for the year, there will be something for everyone to be involved in.
