Renowned theologian Professor Alister McGrath will give a lecture as part of the Life & Learning programme at Hereford Cathedral this month.

The Place of Stories in the Christian Life, which takes place on Monday 27 April at 7pm, will focus on the importance of stories in remembering, understanding and living out the Christian faith. Mcgrath will open the lecture by considering why stories play such an important role in culture before exploring the Christian story and focusing on its powerful appeal to the imagination. The lecture will also invite the audience to explore their own stories and how these are given a new sense of purpose and meaning in the light of the Christian story.

Alister McGrath recently retired as Andreas Idreos Professor of Science and Religion at Oxford University. He has published extensively, and is best known for his theology textbooks, which have been translated into 25 languages. His most recent book is Science and Religion in the Imagination of C. S. Lewis which was published in March 2026.

The Revd Canon James Pacey, Chancellor of Hereford Cathedral, said: “It has been a joy curating this year’s Life & Learning programme which has explored telling God’s story. Professor McGrath’s lecture will really explore the relationship between storytelling and Christianity, offering a new layer of interest and understanding for those attending. I am delighted to welcome Professor McGrath to the cathedral and look forward to sharing a fascinating evening with all who attend.”

The Place of Stories in the Christian Life takes place on Monday 27 April at 7pm in College Hall. Tickets cost £12 and are available to purchase from the cathedral ticket desk (01432 374 202) or by clicking here.

This talk forms part of the cathedral’s Year of Storytelling which focuses on sharing God’s story with theatrical productions, major exhibitions and lectures. Click here to view the full programme.