Speaker announced for annual scholar program
The Interfaith Outreach of SanCap will present its 2026 Shared Scholar Program on Feb. 15 at 3 p.m. in the Sanctuary at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ (SCUCC) on Sanibel.
It will feature renowned author, activist and faith-based thought leader Brian D. McLaren on “Where Faith-Inspired Action Could Take Us.” The program will offer a reflective, hope-centered exploration of what becomes possible when faith moves beyond belief and into action. It will challenge attendees to imagine a future shaped by compassion, justice and collective responsibility.
During the program, McLaren will guide attendees in examining how inherited assumptions, including misguided theologies, rigid economic ideologies and complacent thinking, can limit one’s vision of what is possible. Together, attendees will explore ways to move beyond these constraints and articulate a compelling, practical vision that can inspire meaningful, faith-inspired action in today’s world.
Respected for engaging complex spiritual and cultural questions with clarity and compassion, McLaren has spent decades helping individuals and communities reimagine faith as a catalyst for healing, inclusion and meaningful change. His work invites people across belief systems to move beyond fear-based thinking toward a hopeful, action-oriented vision rooted in humility, love and shared responsibility.
The Shared Scholar Program is made possible by a coalition of Sanibel and Captiva congregations, including Bat Yam Temple of the Islands, the Captiva Chapel by the Sea, Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church and SCUCC. This year’s program and reception are sponsored by the Leo Rosner Foundation.
A dinner reception will follow the program.
The event is open to the public.
SCUCC is at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.