Forum (dt)
Forum
The event of Hochschul-SMD in autumn
Forum [ˈfoːrʊm], noun: place of meeting, assembly, ideas
The forum: in ancient times, the central public place for gatherings, discussions and meetings; this summer, the place where SMD members from all over Germany will come together in the special atmosphere of Volkenroda Monastery. A forum [alternatively: a place] for your ideas, experiences, exchanges, encounters, discussions and biblical inspiration.
Who can come?
It doesn't matter whether you're in the first or last year of your studies, whether you're just discovering what it means to live your faith at university or whether you've been involved for years. It doesn't matter whether you're an old SMD hand or "I-don't-even-know-if-I-want-to-be-part-of-this", whether you help in the International group or go to an SMD home group. No matter if you are an international student, whether German is your mother tongue or not.
Become a part of it! Sign up, bring your friends or even your whole SMD group.
Because the Forum is your forum.
What can you expect?
In the main sessions as well as workshops and tracks you can expect a variety of serious and light-hearted topics. There is room for bible studies, worship and prayer, theological deep dives and topics relevant for your daily life.
The premises and the buildings invite you to do sports, have fun, relax body and soul.
Meet lots of great people, make new friends, exchange ideas, make plans and breathe in inspiration.
This is your Forum to think and learn together: How can I live my faith at my university? How can I spread the good news?
The Venue
Idyllically located between fields, forests and meadows in Thuringia lies the Volkenroda Abbey. Founded 900 years ago as a Cistercian monastery, the community of the Jesus-Bruderschaft lives, prays and works here today. In this fascinating spiritual tradition and contemporary life, past and present also meet in the architecture. Opposite the 12th century monastery church stands the impressive 21st century Christuspavillon. This is where we will hold our plenary events and take part in prayer times of the monastic community.
Translation
Events such as Bible studies, tracks or workshops are usually held in German, sometimes in English. If you speak either of the two languages, you can comfortably take part in the Forum programme.
There will be translation available in all plenary sessions.
Hard Facts
Starting
Sunday, 6. September 2026
Ending
Friday, 11. September 2026
Venue
Kloster Volkenroda, Gutshof 1, 99998 Volkenroda/Germany
Two weeks before the start of Forum, you will receive an information letter with further information concerning traveling to Volkenroda. There will be a shuttle service available from Mühlhausen train station to Volkenroda (5 € per person).
Costs
- Full participation (guest house): €195
- Full participation (tent/pilgrim hostel (limited places)): €149
There are two categories for the participation fee for the forum. In the cheaper category, outdoor enthusiasts can stay in their own tents. Those who book the more expensive category will sleep in one of the guest houses.
We try to make the forum as affordable as possible for you. If you are unable to afford the participation fee or can only afford part of it, please contact forum(at)smd.org or your regional representative. We will then work together to find a good solution so that you can participate in the forum.
Payment
You will receive the account details in the automatically generated confirmation email. Please transfer your contribution promptly after registering.
Registration
If you already have questions regarding Forum, reach out to us through forum(at)smd.org!