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V a n t a g e w i n t e r 2 0 1 3
purpose + integrity I m a g i n at i v e + R e s i l i e n t l e a d e r s
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CT S C A PUS U P DAM TES
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E D U C AT I N g I M A g I N AT I V E R E S I l I E N T l E A D E R S f o R g o D ’ S C h A N g I N g w o R l D .
AT I N G
I M AG I
NITIV
E RESI LI
JANUARY 2013 PRESIDENT’S MESSAgE
Reflected in so many of our conversations around here has been this question of how we educate “imaginative, resilient leaders”. Of course, we don’t exist simply as individuals, so this really begs the question of how we nurture a robust community which fosters imagination and resilience. The whole point of residential education is that we believe leaders are formed by life on life experiences—personal transformation and experiential ministry.
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C H A PE
We don’t make these things happen in our own strength. As with all deep transformation, we must rely on God’s grace. We listen together and discover what God is doing. We prepare the way and serve known needs. Then, ready or not, sometimes quietly and sometimes calamitously—God just shows up.
IN TH IS
It’s incredible how much effort it can take to simply surrender to God’s grace in our lives. We’re distracted by pain, disoriented by sin, and even distorted within our own souls. God accomplishes so much in spite of us.
IS SU E
Chapel and Forum Announce ments Current Events Upcoming Events
Still, we have a calling. I find this amazing: God calls us all to join in the work— together! The Faculty has been reading and discussing a book called Resilience: Why Things Bounce Back by Andrew Zolli & Ann Marie Healy. After examining what resilience means in a variety of fields, they circle back to provide specific advice for individuals and groups about how we all might be more resilient. Central to the meaning of resilience for everyone is the ability “to maintain their core purpose and identity amid unforeseen shocks and surprises.”
Q UI CK CTS We
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FO LL O
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Joyfully, Steve Hayner
C U R R EN
EVERY gIfT MATTERS ThE ColUMBIA ANNUAl fUND
When you were a student at Columbia Seminary our mission was to equip you with the tools and skills to explore, develop knowledge, practices and attitudes that enabled you to effectively proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. For the men and women who are faithfully answering their call as students at Columbia Seminary this remains our mission. Your support to the Annual Fund enhances our ability to provide an exceptional academic experience. Your gift, whatever the size is an affirmation of a student’s call to ministry in Christ’s church. I hope you will consider a gift today, we need your help.
The Bridge of Peace is a bow-shaped pedestrian bridge over the Kura (Mtkvari) River in Tbilisi, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Georgia. This is an example of levitating modern architecture with imagination and resilience.
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Our communications department has been hard at work redesigning our website (coming soon!). In the meantime, new email templates have been designed to enhance our communications with students, staff, faculty, alumni/ae, churches — everyone in our community. Please take time to read up on what is happening at Columbia and let us know if you would like to be added to an email list. Always feel free to contribute any ideas about how we might serve your communications needs better to Michael Thompson, Director of Communications, thompsonm@ ctsnet.edu.
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JA NUARY 20 13 AN INVIT ATION TO A DEEPER SPIRITUAL LIFE
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In our weak Church this, we begi y or geo g us Randy Cal > Colu ness, we are mbiaand God reach n to discover Theological presbyter Alumni/ae made hum of us r the great myst whe Seminary n we are vuln ble, and Directo eries of God > Giving to erable and “We are heal . How does Columbia in pain ? ed by his wou m ” it is shaped and > Alumni/ae grands, Pro n said heal itio News of Jesus, but Recogn ed by our our spiritual open nt own wounds as ed the rece rovthat us > Seminary a to lives app well. new by il may ed possibilities, We have “wou be News render enlarging our tion Counc the chulife. rch Hen ri Nouwen nds with a view” journaled in compassion, to i/ae Associa > Lifel “What seem mn ong his deeply expanding Learningstanding service the Alu ed primarily ed in personal The our prayer In 2006 ze out the way to ful may Inner Voic als express pain ideeven to recogni tes. e of Love, the an as well then become a feeli deep logknow in order mplify ry gradua cataer exeNou ng that…open wen described s e of God’s love. Seminarythe minte. Thiledg bia Semina i/ae who s for you ” In one of Colum nd in the ST gradua ister (ever y Chr n to alumn fou nt AY his give Hen sion earli rece be CO istia a ri est books, Nou n) as “The of Mis NN y but n shall ent TE was EC ication of wenthe Wounded prolistr ir amin Statem ific write Recognitio Dand dedsurro Healer.” undabo ingut ment, psychology Seminary’s m excitedr in Spiritual bia MOV passiongate ING? passion, commit Colum as keep theand spirituality. He ity and contemplated deepwel who are brinry er lspiri ze the man tual formation studied how gnisend ina as alumni/ae recose as Plea our past suffe y issues us yourngnew and how we the Semexperiences. reward you rings could can minister addr ted to andhel letp us will know them connecess, through our Chris Glas own past e to keepif you wou list of ld ng. er, like hop doi lead CTS a er of the upco also alum y are ni/ae class at CTS k the in your new ming Henri presut the , studied with rywor J.M. Nouwen or geograph abo byte Glaser will Henri Nou : The Wou ical area. wen during be explorin nded Healer RE g the writings his class at CTS READ MO of Henri Nou time at Yale Divinity , Feburary School. 28 –March wen in a four a starting poin 3, 2013. day spirituali t into a searc ty h for meaning Glaser will use the work Glaser says, of Nouwen through our “This class as fragility as is an invitation meaning.” human bein to your own gs. search for quie on/ cati For more info t and gical Edu rmatThe w the or to register, kno ox, ion olo you inb r you FO LL OW alumnus, click brate. sletter in celehere y. As an new to e awa US this abl ks ive be n two wee e you rece on and to be less tha By the tim ry educati nity is wonderful. Sunday will ological Semina commu you Seminary bia The to equip ers of the a Colum h memb sion was es value of inary wit ry our mis and attitud of the sem bia Semina practices For the the gifts at Colum elop knowledge, ent s Christ. stud a s of Jesu lumbia were lore, dev Good New ls to expIs the histo ents at Co When you the skil stud ry m of as and clai Chr pros tools ir call n Spiritual elypath theistia inter with the ity the same wering sect to effectiv ans or you run lly thin para hfudatio bled g al as Church are faitfoun eption that ena n for the Chr llel? Has theechur History? Do ch always been vid an exc women who our mission. istian spiri the ent’s the fram tual movof lity to pro men and a stud SEE ALL ains ework and eme nt? es our abi affirmation EVE this rem ancNTS d ... is an Seminary Fund enh the size ay, we nee Annual r r a gift tod port to the Your gift, whateve you will conside Your sup erience. . 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November 10 :: Cours The Godly es On Ch Play Fou ildren,You ndation Christen th and You will offer Ers ng Adult Core Tra Cathedral kine and Sharon Ministry inin Greeley of St. Phi in a fully-eq g taught by certifie lip in Atl d GP trai anta on November uipped Godly Pla November ners y classro 10. Learn 14 :: Tha om at the Please join nksgiving more Feast us for lun Thanksgivi ch at the refectory ng Feast. on Wedne We’ll hav Cornbrea e all you sday, No d Dressin r favorite vember 14t g, Whipp Casserole, s including ed Potato h Collard : Hand Car for our annual es & Gre Southern ved Tom Pecan Pie ens, Cranberry Sau Gravy, Candied Tur Sweet Pot . ce, Pumpki atoes, Gre key, n Pie wit en Bean h Whipp November ed Toppin 16 :: Triv g, Are you ia Night looking for fell trivia? The n come out owship opportuni Middlers, ties with to the firs your fell Seniors, t eve r ow CTS’er CTS Co and MA CTS com mmunity PT are all s? Are you munity. Tri hos Bri via goo the faculty ting a nig ng your Night! WI d at fam ht of triv and staff! M, SOS, ia and Learn mo ilies and your gam Jun re e faces, bec fellowship for the iors, ause stud entire ents are taking on
By the time you receive this newsletter in your inbox, Theological Education/ Seminary Sunday will be less than two weeks away. As an alumnus, you know the value of a Columbia Theological Seminary education and to be able to celebrate the gifts of the seminary with members of the community is wonderful.
Grace and Peace,
GING
Contemp lati There will ve Prayer student led contem Thursdays plative pra from 1pm yer in the to 2pm. Harringto Visitors n Center on Cam pus Chapel on The Cen ter for Life long Lea week for rning will the welcome Leader Jan Certificate in Spi more ritual form e lives in De Vennard is a spir ation cou than 20 learners itua to campus rse, Spiritu nver, Co lorado, wh l director, retreat next member al Practic at Iliff Sch e: A Way ere for ma and wor ksh of ool of The ny years discernme she served op leader and lect Life. olo nt. Please as a Senior urer. She join us in gy, teaching num erous cou Ad extending Buffalo Wi rses on pra junct Faculty CTS hos ld Wings pitality to yer, spiritua All CTS our lity visitors. and stud fellowship ents, spouses, and on Tuesda significant from the others are re. Please y nights. We will invited to meet in join us for ctsnet.edu join us for the NRH .50 with any a night of parking questions. cent wing night. lot at 6:3 Contact 0pm and carpoo Casey All en at alle ncaseys@m l ail.
I am so thankful for the many alumni/ae and supporters who surround this campus in prayer. Additionally, your dedication and generosity amplifies that of the faculty, staff, students and others here. May God bless one and all in this new year ahead of us!
You can make your gift on line by visiting our website at www.ctsnet.edu and clicking on “Supporting the Seminary” or just click here. I am forever grateful for your continued support of Columbia Seminary.
CHAN
All Chape l This week’sservices begin at 10am in Campbe Carter-Flo chapel services ll Hal will be led rence). by Chape l Chapel unless oth l Team #5 Are you (Hood, Mc erwise noted. inte Kinsey,Vog The Conte rested in CPE ado, (Cl xtual Edu Ellis Roo cation Off inical Pastoral Education m, ice will aga )? Wednesda Richards Center. in Do you feel host this week’s y, Novem ber 14th. forum at to speak 10 am in directly to Several CP called to chaplainc the site reps E y? Come hesitate and chapla sites will be on to email, to FORU cam call M in out: http pus this on week. You ://acpe.ed or stop by the Co supervisors. If you ntextual ’ll be abl u/. e Education have any questio ns, don’t The entire Office. In the me fall schedu antime che website le for Ch at http:// ck apel Ser www.ctsn et.edu/Cu vices and Wedne sda rrentStud ents.aspx. y Forums is ava ilable on the
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I think it’s accurate to say that Columbia Theological Seminary has seen more than its fair share of “shocks and surprises” throughout its history. And it’s reasonable to expect that many more will come in the future. These challenges always represent fresh opportunities to re-affirm our commitments to God, to one another, and to God’s work throughout the world. Imagination and resilience work hand-in-hand as we creatively discern and explore the way forward with a new generation of leaders. However, by definition, our core purpose and identity is only evident in how robust we are as community.
follow US
RS FO R GOD ’S
It’s a bea utif behind the ul day for our An Month, Day nual Ele NRH at ct vs. Rep , 2013 4 pm wit for some robate Ga h teams mu me to be showing SPOUSES ch needed practic up anywh played on e. All FAC are welcom ere betwee the ULTY, STA orange slic e. n 3 pm and Field es and Cap There will also FF, STU 3:30 pm be a sma play will ll snack and DENTS, ALUM be split up ri Suns! Let us all NI, and brin into 2 team drin White. Enj s, The Ele g back this fun trad k potluck, so brin oy the day ct will wea ! g your ition! All r Black and who the Reprob want to ate will wea r
BUIlDINg A RoBUST CoMMUNITY
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ENT L EADE
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VANTAGE Winter 2013
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catur, 520 | De | P.O. Box
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Va n tag e P o i n t
B uilding a R obust C ommunit y
R
eflected in so many of our conversations around here has been this question of how we educate “imaginative, resilient leaders”. Of course, we don’t exist simply as individuals, so this really begs the question of how we nurture a robust community which fosters imagination and resilience. The whole point of residential education is that we believe leaders are formed by life on life experiences— personal transformation and experiential ministry. We don’t make these things happen in our own strength. As with all deep transformation, we must rely on God’s grace. We listen together and discover what God is doing. We prepare the way and serve known needs. Then, ready or not, sometimes quietly and sometimes calamitously—God just shows up. It’s incredible how much effort it can take to simply surrender to God’s grace in our lives. We’re distracted by pain, disoriented by sin, and even distorted within our own souls. God accomplishes so much in spite of us. Still, we have a calling. I find this amazing: God calls us all to join in the work—together! The Faculty has been reading and discussing a book called Resilience: Why Things Bounce Back by Andrew Zolli & Ann Marie Healy. After examining what resilience means in a variety of fields, they circle back to provide specific advice for individuals and groups about how we all might be more resilient. Central to the meaning of resilience for everyone is the ability “to maintain their core purpose and identity amid unforeseen shocks and surprises.” I think it’s accurate to say that Columbia Theological Seminary has seen more than its fair share of “shocks and surprises” throughout its history. And it’s reasonable to expect that many more will come in the future. These challenges always represent fresh opportunities to reaffirm our commitments to God, to one another, and to God’s work throughout the world. Imagination and resilience work hand-in-hand as we creatively discern and explore the way forward with a new generation of leaders. However, by definition, our core purpose and identity is only evident in how robust we are as community. I am so thankful for the many alumni/ae and supporters who surround this campus in prayer. Additionally, your dedication and generosity amplifies that of the faculty, staff, students and others here. May God bless one and all in this new year ahead of us! Joyfully,
Steve VANTAGE Winter 2013
3
hyper–focus
T aking O n N ew C hallenges We are at a hinge moment for Columbia. Over the last few years, we have concluded some significant efforts to fund priorities in our Vision 20/20 campaign culminating in the recent construction of the Vernon S. Broyles, Jr. Leadership Center. We are so thankful for these gifts because they enable us to grow our mission in fresh ways. Now that our campaign is complete and these new facilities are in place we have a new focus: to recruit more students to benefit from these newly funded spaces. At the heart of our current fund raising efforts is the Annual Fund which provides needed support for our students as they answer God’s call and pursue this next step in their faith journey. Your gifts are essential to sustaining financial aid for our students, salary and program support for faculty, and developing the facilities and technological infrastructure that will equip our students for ministry in God’s changing world. The church is in need of leaders who do the work of the church in new and fresh ways. Columbia Theological Seminary is training imaginative and resilient leaders who are ready to serve. As an institution we are making great strides in some significant ways: • T hrough the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), we are committed to educating students through our newly emerging curricular and co-curricular life together. • The Broyles Leadership Center and the new residence hall (both of which are now Gold LEED certified) provide all the latest ways to educate and model life in our changing world. • We have a new grant to spur leadership through community engagement leaders, and we are pursuing other grants which will advance our mission further. • Our incoming class is 12% larger than last year and more wonderfully diverse than ever! There is no accident here. God is at work to allow us to meet the challenges of leadership in the years ahead. At a recent meeting, our Board undertook leadership for a new challenge toward reenergizing the Annual Fund. Our Board already gives generously for so many things, but they made the goal of giving at their highest level ever for the Annual Fund—to date more than $115,000 or an increase of 35% in gifts and pledges over last year! The Institutional Advancement team is engaged with a number of ways to complement this challenge as well to make sure we are working on “all cylinders”: • 3 Partners in Ministry (PIM) events have been scheduled this year in Charlotte (NC), Jacksonville (FL), and North Atlanta (GA). • We have instituted a monthly giving program for new and monthly givers through electronic funds transfer and credit card. 4
VANTAGE Winter 2013
annual fund
• S tepping up communications and events to connect with current friends of the seminary and raise up new ones, too. • Opening up new discussions about planned giving opportunities such as naming CTS in your will. Reflecting on II Corinthians 9:10, John Stott makes a case that we have two kinds of gifts, seeds for the sower so that we can plant the fields and produce a crop and also bread to the workers. I think of the bread as our Annual Fund! The wonderful news is that we do not have to provide all of it! All we have to provide is 5 loaves and 2 fishes. God will provide the rest, with even 12 baskets left over! Now we do need those 5 loaves and 2 fishes…3 loaves and 1 fish will not do! Please join us in confirming this strategy and praying about what you may be able to do through sacrifice and generosity in providing training for this next generation of leaders in this quickly changing world.
This fund enables Columbia Theological Seminary to provide exceptional support for our students and programs in a number of ways:
Many Blessings,
• As the current debt crisis continues, some students are able to attend who might not be able otherwise.
Doug Taylor Vice President Institutional Advancement
• A fter graduation, alumni are free to pursue their calling rather than serving their debt.
V ision 2 0 / 2 0 C ampaign N umbers Thank you to all of our supporters who made this campaign a tremendous success: • • • • • • •
A nnual F und
Goal: $60 million Donors: 4,837 Gifts and pledges received: $66.7 million (111% of the goal) 3 construction projects 48 endowed funds established 45% of alumni/ae supported the campaign 2,339 individuals attended one or more Partners in Ministry events
Special thanks goes to our campaign committee: Billy Morris (chair), Lane Alderman, Jimmy Adams, Doug Ellis, Gay Love, Frank Skinner, and John Weitnauer. With the leadership of this committee in partnership with then President Laura Mendenhall, then VP for Institutional Advancement Richard DuBose, and other staff, the campaign achieved unprecedented results in moving the mission of the seminary forward.
• N ew programs are developed to equip our students for ministry in God’s changing world—technologically, mentally, socially, and spiritually. For more information about how you can support the Annual Fund, visit or contact us: • On the Web at http://www.ctsnet. edu/Supporting/ FundOverview.aspx • B y e-mail: annualfund@ctsnet.edu • B y phone: 404-687-4588 for Pam Cottrell VANTAGE Winter 2013
5
reasonable service
Va n tag e Vol. 105, No. 1, Winter 2013 E d i to r
Michael Thompson Des i gn
Lucy Ke P h otog r ap h y
Coenraad Brand ’13 C ont r i b u to r s
Shavon Starling-Louis (’13) offers up community prayer at the Celebration Service led by the African Heritage Student Association on December 6. This event was done in partnership with the ITC Gospel Choir.
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ry
de
Jennifer Alquist John Azumah Randy Calvo, Jr. ’81 Pam Cottrell Mary Lynn Darden C.J. Drymon Sarah Erickson ’03/DEdMin ’10 Steve Hayner Paul Junggap Huh Martha Moore-Keish Elizabeth Lyles ’14 Elizabeth Orth Barbara Poe Doug Taylor Sandra Taylor Diane Thorne
C o l u m b i e m i n a ry iCal S
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신학대학원
개요
This issue of Vantage
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is available online at www.ctsnet.edu. Go to
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VANTAGE Winter 2013
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sensible horizons
B uilding B ridges B etween S tabilit y and C hange By Martha Moore-Keish
O
ver the past few years, a committee at Columbia Theological Seminary has been developing a “Quality Enhancement Plan” in connection with our reaffirmation of accreditation. The goal of this plan is to strengthen a particular aspect of our seminary program in order to better serve our students in their present education and future vocational efforts. The key statement which guides this plan reads: Educating imaginative, resilient leaders for God’s changing world. It should come as no surprise that our first question was this: How do we think theologically about imagination and resilience? The terms “imagination” and “resilience” have emerged from our conversations and galvanized interest because they name capacities that we need not only to survive, but to thrive in a rapidly changing world. They are not terms that belong simply to the field of management, or systems theory. They have rich theological potential! Interestingly, both imagination and resilience are bridge terms, naming human qualities that dance between stability and change, between that which is and that which is not quite or not yet. In Imagination and other words, if we agree that resilience are bridge imagination and resilience are important qualities of terms, naming human humanity that we wish to qualities that dance nurture, then we affirm something fundamental about between stability and human being. When we live “at full stretch” (as my mentor change. Don Saliers likes to put it), we live both in the here and the now, in the factual and the practical and the given, and also reach beyond that which is simply given. How is this so? “Imagination” is the ability to see beyond what is simply before us. Walter Brueggemann’s work The Prophetic Imagination describes imagination as the capacity to “perceive, receive, and act” out of a different world than the one generally accepted (and hegemonically reinforced) by others. He also calls on the imaginative capacity required
“Resilience is the capacity of biblical interpreters today to be “free” and “daring” of a system, enterprise, in moving from text to or person to maintain contemporary circumstance. So imagination is an act of its core purpose and freedom from the given, integrity in the face of the factual, the obvious. Yet imagination is also the ability dramatically changed to attend powerfully to what circumstances.” IS there, what is given, what is obvious. Resilience, too, is a bridge term, that names the ability to maintain integrity of self or system, on the one hand, and on the other hand, to respond constructively to change, even traumatic change. If a person is destroyed by change, she or he is not resilient; but if she simply survives intact, without change, she is not resilient but oblivious. Andrew Zolli in his book entitled Resilience: Why Things Bounce Back offers this definition, which shows the dual nature of resilience: “resilience is the capacity of a system, enterprise, or person to maintain its core purpose and integrity in the face of dramatically changed circumstances.” So imagination and resilience both enable this navigation of stability and change. But how do we nurture these capacities—in ourselves, in our churches, and here at the seminary? These are the kind of questions we will discuss at the upcoming Colloquium grounding our discussion in the theological virtues of faith, hope, and love. I hope you will join us in this dance and discover more of the richness God offers us as leaders.
Martha Moore-Keish is Associate Professor of Theology and Chair for the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) process
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sensible horizons
a new lens for learning
By Elizabeth Lyles
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rue to my type A personality style, I began exploring post-grad options the summer before my senior year at Davidson College. Davidson presented me with many great opportunities for growth. Finding a job was not going to be a problem, but narrowing down my interests to find something that would allow me to continue exploring, growing, and dreaming would be. That fall, I decided to take a job abroad. A university in Seoul, South Korea saw my research and wanted to create a position for me as the Director of Language Programs. They wanted me to bring my research and put it into action, adjusting as necessary. My research focused on integrating classrooms, making them comfortable for ESL and native English speakers alike, and working with faculty to create teaching methods that were engaging and created involvement outside the designated class hour. The job was perfect. I was going to continue work that I had started at Davidson and work on changing a culture—no small task, but one that I was ready to take on. About the time I decided that this was the job, I met with John—a lifelong mentor and friend. Over an unremarkable cup of coffee, we had a remarkable conversation. “You have the gifts and graces for ministry and I want you to explore seminary,” he said to me. But John’s words settled I almost choked. I was positive that seminary was deep within me, and I not the place for me. I was prayed more than I ever dedicated to the church, but I felt confident that ordained had prayed in my life. leadership was for people who weren’t like me. Besides, why in the world would I turn down the job offer I already had on the table? I dismissed the conversation and cataloged it in my mind as the first time John made a misjudgment. But John’s words settled deep within me, and I prayed more than I ever had prayed in my life. He was perhaps the only person in my life who could plant such a ridiculous seed 8
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in my mind. It made me think twice, so I talked to other people about his idea. Each year, a committee of people associated with religious life at Davidson College identifies a couple of unsuspecting seniors who they think should consider ministry. The Tate Fellowship is aimed at college seniors who show leadership potential for the church, but might never consider ministry unless approached out of the blue. So I decided to accept the challenge figuring that over the next year I could explore the option, then go on my way and get back to my original post-grad plans. I arrived at Columbia Theological Seminary in the Fall of 2011 as a Masters of Divinity student. I was not committed to any idea of ministry in my future, and didn’t approach my courses as vocational training. Classrooms were my lab space where I could see how teachers combined theory and practice, and how students responded. This connection between learning and ministry was not always easy for students to see. I grew to believe that seminaries can and must change if the church is to be vibrant. I’m not quite sure how As Community to articulate the pendulum shift that happened between Engagement Fellows, September and February of we use our community my first year. I was dead-set engagement work as a on leaving Columbia, but sometime in the beginning of new lens for classroom second semester I found new learning. energy. At a Tate Fellowship gathering, I announced that I would be staying at Columbia to finish the MDiv program. It just so happened that Wayne Meisel was the speaker at this lunch. He talked about his work to change seminary education and make sustainable culture shifts. Wayne came to Columbia, and soon we were able to start up the Community Engagement Fellows program. Columbia now has eight fellows who are working with different community organizations. We meet weekly to discuss the work we are doing and have conversations around specific topics being addressed by these community organizations. Even though the program just started this Fall, I’ve already witnessed change because of it—both for us as students and as a seminary. As Community Engagement Fellows, we use our community engagement work as a new lens for classroom learning. Conversations about the solid experiences we
sensible horizons
share are trickling into the seemingly abstract conversations about Theology and Ecclesiology. We are combining focused study with intentional engagement. The walls of the classroom are being deconstructed and the community is bringing ministry to life. The process is messy and at times extremely frustrating and the mess doesn’t stop here. We are continuing to dream and figure out what the potential is for this program at Columbia. I want to be a part of this work and know that programs like this will make me proud to call Columbia my alma mater.
C ommunit y E ngagement F ellows
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any young adults are committed to service. However, service initiatives are not automatically associated with the church, or even faith for that matter. The Community Engagement Fellows is a new program designed to bridge that gap. We hope to inspire motivated, committed, service-oriented young adults to consider seminary as an opportunity to continue service work while learning how theological education can support and propel the passion they already have. For our pilot year, Columbia has eight Community Engagement Fellows hired and serving the Atlanta community. With site placements including Our House (an early childhood program for homeless children), the East Lake Community, L’Arche Atlanta, and The Ottley (a growing community for young adults), our fellows are creating a presence in places that may not have even known that Columbia Theological Seminary was right down the street. The fellows commit about ten hours per week to their site placements. There are job descriptions for each site with the most prevalent task being presence. Fellows show up as “the church” in the midst of work that is already happening. For too long, the line between faith and service has been distinct, and personal presence is the best way to blur that line. We hope that consistently engaging a community will show that “the church” is committed to reimagining how communities function.
Betsy Lyles is a second year student from Davidson, NC. She graduated with an English major and Communication Studies minor from Davidson College in 2011 and came to Columbia as a Tate Fellow. She’s a proud sister to two brothers and rarely passes up an opportunity to go to the beach.
This fellowship allows students to witness God at Young adults who work and become a part have never considered of communities we might not see from Columbia’s seminary before see that campus. Columbia has students The result is that students have a new who believe learning context in which they can and service can coexist understand and apply class concepts. The communities side-by-side. see that “the church” is committed to living and working in their midst, rather than merely coordinating one-time service projects. Columbia is already witnessing the impact of this program as life is added to conversations about how we address real challenges. We have a core group of students who are consistently engaging tough questions. Young adults who have never considered seminary before see that Columbia has students who believe learning and service can coexist side-by-side. Service is our faithful response to the gospel, and it is possible to create a community where faith and service aren’t mutually exclusive. Ministry allows opportunities to conceive these communities. For more information, feel free to visit our website at www.ctscef.org or visit the website for the nationwide movement at www.faith3.org.
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sensible horizons
W restling at the C rossroad By John Azumah, PhD
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n the last century, the cultural and demographic center of Christianity has shifted from the Northern Hemisphere, mainly Europe and North America, to the Southern Hemisphere or the Global South (i.e. Africa, Asia and Latin America). At the beginning of the twentieth century, Christianity was a Western European preserve. In 1910 Global North Christians made up 82.2% of the World Christian population. About two-thirds (66.3%) of the world’s Christians lived in Europe. Global South Christians constituted 17.8%. The West was the heartland of Christendom and the rest of the world was the “Mission Field”. By 2010, the Christian population of the Global North receded to 39.2% and that of the Global South increased to 60.8%. To put the shift in By 2010, the Christian perspective, from 66.3% in population of the Global 1910, by 2010 only about a North receded to 39.2% quarter (26%) of the World’s Christians lived in Europe, and that of the Global and many are immigrants. By contrast, in 1910 sub-Saharan South increased to 60.8%. Africa’s share of the World Christian population was a mere 1.4%. By the mid-1980s, while some 4,300 people were leaving the Church daily in Western Europe, over 16,500 were joining the Church on a daily basis in sub-Saharan Africa. Thus a century later, in 2010, about one in every four (24%) Christians lives in subSaharan Africa. Today there are more Protestants in Nigeria than Germany, the birthplace of Protestantism. A 2010 report from the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life shows that while Protestants still constitute a slim majority (51%) of the religious population in the USA, they are steadily declining. The percentage of Roman Catholics is holding steady at around 24%, but that is mainly due to the fact that Christian immigrants entering the USA are twice as likely to be Catholic rather than Protestant. What’s more, 16% of the population does not claim any religious affiliation whatsoever. That is double what it was in 2000. At the same time, other religions are becoming more visible. According to the Institute of American Religions, there are at 10
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the present over 1,600 Hindu “In times of crisis, the Temples and study centers in foolish build dams while the USA. Likewise, the number of mosques has increased from the wise build bridges.” around 1,200 in 2000 to 2,100 in 2010. There are now more Muslims than Presbyterians in the USA! One of the key features of the changing world therefore is a new religious landscape: the shift of the center of Christianity and the increasing visibility of other religions in what is becoming a post-Christian West. Commenting on the global shift of Christianity, Lamin Sanneh of Yale University points out that “these developments went beyond merely adding more names to the books; they had to do with cultural shifts, with changing the books themselves.” In the words of Jonathan Sacks, Chief Rabbi of the UK: “We live in the conscious presence of difference… One of the great transformations from the twentieth to the twentyfirst centuries is that whereas the former was dominated by the politics of ideology, we are now entering an age of the politics of identity.” The new reality can therefore be exciting to some and frightening to others. Discerning the will of God for the church in this changing world can be challenging. But as an African proverb has it, “in times of crisis, the foolish build dams while the wise build bridges.” A sure way to guard against repeating the disastrous consequences of the politics of ideology of the 20th century is to engage, not to retreat. In fact, there is nowhere to retreat! Diana Eck counsels: “Pluralism is not relativism, but the encounter of commitments. The new paradigm of pluralism does not require us to leave our identities and our commitments behind, for pluralism is the encounter of commitments. It means holding our deepest differences, even our religious differences, not in isolation, but in relationship to one another.” The new religious landscape of the World and North America can be compared to a crossroad or intersection. In the words of the celebrated Nigerian novelist, Chinua Achebe: “When we think of crossroads in our culture, that is where the spirits cross and the people cross, so you can meet the spirits there. It can be dangerous but also very rewarding
sensible horizons
if you wrestle there and succeed. But if you run away from the crossroads because it is perilous, well, you’ll survive but you’ll never know, and you’ll never grow!” Wrestling at the crossroads will require learning new vocabulary for theologizing, it will call for learning new songs and interpreting new signs. Wrestling with questions, discerning the opportunities and working through the challenges the new realities present requires resilience and imagination. As it is with intersections, the skill of reading and interpreting the signs are critical. The smoothened There is the need to highway of relativism and universalism where all signs remind ourselves that are wished away is not the there are going to be answer. But beyond educating times when the best of resilient and imaginative leaders, there is the need to imaginations and all the remind ourselves that there resilience one can muster are going to be times when the best of imaginations and will not be enough. all the resilience one can muster will not be enough. That the infilling and inspiration of the Holy Spirit is vital. That there will be times we have to learn to take rest in the assurance that “‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty” (Zechariah 4:6). After all, this is God’s changing world, and God is behind the steering wheel!
A set of ministerial stoles were presented to six students who will graduate in May 2013: Bethany Olson, Lucy Baum, Joseph Taber, John McDonald, Jacob Geerlings, and Carol Underwood.The beautiful stoles were made by Ruth DeShazo and given by her and her husband George. Ruth is the grandmother of Ruth “Rose” Southwell McCurdy, MDiv 2012. Rose’s husband, Dan McCurdy, will graduate in May with his MDiv. What a wonderful way to mark graduation for these students from Columbia Seminary with a meaningful gift that they will wear for a lifetime.
Additional Gifts
We regret that we missed a few donors in our Annual Report included in the Fall edition of Vantage: Agnes Law Society ($250–$499)
Dr. and Mrs. David L. Bartlett Charles A. Stillman Society ($100–$249)
The Rev. Diane B. and Mr. Donald F. Corlett, Jr. Thomas and Anne Holbrook Goulding Society
John Azumah is Associate Professor of World Christianity and Islam
The Rev. V. Ruata Hmar The Rev. and Mrs. David R. Kaiser-Cross The Rev. and Mrs. Dric D. Williford We are quite thankful for all our donors. Your gifts enable us to accomplish our mission “to educate imaginative, resilient leaders for God’s changing world.”
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lifelong learning
Unless otherwise noted, events take place on the seminary campus, in Decatur, GA. For detailed information and registration, go to www.ctsnet.edu > Lifelong Learners > Courses and Events. Then scroll to the dates of events you wish to attend.
February 28–March 3 The Wounded Healer: Henri Nouwen
“We are healed by his wounds,” it is said of Jesus. But our spiritual lives may be shaped and healed by our own wounds as well. We have “wounds with a view” that open us to new possibilities, enlarging our compassion, expanding our prayer life. “What seemed primarily painful may then become a feeling that…opens for you the way to an even deeper knowledge of God’s love,” Henri Nouwen journaled to himself in his deeply personal The Inner Voice of Love. In one of his earliest books, he described the minister (every Christian) as The Wounded Healer. “The really great saints of history don’t ask for imitation. Their way was unique and cannot be repeated. But they invite us into their lives and offer a hospitable space for our own search,” Henri wrote in Reaching Out: Three Movements of the Spiritual Life. This class is an invitation to your own search for quiet and meaning. Instructor: Chris Glaser. Program Fee: $285. May receive credit towards the Certificate in Spiritual Formation. March 10–15 Western Christian Spirituality
This class traces the central focus of spirituality in the Christian community throughout its existence. We will deal with practices and understandings that provided the center of faith and renewal in the life of Christians throughout the centuries. Beginning with the early church that is largely in the East, and then shifting to the West in the medieval period we will give attention to the renewal of spiritual life in the church, its sources, and its relationship to context in order to determine what sources are useful for the church and ministry today. Instructor: Catherine Gonzalez, Location: CTS. Program Fee: $395. May receive credit towards the Certificate in Spiritual Formation.
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March 15–16 Godly Play: Extending the Core
Have you completed Godly Play® Core Training? Are you ready to go deeper? This is for you! Come and be nourished by the spiritual practice of Godly Play®, share your story of transformation, and learn from others. Our time will include a full session of Godly Play, Moving through the Spiral of Godly Play with Children of All Ages, work and sharing of Godly Play® stories, sharing our own transformations, time for reflection and play, meals, and worship. Come be refreshed and renewed during this time of preparation for the Mystery of Easter. Instructors: Godly Play Foundation Trainers: Sharon Greeley and Christen Erskine. Program Fees: $140 per person early bird (thru Feb. 15) with a discount fee of $130 per person, 2+ persons from same group or $160 per person regular registration (thru March 8), discount fee of $150 per person 2+ persons from same group; dinner, breakfast and lunch included with registration fee.
April 11–13 Baptism and Beyond: Scaffolding a Life of Discipleship
How does one guide children, youth, and young adults in being followers of the living Christ in the world rather than simply handing them information about Jesus? How do we nurture all ages to live out their baptismal vows in their daily lives in ways that are counter-cultural to a life of consumption and self-fulfillment? This event looks at ways that we can act as a scaffold for ageappropriate engagement with mission in the church and world. Special attention will be given to the elementary school ages of six-twelve, but there will also be times of engaging with how these methods of discipleship may then lead to continued progression in the youth and young adult years. There will be real life congregational models shared as well as opportunities to engage in intergenerational mission activities as a part of this event. Leaders: Anne H.K. Apple and Kathy Dawson. Program Fee: $175; $165 discount two or more people from the same group.
April 7–10 Immersion Experience at Montreat
This course will explore the origins of the Christian Spiritual Tradition. Participants will study the formative elements of Biblical Spirituality, Monastic Spirituality, and Reformed Spirituality. Participants will also have the opportunity for personal reflection through guided meditative journaling, exploring their own unique journey with the living God. Community and practical application of acquired knowledge are also part of this experience. This course is the starting place for the Certificate in Spiritual Formation. Instructors: Jim Dant, Carl McColman, Deedra Rich. Program Fee: $390. Location: Montreat Conference Center. May receive credit towards the Certificate in Spiritual Formation. April 25–28 Celtic Spirituality
Shrouded in legend and imbued with romance, the Celtic lands such as Ireland, Scotland, and Wales have produced a surprising number of saints and spiritual guides, both ancient and contemporary. In our day, as Christians seek ways to celebrate stewardship of God’s good creation, a healthy and balanced relationship between men and women, and a spirituality that links the quest for holiness with a profound sense of the nearness of the love of God — again and again, the Celts emerge as meaningful and sure-footed
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March 17–23 PCCCA Certificate Courses March 17–20 Non-Profit Business Management
This class will cover a wide range of topics relevant to managing a non-profit business including communications, governance, risk management, finances, and a basic business plan. This course is part of Compass Points, a joint program offered by the Presbyterian Church Camp and Conference Association (PCCCA) and Columbia Theological Seminary. The faculty for this course are Dan Scheneman of Heartland Center (MO) and Maria Shupe of Highlands Camp and Retreat Center (CO). Program Fees: $305 includes all meals (dinner Sun–lunch Wed); $290 includes 2 meals (lunch/dinner Sun–Wed). Questions about the Compass Points program in general? Please contact Joel Winchip, PCCCA Executive Director, at joel@pccca.net or 803.322.0232.
guides. This retreat experience will celebrate, through story, poetry and prayer, the wisdom of the Celts, from saints of old like Patrick, Brigid, Columba and Brendan, to more recent figures such as George MacDonald, C. S. Lewis and George MacLeod. Themes such as hospitality, pilgrimage, the sacredness of nature and the loving presence of the Divine mystery will inform our worship together as well as the course sessions. Instructor: Carl McColman. Location: Montreat Conference Center. Program Fee: $390. May receive credit towards the Certificate in Spiritual Formation. May 20–24 Women’s Retreat
Each Spring Columbia Seminary offers a contemplative retreat for women--open not just to members of the CTS community, but to any woman seeking a deeper experience of God. Under the sheltering arms of the Benedictine Monastic Community of Cullman AL, we will explore the mystery of God’s great love and longing for us, and seek ways to open more fully to this transformational experience. Instructors: Lalor Cadley, Linda Abel. Location: Sacred Heart Monastery, Cullman, AL. Program Fee: $518 Women’s Retreat Program Fee, Single Room, and Meals; $493 Women’s Retreat Program Fee, Shared Room, and Meals. May receive credit towards the Certificate in Spiritual Formation. POINTS March 20–23 Development
The class will examine multiple aspects of development in the camp and conference setting. Learners will explore fund development as well as staff, volunteer, and board development. The class will conclude with study of a site, master, and strategic development plan. This course is part of Compass Points, a joint program offered by the Presbyterian Church Camp and Conference Association (PCCCA) and Columbia Theological Seminary. The faculty for this course will be Rich Swartwood of Pyoca Camp, Conference and Retreat Center (Brownstown, IN) and Scott Henderson of Westminster Highlands (Emlenton, PA) and Camp Lambec (North Springfield, PA). Program Fees: $305 includes all meals (dinner Wed– lunch Sat); $290 includes 2 meals (lunch/dinner Wed–Sat) Questions about the Compass Points program in general? Please contact Joel Winchip, PCCCA Executive Director, at joel@pccca.net or 803.322.0232.
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C TS t h e n a n d n o w
In 1822, Dr. Thomas Goulding re-established the Beth Salem Church in Lexington, GA. In December of 1828, he was elected Professor of Theology and opened the “Southern Theological School” in this manse. Today, the manse is part of a newly designated historic district where a community effort is being made to renovate a number of old buildings including the manse.
In March of 2012, the Vernon S. Broyles, Jr. Leadership Center was dedicated to provide modern classrooms with the latest in educational technology. This building and the new residence hall are both Gold LEED certified. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System™ is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings.
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resilience and imagination Bouncing Back in Life and Ministry
Colloquium 2013 | April 15–17, 2013 • • • • • •
Featuring speakers from the CTS faculty Small group presentations Interactive, sensory, and creative worship Small-group Bible study and prayer time Student-alumni/ae “come ask us” fellowship Alumni/ae awards luncheon, and more!
1983 1988 — 25th 1993 1998
We encourage you to use our secure Survey Monkey form to enter all of your registration information at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Colloquium_2013 Once complete, you may use one of the following methods for payment:
Class Reunions 1963 — 50th 1968 1973 1978
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2003 2008 2012
• C heck made out to Columbia Theological Seminary (After completing online registration form, send check to Columbia Theological Seminary, Attn: Barbara Poe, PO Box 520, Decatur, GA 30031.) • C redit Card (After completing online registration form, call Barbara Poe with information at 404.687.4566.) VANTAGE Winter 2013
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Tau t a Pa n ta
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VANTAGE Winter 2013
Tauta Panta is Greek for “all these things” as in Matthew 6:33 — “Seek first God’s kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” In our case, it is the section of Vantage which serves as a living tradition of what is being done by students, alumni/ae, staff and faculty. Come and see what God is doing in the life of our community to serve God and God’s changing world.
8th Annual Call Fair at Columbia Columbia Theological Seminary will host its eighth annual Call Fair for Pastor Nominating Committees on Friday, March 1, 2013, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The event is designed to help connect graduating seniors with congregations and organizations that have openings for leadership positions. The registration form is available online at http://www.jotform. us/CTSemAdmis/callfair. For more information about the Call Fair and student placement, contact Judy Graves in the Office of Student Services at gravesj@ctsnet.edu or 404-687-4523.
Alumni/ae News & Notes 1940’s Clyde Bartges ’42 was made pastor emeritus of the Brandermill Church in Midlothian, VA, October 7, 2012, where he was founding pastor. This thriving ecumenical church was organized and continues to be affiliated with two denominations: the Presbyterian Church (USA) and the United Methodist Church. With over 1,100 members, it is one of the largest churches of this type in the country. Bartges is now 95 years of age and still plays golf 3 times a week. 1950’s Roland Perdue ’59 finished an interim at First Presbyterian Church, Charlotte, NC and has moved back to Texas and an interim at First Presbyterian Church, Kerrville, TX. 1960’s French Arrington ’60, ’69 (THM), Professor Emeritus of New Testament Greek and Exegesis at the Pentecostal Theological Seminary in Cleveland, TN, received the Spirit of Azusa Award following the Azusa Lecture at the North Cleveland Church of God......Harry Daniel ’66 is currently in his 14th interim position at Eastminster Presbyterian Church, Indialantic, FL. 1970’s Dean Davis ’71 was honorably retired as pastor of Midway Presbyterian Church, Anderson, SC......Gene Lassiter ’72 reports that he has failed retirement and is now stated supply at Landrum Presbyterian Church, Landrum, SC......Clarence Magee ’72 is retired but actively serving Trinity Lutheran Church in LaMarque, TX. He is working on his 4th degree blackbelt and teaching taekwondo......Etta Rossman ’76 retired July 30, 2010 after working 17 ½ years as staff chaplain at the Virginia Correctional Center for Women in Goochland, VA...... Warner Durnell ’78 is executive presbyter of Middle Tennessee Presbytery in Nashville, TN. 1980’s Lawrence Peebles ’83 is a tentmaking pastor at Little River Dominick Presbyterian Church in Kinards, SC. He also serves as the executive director of the Greater Laurens County Cluster of Smaller Membership Churches. His secular employment is tax preparer, office manager and tax instructor for H&R Block in Chapin, SC......William Hayes ’84, ’91 (DMin) is pastor of Edgewood Presbyterian Church in Sanford, NC......Ted Land ’84 (DMin) was honorably retired as pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Arcadia, FL......William (Bill) Jenkins ’85 (DMin) has retired after 12 years as pastor of Christ United Methodist Church, San
T a u t a P a n t a | Alumni/ae News & Notes
Diego, CA, and is executive director and pastor emeritus of the new Christ United Methodist Ministry Center, an urban ministry center in San Diego. His third book, Three Steps to Integrity: The ABC Model, will be available mid-November. Publisher is Xulon Press. 1990’s Polly Deppen ’92 is engaged to be married to Matthew Williams of Kearney, NE on May 26, 2013 in North Platte, NE......Ann Pitman ’93 is interim pastor at First Presbyterian Church, Collinsville, IL......Steven Arndt ’94 is pastor at Jackson Woods Presbyterian Church in Corpus Christi, TX......Walt Tennyson ’93 was featured in an article in the October 15th issue of Presbyterian Outlook. The article was entitled Young Adults DO Connect With Church — but Often Far Beyond the Church Walls. Walt is the chaplain at Rhodes College...... Chip Blankinship ’95 is director of operations at Greater Atlanta Presbytery......Tim Slemmons ’95 (’99 ThM) has published Year D: A Quadrennial Supplement to the Revised Common Lectionary (Cascade Books, 2012) and contributed the prayers of confession to the forthcoming Call To Worship, Volume 46: Year C (December 2012-November 2013). He also reviewed a work by Constance Cherry, The Worship Architect: A Blueprint for Designing Culturally Relevant and Biblically Faith Services, in Interpretation: A Journal for Bible and Theology (April 2012).....Insook Lee ’96, ’98 (ThM), ’06 (ThD) is associate professor of pastoral care and counseling at New York Theological Seminary......Bill Reinhold ’97 (DMin) is general presbyter and stated clerk of Coastal Carolina Presbytery......Caroline Kelly ’99 will be installed Nov. 18th as pastor at First Presbyterian Church, Cumberland, MD. 2000’s Barry Jenkins ’00 is pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Franklin, PA......Elizabeth Walker ’00 has retired and is living in College Park, MD......Rachel Anderson ’01 is working with World Mission in the PC/USA Louisville offices as Program Assistant for Itineration Support...... Thomas Daniel ’03, ’11 (DMin) and Jay Thomas ’03 were among the leaders in Montreat’s Institute for Church Leadership Conference in October. The conference was entitled Leading with Bold Imagination......Timothy Roberts ’03 (DMin) is temporary pastor at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Jacksonville, FL ......Kevin Day ’04 teaches in the history and theology department at Episcopal School of Jacksonville, FL. He is also the head coach of the cross country team and serves as associate school minister. Kevin was ordained in 2009......Jannan Thomas ’03 and Shannon Ball ’05 are helping homeless families become self sufficient. They work with Action Ministries which leads communities and volunteers in serving their neighbors in need by providing hunger, housing and education solutions. Jannan is the executive director of housing and Shannon is director of support teams and volunteer relations. The program serves 35 counties across North Georgia. Last month the housing program was awarded a $1 million grant to specifically serve homeless veterans and their families......Alan Bancroft ’05 married Gracyn Sansbury Bancroft October 1, 2011. He is interim campus minister for the Presbyterian Student Fellowship at Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities......Mark Forrester ’05 (DMin) is university chaplain and director of the Office of Religious Life at Vanderbilt University......Schaap Freeman ’05 and Clay Fouse ’05 are proud parents of Isadora St. Clair Freeman Fouse, born October 29, weighing 7 lbs. 9 oz...... Patrick Marshall ’05 and wife Jen celebrated the birth of their daughter, Emily Grace, on August 22......Brandon Brewer ’06 has been named adjunct faculty in the Life Enrichment Program at The Community College of Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD......Sara
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Varnado ’07 was ordained September 9th, with Stan Saunders preaching. She and husband Matt Schlageter ’05 are moving to Orlando where Matt is staff chaplain at the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children......Reggie Weaver ’07 was guest preacher on Day 1 Radio in September. His sermon on Mark 2:1-12 was entitled When the Roof Crumbles...... Sara Hayden ’08 is one of the featured speakers at the “Disciple Making Conference” in St. Petersburg, FL, January 21-25, 2013......Kate Giguere Morris ’08 and husband Dan have welcomed a baby daughter, Parker Elizabeth, born July 3, 2012. They have also moved to Rock Island, IL......Michael McLaughlin ’08 is pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Cleveland, MS. He also contributed an essay/chapter to Renew 52:50+ Ideas to Revitalize Your Congregation from Leaders under 50......Searcy “Buz” Wilcoxon ’08 and wife Ryann are proud parents of Wilson Elliot Wilcoxon, born September 17th......Emily Zeig Lindsey ’08 was married June 2, 2012. She and her husband Rodney Lindsey II are living in Waterford, PA...... Adam Copeland ’09 recently joined the religion faculty at Concordia College in Moorhead, MN. He was also part of an e-book project published by Luther Seminary along with at least 7 other CTS grads and professor Martha Moore-Keish. It is available for FREE at: http:// www.luthersem.edu/vcp/renew52/default.aspx.....Sandra Hedrick ’09 is transitional stated clerk of St. Augustine Presbytery......Betsy Turner ’09 was ordained October 7th at St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church in Dunwoody, GA, and is serving as the contract call pastor at Tallapoosa Presbyterian Church, Tallapoosa, GA. 2010’s Jenny Carswell ’10 is a supervisory candidate in the training process towards becoming an ACPE Supervisor in Tampa, FL......John Ruehl ’10 was ordained January 29, 2012, to temporary supply, Beulah Humble Presbyterian Church, Elizabeth, WV by Central Florida Presbytery......Margaret Fulghum Davis ’11 married Robert Benjamin Davis October 6, 2012 in the Duke University Chapel, Durham, NC......Dr. Mark Mueller ’05 (DMin) performed the ceremony. Margaret is associate pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Huntsville, AL......Raphael and Ana Garcia da Silva Pinto ’12 are proud parents of a baby boy, Talis Joaquim Silva Pinto, born September 27, 2012......Christin Johnson ’12 is interim associate pastor at Oakhurst Presbyterian Church, Decatur, GA......Laura Neely ’12 will be ordained November 18th at Highland Presbyterian Church in Winston-Salem, NC. She will be installed December 16th as associate pastor at Parkway Presbyterian Church, Corpus Christi, TX......Andrew Stockstill ’12 was ordained September 23rd at Morningside Presbyterian Church in Atlanta. He is minister for adult education at Morningside and Emory University Presbyterian campus minister......Robert White ’12 accepted a call as pastor of Covington Presbyterian Church in Covington, LA.
In Memoriam John Ashenfelder ’45 . . . . . . . . . . . . April 14, 2012 Dewey “Butch” Bowen ’73 . . . . . . . . October 5, 2012 Charles Donnell ’83 (DMin) . . . . . . October 20, 2011 Charles Elyea, Jr. ’56, ’66 (ThM) . . . . January 13, 2012 Robert Fitler ’60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 30, 2012 Glenn Ruggles ’73 . . . . . . . . . . . . January 22, 2012 18
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Brennan Breed, Assistant Professor of Old Testament, delivered two papers at the SBL meeting in Chicago: “What Is a Context, and How Would Someone Put a Biblical Text Into It?” and “Extensive and Intensive Difference in 2 Kings 6:8-23”. He taught a two-week series on “Grace in the Old Testament” at Decatur Presbyterian Church. An essay was published: “Nomadology of the Bible: A Processual Approach to Biblical Reception History,” in the journal Biblical Reception, vol. 1 (2012), pages 299-322......Bill Brown, William Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament, published three essays this fall: “Happiness and Its Discontents in the Psalms,” in The Bible and the Pursuit of Happiness: What the Old and New Testaments Teach Us about the Good Life, ed. Brent A. Strawn. New York/Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2012, 95-115. “From Apology to Pedagogy: Interpreting the Bible Past and Present in the Seminary Classroom,” Interpretation 66,4 (2012): 371-82. “Manifest Diversity: The Presence of God in Genesis,” in The Theology of Genesis, ed. Nathan McDonald, Mark W. Elliot, Grant Macaskill. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2012, 3-25. He led a class called “Exploring Wisdom’s Wonder” for Spirituality and Lifelong Learning at Montreat, on October 25-27. Bill was keynote speaker for the “Five-Day Academy” Spirituality Retreat sponsored by the United Methodist Church at Canyon Camp, OK, November 5-9. He was responder to two sessions of papers at the Society of Biblical Literature in Chicago, November 18-19: “Metaphor and the Psalms” and “Christian Theology of the Psalms”.....Randy Calvo ’81, Director of Alumni/ae and Church Relations, preached at the 112th anniversary service of Central Presbyterian Church, Anderson, SC on September 23......Anna Carter Florence, Peter Marshall Associate Professor of Preaching, gave the Lyman Beecher Lectures at Yale Divinity School in October. She preached at The Presbyterian Church of Basking Ridge, NJ and Marble Collegiate Church in New York City. Anna taught day long workshops for the NJ Delaware District of United Methodist Pastors and for Army Chaplains in Europe at the Heidelberg base in Germany......Pamela Cooper-White, Ben G. and Nancye Clapp Gautier Professor of Pastoral Theology, Care, and Counseling, had the 2nd revised edition of her book The Cry of Tamar: Violence against Women and the Church’s Response released by Fortress Press in September 2012. This fall she presented the following academic papers: “Sabina Spielrein,
Korean alumni and students gathered for a one-day seminar led by UnYong Kim ’94 (ThM), Professor of Worship and Preaching, PCTS, Korea.
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The latest edition of @ this point: theological investigations in church and culture is available online. This edition on “Resilience” includes a lead essay by Bill Harkins (pictured above) with responses from Martha Moore-Keish, Wendy Farley, and David Casson, as well as curricula by Katelyn Gordon. You may find this and past editions at www.atthispoint.net.
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Religion, and the Death Instinct,” Psychology, Culture & Religion Group Presession, American Academy of Religion, Nov. 2, 2012; and “Got Ghosts? An Ethnographic Study of Spirit and Culture in the Gettysburg Ghost Tour Phenomenon,” Seminary Ridge Symposium, Gettysburg Theological Seminary, Oct., 2012......Mark Douglas, Associate Professor of Christian Ethics, taught at churches in Decatur, Atlanta, and St. Louis. He convened the meeting of the Social Ethics Network in New York City at Auburn Theological Seminary and Union Theological Seminary (NY). Along with Martha Moore-Keish, Associate Professor of Theology, Mark brought a group of 11 MDiv Seniors to Louisville, KY to meet with seniors from six other seminaries as part of the “Company of New Pastors” program. He presided over a panel of scholars discussing the relation of Reinhold Niebuhr and feminist thought at the annual Niebuhr Society meeting as part of the American Academy of Religion meeting. Mark oversaw a panel on comparative Christian and Jewish moral uses of scripture as part of the Society of Biblical Literature meeting......Sarah F. Erickson MDiv ’03/D.Ed.Min ’10, Director of Lifelong Learning, preached at the Morrow Presbyterian Church on December 30. She is serving as a member of the Confirmation Class Leadership Team for the 2012-13 Class at N. Decatur Presbyterian......Matthew Flemming, Instructor in Preaching, delivered the Paul S. Wright Lectures at the Menucha Camp and Conference Center. He led the First Presbyterian Church Portland, OR Labor Day retreat. Matthew preached at the Flint River Presbytery, Presbytery-wide worship service in October. He led a Preaching Workshop: “Becoming a Tri-lingual Church” at The United Theological College in Montreal, Quebec, Canada in October. Matthew was keynote speaker at the P.C.C.C.A. (Presbyterian Church Camp and Conference Association) in October. He spoke at the Advent Luncheon and Men’s Prayer Breakfast at First Presbyterian Church in Columbus, GA in December......Jerry Gladson, Adjunct Professor of Old Testament Language, Literature, and Exegesis, has just published a new commentary on Ruth through Edwin Mellen Press. The book, entitled, A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Book of Ruth, contains a foreword from Bill Brown, William Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament......Bill Harkins, Senior Lecturer of Pastoral Theology and Care, represented Columbia at Atlanta CPE Day (Clinical Pastoral Education) at First United Methodist Church, Decatur, GA. He was featured on the “Voices of Pastoral Care” website in an interview with FTE Fellow Caroline Peacock. Bill taught in the Diocese of Atlanta Institute for Ministry and Theological Education on “Family Systems for Ministry”. He was a retreat leader for PANDA (Diocese of Atlanta Parish Administrators) at Camp Mikell. Bill spoke on “Finding One’s Voice in Sacred Matters” for the Cathedral of St. Philip with Rev. Martha Sterne, and was a leader and guest preacher for Consecration Sunday/ Stewardship Campaign at the Holy Family Episcopal Church, Jasper, GA. Bill was named a Psychological Faculty Member for CREDO 256 in Sonoma, California and to the Advisory Board for the Training and Counseling Center, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Most recently he wrote the feature article for the winter edition of @this point titled “Transition, Resilience, and Fireweed”.......Paul Junggap Huh, Assistant Professor of Worship and Director of Korean American Ministries, was appointed as Chair of the Presbyterian Task Force on Racial Ethnic Ministries with assignment to report recommendation for General Assembly, Detroit, 2014. In September, he preached for the Yonsei University Student Association at Candler School of Theology, Atlanta, GA and the Columbus Korean Presbyterian Church, Columbus, GA. In October, Paul presided over a New Pastor Installation service at Hanbit Presbyterian Church, Duluth, GA. In November, he hosted the CTS Korean Alumni and Students One Day Seminar on Korean Preaching, Decatur, GA. Paul led a Preaching and Choir Seminar at Rock
T a u t a P a n t a | Faculty & Staff
Presbyterian Church, Columbus, GA. Then he performed Cello concerts: first with Sharol Hayner at the Atlanta VA Hospital, GA and the Lessons & Carols at First Presbyterian Church, Covington, GA......Beth Johnson, J. Davison Philips Professor of New Testament, published “Paul’s Reliance on Scripture in 1 Thessalonians,” 143-162 in Paul and Scripture. Ed. Christopher Stanley. Atlanta: Scholars Press, 2012; “God’s Covenant Faithfulness to Israel,” 157-168 in Reading the Letter to the Romans. SBL Resources for Biblical Studies. Ed. Jerry L. Sumney. Atlanta: Scholars Press, 2012. Recently, the twentieth anniversary second edition of The Women’s Bible Commentary (Westminster John Knox) was released with articles by Beth (Ephesians and Colossians), Kathleen O’Connor, former William Marcellus McPheeters Professor of Old Testament (Jeremiah and Lamentations) and Christine Roy Yoder, Professor of Old Testament Language, Literature, and Exegesis, (Proverbs)...... Kimberly Bracken Long, Assistant Professor of Worship, presented her work on The Eucharistic Theology of the American Holy Fairs (WJK, 2011) to the Reformed Theology and History section of AAR. She preached for an Advent service at St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church, Dunwoody, GA. Kim is also editor of Feasting on the Word Worship Companion, Year C, Vol. 1, which was released by Westminster John Knox......Cam Murchison, Professor Emeritus, was an Earth Stewardship Theologian for the Montreat Presbyterian Church teaching a Wednesday evening class for 4 weeks, October 17 through November 7, “Worrying About What We Eat, Drink and Wear in Light of the Environmental Crisis”.....Rodger Nishioka, Benton Family Associate Professor of Christian Education, was a preacher at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church, Asheville, NC; keynote speaker for the annual assembly of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Virginia; keynote speaker and workshop leader for Big Tent event for Cincinnati Presbytery; speaker at presbytery celebration at Third Presbyterian Church, Cincinnati; preacher at Knox Presbyterian Church in Cincinnati, OH; and keynote speaker at Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church, Lafayette, CA. He delivered the Marshall lectures and preached at Brentwood Presbyterian Church in Brentwood, TN. Rodger was also keynote speaker for the Western Christian Education Conference in Lake Tahoe, NV; preached at the First Presbyterian Church, Richmond, VA; spoke at the Ministry in Motion Leadership Conference in Burlington, ON; taught at the leadership academy for the Central Florida Presbytery, Orlando, FL; keynote speaker for the leadership conference for Boise and Eastern Oregon presbyteries, Caldwell, ID; and lectured in the Youth Ministry Now series at Yale Divinity School, New Haven, CT......Deedra Rich, Associate Director of Spirituality and Lifelong Learning, preached at Carrollton Presbyterian Church, Carrollton, GA; keynote speaker at Celebrating Life with God: Rejoicing in Spiritual Practices Conference, Boiling Springs, SC; accepted and participated in Denominational Leadership: Serving God and the Church as Executive Leader, Leadership Education at Duke Divinity; and led a 12 week series Companions in Christ: The Way of Discernment......Haruko Nawata Ward, Associate Professor of Church History, published 3 Book chapters: “Naitõ Julia and Women Catechists in the Jesuit Mission in Japan and the Philippines,” in Putting Names with Faces: Women’s Impact in Mission History, ed. Christine Lienemann-Perrin, Atloa Longkumer, Afrie Songco Joye. Abingdon, 2012; “Women in the Eyes of a Jesuit between the East Indies, New Spain and Early Modern Europe,” in Western Visions of the Far East in a Transpacific Age (1522—1671), ed. Christina H. Lee. Series Transculturalisms 1400-1700. Ashgate, 2012; “Martyrdom and Religious Violence,” in T & T Clark Companion to Reformation Theology, ed. David M. Whitford. T & T Clark, 2012. She wrote 2 journal articles: “Women and Kirishitanban Literature: Translation, Gender and Theology in Early Modern Japan,” Early Modern Women:
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an Interdisciplinary Journal, v.7 (2012), 271-81. “Kirishitan Women Martyrs Resist: A Movement in the 16th and 17th Centuries,” The Commons: A Year in the Life of the Center of Theological Inquiry in Princeton v. 3 (2011-2012): 31-4. Haruko also made the following presentations: “Silenced but not Silent Voices of Women Martyrs of Early Modern Japan,” for the joint session of History of Christianity/World Christianity, “Can The Native Christian Speak? Discerning the Voices of Indigenous Christians in Missionary and Colonial Archives,” annual meeting of the American Academy of Religion, Chicago, IL, November 17, 2012; and “Women Martyrs of the Jesuit Japan Mission,” for the session, “The Jesuits and Gender I,” organized by Robert A. Maryks and Journal of Jesuit Interdisciplinary Studies, the Sixteenth Century Society and Conference, Cincinnati, OH, October 25, 2012 ......John White, Dean of Students, preached at Hillside Presbyterian Church, Decatur, GA and Glenshaw Valley Presbyterian Church, Glenshaw (Pittsburgh), PA. He also officiated worship at New Life Presbyterian Church, College Park, GA. The class on “Pastoral Theology of Good and Evil” planned and led the Eucharist in chapel on January 18. The painting in the center of the photo is a canvas on which members of the community were invited to write words or symbols representing evil and suffering, over which class member Carra Hughes Greer painted during the Eucharist to represent God’s transformation of evil into good — a theme from the course. Back row, left to right: Amy Holloway, Al Pruitt, Paul Sherwood, Jong Kim, Prof. Pamela Cooper-White, Jamie Capers. Front row: Bradley Watkins, Carra Hughes Greer, Mary Thorpe and Jane Wilson.
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Christmas Eve Service, First Presbyterian Church, Covington, GA
ca n d l e l i g h t s Fairy tales are more than true; not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten. — G.K. Chesterton In the end, love wins. It does win. We know it wins. When a person dies, love isn’t turned off like a faucet. It is an amazingly resilient part of us. — J.K. Rowling
Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken winged bird that cannot fly. — Langston Hughes Right actions in the future are the best apologies for bad actions in the past. — Tyron Edwards Fall seven times, stand up eight. — Japanese Proverb
The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet. — Frederick Buechner Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. — Howard Thurman I am enough of an artist to draw freely upon my imagination. Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world. — Albert Einstein A theologian without faith is like a sky without a star, a heart without a pulse, light without warmth, a sword without edge, a body without soul. — Philip Schaff You cannot depend on your eyes when your imagination is out of focus. — Mark Twain Faith sees the invisible, believes the unbelievable, and receives the impossible. — Corrie Ten Boom
In order to succeed, people need a sense of self-efficacy, struggle together with resilience to meet the inevitable obstacles and inequities of life. — Albert Bandura It demands great spiritual resilience not to hate the hater whose foot is on your neck, and an even greater miracle of perception and charity not to teach your child to hate. — James Arthur Baldwin Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, let us march on till victory is won. — James Weldon Johnson Character is always lost when a high ideal is sacrificed on the altar of conformity and popularity. — Charles Spurgeon I marvel at the resilience of the Jewish people. Their best characteristic is their desire to remember. No other people has such an obsession with memory. — Elie Wiesel
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NonProfit Organization U. S. Postage PAID Permit No. 40 Decatur, GA
Winter 2013
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Decatur, GA 30031 404-378-8821 www.ctsnet.edu
Contents Vantage Point: President’s Message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Hyper-Focus: Annual Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Reasonable Service (News). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Sensible Horizons (Features). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Building Bridges by Martha Moore-Keish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 A New Lens for Learning by Betsy Lyles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Community Engagement Fellows. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Wrestling at the Crossroads by John Azumah . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Lifelong Learning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 CTS Then and Now. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Colloquium 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Tauta Panta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16–22 Alumni/ae News and Notes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Faculty/Staff. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Candlelights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Look inside for our new section “Candlelights”! Each issue, we will highlight inspirational quotes and artwork reflective of our theme. Our next issue will be about “God’s Changing World”. Feel free to submit your own ideas to thompsonm@ctsnet.edu.
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“ Exploring the depth and facets [of imagination and resilience] as we did briefly with the Alumni Council — theologically, scripturally, and cross-culturally — gave me not only a greater appreciation for these tools, but also a glimpse of the way a community of faith practitioners could increase its understanding and effective use of these gifts…via the framework of Colloquium’s exploration.” — Todd Jenkins, ’90
Artwork provided by Jennifer Alquist (crosshatch on a Kindle)