Frank Yamada took over as executive director of The Association of Theological Schools on July 1. Photo by Lynda Scahill/Simply Sisters Photography
Frank Yamada: In the face of challenges, there is hope for theological education
The new executive director of The Association of Theological Schools talks about his vision for the organization and why he is hopeful about the future of the church and theological education.
Emmanuel Katongole is an associate professor of theology and peace studies at the University of Notre Dame. Photo courtesy of Emmanuel Katongole
Emmanuel Katongole: Lament and hope in Africa
Despite decades of hardship, violence and war, hope is alive in Africa. It flows from lament, a deep wrestling and arguing with God, the theologian says in his new book.
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Gloria Beard: Childhood trauma, and the healing power of tea
Tea is about holding on to something, with both hands if you have to, the writer says. That’s why she serves it to her visitor, so there’s less trauma in the telling.
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Edgar Moore: What did St. Paul mean by ‘mystery’?
The prismatic dance of a dogwood’s icy branches prompts a retired UMC elder to reflect on the danger of trying to possess mystery.
Harriet Ziegenhals was an organist, singer, pianist, composer, arranger, teacher and the founder-director of the Community Renewal Chorus, part of a faith-based Chicago mission agency that advocates for social and economic justice. Photo courtesy of Gretchen Ziegenhals
Gretchen E. Ziegenhals: Learning leadership through the metaphor of music
Years of watching her mother direct a chorus taught the author that leading a diverse community requires radical acceptance of all people, careful listening and a clear vision.
Mount Vernon Place UMC was in decline when the Rev. Donna Claycomb Sokol was called as its pastor in 2005; today it is a thriving urban congregation. Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon Place UMC
Excerpt: ‘A New Day in the City’
How do you reverse decline in once-grand urban churches? In their new book, Donna Claycomb Sokol and L. Roger Owens share their experience and suggest a framework for seven crucial conversations that Christian leaders can initiate with their congregations.
Ezra Brewster emerges out of the baptismal waters at Trinity Presbyterian Church. He is flanked by his father, Jed, on the left, and the Rev. Matthew Robbins-Ghormley, right. Photo by Rachel Boisen
How serving its community transformed a dwindling church
Through a modest tutoring program, a congregation discovered its calling in mission to the community. And then it started to grow.