Bethany Named to Seminaries That Change the World
For the fifth consecutive year, Bethany Theological Seminary has been recognized among Seminaries That Change the World by The Center for Faith and Service. Each year the Center identifies a select group of seminaries and divinity schools that demonstrate a commitment to service and justice through their curriculum, scholarships, internships, and student-life experiences. In addition, qualities considered for inclusion in the list are collaboration, affordability, and innovation.
“The selection of Bethany reflects our commitment to the values of service and justice exemplified in our curricula and in the opportunities that students have to make a difference in the world and embody the gospel,” said Steve Schweitzer, academic dean. “The connections we have made within the Richmond, Indiana, community, the scholarships available for all students, and especially our debt-free education option exemplify innovative approaches to theological education that are vital for our schools, our denomination, our churches, and our students. Bethany is honored to again be named to Seminaries That Change The World in recognition of the creative and faithful work being done here that is truly changing our community as well as our faculty, staff, and students.”
“Theological education is being forced to adapt quickly to the changing landscape of Christianity in America, and these schools are flexible and agile enough to respond to those challenges,” said Alison Burchett, director of the Center. “This year we are seeing a lot more schools offering online courses as well as certificate programs. These programs help increase access to theological education in a way that traditional residency master’s programs can’t.” Burchett also noted that schools have developed programs focused on specific social justice causes. “From immigration issues to prison reform to environmental care, schools are leaning into their strengths and building programs that focus on preparing their students to be change makers on those issues.”
Based at McCormick Theological Seminary in Chicago, Illinois, The Center for Faith and Service works to help the church be present and relevant in the lives of young adults. Through a variety of initiatives, the Center partners with seminaries, summer camps, colleges, youth corps, denominations, and congregations to create programs and resources that help people connect their passions for service and justice with their faith.