COLUM BI A THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY Vantage WINTER 2001 Columbia inaugurates President Mendenhall Columbia Theological Seminary will celebrate the inauguration of its eighth president, Laura S. Mendenhall, April 23-25. "Leadership for the Church in the Twenty-First Century" is the theme for the occasion. The theme is taken from the discussion of Columbia's Campbell Scholars last fall and will explore the topic through con- texts of worship, a symposium, and workshops. Central to these activities will be the inauguration of President Mendenhall, with moderator of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Syngman Rhee delivering the inaugural sermon. Mendenhall, who began her work at Columbia on August 22, had served previously as head of staff at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Austin, Texas. Her inauguration on April 24 will mark her formal begin- ning as president. Mendenhall's inauguration provides the forum in which to ask, "What kind of leadership is needed as the church seeks to be faithful to its missional character and imperative at the beginning of the new century?" Events begin on Monday, April 23. The classes of 1925-49, 1951, 1956, 1961, 1966, 1971, 1976, 1981, 1986, 1991, 1996, and 2000 will have reunions that evening. At 6:00 p.m. alumni /ae are invited to spend time with President Mendenhall as she hosts a Texas barbeque on the campus, with live bluegrass music by local artists Steel Blue. Two Distinguished Service Awards will be presented to alumni/ae. Following dinner, the Harrington Center will be open from 9:00-10:00 p.m. for visitors to view the art exhibition honoring this occasion, "Beginnings." The inauguration of President Mendenhall is scheduled at 10:30 a.m. on April 24 on the Oldenburg Quadrangle. Dr. Syngman Rhee, moderator of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), will deliver the inaugural sermon, continuing the theme of church leadership. Rhee, whose national plat- form as moderator is reconciliation, will preach on "Quality Leadership in the Church." In addition to several choirs and presentations by Columbia's past presidents, representatives will bring greetings from colleges, semi- naries, Presbyterian churches, the Atlanta community, and the global community. Chair of the Board of Trustees Joanna Adams '79, Dean of Faculty Erskine Clarke '66, and Student Coordinating Council president Bobby Williamson '01 will offer the charge at the conclusion of the service. A luncheon on the quadrangle follows the ceremony, with desserts offered in buildings around the campus. Mendenhall will serve as modera- tor for a symposium on the inaugura- tion's theme from 2:00 - 3:30 p.m. Participants include Daniel Aleshire, William Arnold '66, and Ofelia Ortega. Highlights of the schedule Monday, April 23 6:00 p.m. Texas barbecue and country music dinner for alumni/ae and friends Tuesday, April 24 10:30 a.m. Inauguration of Laura S. Mendenhall 12:30 p.m. The Inauguration Luncheon 2:00 p.m. The Inauguration Symposium: Daniel Aleshire, William Arnold, and Ofelia Ortega, with Laura Mendenhall moderating 4:00 p.m. Workshops: Leadership for the Church in the Twenty-First Century 5:30 p.m. Dinner on one's own in Decatur, Atlanta's new restaurant enclave 8:00 p.m. "Columbia through the Years" Wednesday, April 25 9:00 a.m. Bonus Workshops 11:00 a.m. Worship, led by Walter Brueggemann Laura Mendenhall Syngman Rhee Walter Brueggemann These leaders from the arenas of con- gregations, seminaries, and communi- ties here and worldwide will speak to the issue of preparing leaders for the twenty-first century. How do we call forth and prepare leaders for the tasks ahead? Following the symposium, partici- pants are invited to attend one of six workshops from 4:00 - 5:30 p.m., each one addressing the event's theme in a different context. The workshops focus on nurturing leadership and are intended to help participants think about specific areas of congregational life. "Nurturing Leadership through Young Adult Ministry," led by Associate Professor of Christian Education Rodger Nishioka, focuses on what is on the horizon for youth and young adult ministries. "Nurturing the Public Witness of the Church," led by George Telford '58, former director of advanced studies and associate professor of theology at Columbia, explores ways to encourage the church to be, in public, a "provi- sional demonstration of what God intends for all humanity." Conant Professor of Worship Brian Wren is leader for "Nurturing Leadership in and through Worship." The workshop will look at what kind of worship nurtures missional leader- ship and openness to God's mission among us in Jesus Christ. President of St. Andrew's Presbyterian College and Columbia Professor Emeritus Douglas Hix '53 is offering the workshop "Nurturing Older Adult Leadership." This work- shop is designed to help pastors understand older adults, their traumas about retirement, usefulness, responsi- bility, long-term commitments, health fragility, and the vocation of the Christian in later life. "Nurturing a Missional Church," led by Professor of Evangelism Darrell Guder, focuses on the growing recog- nition that the context of the North American church is rapidly changing. "Nurturing Christian Hope in the Twenty-First Century" will be led by three members of Columbia's first group of Campbell Scholars: Ofelia Ortega, Joanna Adams '79, and James Lowry '66. This seminar will reflect on prospects for faithful, missional energy in the church. The Columbia Scholars will discuss the necessity and difficulty of developing a truly global perspec- tive on the mission of the church. At 5:30 p.m., participants may have dinner on their own in Decatur, Atlanta's new restaurant enclave. At 8:00 p.m., students will present a performance of "Columbia through the Years," a dramatic historical inter- pretation directed by Anne Apple '01, followed by a reception, all at Decatur Presbyterian Church. On Wednesday, four of the work- shops will be repeated from 9:00-10:30 a.m: Nishioka's "Nurturing Leadership through Young Adult Ministry," Wren's "Nurturing Leadership in and through Worship," Guder's "Nurturing a Missional Church," and the Campbell Scholars' "Nurturing Christian Hope in the Twenty-First Century." Participants are asked to register in advance for their preferred workshops. Inauguration events conclude Wednesday with an 11:00 a.m. service of communion and worship at Columbia Presbyterian Church. Convener of the Campbell Scholars 2000 and Professor of Old Testament Walter Brueggemann will preach on "The Stunning Result of a One-Person Search Committee," and President Mendenhall will serve as liturgist, reading texts from Luke 9, I Kings 19, and II Kings 2. For information or to register, call 404/687-4566, or email poeb@CTSnet.edu. D Kris ten Anderson Vision and surprises Laura S. Mendenhall, President In this firs] semester I am frequently asked: What has surprised you since your move to the seminary? Even though the Search Committee prepared me well for what I would find, the faculty, the students, and the city have sur- prised me. Having been in awe of Columbia's faculty for years, I was not surprised by the depth of their knowledge nor by their creativity. What surprised me was their accessibility. I often see them engrossed in conversation with one another and with students, helping and encouraging one another as col- leagues, providing an education for students which goes tar beyond the classroom. They are also available to think through issues with me. In addi- tion, these teachers give themselves to the church. They are weekly involved in the life and ministry of congrega- tions as active members, teachers, preachers, members of committees, and ones who write for others who teach and preach. I assumed that the students would be in and out with Alternative Context classes, with work in congregations and hospitals, with student holidays. I assumed that they would graduate before I could turn around, and there- fore they would not play a significant role in my work. Yet the sacrifices they are making to be here, their honest questions/ their faithfulness to their calls have become the inspiration for my work. I have opened the door to my office so that the students can stop by as they walk to classes, for they give me hope about what God is con- tinuing to do. The other surprise has been Atlanta. I was prepared to tolerate living in Atlanta, knowing that when this work was done I could return to Texas. What I appreciate about this international city in which the semi- nary has been planted is that commu- nity leaders seek to think through issues together, refusing to be stale- mated by the fear of making a mistake, but risking for the sake of a possible good, determined to do better by those who live here. This city is our class- room where we train leaders for the ministry of Jesus Christ In this first semester I am also asked: What is your vision for the seminary? This question is, at least initially, easy to answer because the Board of Trustees has a statement called Vision 2020. The seminary needed someone who would support and implement this vision. The truth is that the work at Columbia became interesting to me because of Vision 2020. 1 do not think I was called here to fix something which was broken but rather to continue on toward the Statement of Mission initially adopted in 1992: Columbia Theological Seminary is an educational institution of the Presbyterian Church (USA), and a com- munity of theological inquiry and forma- tion for ministry in the service of the Church of Jesus Christ. In 1998, Vision 2020 elaborated: Columbia commits itself to preparing and nurturing creative and energetic pastors and leaders of the Presbyterian Church (USA), and the larger church, who will engage the par- ticular communities to which they are called scripturally, theologically, prophet- ically, and pastorally; embody a model of shared leadership thai empowers lay ministry both within and beyond the congregation; and embrace the global context of church and world. This is also my vision for the sem- inary, and I see my job as diligently carrying out the 19 goals which are included in Vision 2020. The first goals speak to our hospi- tality to persons of other races and cultures and religious traditions, real- izing that we have much to learn from them, that we cannot prepare leaders for the church without their input. This semester we have taken steps to deal with our need for diversity among the student body and the faculty. The next set of goals speaks to our curriculum. We are committing our- selves anew to the classical disciplines, to modeling the Reformed tradition, to preparing pastors for churches of all sizes and contexts, to preparing both clergy and laity to serve as Christian educators, to providing opportunities for life-time learning, including dis- tance learning. There are goals for leadership development fostering spiritual development and worship which reflects theological integrity, creativity, and passion; learning from other disciplines and the arts, as well as from other religions; forming leaders who will also assume public leader- ship in their communities. We are seeking to model the empowerment which comes from shared leadership. There are goals for research, tech- nology, and communication, which will strengthen our ties with congrega- tions and communities. The work of the Campbell Scholars this past semester lifted up our goals of extending global theological education emphasizing mutuality of power and knowledge and expanding clergy's and laity's abilities to address issues of poverty, human rights, economics, media, and technology, cultural, gender, and racial differences, and principles of justice and human dignity. What a privilege to be called to work such as this! I am throwing myself into this vision wholeheartedly and invite you to join me, being open to surprises along the way. Ludwig R.M. Dewitz, 1916-2000 The life of Professor Ludwig Dewitz, who died November 1, 2000, reveals a pattern unlike that of any other facul- ty member in Columbia Seminary's history. He not only survived the haz- ards and demonic forces that threat- ened his early life, but came to faith and ministry during one of the great crises of the twentieth century. He experienced the tumultuous history of two World Wars, the Holocaust, awesome economic depressions and ecclesiastical changes, yet believed and served the Sovereign God. Stephania H. Davis, in her Atlanta Journal/Constitution article after his death, wrote, "He was a German, a Christian, and a jew." In all the chapters of his extraordinary life in Germany, England, Italy, and the United States, he survived and grew in faith and scholarship. Dewitz used his intellectual and spiritual gifts in teaching the Bible, and particularly the Old Testament. He lived and grew in the nurture of the church and his family and friends throughout the 84 years of his long and faithful life. From a 12-year-old boy in Germany to his major task as Columbia's professor of Old Testament, he lived out his faith. In retirement, to the applause of his friends, he married his long-time friend, Miriam Brodsky, and they both were important mem- bers of the seminary community. He was born in Danzig, Germany, on April 29, 1916, of Jewish parents, was adopted and grew up in Berlin. He became a Christian at a camp for boys in the Black Forest. A series of amazing events led him to England, Italy, Baltimore, Maryland, and Decatur, Georgia. It was far more than a collection of coincidences: it was in reality the work of God in that young man's life. It began as he heard a growing flood of alarming statements about Jews, the least of which were those of the notorious minister of Nazi propaganda, Dr. Goebbels, "We shall treat the Jews as we treat flowers, only we shall not give them any water." For a time, Dewitz was able to study at a theological college, and later on, at an institution which had Ludwig Richard Max Dezvitz, professor emeritus of Old Testament been called into being by the Confessing Church in opposition to the teaching given at official universi- ties. Then, one morning the Gestapo appeared, warning that further gather- ings would have serious consequences. The future seemed nothing but a big continued on page 9 VANTAGE Jim Watkins, Lee Carroll '68, director of supervised ministry at Columbia, Charlie Swezey, Union-PSCE, and Bill Golderer, Auburn Seminary, at the PC(USA) Publu Leadership Consultation at Columbia Faith and the City begins No one ought to doubt that civil authority is a calling, not only holy and lawful before God, but also the most sacred and by far the most honorable of all callings in the whole life of mortal(s). John Calvin Institutes of the Christian Religion IV.xx.4 Jim Watkins 71 (D.Min. 77), Columbia's director of the Faith and the City Program, is trying to help the seminary look at itself through 'public leadership' eyes. Faith and the City was established in 1999 through a foundation grant. Watkins has colleagues at the Interdenominational Theological Center and Candler School of Theology at Emory University. A central office is in downtown Atlanta. The aim of the initiative is to foster the development of public leadership among clergy and clergy-in-training. A focus is to nurture a spirit of mutual community, shared responsibility, and common destiny among the citizens of the 20-county metro Atlanta region. However, clergy and clergy-in-training will be prepared for leadership in the public square no matter where their calls take them. The overall Faith and the City effort will help the Atlanta area wres- tle with issues of health, economic disparity, education, safety, physical environment, and social environment through forums, leadership develop- ment, and an interactive web site. A steering committee for the cooperative activity of the three seminaries consists of the presidents and deans of faculty and is chaired by the Honorable Andrew Young, former mayor of Atlanta, and by the Honorable James Laney, former presi- dent of Emory University. Though each campus has the same sort of public leadership devel- opment activity, the approach to those activities is different because the semi- naries are different. A student/ faculty Public Leadership Committee oversees and supports Faith and the City at Columbia. Current activity is focused on curriculum enhancement and community involvement. Watkins is clear that, for M.Div. students, a key is an infusion model an integration of public leadership into existing courses. "This should not be something stuck out to one side, catering only to specific interests," Watkins says. "Simply adding more classes to an already full M.Div. plate is a sure way to create an ineffectual program." From the beginning Watkins has collaborated with faculty members to see how the infusion model might work. This collaboration has led to some interesting additions to course work. Participants in a spiritual formation course wrote their represen- tatives in Congress. Students in a worship course, through a case study approach, investigated leading worship on public holidays. A pastoral care course wrestled with pastoral care and counseling as a public ministry. An ethics course looked at questions of love and justice through public leader- ship eyes. A new church development seminar dealt with forming a public church culture. This winter three interns are at the state capitol assigned to committees following children's issues, gun violence, and the concern over the Georgia state flag. The approach to Advanced Studies courses and other programs is different. In September a two-week D.Min. course, "Pastor as Public Leader," will offer practical, how-to skills for public ministry. Small grants encourage D.Min. students to consider the area of public leadership for their research. Other courses are being offered through the Office of Continuing Education and the Lay Institute. Community involvement includes expanding a student-led recreation ministry at the Village of East Lake in Atlanta. Intentional community lead- ership development for youth is envi- sioned. Atlanta youth will benefit, and continued on page 9 Columbia to host Barth conference April 20-21 COLl MBIA rHEOLOGIl \i M \iiv\kn is honored to host what promises to be an outstanding opportunity to Learn more about the theological contribu- tions Ol Karl Barth. This spring marks the first time the Center tor Barth Studios at Princeton I heological Seminary has offered conferences away from Princeton g ampus l am delighted that Columbia is the m. iiiu tion tapped to sponsoi this regional conference, which fo< uses on the the ology Of Barth as it applies to the church in the North Amei [i an on- text," says Charles Raj nal, dire< tor of advanced studies ami associate professor of theolog\ at< olumbia "It signals a major commitment on our part to advance the stud) ol this significant theologian." Raynal's offii e lordinating the April 20-21 even! Few will disagree with the . laim that Barth was one of the most impor- tant theologians of the twentieth cen tury. He altered the course ol modern theology with his neo-orthodoxy, influencing the thinking of Emil Brunner, Reinhold Niehuhr, Hans Kung, Donald Bloesch, and countless other theologians. Barth was born m 1886 in Basel, Switzerland, the son ..i a professor of New restament and church history. At the best Swiss and German universities, he studied under prominent liberal theologians of the Karl Barth the universirj In Basel until i%2. A prolific w niei, Barth died In i%8 with \ olume i I "i i hurt h ' )ogmatu unfinished "Karl Barth fheolog) fol I'u'.i. King and Prayej highlights the work ol three Barth s. holars I he con- ference opens with a lei ime by Margil i in .i on "Karl Barth on Prea< King." Ernst, insta u. i..i ol theology al ( olumbia, is i ompleting hei dot toral studies undei i berhard Busi h al i Idttingen I fniversity She has written ..ii I hristology feminisl theol "i;\. and the Reformed i onressions. Her partii Ipation In the Barth < onfei ence coincides with a spe< Lai i ourse "Preachers must love their congregations. They must not want to be without them." Karl Barth, Homiletics day. He was ordained in the Swiss Reformed Church in 1908 and was pastor of two churches in Switzerland between 1909 and 1921. While serving a village church in Safenwil, Switzerland, Barth became disenchanted with liberal theology and gained a new appi. . ution for the theology of the Reformers Seel ing t< minister more effectively to his con- gregation, Barth carefully Btudied Paul's letter to the Romans and difl covered "the strange new world with- in the Bible." His search product < I Commentary on the I \nstle of the Romans in 1919. In 1921 Barth left parish ministry to teach theology. He first accepted an appointment at Gottingen University, then at Munster (1925-30), next at the University of Bonn (1930-35). While in Bonn, Barth was an active leader in the Confessing Church's opposition to Nazism. He wrote the Barmen Declaration in 1934, a confession of faith vigorously repudiating Nazi ideology on the basis of the gospel. For this and his refusal to take the oath of loyalty to Hitler, Barth was expelled from Germany in 1935. He returned to Switzerland and taught at during Columbia's sprin; lemester. i i n b) is co teai King " I he I Lfe and Work of Karl Barth" with Busch and Shirley ( ait In n , pro lessor emeritus. The set ond presentation, "Karl Barth on Prayer," will be led by i ton i Sailers, proressoi ol theoli and worship at Emory University's Candler School of Theology. Saliers has written extensiverj on worship, spirituality, and prayer and is editor Of the second English edition of Barth's I'nu/ii Day two ol fcheo inference begins with worship led by President I .aura Mendenhall. George I lun singer then delivers two lei tlineS) "A Tale of Two Sermons" and "Lex Oratuii, Ixx Crendendi rhree Views of Theologi- al I anguage." Hunsigner directs Princeton's Center for Barth Studies and is author ol ' era! books on Barth, including the recent Disruptive Grace: Studies in the Theology of Karl Barth Advanced registration is necessary by March 30. Registration forms and more information are available from Mike Medford at 404/687-4534 or MedfordM@CTSnet.edu. Kimberly LeVert '03 WINTER 2001 Columbia compiles alum survey Professors engage the church Last spring, Columbia began a con- versation with its alumni/ae by send- ing out more than 2,300 surveys. We are grateful for the more than 600 responses we received. Our analysis of your responses is being circulated among the Columbia faculty and administrators and will serve as a basis for reflection about Columbia's mission. The survey was comprised of two principal sections, demographics, and three essay questions. Analysis of the first section gives the following general demographics. The respondents are: graduates from 1934, 1936, 1937, and every class from 1940 to 2000; 15% female and 85% male; 96% white, 2% Asian, 1% black; from 26 to 89 years of age, with an average age of 58.5 years; 84% PC(USA), 3% Methodist, 3% Presbyterian Church in America, 2% Baptist, 2% Reformed Church in America; 22 denominations total. In addition, a notable 96% of the respondents are ordained, and 93% o( them serve or have served in parish ministry. Of those ordained, 93% were ordained within 18 months of gradua- tion. This high percentage of respon- dents who are parish ministers sug- gests that those connected to the local congregation care deeply about the quality of Columbia's education and the formation of new pastors The second section of the survey asked the following three questions: 1. What significant things have you learned since graduating from Columbia Seminary? 2. What do you believe are the leading issues facing the church today and why? 3. What can Columbia Seminary do to meet the challenges presented by these issues? Responses to the first question vary widely, ranging from administration to pastoral care to preaching. No par- ticular category draws a significant number of responses. Responses to the second question 45 offer perspectives on the leading issues facing the church today, the top 18 of which are presented on the chart below. It may be noted that the majority of respondents identify the leading issues .is matters largely "within" the church itself, e.g., membership decline. In con- trast, relatively few respondents name crises of the world, e.g., materialism. Suggestions in response to the third question totaled nearly 300. The seven most prevalent are listed below, in order of frequency. Promote diversity: "Practice diversity and dare to be open." Teach more administration: "More courses that deal with the issues of leadership and management." Evangelism: "Provide education in evangelism and new church develop- ment for all students and programs." Bible: "Teach future ministers to listen to and be judged by Scripture rather than sitting in judgment over Scripture." Reformed theology: "Continue solid base of Reformed theology." Spirituality: "Columbia should grow even more in spiritual discernment and direction so as to lead clergy and laity in the life of the Spirit." Pastoral care: "Columbia can do what it has always done: prepare men and women well for practical ministry. A sound education in the Bible, Reformed theology, pastoral care, and polity and various field experiences are what students need today." There were also a substantial number of specific suggestions for continuing education programs, such as courses in theology, preaching, worship, and ethics. Even as Columbia continues to study the responses to this initial survey, we are assembling the second survey in this ongoing conversation. Please contact the seminary at 404/687-4657 if you have questions or comments. David Forney, associate dean of faculty c o a. 40 35 30 2s Z 20 a Si Z 10 5 r n ABCEFGH IJ KLMNOPQRS Issues facing the church (see legend) The church looks to the seminary to ensure its future. Church leaders and laity need to be confident about what is being taught and particularly who is doing the teaching. The classroom benefits when professors meet church leaders and members and struggle with them over the same problems and issues. Because of this mutuality between the church and seminary, Columbia has held meetings, both on and off campus, with church leaders and groups of faculty members over the past three months. To enable new professors and church leaders to know each other better, the seminary has held meetings in Albany and Conyers, Georgia, in conjunction with Flint River and Greater Atlanta presbyteries, and on campus with 25 members of the Alumni/ae Council. More such events are being planned for gatherings of church leaders in South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Florida. In addition to these gatherings, Columbia professors continue to meet with church groups around the coun- try. With professors from Columbia playing a key role, membership at Edgewood Presbyterian Church in Birmingham, Alabama, has more than doubled over the last 10 years, accord- ing to Sid Burgess '90, the church's pastor. Professor Emeritus Shirley Guthrie, church history professor Catherine Gonzales, and theologian George Stroup have all paid visits to the congregation of 240 members, up from 88 members when Burgess became pastor straight out of seminary. "The scholars have come for a variety of occasions, but each has followed essentially the same format," Burgess says. "Shirley gave us the basic format, and we have adapted it to several topics," says Burgess. "Guthrie came in 1995, following publication of his revised edition of Christian Doctrine. An adult class at Edgewood spent a semester reading the book and devel- oping questions. Guthrie was the fea- tured guest at a class dinner on a Saturday evening and preached and led an adult forum on Sunday." Next, an adult class used the PBS television series, "From Jesus to Christ," for a study of Christology. George Stroup came to answer the questions of class members on Saturday evening, then preached and led the adult forum the next day. Catherine Gonzales was a special guest for Reformation Sunday in 1999, leading a class that had spent four months studying church history. "We promoted the events heavily within the church and bought small ads in the two local papers, and the people came. We can actually point to members who were drawn to our congregation through these visits," Burgess says. For information on the events at the Edgewood church, contact Burgess at Sidburg@aol.com, or call 205/871-4302. If you are interested in hosting an event with church leaders and faculty members, contact Jim Speed '57 in Columbia's Alumni/ae Office at poeb@CTSnet.edu, or call 404/687-4566. Chart Letter LEGEND Issue and Examples B Issues concern ing sexuality (homosexuality, sexual morality, abuse) Biblical authority and interpretations (loss of faithfulness to Bible) C Inclusivity and diversity (racially, theologically, and by gender) D Culture and complacency (relevancy, apostasy, resisting cultural pressures) ___^__ Pastoral leadership (lack of high quality clergy, servant leadership) Mission and outreach (Missio Dei, caring for each other, global justice) Membership (the decline of membership) H Spirituality (discernment, formation, loss of holiness and spiritual discipline) ^__ Education (basic Christian doctrines, better teacher training, tools, and learnings) J Evangelism (reaching the unchurched, youth, small church) K Worship (new forms, more Christ-centered, lower barriers) M Youth (develop faith, youth ministry as real ministry needs of youth) Peace and conflict (political infighting in church, conflicted churches) N O Who is Jesus? ( The Lord not a lord, who Jesus Christ is for us today) Gender (gender inequalities, placing more women in pulpits, sexism) Race (racial and economic issues, prejudice, racism) Materialism (consumerism, worship of money and power) R Poverty (hunger, illiteracy) Individualism (society is strongly individualistic, instant gratification) VANTAGE Doctor of Ministry students come to campus for coursework in January and July. D.Min. degree offers superior training for ministerial leadership What do seasoned pastors and Christian professionals do when they find their ministries in need of "new life"? They come to Columbia Seminary to earn a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree. Why do they come to Columbia? In addition to the variety of approach- es to the D.Min. degree and a flexible course of study, students are attracted by the high personal commitment of Columbia's faculty to the program. According to Charles Raynal, director of advanced studies and associate pro- fessor of theology, "Our faculty mem- bers love to teach in this program. By engaging ministers who come here, they keep learning directly from prac- ticing ministers what life in ministry to congregations and in other settings is like. Columbia's Doctor of Ministry degree is shared learning at its best. Add to these features the opportunity to join with colleagues in the pursuit of excellence in ministerial leadership and you have an outstanding program that draws students from all parts of the U.S. and around the world." Currently, 254 students seek the D.Min. degree at Columbia. On average, 30 people graduate each year. Aiming to strengthen ministry in community, Columbia's Church and Ministry approach to the D.Min. degree is general in character, focusing on collegial learning which explores the nature of the local congregation, the church today, and its mission in the postmodern world. Students are required to describe and reflect upon personal ministerial identity and context, then envision new goals in ministry. The Church and Ministry introductory seminar is offered each fall in conjunction with Atlanta's [nterdenomination.il 1 heologu ,ii Center. Proposed dates for 2001 are September 10-12, October S 10, November 5-7, and December Possibilities tor other approaches to the degree include Gospel and Culture, New Church Development and Christian Spirituality Applications are being received for the Gospel and Culture introductor\ seminai \\ In. I> meets on campus June 18-29. Those interested in participating are urged to make application as soon as possible Based on the assumption that the North American context is now a "mission field," students and facullv involved with this program sli i\ . to identiK w ays in which a new and more faithful church might be created. New Church Development is a D.Min. offering unique to Columbia. It is designed to equip pastors and governing body executives with tools for missional church development With an ecumenically and ethnically diverse overview, this approach pro- vides strategies for organizing new churches while focusing on the spiritu- al gifts of those called to this ministry. After completing the introdlK lory seminar for this approach, Students ST required to take a sequence of three courses prior to taking ele< live < nurses. The next New Church I tevelopmenl introductory seminar meets April 16-27. Christian Spirituality, Columbia fourth approach to the D.Min. program, is eharat terized by denominational diversity. Learning and utilizing disci- plines that deepen their own Spiritual] ty, students seek to enhance the spiri- tual growth of those they serve. This spring two courses, "Earthy Spiritually: The Book of Psalms" and "The Literature and Practice of Spiritual Direction," are offered to help Students meet that goal. Christian Spirituals next offers an introductory seminar November 5-16. In addition to the introductory seminars, D.Min. students and faculty participate together in international seminars Columbia takes seriously its commitment to learning from Christians in other contexts. This year two opportunities .ire oftenNd to nurture a sense ol cioss cultural, global mission one in China, the other in Scotland. In May. members oi C olumbia's Hoard of Trustees and faculty and D.Mm Students will travel to I long Kong and the People's Republic of China. For three weeks the group will meet with members and leaders of Christian chin. In m I long Kong, Nanjing, Shanghai, ami Beijing. Participants will cotisidei the Chinese experience and how it might help them to thinl more faithfully about religion, recon. ili.ition. and human rights I ravel dates an* Ma) 'I [une5. I mm |nly 1-10, a New Church Developmenl > ourse will be offered at the University ol Aberdeen, Scotland. i 'lofessor John Su mien will teach "Transforming Mission I developing B I 'i .n In .il Theology of Mission tor a Postmodern Age Mm- COUTSe Com- bines . lassroom based a ademic work and field study ot five iu-w I hnrch developments in Scotland. i oi those vn ii" Snd it diffi< ult to I.m\ r Iiimmi' l<> ,kI\ .in. r then nlii. .iIk.ii Columbia offers > satellite program, in September, II people interested in tin- Church and Ministry Bpproai h be their D.Min. studies al Preeb) terian College. Raynal notes ( >ui hope Is thai the program will nni only meet the need ..i a u. i--ni-. involved but will al io lerve topn i te b positive relationship between the two institu- tions." PI. ins loi additional extension sites in the Southeasl are underway. To parti. Ipate in the I ).Min. degree, call 104/687 4534. Additional information Is available al the advanced studies web site Visit it at www.CTSnel edu, i lit I- "An ademic Programs," then click "Degree Programs." D Kimberly LeVert '03 NCD students move toward completion of D.Min. degree Stan Wood, director of Columbia's Center for New Church Development (NCD), beams when he says, "The first students have completed the required NCD courses for their Doctor of Ministry in New Church Development!" Under Wood's conta- gious excitement for NCD and where it is heading in the twenty-first century, nine students are the first D.Min. students to specialize in Columbia's newest advanced degrees program. They are now moving through their elective courses toward the completion of their degrees. Columbia's Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) approach in NCD, the only one of its kind, is specifically designed for individuals with five or more years of experience as NCD pastors and middle governing body executives overseeing NCD ministry. The aim is to equip missionary leadership in home mission through NCD in the new century. Although many of the students are Presbyterian Church (USA) pastors, other denominations are represented and are eagerly welcomed. Students in the first year of the program repre- sented four ethnic groups, two coun- tries, and several denominations, which make it the most multi-cultural of Columbia's D.Min. approaches. While all D.Min. students under- take a core seminar, the D.Min. students in NCD have two additional required courses: "Bridging the Gospel and Culture" and "Frontiers in Mission Strategy." Students then choose from four electives in order to custom lit the program to their individual needs and spiritual gifts. Finally, once all course work is completed, these students will embark upon their doctoral practicums and projects. Although these are individ- ual in nature, they focus on specific aspects of NCD ministry. The next NCD core seminar will be held at Columbia April 16-27. To leam more about this program, visit the web site at www.CTSnet.edu (Outreach Programs/ New Church Development), or contact Mike Medford in the Office of Advanced Studies at 404/687-4534, or e-mail advancedstudies@CTSnet.edu. Ruth Lovell '01 Prom students in the spei uli/.ition: "The D.Min. approach in NCD is helping me to develop a more theolog- ically grounded and missiologically sensitive philosophy for ministry" The RfiV. David Boumgarden, River Glen Presbyteri.ii i < him h, Naperville, Illinois "The required courses for the program were very helpful in theolog- ical, biblical, practical, and strategical thinking. I would highly recommend the NCD program." The Rev. Aaron Lee, New Imani Community Church, Randallstown, Maryland "Deepening the conversation has also deepened the friendship of our core class, which has led to a depth of accountability in life, ministry, and studies." The Rev. Craig Williams, Trabuco Presbyterian Church, Trabuco Canyon, California WINTER 2001 Lay Institute hosts the arts "Feminine Images of God," an exhibi- tion co-sponsored by the Lay Institute and the Individual Visual Artists' Coalition of Atlanta, is being displayed in Columbia's Harrington Center through March 16. The exhibition, the work of some 20 local artists, includes work in a variety of media: painting, sculpture in bronze and ceramic, and fabric art. The works express both the way humankind has experienced God as feminine and the ways God has appeared to women. In an upcoming event, all artists who have had work displayed on campus since the Lay Institute began its schedule of exhibitions in the fall of 1996 will be invited to submit work for a show, "Beginnings," to be on display for President Mendenhall's inauguration in April. Artists from all over the country participated in the exhibition, "Irony and Delight," at Columbia, October 29 - December 15, 2000. From more than 400 entries, 32 works were selected for the exhibition. They represented the theme for the show, thanksgiving for the good gifts, and the odd, surpris- ing, "wondrous strange" gifts God has given us. Awards went to "Frail Grasp" by Lisa La Vine of LaHabra, California (first place), Pnsciila Troy's scries on Mark your calendar for off-campus spring learning "Revelation" by Teresa Brazen is on exhibit in "Feminine Images of God." the deadly sins (second place), and Linda Anderson's "The Kiss" and Katie Osenga's, "The Madonna of the Media" (third place). Troy and Anderson are Georgia artists; Osenga is from Richmond, California. Paul Falcone's "Triptich II: God" won the purchase award. Falcone teaches art at Northwest Missouri State. For more information about the arts at Columbia Seminary, contact the Lay Institute, or look under "Programs in the Arts" on the Institute's portion of the web site. D Grow in faith this winter From Mark to music, from Dunwoody to downtown, the Lay Institute of Faith and Life offers a course to suit your needs this winter. Explore diverse issues in several loca- tions around metro Atlanta. On campus in Decatur, choose from three evening courses and a morning course. Evening classes meet Mondays, February 5, 12, 19, and 26 from 7:30 - 9:30 pm. Cost is $45. Choose from the following courses: "Immediately: The Gospel of Mark." The gospel of Mark is full of urgency. With New Testament profes- sor Beth Johnson, explore why the gospel writer tells the story this way. "Surprise Us by the Words We Sing: The Significance of Singing Together in Worship." Singing together in worship is not for specialists, but for the whole congregation. With renowned hymn- writer and professor Brian Wren, explore how singing enriches worship and how worship leaders and musi- cians can best work together. "Being Faithful in a Postmodern World." Do postmodern Christians read the Bible or understand God differently than their "modern" predecessors? With theologian and professor George Stroup, we will explore this topic. The morning class meets Tuesdays, February 6, 13, 20, 27, and March 6 from 10:30 a.m. to noon: "Making 'Sense' of the Bible: The Purposeful Gifts of Our Five Senses." With Linda Morningstar, associate director of the Lay Institute, explore how each of our senses seems purpose- fully designed to enhance our relation- ship with God. Cost is $35. Off campus, choose from two courses: "What Does It Mean to Be Human?" will be taught by renowned theologian and professor emeritus Shirley Guthrie at St. Luke's Presbyterian Church in Dunwoody, Georgia. Class meets Thursdays, February 1, 8, 15, 22 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Cost is $35, $25 for St. Luke's members. "A Sampler of Women Writers will be taught by several Columbia faculty and staff members at Central Presbyterian Church in Atlanta. Class meets February 7, 14, 21, and March 7, 14 from 12:15-1:15 p.m. Learn about and read samplings from the works of St. Teresa, Alice Walker, Madeleine L'Engle, Anna Akhmatova, and Ursula Hegi. Registration fee of $50 includes lunch. For a brochure and registration form for any of these courses, call the Lay Institute of Faith and Life, 404/687-4577. 1 1 ii Lay Institute of Faith and Life offers two opportunities for growing in faith this spring one course in Atlanta and another in Cartersville, Georgia: "Writers You've Been Meaning to Read" will be taught at Peachtree Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, March 7, 14, 21, 28, and April 4 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Cost is $45; $35 for Peachtree members. Learn about and read sample writings of C. S. Lewis, taught by Charles Raynal, director of advanced studies; Thomas Merton, taught by Presbyterian pastor Joan Gray '76; Dietrich Bonhoeffer, taught by Mike Medford, associate in advanced studies; Julian of Norwich, taught by Rebecca Parker, associate director, Mary and Martha's Place; and John Milton, taught by Rick Dietrich, direc- tor, Lay Institute of Faith and Life. "Wrestling with the Hard Stuff" will be taught March 5, 12, 19, 26 from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Cartersville. Cost is $45; $35 for church members. Improve your Bible interpretation skills by wrestling with a specific hard biblical passage each week. The course will be taught by Columbia fac- ulty members Darrell Guder, professor of evangelism and church growth, Stan Saunders, associate professor of New Testament, Ann Clay Adams, director of admissions, and Stan Wood, director of the Center for New Church Development. For information, 404/687-4577. D Fifth Potential New Church Development Pastor conference held in October With more than 30 Presbyterian pas- tors from across the country in atten- dance, Columbia's Center for New Church Development (NCD) held its fifth annual conference for training potential new church development organizing pastors in late October. This year's event was co-sponsored by the Center for New Church Development and the Office of New Church Development, Evangelism and Church Development Program Area, National Ministries Division of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Participants were energetic and eager to absorb as much as possible from the week's schedule. One pastor commented, "This is extremely valu- able work. The guidance and direction of NCD will probably do more for the Presbyterian Church than can be imagined at this time. The movement of the Holy Spirit is in this!" Another participant shared, "God gave us more than we expected in this seminar." Stan Wood, director of the center, says, "This conference is a missional show and tell." For instance, Rosalie Potter, associate director, Office of New Church Development with the General Assembly, spoke on "A Twenty-First Century Look at Church Growth." "What Is the Point of Singing Today?" was led by Brian Wren, the Conant Professor of Worship at Columbia. Director of the Faith and the City Program at Columbia Jim Watkins '71 (D.Min. '77), explored with participants "The Pastor as a Public Leader." Other Columbia facul- ty and staff involved in the conference leadership included President Laura Mendenhall and professors Rodger Nishioka, Walter Brueggemann, and Stan Wood. The conference included small group discussions, lectures, new church site visits, study time, shared devotional time, recreation, and the opportunity for participants to develop their own mission statements. Seven case studies by NCD pastors from the greater Atlanta area were presented through- out the week. Participants in the conference are pastors who possess ministry skills and personality traits particularly suited for a calling in new church develop- ment. Specific skills and characteristics include a genuine excitement about church growth, proven skills in evan- gelism, preaching, worship leadership and organization, a pastor's heart, a strong faith, and commitment to Christ. Columbia has made a commit- ment to engage the theme of New Church Development based upon missiological and theological reasons. A commitment to a theology of Missio Dei, believing that the mission of God is the healing of creation, motivated by God's compassion, make this endeavor necessary. The formation of new faith communities, or new church developments, is one of many essential aspects of that mission. For information on next year's event, contact the center at 404/687-4585 or ncd@CTSnet.edu. Ruth Lovell '01 VANTAGE Spirituality Program travels to Avila, Spain Columbia's Spirituality Program has celebrated its fifth birthday. In the past five years, God has been at work in more than 50 courses to transform the lives and ministries of pastors, elders, educators, parish nurses, missionaries, and lay leaders. Participants have gained new insight and training in the Christian life. Spiritual leaders have found healing, resources for ministry, new friendships, and space to be with the living God. One highlight was the fall course held in Avila, Spain. The group was privileged to live out the course's title, "Walking in the Footsteps of Teresa of Avila." The Carmelite brothers of Centro Internacional Teresiano- Sanjuanista offered warm hospitality and excellent lectures on Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross. The memories of the final night in Avila serve as a vignette for the ways God surprised the group with new insight and joy. After the small groups closed in prayer and the final lecture by a leading Vatican Teresian scholar, the group assembled in the dining room. Out of the kitchen came Father Javier and Father Romulo. The two Carmelite brothers who had lec- Professor Romulo Guartas Londono led discussions on Teresa and John of the Cross. tured throughout the week, been guides on field trips around the Castilian countryside and embodied the love of Jesus and Teresa through their hospitality were singing bless- ings to the group. Later that night all were gathered at the Lord's Table and celebrated the "joyful feast of the peo- ple of God," who had come from Madrid, Guatemala, Chicago, Dallas, and Atlanta. The Certificate in Spiritual Formation continues to ofrei new and exciting courses that strive to encour- age the spiritual life ol leaders within the church of Christ. The \ arietj Ol courses is designed for resting retool ing, and reinvigorating tninistT) lead- ers of local congregations. Can you think ol a minister or member ol youi congregation whose minisi i \ you car encourage? Why not dim I them to Columbia's web site tor a list ol SD1 Ing courses sponsored In the Spirituality Program? Or bettei yel tell them about the following courses "Healing and Wholeness In the Christian Life" is especially recom- mended for elders, pastors, parish nurses, Stephen Ministers, and those involved in healing ministries [aught by both a pastor and a physician, this course will explore the meaning ol the word "wholeness" and the role ol prayer and healing in the context of Christian spirituality mu\ modem medicine. The course is ottered April 22-27 in Almont, Michigan. "The Enneagram: An Ancient [bol of Spiritual Discovery" is offered for those interested in personality and spirituality and learning how the enneagram can be a helpful tool m understanding the integration ot pel sonality traits and prayer. Many have said that the enneagram is more help- ful than the Myers-Briggs Personality liulu atOl in assisting in one's spiritual journey. Since the enneagram was first shared h\ oral tradition, joining together in community for a week ot instruction dialogue and worship will embody the richness ol this an< lenl tool I he i OUTSe is ottered |une 17-22. "CommuniU and I lospitality: The ntiple "i i torothj I >aj w 111 use an a< Qon refta don model ol learning by i on< entrating on the w ritings and example ol I torothj i \w and sharing thr Open Door's mnn .h\ to the home loss ,md those in prison Students will live out the spiritual and nn.i.il dimen sions "i * in Istiar faith while spending time on the streets ol Atlanta and residing at the I Ipen I >>>. ( ommunlty i in b two w eel i ourse Is offered to b limited enrollment I he course is Offered luly 8-20 at the Open I ooi and ( olumbia * ongregationa] I >> talon Making: Spiritual I >r.< ei nment m A. don will engage pain. Ipants In exploring the "movements "i spiritual discemmenl around a . ongregationa] man. a .>i theii >n\ n seta don, i he course will he i.u Ultated In the > ontexl <>i the i>>ur "practices" oi story telling, Biblical a\u\ theologi. ,ii reilei don, \ Isioning and spiritual disi ei runenl I he i">>i In. m this > ourse may transfoi QC1 . huu h hoards ami sessions The i ourse Is offered July 22-27 at the I ah in i enter, I lampton, i ieorgia. D Class of 1974 becomes the spring 2001 Guthrie Scholars Columbia's Office of Continuing Education has invited the Class of 1974 back to campus as the 2001 spring Guthrie Scholars. The Guthrie Scholars program, established in honor of Professor Emeritus Shirley Guthrie, provides an opportunity for pastors to spend a week at Columbia for individual study and reflection. There is a new mix in this invita- tion to the class of 1974. "Not only are we inviting a whole class to the campus for a week, we hope that the week will be one of dialogue for all of us," says Mary Miller Brueggemann, acting director of continuing education. A luncheon with the faculty and the Class of 1974 will offer a time for the class to talk with faculty members about issues facing the church. This forum will provide an opportunity for ministers and teachers to share their perspectives about the church and the world. Those returning for the program have been asked to reflect on the theo- logical issues which they are facing in their local churches. From the applica- tions that have come in, the issues of pluralism are evident. The group is also being asked to read Guthrie's book, Alzvays Being Reformed. "I see that as a beginning point to conversation," Guthrie says, "a way of asking how we can be faithful ministers of Jesus Christ to those inside and outside the church whose values are different from our own, without being arrogant and intolerant on the one hand or com- promising the Gospel on the other." During the week, Guthrie will serve as mentor and pedagogue to the group. As in the past, each scholar will choose his or her own area of work and study. The focus of the week is for individual study time for pastors and church leaders who find little time for such reflection. Each afternoon a con- versation with a particular faculty per- son is offered to the group. This bal- ance of individual study time and opportunities to hear new develop- ments in the theological world makes the Guthrie Scholar Program some- thing special. The program will run this year from March 5-9. Participants pay their own travel costs. Room and board are covered by the seminary. The fall 2001 Guthrie Scholars program, November 5-9, is still open to pastors and church leaders by individual application. Call the Continuing Education Office at 404/687-4562 for more information. D Columbia'* Center for New Church Development hosted an NCD Commission work- shop for the presbyteries of Greater Atlanta, Cherokee, and Northeast Georgia. The day-long event i overed /< h topics as stages of new church development, presbytery ion, and strategies for NCDs. Those attending were commission members and members of presbytery staffs. WINTER 2001 Advanced Studies and New Church Development calendars February 5-6, March 26-27, April 16-17 Educational Ministry in thf Local Church: A Case Study Approach Leader: Ronald Cram at Presbyterian College. March 5-16 The Literature and Practice of Spiritual Direction Leader: John Kloepfer. April 16-27 D.Min. Introductory Seminar in New Church Development Leader: Stan Wood. April 20-21 Karl Barth: Theology for Preac hin<, and Prayer Southeast regional conference. See article, page 3. April 30 - May 11 Earthy Spirituality: Psalms Leader: Walter Brueggemann. May 21 - June 5 The Church in China: A Travel Seminar to Hong Kong and The Peoples' Republic of China See article, page 5. June 18-29 D.Min. Intw >i h n [DRY Seminar in Gospel and Culture. See page 5. July 1-10 Transforminc 1 MlSSK >N: DEVELOPING A Practical Theology of Mission for a Postmodern Age A travel seminar to Scotland. See article, page 5. July 9-20 Summer Session I: 1. Community and Hospitality: Learning from Dorothy Day Leaders: Charles Campbell and Ed Loring (with time in residence at the Open Door Community). Class begins July 8. 2. Money Matters in Ministry Leader: Cameron Murchison. 3. The Theoiogy of Lesslif Newbigin Leader: George Hunsberger. July 23 - August 3 Summer Session II: 1 The Language of Worship Leader: Brian Wren. 2. The Body of CHRIST ESCHATOLOGY, Mission, and Church in the New Testament Leader: Stan Saunders. 3. NlCEA AND CHALCEDON: THE THEOLOGY OF THE CHURCH AT THE BEGINNING OF Constantine's Empire Leader: Charles Raynal. 4. Frontiers in Mission Strategy (NCD second required course) Leader: Stan Wood. Lay Institute calendar January 21 - March 16 Feminine Images of God See article, page 6. February 5, 12, 19, 26 Evening Lay School See article, page 6. February 6, 13, 20, 27, March 6 Morning Lay School See article, page 6. February 1, 8, 15, 22 What Does It Mean to Be Human? See article, page 6. February 7, 14, 21, March 7, 14 A Sampler of Women Writers See article, page 6. March 7, 14, 21, 28, April 4 Writers You've been Meaning to Read See article, page 6. March 5, 12, 19, 26 Wrestling with the Hard Stuff See article, page 6. April 1 - May 19 Beginnings, an arts exhibition in honor of President Mendenhall's inauguration. Free. June 25-29 Esther's Feast: A Study of the Book of Esther (Presbyterian Women's Bible Study) Leader: Patricia Tull. Cost: $45. August 6-10 Summer Lay Scholars: "Introduction to the Old Testament" Leaders: Kathleen O'Connor and Christine Roy Yoder. Cost: $325 includes room and board; $200 tuition only. August 6-10 Esther's Feast. A Study of the Book of Esther (Presbyterian Women's Bible Study) Leader: Rebecca Parker. Cost: $45. August 10-11 Esther's Feast A Study of the Book of Esther (Presbyterian Women's Bible Study) Leader: Linda Morningstar. Cost: $30. August 24-25 Esther's Feast A Study of the Book of Esther (Presbyterian Women's Bible Study) Leader: Linda Morningstar. Cost: $30. Continuing Education calendar February 12-13 Navigating Treacherous Waters: Honoring our Personal and Professional Boundaries Leader: Sharon Mook. Cost: $115. February 16 The Night of the Sense: Lent's Journey of The Soul Leader: Suzanne Guthrie. Cost: $60. February 26-27 Conversations About the Missional Church Second in a series on how U.S. churches can rethink what it means to be "missionary congregations" in a post-Christendom time. Leaders: Darrell Guder and Craig Van Gelder. Cost: $160. March 5-9 Guthrie Scholars Week See article, page 7. March 19-21 Business Skills for Pastors Leaders: Paul Copley and Cameron Murchison. Cost: $125. March 26-29 Contemplative Retreat FOR Women at the Sacred Heart Monastery in Cullman, Alabama. Leader: Roberta Martin. Cost: $225. April 22-27 CONTEMPLATrvE Retreat for Men at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, Conyers, Georgia. Leader. David Guthrie. Cost: $240. May 14-16 Creative Transptions to Retirement Leader: Edward A. White. Cost: $185. June 14-17 Administrative Personnel Association Regional Conference, Presbyterian Church (USA) Level I Courses: Theology, Time Management, Financial Management and Level II Courses: Communication, Directory of Worship, Assertiveness Skills Designed for lay employees of churches who are interested in professional growth and who seek certification in the Administrative Personnel Association. It is not necessary to be a member of APA to attend. Leaders: Cameron Murchison, Linda Davis, Casie Hughes, Rebecca Parker, and Tina Donan. Cost: TBA. June 25-29 1 . Prose Rhythms, Memorable Images: Writing Craft for Sermons, Prayers, and Liturgies Leader: Mary Nilsen. Cost: $225. 2. Human Development A Course for Certification in Christian Education Leader: Patricia Baxter. Cost: $250. 3. The Gospel of Luke: Textual Preaching for the Church Leader: Elizabeth Johnson. Cost: $125. Certificate in Spiritual Formation calendar February 4-9 Immersion Week Leaders: Julie Johnson and Columbia faculty members. Cost: $400. March 4-9 Literature and Practice of Spiritual Direction Leader: John Kloepfer. Cost: $300. March 15-18 Prayer in Many Forms Leader: Ellen McCormack. Cost: $225. April 22-27 Healing and Wholeness in the Christian Life Cost: $300. See article, page 7. April 29 - May 4 Earthy Spirituality Leader: Walter Brueggemann. Cost: $300. Waiting list. June 17-22 The Enneagram: An Ancient Tool of Spiritual Discovery Cost: $300. See article, page 7. July 8-20 Community and Hospitality: The Example of Dorothy Day Cost: $600. See article, page 7. July 22-27 CONGREGATIONAL DECISION-MAKING: SPIRITUAL DISCERNMENT IN Action Cost: $300. See article, page 7. For more information on these and additional events, call 404/378-8821 or visit www.CTSnet.edu. VANTAGE Columbia Friendship Circle Council's fall meeting brought together representatives from 12 presbyteries, as well as council officers, which includes Presbyterian Women moderators from the Synods of Living Waters and South Atlantic. Participants attended a class taught by Brian Wren, professor ofzuorship, met the six scholarship recipients and their spouses, and had some time with President Laura Mendenhall Come See Columbia Day is Thursday, April 19. Highlights of the day will include President's Mendenhall preaching at the worship service and meeting and hearing tin stories of the scholarship recipients for 2000-2001. Dewitz continued from page 2 "question mark/' as Dewitz described it. In the summer of 1936, Dewitz was unexpectedly invited to a meeting in Germany with the Rev. S. H. Wilkinson, director of the Mildmay Mission to the Jews in England, who offered him a position in London. Providentially, this took place shortly after he learned that his birth mother was Jewish. His adoptive parents were required to provide a birth cer- tificate to the Nazi authorities, and that put his life in serious danger. The following year, he fled to England. As he crossed over the border from Germany to Holland, he felt both joy and sorrow. The joy came from feeling that he would survive and carry on his ministry. The sorrow was the feel- ing that he had left his home and might never experience it again. Even in England, as World War II spread across Europe and threatened Great Britain, Dewitz was interned for the duration as a German citizen. In the internment camp he began to teach the Bible, and he continued to do so with enthusiasm and effective- ness all of his life. He also studied at the University of London by extension courses to qualify for the Bachelor of Divinity degree. Ordained for ministry by the Waldensian Church of Italy in 1949, Dewitz brought little more with him to the United States than these experi- ences, his degree, and his commitment as a Christian and a minister. While serving as a missionary to the Jews in Baltimore, Maryland, he studied with William F. Albright at Johns Hopkins University and received the Ph.D. in 1960. He was an exceptional linguist, mastering more than 10 languages. Dewitz came to Columbia Seminary in 1959 as professor of Old Testament. He began an amazing and fruitful career of instruction, pastoral care, and ministry in the Presbyterian Church. After his retirement in 1983, he continued to be in great demand as a Bible teacher and preacher. His former students waited in line to secure a time in his schedule for teaching and preaching in their churches. Professor Dewitz had friends around the world, and wherever he traveled, he received hospitality from a variety of friends in various countries and cultures. Dr. Dewitz made demands on students and was sometimes disap- pointed in their efforts. He need not have been concerned, for most of his students came to know, respect, and admire him. He not only taught in a traditional way, but often had students sing Hebrew psalms or songs as a teaching method. His teaching beyond the campus embraced a wide variety of settings, such as youth conferences, Sunday school classes, women's meet- ings, presbytery and synod programs, clergy seminars, and Young Life lead- ership training sessions. One of Dewitz's most enjoyable extracurricular activities was the regular opera classes which he held in his home. Students and staff were invited to listen to his introduction of the works and then enjoy his treasured recordings or radio broadcasts. He rarely missed Metropolitan Opera performances in Atlanta. Those who knew him often speak of many treasured associations in these varied settings. The truest thing that could be said about Ludwig Dewitz is that in his ministry he faith- fully served under the authority of the God who led him through danger and disaster to a useful lifetime of witness and ministry. Q /. Davison Philips '43 President Emeritus Winter reading recommendations from Columbia's faculty The Parables of Jesus: A Commentary by Arland J. Hultgren The Return ofjesus in Early Christianity by [ohn T. Carrol] Islam A Short History by Karon \nustrong Happy to He Nappy by Bell Hooks and Christopher Raschka Trouble with Jesus: Women, Christology t and Preaching by I . Susan Bond Changing the Mind of Missions: Where Have We I )one Wrong ' bj fames F. Bngel and William A. Dyrness The Divine Conspiracy Rediscovering t lui Hidden life in God by Dallas Will. mi All Creation Is Groaning. An Interdist iplinary \ ision fbi ' ife in a Sacred Unm by Carol J. Dempsey and Russell A. Butkus Plainsong by Kent Hanoi God's Name in Vam: I low Religion Should and Should Not Be Invoiced in Politii S by Stephen Carter The Red Tent by Anita Diamant and Carol Bilger The Godbearing life: The Art of Soul Vending fin Youth Ministry b) Kenda Creasy Dean and Ron Foster Big Questions, Worthy Dreams: Mentoring Young Adult-, in then Search fo\ Meaning, Purpose, and Faith by Sharon Daloz I'arks The New Public Service by Paul Charles Lighl Christianity in Jewish Terms by Tikva Simone I rj mei kensky freedom from I ear: The American People in I )epression and War by David Kennedy Charming Billy by Alice McDermott What Does the Lord Require? A Nczv Anthology oj Prayers and Songs for Worship and Mission, ed. by Francis Brienen The Sacrament of Teaching: A Social Science {pproach by James Michael I ee The Child in Christ um Thought, ed. by Marcia J. Bunge Reading the Bible and the ( onfessions'. The Presbyterian WaybyJackBartlett Rogers Sexuality and the Christian Body: Their Way into the Triune Cod by Fugeiu- V. Rogers Mighty Stories, Dangerous Rituals: Weaving together the Human and the Divine by Herbert Clark and Edward Foley Annals of the Former World by John A. MePhee From Complicity to Encounter: The Church and the Culture of F.conomism by Jane Collier and Rafael I steban Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Commuuiti/ l>\ Robert D. Putnam Evocations of Grace: The Writings of Joseph Sillier on I ologi/. theology, and I ////< s by Joseph Sittler Let Ministry Teach: A Guide to Theological Reflection by Robert Kinast Pastoral Care with Stepfamilies: Mapping the Wilderness by I.oren I.. Townsend Disruptive Grace: Studies in the Theology of Karl Barth by George I [unsingei On Christian Theology by Rowan Williams Theology, Hermeneutics, and Imagination: The Crisis o) Interpretation at the End of Modernity by Garrett C ami Faith and the City continued from page 3 Columbia students will learn commu- nity organization and education skills Plans are also underway to sponsor roundtable events seeking to answer the question, "Is there a place for the poor in smart growth?" Through Faith and the City, guests from the public square have visited campus. Members of the Georgia House the Honorable Kathy Ashe, an elder at Central Presbyterian Church, and the Honorable Jim Martin, an elder at Momingside Presbyterian Church helped students and faculty look at the November election. The mayor of Decatur, Bill Floyd, and the newly elected chief executive officer of DeKalb County, Vernon Jones, have visited the campus. "We are a learning lab for what it means for clergy and clergy-in-training to have the capacity for public leader- ship," Watkins says, noting that Columbia recently hosted a second consultation for all Presbyterian Chun h USA-related seminaries on the topic. The question of the separation of church and state has been one of the discussion threads woven through Faith and the City efforts. Watkins notes that there is a great deal of confusion about what that separation means " I he separation of church and state means that neither institution controls the other, but it is not the sep- aration of religious values from form- ing public policy." Watkins remembers a particularly important moment in his own education when the U.S. represen- tative he once worked with turned to him and asked, "Jim, where in the world are your people?" The efforts of initiatives like Faith and the City will help people of faith become more active in the public arena. For more information about Faith and the City, visit the website at www.faithandthecity.org or contact Jim Watkins, WatkinsJ@CTSnet.edu, 404/687-4672. D David Dault (M.A.T.S. '02) WINTER 2001 For the Record If you have recent news to contribute to this section, please mail it to the editor, or you may email it to harperj@CTSnet.edu. Walter Brueggemann, professor of Old Testament, was awarded the 2000 Theologos Award for best general interest book by the Association of Theological Booksellers for his book, Deep Memory, Exuberant Hope Contested Trust in a Post -Christian World. He preached at the Bryn Mawr, PA, church; spoke at the Roswell, ( -A, church; lectured at the University of Portland, the Reformed Church in America's Regional Synod of Albany, and at Bangor Seminary. He addressed the Presbyterian Covenant Network and led a clergy conference of Southeast Iowa's Synod of Lutherans. He has published 1 & 2 Kings and written articles for Horizons in Biblu al Theology, Strange Fire, and God Who Creates Anna Carter Florence, assistant professor of preaching and worship, delivered the Cunningham lectures at Austin College and had an article in journal for Preachers. She attended the Academy of Homiletics meeting in Dallas and taught a senior high class at the North Decatur, GA, church David Rollins '97 is pastor of Westminster church, Decatur, AL. ...Jasper Keith, (STD 79), professor emeritus and pastor of the Decatur church, is the recipient of the J. Obert Kempson Distinguished Service Award, the highest award presented by the Southeast Region Association for Clinical Pastoral Education. Dick Newsome '90 is pastor of Trinity church, Charlotte, NC Gloria Jennings '90 (MATS '88) is executive director of the New Church Develop- ment Commission for Cherokee, Greater Atlanta, and Northeast Georgia presbyteries Ron Cram, associate professor of Christian education, taught a parenting class at Northwest church, Atlanta; was quoted in "The Faith Factor," in the December/January issue of Sesame Street Parents; presented "Memories by Christian Adults of Childhood Bully Experiences" at the Association of Professors and Researchers in Religious Education; taught a class at the annual meeting of the Religious Education Association (REA) and at Spring Hill College's Atlanta campus; and gave the president-elect lecture at the REA convention Joe Clifford '97 is co-pastor of the Alpharetta, GA, church. Laura Mendenhall, president, has been elected to the Board of Governors of the Southern Institute for Business and Professional Ethics Kathy Carpenter '93 is pastor of the Rustburg, VA, church Walter Dinkins '88 has been called to active duty in the U.S. Navy, serving as senior Protestant chaplain for the Naval station in Bremerton, WA Clay Faulk '94 is pastor of First church, Jacksonville, NC. Wade Huie '46, professor emeritus, led the D.Min. supervised ministry course in preaching students in Jamaica. Huie preached at Central church, Athens, GA, and gave a stewardship series at First church, Gainesville, Joe Berry '66 is interim stated clerk of Northeast Georgia Presbytery. Tim Foster '91 is co-pastor of High- land Heights church, Cordova, TN. Brian Wren, professor of worship, preached at the C >'k Park church (PCUSA/UCC), Chicago; the Congregational church (UCC), Cumberland, MA; the Long Island, NY, Council of Churches; Trinity United Methodist Church, Grand Island, NE, and led workshops for the Anglican Diocese, Newcastle, Australia, and the Royal School of Church Music summer school, Canberra Danny Murphy (DMin '95) is associate general presbyter for mission, congregational development, and evangelism for Trinity Presbytery Ray Roberts '84 had a book review published in Christian Century. He delivered a paper to the Society of Christian Ethics at its annual meeting Hannah Brawley '97 is associate pastor of Little Chapel on the Boardwalk, Wrightsville Beach, NC Laurie Valentine '96 is pastor of Speedwell church, Reidsvillo, NC Charles Cousar '58, professor of New Testatment, lectured to a class in religion at Auburn University; partici- pated in the installations of John Cook '99 and Susannah Hager '99 at the Shandon church, Columbia, SC; preached at the stewardship emphasis service at Eastminster church, Stone Mountain, GA; and presided at the BIRTHS To Walter '88 and Marilyn Dinkins, a daughter, Grier Ortiz , Feb. 16, 2000. To Stephen '95 and Kari Kolmetz '96, a daughter, Hannah Faith, Dec. 30, 2000. To Sue Ahn-Kim '99 and Joe Ahn, a son, Caleb Hyoungjoon, Dec. 20, 2000. To Kathryn'01 and Chris Summers Bean, a son, Samuel Andrew, Dec. 18, 2000. To Joe '01 and Joy Albright, a daughter, Marley Anna, Oct. 12, 2000. To Tim '01 and Tuesday Reynolds, a son, Seth Aaron, Jan. 5, 2001. To David '02 and Leigh Knauert, twins, Harrison and Lilly, Aug. 25, 2000. DEATHS William Giddens '49, Oct. 15, 2000. A.C. Bridges '56, Sept. 27, 2000. J. Stewart Miller, former pastor of Morningside United Church in Edinburgh, Scotland. He taught at Columbia in 1986. Nov. 3, 2000. Pauline Epistles Section at the annual meeting of the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) Woody Brown '88 is pastor of First United church, Fayetteville, AR Tim Read '98 is pastor of the Tabor church, Crozet, VA Dan Andriacco (DMin '00) has written a book, Screen Saved: Peril and Promise of Media in Ministry Harold Prince '60, professor emeritus, received the singles championship ten- nis trophy at the South Carolina Closed Senior Tennis Championships. ...John Bell '88 is pastor of the Wellshire church, Denver, CO Lee Carroll '68, associate professor of supervised ministry, preached and taught classes at White Bluff church, Savannah, and has finished, with field educators from PC(USA) seminaries, "Legal Issues in Theological Field Education." He chairs the board of the Urban Training Organization of Atlanta and is vice-chair of the board the Appalachian Ministries Educational Resource Center Laura Dunham '94 has been appointed asso- ciate excecutive for mission and funds development, Synod of the Southwest. ...Sam McGregor '92 is pastor of the Allison Creek church, York, SC. Darrell Guder, professor of evan- gelism and church growth, preached at the installations of Victor Pentz, pastor of Peachrree church, Atlanta, and Robert Laukoter '00, Church of the Covenant, Hurricane, WV. He attended the annual meetings of the Eastern Fellowship of the American Society of Missiology and the Academy for Evangelism in Theological Education, where he gave a response to George Gallup's presentation. He was the spiritual renewal conference speaker at St. Peter's by the Sea church, Huntington Beach, CA, and theologian-in-residence and preacher at the Providence church, Hilton Head Island, SC Janelle Tibbetts '00 is associate pastor of First church, Encino, CA Jeff Aiken '69 (DMin 75) is a trustee of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network and vice chair of the board of directors of Presbyterian Homes, Inc Stephane Cobbert '97 is organizing pastor of New Millennium Baptist church, Houston. Kathleen O'Connor, professor of Old Testament, published an article on the Book of Joel in Harper Collins Bible Commentary; taught Sunday school at Holy Spirit Roman Catholic church, Atlanta; gave the Dobbins Lectures at Salem church, Salem, VA; and present- ed two papers at the SBL meeting Will Jones '96 is pastor of First church, Brownsville, TN Erin Sharp '99 is associate pastor of Fredericks- burg, VA, church George Stroup, professor of theology, preached the ordination service of Rich Holmes '00, Long Creek church, King's Mountain, NC, and gave the Hoon/ Bullock lec- tures, First church, San Antonio, TX. . ...Doug Ferguson '96 is associate pas- tor of the Menlo Park, CA, church Robert LaForce pMin '94) is pastor of Central church, Huntington, NY.. ...Jim Watkins '71 (DMin '77), director of the Faith and the City Project, led a strate- gic planning retreat for the Whitefoord Community Ministry Project; a work- shop at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Service Summit; and a "Faith and Politics" series for Men of the Church at Peachrree church, Atlanta. He preached at the Westminster Fellow- ship at Georgia Tech and staffed a con- sultation for PC(USA) seminaries. Caroline Coling '97 is chaplain at Philips Towers, Decatur, GA Rodger Nishioka, associate professor of Christian education, presented a ses- sion on young adult ministry for the REA and the Association of Professors and Researchers in Religious Education. He was Bible study leader for the Southeast Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church Youth Workers Conference, led a workshop for the presbytery of Lake Michigan and was keynote speaker for the Church Redevelopment Conference, Synod of Living Waters. He preached at Cumberland church, Rydal, GA, Calvary church, Stockton, CA, and the Roswell, GA, church Carol Johnson '00 is in clinical pastoral education at the Eger Health Care Center, Staten Island, NY Phil Gehman '68, dean of students and vice president for stu- dent life, made a presentation to the PC(USA) National Ministries Division Committee, served on the leadership team of a Committee on Preparation for Ministry leadership conference at Union-PSCE, and participated in a meeting of the PC(USA) placement officers Janet Looby '00 is pastor of First church, Andalusia, AL. Ann Clay Adams, director of admissions, led a retreat for the Presbyterian Women of First church, Conyers, GA Joey Byrd '87 is stated supply for the Armstrong Memorial church, Gastonia, NC Jeff Beebe '94 is associate pastor for youth at Christ church, Ormond Beach, FL John Patton, professor of pastoral theology, Continued on page 11 Vantage Volume 92, No. 3, Winter 2001 Published quarterly by Columbia Theological Seminary Circulation: 28,000 The Office of Development and Seminary Relations Editor: Juliette Harper Director of Publications and Publicity Postmaster: Send address changes to Vantage Columbia Theological Seminary P.O. Box 520 Decatur, GA 30031-0520 VANTAGE For the Record am tinned frontpage 10 gave three lectures on pastoral care for clergy and laity, Tupelo, MS Sarah Diehl '98 is associate pastor of Kirk of Kildaire, Cary, NC Marcia Riggs, associate professor of Christian ethics, was a presenter for a roundtable dis- cussion on "Faith Communities and the Urban Poor" at the Annie E. Casey Foundation in Baltimore; chaired the Womanist Approaches to Religion and Society Group of the American Academy of Religion in Nashville; and preached the installation service of Gregory Griffith (DMin '00) at Trinity Episcopal Church, Coshocton, OH. Stan Wood, director of the Center for New Church Development (NCD), attended the Association of Evangelist and Theological Education meeting; Charlotte Presbytery's NCD seminar; the Council on Native American Ministries and Native American Lilly Grant NCD meeting; an Eastern Tennessee Presbytery consultancy meeting; and the Hispanic Commissioned Lay Pastors Training, sponsored by Columbia's Center for NCD and San Francisco Seminary, Southern California, with Santa Barbara, Riverside, San Fernando, and San Gabriel presbyteries Kathy Crighton '00 is pastor of First church, Ponchatoula, LA Bill Harkins, instructor in pastoral care and theolo- gy, is serving on the board of trustees of the Pastoral Counselors Association of Georgia and led the parish and vestry retreat for St. Michael and All Angels parishes Ernestine Cole, associate dean of students, attended meetings of the Presbyterian Advisory Committee on Women's Concerns and the Presbyterian Health Network's Leadership Team. She is a member of Leadership DeKalb and attended the Presbyterian Health Education and Welfare Association conference. Sue Dickson (DMin '01) is pastor of Highland church, El Paso, TX Shirley Guthrie, professor emeritus, was a retreat leader for Christian edu- cators in the South and for ministers of Boston Presbytery. He was a resource leader for a study group of ministers in Salt Lake City in a pro- gram sponsored by the Center for Theological Inquiry. He preached and taught in churches in Atlanta; Kilgore, TX; Birmingham, AL; Louisville, KY, and Laurinburg, NC Kathryn Johnson Cameron '82 (DMin 01) is co-pastor, Rockfish church, Nellysford, VA Margit Ernst, instructor of theol- ogy, taught a workshop for newly ordained elders and preached at the Dorchester church, Summerville, SC. She was the advent speaker for Sunday school classes at the Clairmont church, Atlanta Lattie Collins '00 is pastor of First church, Donalsonville, GA Mark Douglas, From the Bookstore No. of copies New Titles by Columbia Faculty: 1 & 2 Kings by Walter Brueggemann Wrestlin' Jacob Reprint with a new introduction by the author Erskine Clarke Retail Columbia pnce price $55.00 $47.00 $20.00 $17.00 Total amount for books Shipping and handling: orders under $20.00, add $4.50; from $20.00 to $49.99, add $6.00; $50.00 and over, add $7.50. Add $1.00 for residential deliveries. All books shipped via United Parcel Service. Georgia residents: add 7% sales tax on books and shipping Total Method of payment (please check one); check payable to CTS Bookstore (included with order) VISA MasterCard Novus (please print information below): Visa /MasterCard /Novus # Exp. date Name (as it appears on card) Street address for UPS delivery: City State. Zip. Phone Prices subject to change as determined by publishers. Please send this completed order form to: CTS Bookstore, P.O. Box 520, Decatur, GA 30031. assistant protessoi o! Christian eth taught an adult education series on church /state relation ihorpe church, Atlanta; presented a paper at the American Academy ol Religion (AAR). participated inaconrere n the relation of theologu ,il ediu ation to soda] witness, and led b conversation at theSoderj ol Christian i thus meet ing Wendy Neff '99 is associate oi For youth and communit) min istrieSj First church, knowille. IN. Christine Yoder. assistant prorea SOI of Old Testament, taught at Druid Hills church, Atlanta, a\m.\ First < hurch, ( 0\ mgton, GA. She led a Central Florida Presbytery women's retreat and attended the annual SBL/AAR meeting C. Benton Kline, president emeritus and adjunct profeSSOl ol the ology, taught a class ,ii I unity church, Atlanta. At the North Eta atUE ( .A, Email request ]im Speed '57 (DMin '84), din K toi of alumni/ae and church relation at Columbia, is sending pei iodi< email newsletters to alums. If you would like to receive updates on campus and alumni/ae new please send your email addn poeb@CTSnet.edu. Church, h took part in officer train- ing, taught a series on stew BXdship B class on worship, and prea* lied Cameron Murchison, professoi ol ministry, led a retreat on taith and monej .it the i. apitol I lil) * hurch, Washington, I > ( and preached and lectured on I ,u ing Issues of Death and D) ing In I Ight ot Christian I .nth" at First church Hickor) NC Sharon Mook assistant professor ol pastor, il theolog) and i are, Led an offii retreat for St Andrews church, lUckei; kttended the Society foi Pastoral i heolog) meeting; taughl adult church hoi 1 on Parenting Pres, hoi da and w as liturgist at tin- North i >.-. atui GA,< inn. ii. D S.D. Sims, 1906-2000 Sarah i tennis Sims first exex uth e dire toi "i Mission I Ia> en died V 1 ]1 23, 20(H). Mission I la\ rn, I.-, ated "ii the pounds oi Columbia Seminary, Is the iO \ eai old home assignment i.i. iiity for Presbyterian missionaries Sims assisted the late I h I \i I towel] Rii hards '29, presidenl ol ( olumbia In the early planning itage foi the i.i. Qity, w hi< h Is "^ tied and operated by the Presb) tei i. in Women <>i Ai.ih.un.i, i lorida, l ieorgiB, Mississippi, South < arolina, and fennessee Ways to increase your income WINTER 2001 Did wi (,i i youi attention? Certainly, all or us would like to in mr incomes to afford items of necessity or enhance our lifestyles. And many ol US would like to be able to give more. There may be a way that you can do both. You can increase your income by taking property that iscui rently producing a low return and transfer- ring it to an agreement th.it pn n I. additional income. And part of your income may be received tax-free With that same agreement, you can make a gift to Columbia Theological Seminary. From your gift, you will receive an income tax charitable deduction, resulting in current tax savings and increasing the return on your investment. Columbia Seminary can help you increase your income as you make a gift. Here's an example: Mrs. Smith currently has a $15,000 investment that is producing only a $450 return. In addition, Mrs. Smith is 70 years of age, is concerned about her estate plan, and wants to give part of her estate to charity. To help meet her goals, Mrs. Smith transferred the investment to Columbia Seminary in return for our promise to pay her a lifetime income. Her benefits from the transfer are as follows: She will receive a guaranteed annual income of $1,155, of which a portion will be received tax-free. This is an increase of $700 over what she cur- rently receives from her investment. Mrs. Smith will receive an income i Ii.ii it.ihlc dr. In. lion nl approxi- mately $5/598, resulting in ,i . iii i.nl h-deral in. nun' lax sax nigs ol BIOM than $1,950 (assuming b i pen exit . omhincd h-ilrr.il and state hi bracket). Let's further assume that Mrs. Smith originally p.ud $5,000 for the Invesl mi m ii .ii.- had sold the Invei I tl she would pax i apital . / \\w- tax on $10,1)0(1 lie. ause ol the unique provisions of this agreement i apital gains tax is payable on only approxi- mately 60 pen ''Mt "i hei gain, and this amount can be prorated over her life expectancy. This will result in an additional ta of approximately $900. ( onsidering the ta and the actual In "me she will receive, Mrs. Smith would need to earn an 1 1 percent return on a fully taxable invr .iinriit to equal the -.prndable benefits of this special agreement. The property is no longer in Mrs Smith's i". late, thus avoiding estate tax and probate costs. Naturally, the circumstances would be different for you. If you are retired or near retirement, if you have appreciated property, or if you would simply like to know how you can make a charitable gift and retain the income, call Michael Carey, director of gift planning, toll free at 1-888-601-8918 for Columbia's Special Planning Report. It will provide details on how this agreement could work for you. Harrington Prize to honor Christian preaching and service A prestigious international award to honor outstanding Christian leader- ship and service has been established in the name of the late W. Frank Harrington, who served as senior minister of Peachtree Presbyterian Church in Atlanta for 27 years until his death. The award has been estab- lished jointly by Peachtree Church, Columbia Theological Seminary, and Presbyterian College. The W. Frank Harrington Prize, which will carry a cash stipend of $25,000, will be presented annually to a person who has led a life of exem- plary Christian leadership and service and made an effective witness to others. Along with the stipend, the recipient will serve as a distinguished visitor and lecturer for a designated period at each of those three institu- tions of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Harrington was a graduate of Presbyterian College and served as chairman of the Board of Trustees from 1982 until his death on March 3, 1999, at the age of 63. He was also a mem- ber of Columbia's Board of Trustees. The Harrington Prize will be among the most significant awards in religion, following the Pulitzer Prize for Religion, the Templeton Foundation Prize for Progress in Religion, and the Grawenmyer Award in Religion, presented by the University of Louisville. "It will be one of the largest awards of its type to recognize preaching," said Dr. John V. Griffith, president of Presbyterian College. "This project will make a significant contribution to the advancement of Christian ministry by lifting up the parish ministry as central to the future of God's kingdom." The Harrington Prize will be awarded based on nominations sub- mitted to a committee composed of representatives from the three partici- pating institutions and a representative of the Harrington family. Recipients may be pastors, teachers, authors, missionaries, evangelists, or other leaders of Christian faith and service. The inaugural recipient will be select- ed this year. The Rev. Stephen Bacon '61, min- ister of administration and steward- W. Frank Harrington '60 (Th.M. '61) ship at Peachtree Presbyterian Church, said, "Dr. Harrington was an avid reader with a great curiosity and inter- est in all fields of human learning. These interests were reflected in his preaching and in his friendships with people across the country and around the world. He also was a person of great achievement in ministry. This prize will call attention to and give recognition to other persons of high achievement and broad interests." Columbia's President Laura Mendenhall says, "I am thrilled at the announcement of the Harrington Prize. Frank Harrington led a life of exemplary Christian leadership and service and made an effective witness to others. We miss his leadership now and are in need of leaders who call us into a vision of God's kingdom. The Harrington Prize will continue to lift up such strong Christian leadership and inspire us for service to others." Douglas W. Oldenburg, president emeritus of Columbia Seminary, said, "Frank Harrington's most lasting lega- cy to the Presbyterian Church (USA) will be his leadership and develop- ment of a great congregation and his commitment to Reformed evangelism, church growth, and new church devel- opment. He helped remind our denomination of the central place these areas should have in the mission of the church. I know of no one more worthy of having an award of this kind established in his honor and memory than Frank Harrington. It is fitting that these three institutions should join together in establishing this award as an expression of our gratitude to God for his faithful and generous service to us." Vantage P.O. Box 520 Decatur, Georgia 30031 404/378-8821 www.CTSnet.edu CONTENTS Inauguration of President Mendenhall 1 Vision and surprises 2 Tribute to Ludwig Dewitz 2 Faith and the City 3 Barth conference scheduled 3 Alumni /ae survey results 4 Professors engage the church 4 Doctor of Ministry offerings 5 New Church Development 5, 6, 7 Lay Institute of Faith and Life 6 Continuing Education hosts Guthrie Scholars 7 Spirituality Program offerings 7 Events, courses calendars 8 Reading recommendations from the faculty 9 Columbia Friendship Circle 9 For the Record 10 From the Bookstore 11 Increase your income 11 Harrington Prize established 12 COLUMBIA THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY i Periodicals Postage Paid at Decatur, GA Publication No. 124160