COLUMBIA THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY Vantage FALL 1999 President Douglas Oldenburg to retire Columbia Theological Seminary's Board of Trustees has announced that Douglas W. Oldenburg, seventh presi- dent of the seminary, plans to retire next year. At its fall meeting in October, Columbia's Board of Trustees gTanted Oldenburg a six-month terminal sab- batical, beginning June 30, with official retirement set for December 31, 2000. It is expected that a new president will assume the office on July 1, 2000. Oldenburg, who will be 65 years old in February, became president on January 1, 1987. During his tenure, the faculty and administration have been strengthened, new positions have been added to the faculty, and the student body has increased. Initiatives begun under Oldenburg's tenure include programs in Christian Spirituality and New Church Development. The seminary budget has increased from $3.9 million to $10.1 million, and the endowment from $27 million to $155 million, due in part to two large trusts received during his tenure. A capital campaign, at the time the largest in theological education, raised more than 34 million dollars and included funds for the addition to Columbia's library, which more than doubled its space, and the enhancing of campus landscaping. Several build- ings have been renovated, and an expansion of the Harrington Center for Continuing Education and Church Growth has added classrooms, an auditorium, guest rooms, and another chapel to the campus. Oldenburg came to Columbia from the pastorate. He was pastor of Continued on page 5 Board Chair Joanna M. Adams '79 and President Douglas W. Oldenburg Columbia opens doors for 172nd session New professors greet new students following opening convocation. The sun was high in the September sky as faculty, staff, and students made the short trip across Kirk Road to Columbia Presbyterian Church. Faculty, in academic regalia, and staff were lined up and waiting to lead the pro- cessional. Returning students stood and talked with one another, while the entering Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree class moved forward, uncertain of what lay ahead for the next hour and for the next three years. For the 172nd time, Columbia Theological Seminary flung open its doors to begin a new year in theologi- cal education. Entering students joined the community by answering the pledge asked of all students. All members of the community and friends renewed their baptisms and commitment to discipleship. Joanna Adams, pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, and chair of Columbia's Board of Trustees, addressed the Columbia community on "A New Vision of Excellence." Using texts from Isaiah 52, Philippians 4, and Luke 22, Adams spoke on servant leadership as "the only place where true excellence will be found. The future lies in those institutions and individuals that draw upon the forces of love, forgiveness, reconciliation, and empowerment of all people... because God set the world to working that way a long rime ago." Following convocation, the new class was officially greeted by the faculty. Then everyone headed to the Richards Center for a community- wide lunch. Ann Clay Adams, director of admissions, introduced the new basic degree students, while Charles Raynal, director of advanced studies and associate professor of theology, spoke about the advanced degrees students. Erskine Clarke '66, professor of American religious history and director of Columbia's international program, introduced international students and scholars. James Hudnut-Beumler, executive vice president and dean of faculty, introduced the staff and faculty, including new members. Seventy-seven new students joined Columbia's community in September Continued on page 5 To My Dear Friends. A letter from Douglas W. Oldenburg, President January 1, 2000, will mark the begin- ning of my fourteenth year as president of Columbia Seminary. I am profoundly thankful to God for the opportunity to serve Columbia over these vears and for the wonderful support I have received. As I review my tenure at Columbia, I have a deep sense of satisfaction over the progress we have made the faculty and administration have been strengthened, the endowment has been enlarged, the campus landscaping has been beauti- fied, old buildings have been renovat- ed, new buildings have been built, and now a long-range strategic plan, "Vision 20/20," is in place. Of course, none of this could have been done without the hard work and support ol many people. Indeed, I have had the distinct privilege of working with some of the finest people in the world I am also grateful for the encour- agement I received from the Board of Trustees, the vice presidents, the faculty, and many of you to stand for modera- tor of the 210th General Assembly My years in the pastorate, my tenure .is president <>i Columbia, and my year .is moderator ha\ e pro> ided a lifetime ol memories that will always "fill my cup" of gratitude to overflowing and bring a smile to my face. God has blessed me beyond compare! When I spoke to the board about standing for moderator, I said that, should I be elected, I would return as full-time president of Columbia "for at least a year." At my request, the board has granted me a six-month terminal sabbatical, beginning on June 30, 2000, and I will officially retire on December 31, 2000. It is expected that a new president would assume the office on luK 1,2000. I will be 65 years old on February 22, 2000, and I believe it is an appro- priate time for the seminary to have a new president to lead it into the new millennium and achieve the goals we have outlined in our new strategic plan. The plan calls for another major capital campaign for the seminary to begin in the early 2000's, and it is imperative that a new president estab- lish a strong relationship with our constituencies before leading the cam- paign. I am also aware that several major retirements will occur in the next few years at Columbia, and it seems appropriate that I retire before those retirements occur in order that a new president may have the oppor- tunity to help select new people to fill those important positions. Claudia and I have a home in Davidson, North Carolina, and we are both eager to spend more time there and do things together while we are still enjoying good health. Columbia is a great seminary, and I have been highly honored to serve as its seventh president. Thanks be to God! Professor of Ministry Cameron Murchison Professor becomes pastor again "Is rr like riding a bicycle?" Thus did a student in a mid-summer communi- cation pose the somewhat impertinent question, launched all the way from the Decatur I knew to the Decatur I was coming to know. She wanted to know how I was finding the experience of being engaged full-time in pastoral ministry once again. Three years before, I had responded to the call to become professor of ministry at Columbia Seminary, leaving the con- gregation with which I had ministered for eight years to bring what I had learned there to bear on the prepara- tion of others for ministry. But in the summer of 1999 the tables were turned again at least temporarily. I under- took to participate in a pastor/professor exchange with the Rev. Jim Montgomery who serves First Presbyterian Church in Decatur, Illinois. From the beginning, everyone knew it would not be quite the same for either the pastor or the professor. We were each to undertake temporary assignments. That meant the abiding relationships and long-term commit- ments typical of a pastor's relationship to a congregation would be absent. But we were each to undertake assignments that would inform and strengthen the primary ministry we had in the sendee of the church's mission. And it turned out to be like "riding a bicycle" sort of. Some things came back right away. For example, I was immediately plunged into teaching an adult bible school class each evening of my first week. There I quickly remembered how earnest conversation around important issues of faith and life is often a powerful source of a minister's own learning. Members were also in the hospital that first week, so I learned my way around the local hospitals. What those visits reminded me of most forcefully is the way in which people in distress trust those of us whose office embodies both the presence of the church and the presence of God. It was surprising and humbling to "remember" this part of ministry in the congregation. That same experience was magnified in the pastoral relationships that began to grow notwithstanding (or perhaps because of) the abbreviated time of my presence. Ministers really do live in an unusually privileged place, close to much that touches human lives deeply. Yet, while some things were thus familiar, other things were genuinely fresh and new. The particular congre- gation I served with in Decatur, Illinois, undertook during my time there to begin re-imagining its mission in that particular community. Located in the center of a thriving Midwestern city, First I'resbyterian Church demonstrat- ed uncommon temerity in asking what in the providence of God it should be about in its particular loca- tion, at this particular time. I did not have the satisfaction nor the account- ability of seeing that process of dis- cernment through to the end. Still, I was forcefully reminded that matters of the church's mission are more rich I \ and realistically addressed in congre- gational life than we can mimic in seminary. And there was the weekly worship of the congregation and my regular engagement in the preaching task. It was especially reassuring to realize that all that was happening in the individual lives of the members and in the corporate missional life of that congregation was embraced by the celebrations of God's goodness in weekly worship and informed by the reading and proclaiming of the persistent word of God's astounding, outreaching welcome. The time was all too short, even if a lot of ministry is like "riding a bicycle." But it was a rich and rewarding time of re-acquaintance and exploration refract- ed in T.S. Eliot's provocative words: With the drawing of this love and the voice of this calling We sliall not cease from exploration; And the end of all our exploring Will be to arrive where we started And know the place for the first time. Four Quartets D Cameron Murchison Pastor exchanges pulpit with professor When I arrived at First Presbyterian Church in Decatur, Illinois, eight years ago, the chair of the Pulpit Nominating Committee asked me an intriguing question. "Jim, what do you need in order to be an effective pastor?" Among other things, the question allowed me to talk with them about the possibility of a sabbatical, which led the church to grant me an extended study leave of three months. This past summer I took them up on their offer. A few years ago I learned of Columbia Seminary's "Pastor-Professor Exchange," a pro- gram which allows a parish pastor to spend time at Columbia while a pro- fessor preaches and takes care of the congregation. And so I pursued an exchange with Cam Murchison, Columbia's ministry professor. During my six weeks at Columbia, I worshiped, read, and studied. I became part of a caring, competent community of people who work and worship, witness and serve, study and teach. For the first few days I was on campus, the library computers and Internet scared me, because I am still such a novice. Hoping for access to library material, I asked for assistance and was rescued and led through the maze. Perhaps the most important "ele- ment" in the professor-pastor exchange was the professor who came. Dr. Cam Murchison was a strong "non-anxious presence" for the congregation. He preached excellent sermons and gently encouraged this regional, downtown church on her faithful path. He visited, offered keen observations and wise counsel at committee meetings, and reminded the congregation that the Head of the Church was neither a pastor nor a professor. I have frequently been thanked for "bringing Cam Murchison to us." The congregation was well-served, and so was I. I accomplished my goals. I wanted to learn what makes for healthy con- gregations and pastors. I wanted to experience my pastor-friends at work in their parishes, so I would leave the campus for three or four days at a time. Finally, I think I also wanted to be reminded that I am not alone in this endeavor. There are other strong communities of hope being served by faithful and talented pastors. It was important to be reminded of that, and it was encouraging to be at Columbia Seminary. James Montgomery VANTAGE 1999 Master of Divinity degree graduates and placements David Bonds, pastor, Christ United Presbyterian Church, Memphis TN Janice Clark, English teacher, Kinjo Gaukuin, Naeova [aoan John Cook J v Carol DiGiusto, associate pastor, Palms Presbyterian Church, Jacksonville Beach, FL Cynthia Dixon Maxine Edwards, associate pastor, Parkway Presbyterian Church, Cummin*, G A Alex Feliberty-Ruberte, lecturer in humanities. Community College ol the East, Cabo Rojo, PR, and instructor of religion, Inter-American University ol Puerto Rico, San German, PR Karla Fleshman, new church development, Metropolitan Community Church Philadelphia, PA J Steve Floeck, pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Angleton, TX Richard Floyd, graduate study, Emory University, Atlanta, GA Laurie Furr-Vancini, associate pastor, Hodges Boulevard Presbyterian Church Jacksonville, FL Jamie Gabler, associate pastor, North Avenue Presbyterian Church, Atlanta GA Bill Garrison, pastor, Walkersville Presbyterian Church, Waxhaw NC Susannah Hager Jennifer Ham Ralph Hawkins, pastor, Altavista Presbyterian Church, Altavista, VA NOELLE Henry, parish resident, Second Presbyterian Church, Indianapolis, IN JOE Hinds, resident volunteer, Open Door Community, Atlanta, GA Jennifer Horton Guy Jennings Caroline Kelly Greg KERSHNER, program manager, Interfaith Relations Department, Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston, Houston, TX Shannon Kershner, associate pastor, The Woodlands Community Presbyterian Church, The Woodlands, TX Ok-Kee Kim Sue Kim David Lindsay, associate pastor, Fourth Presbyterian Church, Greenville, SC Gerone Lockhart, graduate study, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ ROB LOHMEYER, student stated supply, Calvary Presbyterian Church, Elberton, GA Gary Lowe, pastor, Ray Memorial Presbyterian Church, Monroe, GA Anna McArthur, associate pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Oxford, MS Keith Miller Melanie Mitchell Lance Mullins Wendy Neff, volunteer in mission, Cook Presbyterian Church, Belfast, Northern Ireland Juliann PUGH, associate pastor, Camp Hill Presbyterian Church, Camp Hill, PA DENNIS Reid, associate pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Bonita Springs, FL David Richardson Ron Sabo, pastor, Pine Grove Presbyterian Church, Greenback, TN, and Baker's Creek Presbyterian Church, Maryville, TN LaDonna SCRUGGS, chaplain, Florida Presbyterian Homes, Lakeland, FL Kyle Segars, copy cataloger, John Bulow Campbell Library, Columbia Seminary Erin Sharp MICKEY Shealy, pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Gallatin, TN Stephanie Shelby, graduate study, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN Meda Stamper, graduate study, Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, NJ JOEL THORNTON, pastor, Hurley Presbyterian Church, Hurley, VA, and Clark Memorial Presbyterian Church, Roseann, VA JULIE Walkup, associate pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Fort Worth, TX BETH YARBOROUGH, associate pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Kingsport, TN Master of Arts (Theological Studies) Virginia Gartrell, Decatur, GA Doctor of Theology dissertations Paul Fulks, Raleigh, NC, "A Typologj ol I oneliness for Pastoral Counseling Russell Jones, Asheville, NC, "Depression and Despair: Towards a Religious Master of Theology "Robert H. Craig, Howford, FL *Li-Shu Huang, Chia-yi, Taiwan SUNGHAKE KlM, Decatur, GA, "An Evaluation of Shamanistic Practices in the Spiritual Life of the Korean Christian Church" TIMOTHY Mallard, Heidelberg, Germany, "Sermon to Sermon: The Prose Sermons of Jeremiah as Narratival Sources for Modern Preaching" Zsolt OtvOs, Gelenes, Hungary, "Judges 5" TIMOTHY SLEMMONS, Tarentum, PA, "Preaching the Dead Ego: An Association of the Living Word" JOSE Luis VELAZCO, Mexico City, Mexico, "The Significance of Dietrich Bonhoeffer for Protestant Christians and Churches in Mexico" James VICTOR, Stone Mountain, GA, "Just Over in the Gloryland: The Recovery of Otherworldliness in Black Theology" "Research course option rather than thesis Psychology of Depression" Doctor of Ministry dissertations BRAD ABUSON, Springfield, VA, "Field ol Blood: A Theological Critique of American Landmine Policy in Light ol the L997 Ottawa Process" Catherine L. Allsbury, I ittle Rock, AR, i he Place of Retired ( lergy in the Life and Mission ol the IVesbvtcn ol Arkaiv... Rick Baggftx .ft. Myers, FL, "Older Adults Ho* rhe> Listenand Respond to the Biblical Narratives, Especially the r..... hies Taught by Jesus, foi Making Meaning in Their Livi David Campbell, Springfield, VA, "I love to Tell TheStoi I (efendine the Faith in the Postmodern Parish WILLIAM COW R, Valdosta, GA, "Using Family Sj stems Concepts for Congregatioii.il Renewal" Pamela Patrick Cole, Marietta, S< "It Is Not What You Are Fating: It Is What Is Eating YOU. The Psalms as a Spiritual Program ol Recover \ horn Compulsive Overeating" TOM DIAMOND, Jacksonville, FL, "Developing a Kev Component I, ,,,,,. Missionary Baptist Church Model ol Miruatrj foi Black Men" Sandra Fox, Douglass ille, GA, "Teens in [rouble: Crossing the Line" Gary Fulton, Raleigh, NC, "A Model for the Evaluation of Ministrj George GriAHi, Nyeri, Kenya, The Prophetic Witness of theChurch in Kenya' Donald Gordon, Ml Olive, NC,"A C on< ise I [istorj of North Carolina Baptists" Kathleen Hall, Clarkesville,C.A, "The Development ol a Curriculum foi High School leens to Engage m an Urban Immersion Experiezi Stephen Hannah, Bessemer City, NC, " I he Narrative: The Centrality ol Si... y to Human Understanding of Self and God \n Exploration into Narrative from Theological, Psychological, <md Homiletical Perspectives" Timothy Hobbs, Duluth, GA, "Solidarity with the Poor as an Expression ol I aithful Discipleship to the vision ol Christ" KENNETH jARVls. Vandalia, MO, "A New Paradigm for Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Sessions" Gloria Jennings, Augusta, GA, "Biblical Women: A Study of the Roots ol Gender Discrimination and Reinterpretation foi the Contemporary I hurch" INEZ JimenEz-Dii [SCH, Guaynabo, PR, "The 1 lymnody of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Puerto Rico: An Example of the Role of Musk in the Formation of Generation Gaps" RAYE JONES, Beaufort, SC, "A Child in Their Midst: Strengthening the Children Sermon" SEUNGTAE LEE, Charlotte, NC, "Justification in Dialog and Its Social Implication: Rethinking the Doctrine of 'Justification by Faith' for Reconciliation in Ministry" Frederick Lewis, Oreland, PA, "The Practice of Reconciliation: A Paradigm for Small Groups" Joseph Martin, Morrow, GA, "Dancing with I labitat The Graceful Yet Sometimes Awkward Relationship of the local Church and I labitat" Doris Mattison, Arcadia, I I , Developing a Wbmanist Model of Children and Youth Enrichment" ANN McCORD, Atlanta, GA, "A Study of the Need for After-School Programs in Light of Changes in Culture and Societ) Amy Morgan, Conyers, GA, "Transforming I .nth in the Transition ol I ife Mie Use of Narrative and Ritual in Adult Christian Education" LlNDA MORGAN, Lincolnton, NC, "An Examination of the Discipline of Pastoral Counseling Reflected in the Practice ol Preaching" Terrjs Neuman, Lakeland, FL, "Images ol Pastoral Ministry for the Contemporary North American Church" JOHN OLIVER, Durham, NC, "Pastoral Knowledge of and Concern for Individuals Suffering Symptoms of Postraumatic Stress Disorder" CRAIG RiKARD, Cordele, CA, "Consultation in the United Methodist Church: Bringing Together Itineracy, Consultation, and Mission" SCOTT ROLLINS, Cleveland, TN, "Renewing Congregational Mission: Transformation Through Education ROBERT SHARMAN, Athens, AL, "Using the Biblical languages in Preaching and Teaching" Ben Sloan, Georgetown, SC, "Spiritual Direction for an Older Adult Group in a Mid-Sized Church" Bradley Smith, Columbia, SC, "An Educational Resource for the Souper Bowl of Caring" Young Song, Bridgewater, NJ, "Developing a Community-Based Methodology that Better Serves the I solving Korean-American Presbyterian Church" Diana Spangler-Crawford, Valdese, NC, "A Model for Forming and Training a Bioethics Committee" DENNIS TEDDER, Clinton, SC, "Building Households of Faith: Parents and Preschoolers Growing in Faith Together" Steven Voris, Alliance, NE, "Teaching the Church How to Offer Intercessory Prayer for Enemies and Evildoers" Ronald Watson, St. Simons, GA, "The Spiritual Guidance of the Adult Children of Divorce" DlANNE Wright, Florence, SC, "African-American Spirituality for Ministry and Mission" FALL 1999 Continuing Education and Lay Institute Calendar For further information or to register for courses, call or write: Rebecca S. Parker, Director of Continuing Education, or Richard S. Dietrich, Director of the Lay Institute of Faith and Life Columbia Theological Seminary, Decatur, GA 30031/404-378-8821. November 7 - December 17 Art Exhibition Opening Reception, 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., November 7. November 8 Reading by poet Anna Babson Carter, author of Strike Root. 7:30 p.m., Harrington Center. November 8-11 When the Honeymoon Is Over: Eighteen Months into the Ministry This seminar will explore the significant transition in ministry after a full year with a congregation and help develop styles of ministry. Leaders: David Dobi and Stephen Cahoon, TAS2TE, Transition and Survival Skills Training Experience. Cost: $165. November 16 Faith and Film Share your theological insights and criticisms as we discuss the film of the month. Leader: Fritz Bogar. Meets every third Tuesday of the month in the Harrington Center, 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. For a list of recent and upcoming movies, call 404/687-4577. Cost: $10 annual dues. December 7 Theology and Literature In a monthly book discussion, learn to read fiction with faith discernment. Leader: Rick Dietrich. Meets every first Tuesday of the month in the Harrington Center, 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. For a list of recent and upcoming books, call 404/687-4577. Cost: $10 annual dues. February 3, 10, 17, 24 Winter Morning Lay School Cost: $30. February 7, 14, 21, 28 Winter Evening Lay School Choose from three courses spanning four Monday evenings. Leaders: Clay Hulet, Walter Brueggemann, Pete Paulsen. Cost: $40. February 8 Certification for Administrative Personnel Polity Cost: $40. February 8, 15, 22, 29 Eucharist and Mission A Lay Institute course offered at First Presbyterian Church in Cartersville, GA. Leaders: Darrell Guder, Catherine Gonzalez. Cost TBA. February 12 Bright Waters: Where Feminism and Spirituality Meet Leader: Carol Lee Flinders. Cost: $65. March 13 Lent Retreat OASIS 2000 A conference on Reformed spirituality for laity and clergy February 28 - March 2, 2000 Atlanta, Georgia All events will be held at First Presbyterian Church, Atlanta. This event is sponsored by six Presbyterian seminaries Austin, Columbia, Johnson C. Smith, Louisville, Pittsburgh, San Francisco The Outreach Foundation, The Christian Faith and Life Program Area of the General Assembly PC(USA), Presbytery of Greater Atlanta, and First Presbyterian Church, Atlanta. Platform speakers include Ben Johnson, John M. Mulder, David Wallace, Andrew Purves, Eugenia Gamble, Walter Brueggemann, Andrew Dreitcer, Stacy Johnson, Kris Haig, Robert Shelton, Douglas Oldenburg. Seminars available: Praying in a Different Way, Spirituality and the Mission of the Church, Building Community through Small Groups, plus eight others. To receive a brochure with registration form, write Oasis 2000, Columbia Seminary, P.O. Box 520, Decatur GA 30031, or call 404/687-4557; fax 404/687-4591. Visit the web site at www.oasis2000.com for complete information. Advent: A season for the soul 1 1 us November 19 workshop for pastors begins the process of prepar- ing for Advent and receiving ideas for enriching the celebration of Advent. The workshop will use Advent texts to explore metaphor and story, allegory and image, scripture and song. The Rev. Suzanne Guthrie will lead the event. She received a degree in spirituality from the Oblate School of theology and leads retreats and schools of prayer throughout the United States. She is the author of Grace's Window, Entering the Seasons of Prayer, and Sacred Day. Her columns have appeared in Christian Century and other journals. Ms. Guthrie is the children's priest at Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Kingston, New York. Cost is $45. For more information or to register, contact 404/687-4562. Art exhibition opens This Fall the Lay Institute of Faith and Life will sponsor the juried exhi- bition, "Violence/Shelter/Sanctuary." "Violence/Shelter/Sanctuary" open* November 7 and run* through December 15. The theme of the exhibi- tion recognizes that we are a country struggling with violence. We are also a country recently at war. The exhibition asks if there is shelter for those weary of the violence. Is there sanctuary for the victims of violence? What images propel us in the right direction? This is the third juried exhibition sponsored by the Lay Institute of works of art that make visual and spiritual statements. For more infor- mation, call 404/687-4577. D January Seminars feature new Columbia faculty members Ii ii January Seminars, January 24-27, 2000 , will feature the new professors who have joined Columbia's faculty in the last two years. These professors bring a wealth of experience in the church and in their academic fields. In this concentrated format, participants will have the opportunity to meet the people who will shape the character and education of Columbia in the future. Workshops to be offered are as follows: Bill Harkins, instructor in pas- toral care and theology, "Leadership: Creating a Healthy Church"; Anna Carter Florence, instructor in preaching and worship, "Performing/ Proclaiming the Word: A Workshop in Scripture Reading for Congregational Worship"; Mark Douglas, instructor in Christian ethics, "Speaking as Christians in the Public Square, or Who Has Claimed Our Voice Since the Christian Coalition?"; Christine Roy Yoder, instructor in Old Testament, "Rebuilding Our House: Community and Theology in the Postextile"; Margit Ernst, instructor in theology, "The Reformed Tradition and Feminist Theologies"; Sharon Mook, assistant professor of pastoral theology and care, "Pastors Under-standing What They Are and Are Not Responsible For"; and Elizabeth Johnson, professor of New Testament, "Water Is Thicker Than Blood." The seminars will offer an oppor- tunity to meet with the professors at an informal gathering as well as in the classroom. Costs range from $50 for a one-day course to $125 for a two-day course. For more information, call 404/687-4562. D Calvin Studies Colloquium scheduled January 28-29, 2000 Continuing a series begun in 1982 in Davidson, North Carolina, Columbia Seminary will sponsor the tenth Colloquium of Calvin Studies on Friday and Saturday, January 28 and 29, 2000. This program on John Calvin's theology is being presented by Columbia's Continuing Education and Advanced Studies Offices. Over the years, the Calvin Colloquium has brought together men and women active in the pastorate, teachers in college, university, and seminary settings, as well as lay people. This year, papers will be given by Herman Selderhuis, Theological University of Apeldoorns, The Netherlands; David Wright, New College, University of Edinburgh; Robert M. Kingdon, University of Wisconsin; J. Wayne Baker, University of Akron; George Hunsinger, Barth Project, Princeton Theological Seminary; Darryl Hart, Westminster Theological Seminary; and other scholars. A Friday evening banquet is planned. Cost for the event is $15, not including the banquet and room and board for those staying on campus. Housing will be offered on a first- come, first-served basis at the semi- nary and at local motels. For more information or to register, call 404/687-4562. VANTAGE Professor Shirley Guthrie Guthrie Scholars program offers reflection, analysis Offered bi-annually at Columbia Seminary, the Guthrie Scholars program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Participants are given the occasion to take one week of their lives to explore issues of interest within their particular ministries. The Guthrie Scholarship is designed to offer persons a week on the Columbia campus to use the resources of the seminary, library, faculty, and facilities to address these questions through the lens of their own particular contexts. The week is a gift of rejuvenation for pastors, Christian educators, lay pastors, judicatory staff, and, in some cases, for lay persons deeply involved in the life of the church. The scholar- ship, named in honor of Professor Shirley Guthrie, offers the opportunity to reflect on what it means to be the church and to embody the Gospel. It offers participants "space to listen to and take seriously their own ideas," comments program director, Rebecca Parker. Room and board are included in the program, leaving travel as the only cost to participants. During the most recent Guthrie Scholarship program, a lay pastor arrived prepared to do research on evangelism, but through study and conversation found an unexpected emphasis on spirituality within the research. Another scholar arrived with a question which he wanted to explore further: "Why aren't youth coming to church?" A third participant used the week to explore an idea that led to an ecumenical hunger project in Michigan. Whatever the situation, thoughtful theological reflection and analysis of the issues are critical steps toward action. This event recognizes gifts in all areas of ministry. The primary qualifi- cation is having a desire to explore a topic which is of interest to the participant as well as relevant to the Reformed tradition. Applicants submit their proposal ideas, and six partici- pants are selected by a committee of the seminary. The program takes place in November and May. The next date, following the November 1999 event, is May 8-12, 2000. For more information or for an application, contact the Office of Continuing Education at 404/687-4562 or email: ParkerR@CTSnet.edu. D Ruth Lovell '00 Barbara Poe, communications, alumni/ae and chinch relations assistant in the Development Office received the Betsey Burgess Staff Award for faithfulness, dedicated service, ami Christian character upholding the seminary's purpose ami mission. With her is Keith Morrison '00, who received the Miss C. Virginia Harrison Award, presented to a senior who is conscientious, responsible, hard working, ami who will make <i great contribution to the Presbyterian Church (USA). The awards were presented at the community-wide lunch after opening convocation. Oldenburg to retire continued from page 1 Covenant Presbyterian Church in Charlotte for 15 years, following 10 years as pastor at Davis Memorial Presbyterian Church in Elkins, West Virginia, and at Covenant Presbyterian Church, Lynchburg, Virginia. His ser- vice to the Presbyterian Church (USA) has continued throughout his presi- dency, as he chaired the denomination's Committee on Theological Education and was last year elected moderator of the 210th General Assembly. A search committee has been formed, consisting of board members, faculty members, a student, and alum- ni/ae. The Rev. Joseph Harvard '66, board member and pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Durham, North Carolina, is chair of the committee. Other members are: Board of Trustees Chair Joanna Adams '79, pastor, Trinity Presbyterian Church, Atlanta; John Aldridge, partner, Long, Aldridge and Norman, Atlanta; Kathryn Summers Bean '01, Rock Hill, South Carolina; Erskine Clarke '66, professor of American religious history; Franklin Colclough, associate executive, New Harmony Presbytery, Sumter, South Carolina; Florida Ellis, clerk of session, First Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, and chair, Board of Directors, FCS Urban Ministries; Catherine Gonzalez, professor of church history; William Morris, chief executive officer and chairman, Morris Communications Corporation, Augusta, Georgia; William Scheu, attorney, Rogers, Towers, Bailey, Jones and Gay, Jacksonville, Florida; Trisha Senterfitt '93, associate pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, Thomas Walker '65, pastor, First Presbyterian Church, Franklin, Tennessee; and John Weirnauer, retired executive, Richway Inc., St. Simons Island, Georgia. Commenting on Oldenburg's tenure and legacy, Board Chair Joanna Adams said, "Throughout the 13 years of his presidency, Douglas Oldenburg has led Columbia Theological Seminary with exceptional vision, uncommon integrity, and consistent good sense. Never has the seminary been stronger as an institution in service to the church. We give thanks to God for President Oldenburg's outstanding legacy of leadership." Columbia begins new year continued from page \ to study in its five degree programs. Forty-six students have entered the Master of Divinity program. The class is 54 percent male, 46 percent female and is one of the youngest classes of the decade. These students come from 16 states and England. Eighty-seven percent of the new students are members of the Presbyterian Church (USA), with seven other denominations also represented. Several members of the entering class have served in volunteer mission programs in England, Ghana, Jerusalem, and Miami, Florida. Others have been church educators, youth ministers, accountants, or employees of Atlantic Monthly and AT&T Seven students have been added to the Master of Arts (MATS) program. Over half of this class is African- American, and none of them is from the PC(USA). The new group of Doctor of Ministry students is composed of 19 persons from five denominations and 12 states. tour new students have entered the Master of Theology program, and one new student has begun the Doctor of Theology degree. This year's international students and scholars come from Korea, South Africa, Jamaica, I lungary, Scotland, Kenya, Italy, Japan, Hong Kong, the Czech Republic, and Congo. Their time of studies at Columbia will range from one month to several years. Recipients of scholarships and awards were announced. Hudnut- Beumler introduced students who are recipients of Columbia, Honor, and Merit Scholarships. The Ludwig Richard Max Dewitz Old Testament Studies Award was given to Susan Buell (MATS '00). The C. Virgin..! Harrison Memorial Fund Award was given to Keith Morrison '00, and the Betsey Burgi-ss Staff Award was presented to Barbara Poe. In 1828, the first five students gathered around Dr. Thomas Goulding's dining room table for classes. The feel- ing of home, the sense of community, and the commitment to solid theologi- cal education are still present today. Katie Ricks '01 FALL 1999 For the Record If you have recent news to contribute to this section, please mail it to the editor, or you may e-mail it to harperj@CTSnet.edu. John Herndon '85, pastor of the Fellowship church in Huntsville, AL, has been endorsed by North Alabama Presbytery as a nominee for moderator of the 212th General Assembly, PC(USA) Laura Dorsey '88 (DMin '93) is chair and founder of Gardens for Peace, an international organization that designates gardens world-wide for meditation and peace Keith Freeman '95 is pastor of the Glenwood, FL, church Jim Cook '97 is associate pastor of Banff Parish church, which is yoked with King Edward church, Banff, Scotland Unyong Kim '94 has received the Ph.D. from Union-PSCE Cameron Murchison, professor of ministry, preached at Friendship church, Athens, GA, and South Highlands church, Birmingham, AL. He was a faculty participant with D.Min. students attending a seminar in China, and led the officers retreat for Druid Hills church, Atlanta, GA, and classes for Commissioned Lay Pastors in Central Florida Presbytery Ray Roberts '84 received the Ph.D. in history and the- ology from Union-PSCE. He is pastor of the Grace church, Jenkintown, PA. ...James Hudnut-Beumler, executive vice president, spoke about Christian stewardship at congregations in Decatur, Atlanta, and Roswell, GA, and Andalusia, AL Preston Shealy '86 is pastor of White Bluff church, Savannah, GA Yvonne Collie- Pendleton '98 is associate pastor of the Memorial church, Roosevelt, NY. Stan Wood, director of the Center for New Church Development (NCD), taught three workshops at the General Assembly, sponsored the national NCD pastor/spouse retreat in Colorado Springs, finalized a draft for the Center's Commissioned Lay Preacher Training for Hispanic NCD pastors for four presbyteries, and met with lead- ers in these presbyteries. He attended Lilly grant meetings on NCD for the twenty-first century and on a study of Generation X NCD's in Seattle. He led a workshop at First church, Savannah, GA. He preached at the Bethany Collegiate church, Havertown, PA, and First church, Cleveland, TN. Wood conducted research on the Northern Outreach Ministry for NCD in Ghana and met with the Presbyterian Church of Ghana. He was keynote speaker, workshop leader, and preacher at the Presbytery of Utah and preached at the Park City, UT, NCD. He also held NCD seminars and consultations with Denver and East Tennessee presbyteries Helen Heffington '98 is associate pastor of First church, Ft. Myers, FL Robert Weathersby '96 is pastor of a new church development in Fort Smith, AR. Darrell Guder, professor of evan- gelism and church growth, attended the German Protestant Kirchentag in Stuttgart. He gave presentations on Martin Luther King, Jr. and on the future of the German established church for the students at the Lutheran residence and for students at the Lutheran Collegiate Foundation, University of Gottingen, Germany. He led a parish renewal retreat for St. John's Church, Magstadt, conducted a study day for youth pastors and workers, Church of Wurttemberg, in Stuttgart-Vaihingen, and co-taught a seminar at Gottingen on the theology of the church's mission in Barth's Church Dogmatics. Guder served as a faculty resource person and panelist at the National Presbyterian Students Conference, Austin Seminary, taught a course for Young Life staff in Florida, and gave two presentations for Los Ranchos Presbytery. He visited the Offices of Percept, Inc., Irvine, CA, concerning the changing context of the church in North America, preached at the Trabuco church, Trabuco Canyon, CA, and gave the keynote address for the annual meeting of the Association of Protestant Churches and Missions in Germany in Tiiringen. Guder has two book reviews in International Bulletin for Missionary Research... Lynn Rubier-Capron '98 is director of Christian education at First church, Pittsford, NY Bill Arnold '66 is associate pastor for senior adults of the Bryn Mawr, PA, church. This follows his 23 years on the faculty of Union- PSCE... Hugh Hamilton '80 is pastor of Trinity church, Pensacola, FL BIRTHS To Beth Shannon '92 and Clay Faulk '94, a daughter, Abigail Savannah, Aug. 3, 1999. To Karen '93 and Jon-Paul Estes, a son, Alexander Marcus, June 20, 1999. To Stephen '95 and Kari Ward Kolmetz '96, a daughter, Sarah Grace, July 18, 1999. To Mickey '99 and Denise Shealy, a son, Phillip Matthew, Sept. 2, 1999. To Holly, assistant treasurer, and Jerry Caswell, a daughter, Jesse Ross, July 21, 1999. DEATHS George F. Swetnam '25 Cert., '28, April 3, 1999. Robert L. Alexander '29, Dec. 22, 1998. J. Walton Stewart '31, July 7, 1999. Thomas H. Grafton '32, Feb. 27, 1999. Joseph K. Parker '36, Oct. 20, 1998. Carl W. Herrick '44, July 5, 1999. Warren Beale '50, April'l5, 1999. Cook W. Freeman '52, April 19, 1999. G. Preston Brown '54, Oct. 28, 1998. Roger A. Gallion '62, May 27, 1999. John H. Allen '65, Sept. 1, 1999. Samuel D. Austin '66, Feb. 11, 1999. Richard M. Slyman '67, Nov. 6, 1998. Bennett Cox 73, Sept. 1, 1999. Sara C. Juengst '83 has published / quipping the Saints: Teacher Training in the Church Ron Cram, associate professor for Christian education, delivered the annual Fahs Lecture in Religious Education in Salt Lake City, reviewed an essay in Journal of Religious Education, and led a discussion at Presbytery of Greater Atlanta's Christian education meeting. He led programs at Westminster church, Atlanta, GA, and Eastminster church, Stone Mountain, GA. Cram was nominated president- elect of the Religious Education Association. He is teaching a class on Christian formation for Spring Hill College's extension campus in Atlanta Andy Walton '92 directed a Montreat Youth Conference in June Pablo Jimenez (DMin '95) is national Hispanic pastor for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), based in Indianapolis Tully Hunter '90 is pastor of Colonial Heights church, Kingsport, TN Drew Tomberlin '87 and Kim White were married in October '98 at the Geneva, GA, church. ...Don Winborne '95 is associate pastor at the Bethany church, Rochester, NY... Rebecca Parker, director of continuing education, spoke to the Roswell, GA, Presbyterian Women's gathering Russell McKee '93 is pas- tor of the Bethany church, Covington, GA Linda Dickerson '88 (DMin '98) is pastor of Northside church, Blacksburg, VA. She and the Rev. Doug Rathjen were married recently. ...Joy White Pruett '95, a member of the General Assembly Resource Team for Spiritual Formation and parish associate at the Nacoochee, GA, church, co-led a seminar on Sabbath- keeping for Princeton Seminary's con- tinuing education program, directed the Montreat Spirituality Conference in April, served as worship leader for the Leadership Skills Conference and as spiritual director for the Peacemaking Conference. Kathleen O'Connor, professor of Old Testament, taught a course on Job for the spirituality program at the Birmingham, MI, Retreat and Conference Center. She taught a course in Dublin, Ireland, for a Roman Catholic Bible institute. O'Connor's book, which she co-edited with AR. Pete Diamond and Louis Stulman, Troubling Jeremiah, has been printed by Sheffield Academic Press Martha Jane Petersen '87 helped found the Arts Committee at Columbia, has had three fabric pieces exhibited in sacred arts exhibitions in Texas and Georgia, and is parish associate at St. Andrews church, Tucker, GA Brian Rummage '96 is associate pastor of the Quail Hollow church, Charlotte, NC Dan Youngblood '66 is pastor of Limestone church in Gaffney, SC Chuck Campbell, associate professor of homiletics, led worship at the Open Door Community, taught a class at Mt. Vernon church, Atlanta, GA, keynoted and led a workshop for the Presbyterian Leadership Training Day for Presbytery of Memphis, and was the speaker at a retreat for pastors and educators of the Moravian Church, South. Campbell preached at Ray Memorial church, Monroe, GA; First church, Stuttgart, AR; and Hopewell church, Florence, SC Anna Carter Florence, instructor of preaching and worship, preached for the Chicago chapter of "That All May Freely Serve" and at the Village Church, Annisquam, MA, during the summer. John Knapp (MATS '95) received the Ph.D. in moral theology from the University of Wales (U.K.) David Snellgrove '73 is the new executive for Synod of Living Waters Tom Malone '71 is associate pastor at the Fountain Inn, SC, church Michael Chaney '95 is associate pastor for education at First Christian Church, Tucker, GA David Jones '94 (MAYM '88) is pastor of Harpeth church, Brentwood, TN Rusty Douglas '80 is pastor First church, Greenwood, MS Randolph Kowalski '60 was honored by First church, Greenville, SC, on his twenty-fifth anniversary as pastor Billy Robinson '97 is pastor of the St. Andrews church, Charlotte Kevin Campbell '98 is pastor of the Raeford, NC, church. Alumni/ae Distinguished Service Award Each year during Colloquium, the Alumni/ae Association presents the Distinguished Service Award to two alumni/ae. To nominate an alumus/a for this award, send the name of the nominee, address, phone numbers, and current position. In addition, send reason(s) for the nomination, being as specific as possible. Please include your name, address, phone numbers, and current position. Mail to Richard DuBose, Vice President for Development, Columbia Seminary, P.O. Box 520, Decatur, GA 30031, call 404/687-4568, or send email to duboser@CTSnet.edu. The deadline is December 31. Vantage Volume 91, No. 2, Fall 1999 Published quarterly by Columbia Theological Seminary Circulation: 28,000 The Office of Institutional Advancement 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 Patrick Miller, right, the Charles I l laley Professor of Old Testament Theology at Princeton Theological Seminary, was Columbia's Lecturer. His topic ivas "The Ten Commandments: Foundation and Framework for Biblical Ethics." With him is his brother-in-law, George McMaster '53 (ThM '55). From the Bookstore No. of copies Retail price Columbia price New titles by Columbia Faculty: Imagining a Church in the Spirit: A Task for Mainline Congregations by Ben Campbell Johnson and Glen McDonald $16.00 $13.60 Other titles of interest: For the Healing of the Nations: The Book of Revelation in an Age of Cultural Conflict by Justo L. Gonzalez $15.00 $12.75 Book of Occasional Services: A Liturgical Resource $17.00 $14.45 Supplementing the Book of Common Worship, 1993 Prepared by The Office of Theology and Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Total amount for books Shipping and handling: (orders under $20.00, add $4.50; orders from $20.00 to $49.99, add $6.00; orders $50.00 and over, add $7.50). 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/ No vus# 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, G A 30031. Bill Adams 56 1931-1999 Former chair oi Columbia's Board ol Directors William A. Adams died or June 15, 1999, at theageol 68 \tter graduating .is his high school valedic- torian, Adams went on to graduate with honors from I ).n idson College in 1952 and Columbia Seminary in 1956. He was pastor of the West Point, Georgia, Presbyterian Church from 1956-1962 and First Presbyterian Church of Athens, Georgia, from 1962-1972. In W67, he served as moderator oi the Synod of Georgia. Prom lanuary 1973 until his retirement in Decemb. i L99 Adams served as executive prestn In and stated clerk of the Presb) ter) ol Greater Atlanta In l L >74, Presbyterian Collet- awarded Adams the Doctor o\ Divinit) degree. Columbia Seminar) honored Adams with the Distinguished Sen Award in 1997. He was chail Ol Columbia's board from 1983 until 1989. During those years, he served as a member of the Presidential Search Committee which brought Douglas Oldenburg to Columbia as its seventh president. When Adams retired from Columbia's board, President Oldenburg said, "I am deeply indebted to Bill Adams for his marvelous support during my first years at c olumbia He has helped make the transition ,i smooth one. His knowledge of the Presbyterian Church in the Southeast, his long experience with Columbia, his Daughdrill '67 retires as college president James H. Daughdrill '67 has retired as president of Rhodes College, where he served for 26 years Following his arrival in 1973, there was steady growth at Rhodes. Among the noteworthy accomplishments is the $454 million growth in assets during his tenure. skill .is ,i moderator, and his personal support and concern have been in\ aluable to me. rhanks be i>> * lod for raising up prrsons like Bill Adam ! Adams is survived by his v\ \\<- Shirley Ford Adams 77, six childfl n and three grandchildren I uneral were held at St. Luke's i lyterian Church, Dunwo. Georgia, on |une 17 InU-nncnl \ at the Adams family plot in Sene. ,i. South C arolina. 1 >.n Lson Philip! president emeritus ol I 'olumbia, officiated. Other participants in the servin' included Christopher Price '79, I hilton [horington '56, Harry Beverh '58, Albert Reese 'aft, the Rev. Edwin Albright, and John Roark '64. I le has been elected to the National ( ommerce Bancorporatu >n u ha h operates the Nasdaq sti m I index. In naming him to the presti- giou i post, Nasdaq offi< ials said, "Jim has built Rhodes C ollege Into one ol the top 10 small colleges in the coun- try ind one oi the top 1 1 ID colleges and universities in the nation Bill llarkms, Columbia's new instructor m pastoral theology and care, is a Rhodes graduate 1 1< >aysol I taughdlill, "Jim has been largeh responsible for the transformation >>i a small regional < (.Urge into a national liberal arts college known for academic excellence. The example he provided by his own life of faith and bv his willingness to settle for nothing less than academic and personal integrity has served as a wonderful role model for countless students. I was fortunate to be one of those students." When reflecting on his time at C olumbia, Daughdrill observes that the intellectual stimulation was note- worthy and that Columbia provided a time for "great faith and growth." His current Columbia connections began his freshman year at Davidson College, when he met his roommate, Douglas Oldenburg. Furthermore, Charles Cousar '58 and Daughdrill were high school and college friends Daughdrill and his wife, Libby, have retired in Memphis. Ruth Lovell '00 FALL 1999 Colloquium 2000 April 24-26 Colloquium 2000: Worship and Music in the Twenty-First Century will feature as keynote speakers Don Saliers, professor of preaching and worship at Emory University, and Marva Dawn, theologian, author, educator. Thomas Troeger, professor of preaching and communications at Iliff School of Theology, is the preacher. The following is a list of leaders and workshops offered Tuesday afternoon, April 25: Tom Troeger and David Hurd Creating and Designing Worship: A Lab School David Batchelder The Home as Family Church: Where We Sow the Seeds of Church Randi/ Rowland Designing Contemporary Worship Services Marva Dawn Sabbath Keeping for Clergy as a Resource to Creating Worship /. Frederick Holper Reformed Worship: Living in Time and History, Our Reformed Liturgical Roots Aimee Buchanan, Bill Buchanan, and ]odi Martin Worship and Youth Paul Detterman Music in the Worship Service: Tough Choices Deborah McKinlcu Worship Ideas in the Church Year Porter Remington Anthem Reading for Musicians TBA Preaching in the Church of the Millennium Sidney Fowler Imagination and Creativity: Their Role in Worship Plus, alumni /ae events and reunions. For more information, call 404/687-4566. John Conant has served Columbia in numerous ways. A member of the Board of Trustees, he chaired that group from 1989 through 1995. He also chaired Columbia's capital campaign for $34 million, which was, at the time, the largest capital campaign in theological education. Columbia's award is given to a lay person whose gifts of time, talents, and leadership within the seminary community and the wider church have been exemplary. Columbia presents first Distinguished Lay Leadership Award At its Founders Dinner in October, Columbia Theological Seminary pre- sented John A. Conant of Atlanta with its first Distinguished Lay Leadership Award. A graduate of Yale University, Conant serves on the board of Atlanta Interfaith Broadcasters, is a life director of the Robert W. Woodruff Arts Center and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra League, and is a trustee of Hillside Specialty Psychiatric Hospital. From 1979 to 1984, Conant was chair of the board of Metropolitan Atlanta Boys Clubs, Inc. Conant is a member and trustee of Trinity Presbyterian Church in Atlanta. That church is funding a faculty chair at Columbia, the Miriam H. and John A. Conant Chair of Worship, which will honor the lifelong contributions of the Conants to the church and enable Columbia to expand its offerings in the area of worship, arts, and music. Vantage P.O. Box 520 Decatur, Georgia 30031 404/378-8821 www.CTSnet.edu CONTENTS President Oldenburg to retire 1 Columbia begins new year 1 Letter from retiring President Oldenburg 2 Professor/ Pastor exchanges 2 1999 placements and dissertation titles 3 Continuing Education /Lay Institute calender 4 Continuing Education /Lay Institute offerings 4 Oasis 2000 4 Guthrie Scholars 5 For the Record 6 Alumni/ae Distinguished Service Award 6 Tribute to William Adams '56 7 Daughdrill '67 retires as Rhodes president 7 From the Bookstore 7 Colloquium 2000 8 Distinguished Lay Leadership Award 8 COLUMBIA THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY Periodicals Postage Paid at Decatur, GA Publication No. 124160