Correspondence Directory Address: Lexington Theological Seminary, 631 South Limetone Street, Lexington, KY 40508 Web site: www.lextheo.edu Telephone Number: 859-252-0361 Toll Free: 866-296-6087 Fax Number: 859-281-6042 Academic Programs Rich Lowery, Interim Dean, Ext. 1256, rlowery@lextheo.edu Admissions Barton Hanna, Director of Admissions, Ext. 1238, bhanna@lextheo.edu Alumni/ae Affairs James M. Wray. Jr., Vice President for Advancement, Ext. 1245, swray@lextheo.edu Campus Maintenance..Charles Redmon, Physical Plant Director, Ext. 1244, credmon@lextheo.edu Continuing Education William Turner, Director of Continuing Education, Ext. 1253, bturner@lextheo.edu Disability Services.Dabney Parker, Registrar, Ext. 1259, dparker@lextheo.edu Enrollment/Registration.Dabney Parker, Registrar, Ext. 1259, dparker@lextheo.edu Field Education Steven Monhollen, Director, Ext. 1267, smonhollen@lextheo.edu Financial Support.James M. Wray, Jr., Vice President for Advancement, Ext. 1245, swray@lextheo.edu Housing.Robin Varner, Director of Housing/Administrative Assistant, Ext. 1242, rvarner@lextheo.edu News and Information..Walter Johnson, Director of Information Services, Ext. 1246, wjohnson@lextheo.edu Library Barbara Pfeifle, Acting Library Director and Director of Technical Services, Ext. 1224, bpfeifle@lextheo.edu M.A. Programs for Roman Catholic Students..Margaret N. Ralph, Director, Ext. 1219, mralph@lextheo.edu Student Services Dabney Parker, Registrar, Ext. 1259, dparker@lextheo.edu The Lexington Seminar..Malcolm L. Warford, Director, 540-887-8121, warfordm@verizon.com Transcripts..Dabney Parker, Registrar, Ext. 1259, dparker@lextheo.edu Lexington Theological Seminary does not discriminate in matters of hiring, admission, academic issues, or student affairs on the basis of race, color, gender, disability, age, or national origin. Lexington Theological Seminary reserves the right to change programs, policies, procedures, calendars or other provisions contained in this or other Seminary documents without prior notice. The Catalog is issued for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between the Seminary and any individuals or entities. Additional information is available from the Student Handbook or in the Registrar s Office. Lexington Theological Seminary is an accredited member of The Association of Theological Schools, 10 Summit Park Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15275-1103 (412-788-6505). The Seminary is also accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033 (404-679-4500).
A Letter from the President The purpose of Lexington Theological Seminary is to prepare faithful leaders for the church of Jesus Christ and, thus, to strengthen the church s participation in God s mission for the world. Our community seeks to be faithful to this mission by being a graduate school for church leadership. Since 1865, the Seminary has been educating God s people, both those moving toward ordained ministry and those committed to lay leadership in the church. Because we are related to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the Seminary inherently maintains an ecumenical spirit. This is reflected not only in denominational diversity but in the inter-faith inclusiveness of the student body, faculty, staff, trustees, and curriculum. Lexington Theological Seminary just might be the place for you if you have made a commitment to prepare yourself for a career in church leadership; if you want to explore the vocation of Christian ministry; or even if you simply want an opportunity to study Christianity in a disciplined way. Regardless of where you are in this quest, you will find our Seminary community a warm and welcoming place. Please examine this catalog carefully. Then contact us for a personal visit to the campus. James P. Johnson President 1
Table of Contents Overview Overview...3...3 Admissions Admissions...9...9 Financial Financial Information Information...12...12 Continuing Continuing Education...13 Education...13 Student Student Services Services...14...14 Community Community Life Life...16...16 Academic Academic Programs Programs...17...17 Faculty Faculty and and Staff Staff...22...22 Adjunct, Adjunct, Emeriti/ae Emeriti/ae Faculty Faculty and and Staff Staff...32...32 Academic Academic Calendar...32 Calendar...32 Administration...33 Administration...33 Staff Staff Registry...34 Registry...34 Board Board of of Trustees Trustees...35...35 Alumni/ae Alumni/ae Association...38 Association...38 Maps Maps...39...39 2
Ov e rv i e w Lexington Theological Seminary is an accredited graduate theological institution of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Consistent with the Disciples historic commitment to Christian unity, the Seminary is intentionally ecumenical with almost 50 percent of its enrollment coming from other denominations. The faculty, staff, and trustees are likewise ecumenical, having members from various traditions. The Seminary has been preparing leaders for the church since 1865. Pu r p o s e The purpose of Lexington Theological Seminary is to prepare faithful leaders for the church of Jesus Christ and, thus, to strengthen the church s participation in God s mission for the world. The Seminary is an integral part of the church. Its principal aim is to prepare women and men of varied backgrounds and traditions for ordained and other forms of ministry. Another aim of the Seminary is to serve the church as a theological resource and as a center of continuing education for ordained ministers and lay leaders. The faculty and trustees of Lexington Theological Seminary understand ministry to be both a divine calling and a learned profession. Preparation for such ministry at Lexington Theological Seminary takes place in at least three ways that are interdependent: Theological Formation. Education for ministry requires the study of scripture and its interpretation, the study of the history and theological traditions of the universal church, and the development of the ability to relate the gospel to issues of contemporary society. The Seminary is committed to preparing leaders who are able to think critically and creatively about the Christian faith. Pastoral Formation. Education for ministry also requires that students unite their own unique qualities as persons with specific pastoral and leadership skills, including preaching, leadership in worship, counseling, teaching, administration, and promotion of social change consistent with the gospel. Supervised field education, required of all Master of Divinity students, provides opportunities to think theologically about ministry, to develop qualities of leadership, and to deepen pastoral identity. Spiritual Formation. Preparation for ministry occurs not only through course work and field education but through participation in a seminary community of regular worship and fellowship. Spiritual discipline, ethical responsibility, and sensitivity to the global human situation are emphasized. In short, the Seminary s intention is to graduate persons who: live in trustful, joyful awareness of God s love for all creation; have deepened their love of God, strengthened their commitment to the Lordship of Jesus Christ,and grown more open to the leading of the Holy Spirit; affirm that their ministry takes place within a particular tradition as well as within the church in all times and places; seek to discern the work of God in the problems and possibilities of a rapidlychanging, pluralistic world; understand that ministry involves who one is as well as what one does; are able to think clearly, communicate effectively, and act compassionately as leaders in the church; and strive, in all things, to give glory not to themselves but to God. 3
Overview Academic Programs In order to fulfill its purpose, Lexington Theological Seminary offers the following graduate degrees: Master of Divinity. The M.Div. is a professional degree designed to help men and women preparing for Christian ministry. This degree is required for ordination by many denominations. Doctor of Ministry. The D.Min. degree is for ministers who have already completed the M.Div. and who desire to improve and integrate their theological understanding and pastoral skills. Master of Arts. The M.A. is a program designed to prepare women and men for a wide variety of ministries including advanced graduate study in one of the theological disciplines. Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies. This degree is for Roman Catholics who are preparing for lay ministries in the parish. The Seminary s primary focus is on preparation for pastoral ministry in the congregation, but its programs of study may also prepare persons for such specialized ministries as Christian education, youth ministry, institutional chaplaincy, and campus ministry. In addition, Lexington provides educational experience for those who anticipate further graduate study toward a teaching ministry in colleges or seminaries. Along with offering degree programs, the Seminary, as an integral part of the life and mission of the church, is called to provide various forms of continuing theological education for clergy and laity and to serve as a theological resource and intellectual stimulus for the church and the surrounding community. The Seminary is constantly attentive to the best scholarship in religion and other academic disciplines and its faculty engages in scholarly research and publication. These activities are understood to be for the sake of the church and its witness to God. An Ecumenical Tradition Lexington Theological Seminary is an ecumenical seminary of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). While maintaining a spirit that is deeply ecumenical, the Seminary enjoys a special relationship with and responsibility to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Indeed, the Disciples commitment to Christian unity is both the historical source and present guarantor of the Seminary s continuing ecumenical tradition. Therefore, a particular concern for Disciples heritage and future vitality is expressed through course offerings, continuing education events, and faculty publications as well as in the regular involvement of the Seminary community in the local, regional, and general manifestations of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The Seminary takes pride that generations of Disciples leaders have received their theological education in its halls. At the same time Lexington Theological Seminary thankfully embraces in its students, faculty, staff, and trustees a wide variety of denominations and theological perspectives. This ecumenical identity is also expressed through participation in the Theological Education Association of Mid-America (TEAM-A), a consortium of five graduate theological schools affiliated with five different denominations, and the sharing of campus space with the Baptist Seminary of Kentucky. The academic program offers support for students to study abroad and invites international scholars to be a part of the faculty. The 4
Overview Seminary believes that the dialogue created by such diversity greatly enhances the preparation of leadership for the church. Being ecumenical also means that the Seminary is oriented toward God s whole world, an orientation signified by concern for racial, sexual, and cultural inclusiveness in the Seminary s community and curriculum. Ac c r e d i tat i o n Lexington Theological Seminary is accredited by and a charter member of The Association of Theological Schools, the official accrediting agency for theological institutions in the United States and Canada. The Seminary is also accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. ATS and SACS/COC accept only inquires regarding accreditation status. Re s o u r c e s Over the years, the Seminary has developed several particular strengths in its attempts to fulfill its purpose. Students. Lexington Theological Seminary is proud of the diverse nature of its student body which numbers over 140 during the course of an academic year with more than 12 different denominations represented. Approximately 50 percent of the students come from a denomination other than the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Students come from across the United States, representing 25 states. Over half of the students are women and over 10 percent are ethnic minorities. Faculty. The faculty consists of 12 regularly appointed positions augmented by a number of adjunct and visiting professors, lecturers, and supervisors. They are scholars in their fields, performing research that annually leads to the publishing of books and articles. The faculty are also well known for their dedication to teaching, accessibility to students, and church involvements. Library. The Bosworth Memorial Library at Lexington has close to 180,000 volumes and regularly receives over 1,000 periodicals from around the world. Additional volumes are available through agreements with other institutions, including the University of Kentucky. Church relationships. The Seminary s students currently serve approximately 80 congregations and other organizations in central Kentucky, a sign of the unusually close relationship between seminary and church which has characterized this school throughout its history. The Seminary also enjoys official connection with 11 regions of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Community life. Lexington Theological Seminary is a residential campus of approximately 60 apartments, townhouses, and efficiencies which contributes to a strong sense of community. Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to gather for worship, special programs or informal fellowship. Community life takes place on a six and one-half acre campus with the library, administration/ classroom building, chapel, fellowship hall, and M.Div. students Paula Fay and Tina Glosson prepare to welcome new students. 5
Overview housing units. The white-columned Georgian architecture is set against large green lawns and trees. Lexington environment. The Seminary is enriched by its Lexington location, site of the Kentucky Council of Churches, and the Regional Office of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Kentucky. Lexington is also the center of one of the nation s highest concentrations of Disciples congregations and is an area of great historical importance for that Church. Historic Cane Ridge Meeting House Shrine is located in neighboring Bourbon County. Lexington, a city of over 270,000 residents, offers the beauty of tree-lined streets, wide boulevards, shopping opportunities, and a generous offering of music and theatre. The city is set within a countryside that is world famous for the beauty of the rolling green pastures of its horse farms accented by plank and stone fences. Students also benefit from the proximity of the Seminary to the University of Kentucky with its library, concerts, lectures, and other activities. Commitment to well-rounded ministry. The Seminary attempts to integrate theological study, ministerial practice, and personal faith formation. Ideally, every course contributes directly to the formation for ministry and the practice of ministry. Likewise, every field experience provides opportunity for theological reflection and for relating one s own leadership to that of the church in other times and places. Scholarship Opportunities The Seminary offers a number of scholarships every year. These named scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate strong academic ability, community involvement, promise for ministry and leadership experience. The amount of the scholarships ranges from $4,000 to $14,000 per year. Sensitivity to public issues. Members of the Seminary community have been deeply involved in movements for racial integration, fair housing, and alleviating problems of the homeless in the Lexington area. Others have contributed to national discussions on such matters as peace and the welfare of children. These concerns are regularly addressed in course work, special projects, and Seminary convocations. Alumni/ae support. Graduates of Lexington Theological Seminary have a reputation for being particularly loyal. Such loyalty can be seen in both nurturing persons for ministry and regular financial support. Heritage of Seminary leadership. Since 1865 the school has been blessed with trustees and administrators of vision who have laid a solid foundation for current growth. Heritage of producing leaders for the church. Alumni/ae of Lexington Theological Seminary have served churches throughout the United States and in numerous other countries. Graduates of the Seminary have also held leadership positions such as General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and have served as heads of many of that Church s general units. Many of the Disciples regional ministers are former students of this institution. Members of the Seminary s faculty and administration have served as leaders of national and world ecumenical organizations. 6
Overview A Pioneer Institution The Seminary is the pioneer theological institution of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and is located within the Bluegrass region of Kentucky where much of the Disciples early history occurred. It has played a vital role in the Church s development. Lexington Theological Seminary is the lineal descendant of the Department of Hebrew Literature in Bacon College, founded in 1836. With the rechartering of Bacon College in 1858 under the name of Kentucky University, the biblical department was considerably expanded and renamed the School of Biblical Literature and Moral Sciences. In 1865 Kentucky University moved from Harrodsburg to Lexington, merged with Transylvania University, and was rechartered to include the government-supported Agricultural and Mechanical College alongside the churchrelated liberal arts college and seminary (The College of the Bible). Lexington Theological University of Kentucky. Similarly, The College of the Bible separated formally from the liberal arts college in 1878 and the latter reclaimed its historic name, Transylvania University, in 1908. The College of the Bible occupied buildings on the campus of Kentucky University (Transylvania University) until 1950, when it moved to its present location. At its centennial in 1965, The College of the Bible was renamed Lexington Theological Seminary. Thus three institutions of higher education in Lexington are of the same background: Transylvania University, University of Kentucky, and Lexington Theological Seminary. Lexington Seminary and Transylvania are members of the Division of Higher Education of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). In 1936 the school began requiring a bachelor s degree from an accredited college for admission, thus becoming strictly a graduate institution. Two years later the Seminary played a leading role in the formation of The Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, the official accrediting agency of theological institutions. The Seminary also established the first chair of religious education in the nation, instituted one of the first courses on the ecumenical church, and was the first seminary in the United States to offer clinical pastoral training as a part of its curriculum. The College of the Bible was located on the Transylvania Campus until 1950. Seminary dates its founding from this 1865 event. In 1878 the state College of Agricultural and Mechanical Arts separated from Kentucky University and, through a series of name changes, eventually emerged as the present Re l at i o n s h i p s w i t h Other Organizations Theological Education Association of Mid-America (TEAM-A). This association of graduate theological schools is composed of Asbury Theological Seminary, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Saint Meinrad School of Theology, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, and Lexington Theological Seminary. There are nearly 200 members of TEAM- A s combined faculties, representing expertise in many different disciplines. A special January 7
Overview inter-term allows students to attend another TEAM-A seminary on a full-time basis for three weeks, taking one course and sharing in another school s tradition. University of Kentucky. Advanced work in Clinical Pastoral Education is available at the University of Kentucky s A. B. Chandler Medical Center. This work leads to greater expertise in counseling and may qualify as credit toward certification as a chaplain by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education. A double-competence program in ministry and social work allows students to earn the Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies, or Master of Arts degree from the Seminary and the Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kentucky in less time than it would take to earn the degrees separately. An agreement with the University of Kentucky Sanders-Brown Center on Aging allows Seminary students to earn a certificate in gerontology. Appalachian Ministries Educational Resource Center (AMERC). This consortium of 40 seminaries provides academic study for the preparation of church leaders who wish to serve in the Appalachian region. Hispanic Summer Program is an ecumenical program in theology and religion. It offers two weeks of study and fellowship with Latina/o peers, and professors. This two-week program is held on one of the campuses of its 38 sponsoring schools such as Duke Divinity School, Fuller Theological Seminary, Oblate School of Theology and other institutions. M.Div. student Marsha Charles reports on her summer immersion travel experience. Roman Catholic Church. The Seminary offers a Master of Arts program geared to the needs of Catholic students and planned in consultation with the Office of Catholic Education of the Catholic Diocese of Lexington. The Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies prepares Roman Catholics for lay ministry at a diocesan or parish level. Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF). Lexington Seminary offers courses in Baptist history and polity which cover a broad range of traditions. Baptist students whose values and ministerial goals are compatible with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship may be eligible for scholarships from that church body. The Baptist Seminary of Kentucky (BSK), which is related to CBF, shares campus space with LTS. Each seminary maintains its own identity, traditions, and financial assets. Presbyterian Church (USA). Lexington Theological Seminary has a strong working relationship with the Committee on the Preparation for Ministry of the Transylvania Presbytery. Courses on Presbyterian theology, worship, and polity history are offered on a regular basis. 8
Ad m i s s i o n s Admission to Lexington Theological Seminary is based on academic record, promise for ministry, and ledership potential. An Admissions committee composed of the dean, faculty members, and the director of admissions evaluates applications. The decisions are based on information from the application, transcripts, references, and essay. Students transferring from other schools must have left in good standing. Delay of Admission An applicant who has been accepted for admission and wants to delay entrance to the Seminary for up to one year shall request the extension in writing from the director of admissions. This must be done before the original entry date and shall include the reasons for the delay. If more than one year has passed from the approved term of entry, the applicant shall update the application and reapply to the Admissions Committee. Readmission to the Seminary Approved applicants who decide not to attend Lexington must update the application and reapply to the Admissions Committee should they later desire to attend. Students re-admitted do so under the requirements specified in the Catalog at the time of their re-entry. De g r e e Pr o g r a m Re q u i r e m e n t s All requirements for admission shall be met by July 1 for a fall entry and by December 1 for a spring entry. Degree program students do not begin study during the January or Summer Sessions. Students seeking admission to a degree program shall provide the following in a complete admissions packet: Application form Official transcripts from all post-second- ary schools attended Essay Reference forms All students are expected to have a good command of the English language. For those whose first language is not English, documentation of a TOEFL paper test score of at least 600, a computer test score of 250 or higher, or internet test score of 100 is required. Application Fee A bachelor's degree from an institution accredited by an organization recognized by the Department of Education (or international equivalent) is required of all applicants. A firm grounding in liberal arts generally provides good preparation for seminary studies. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required for admission consideration. In addition to academic record, considerations for Master of Divinity applicants include experience in a local church, sense of call, denominational recognition, and general promise for ministry. M.Div. students should be persons of Christian faithfulness and possess qualities that would indicate promise for effective ministry or service in the Christian denomination of their choosing. 9
Admissions Applicants for the M.A. in Pastoral Studies for Roman Catholics must meet with the program director prior to admission. Applicants for the Doctor of Ministry degree must have a Master of Divinity degree with at least a 3.25 GPA average from an institution accredited by an organization recognized by the United States Department of Education (or international equivalent). They must be currently engaged in the practice of ministry, have at least three years of ministerial experience beyond seminary graduation, and have the support of the congregation or organization being served. Persons accepted in the Doctor of Ministry program must begin the program in a fall semester. Non-Degree Requirements Visiting Students Visiting students are those seeking a graduate degree at another institution but wishing to take courses towards or complete that degree at Lexington Theological Seminary. All requirements for admission must be met by July 1 for a fall entry, December 1 for a January or spring entry and April 1 for summer entry. Requirements include: Application form Official Transcripts from all postsecondary schools attended. (Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an institution accredited by the Department of Education or international equivalent.) A brief statement of the reasons for attending LTS A recommendation from the home school's dean or registrar which indicates the student is in good standing and details requirements to be met including the number of hours to be completed in Lexington. All students are expected to have a good command of the English language. For those whose first language is not English, documentation of a TOEFL paper test score of at least 600, a computer test score of 250 or higher, or internet test score of 100 is required. Special Students Special students are those who are not seeking a degree at Lexington Theological Seminary or elsewhere, but wish to further their theological education. Special students may be admitted to take up to, but not exceed 27 hours. If a student later desires admission beyond the specified courses, application must be made in another category. All requirements for admission must be met by July 1 for fall entry, December 1 for a January or spring entry and April 1 for summer entry. Requirements include: Application form Official transcripts from all postsecondary schools attended. (Applicants must have a bachelor's degree from an institution accredited by the Department of Education or international equivalent.) Essay Reference forms All students are expected to have a good command of the English language. For those whose first language is not English, documentation of a TOEFL paper test score of at least 600, a computer test score of 250 or higher, or internet test score of 100 is required. 10
Admissions All students are expected to have a good command of the English language. For those whose first language is not English, documentation of a TOEFL paper test score of at least 600, a computer test score of 250 or higher, or internet test score of 100 is required. International students like Arvind Peter of Katni, India, bring diverse positions to classroom discussions. Provisional Students Provisional students are those who are not seeking a degree at Lexington Theological Seminary or elsewhere but wish to take a specific course or series of up to three courses. If a student later desires admission beyond the specified courses, application must be made in another category. Provisional status is not intended as a "bridge" to programs for which deadlines have not been met. All requirements for admission must be met two calendar weeks prior to the term of admission. Requirements include: Application form An official transcript from an institution accredited by the Department of Education or international equivalent which granted the bachelors degree A letter indicating the reasons the applicant wants to take the course(s) Two references must come from two of three areas: academia, church, professional TEAM-A TEAM-A students are those who regularly attend one of the other schools in the consortium. They are automatically eligible for courses to be taken during the J-Term exchange. Admission can be approved for other terms on agreement between the registrars of both schools. If it is the desire of the student to complete a degree begun at one of the other schools, the student must apply as a visiting student. Donovan Scholars Donovan Scholars are students participating in the approved program for senior citizens at the University of Kentucky. Donovan Scholars are automatically admitted to take on-campus classes. Should a Donovan Scholar desire a degree, the full application process must be completed. St u d e n t Sp o u s e, Al u m n i/a e, Alumni/ae Spouse Alumni/ae of Lexington Theological Seminary, their spouses, and spouses of current students are automatically admitted to audit courses. If credit is desired or a degree sought, application must be made in the appropriate category. 11
Financial Information Educational Expenses Expenses for attendance at Lexington Theological Seminary include tuition, books, general living expenses, and various fees such as: audit, late, student, technology, graduation, project, and housing. All expenses are subject to change each academic year. Please contact the Business Office for current tuition and fees. Financial Aid Financial aid is available to students who file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Aid is in the form of grants and student loans are available to qualifying students. File your FAFSA on-line at www.fafsa. ed.gov and return a copy of the processed results to be sent to LTS by entering the school code G01971. For financial aid questions contact Erika Smith director of admissions, toll free at (866) 296-6087or (859) 280-1238 or esmith@ lextheo.edu. Guaranteed Student Loans Guaranteed student loans are available to Lexington theological Seminary students. Application forms are available from the assistant treasurer. VA Lo a n s Lexington Theological Seminary is an approved school for students who are eligible for Veterans Administration Benefits. Liability and Insurance Students are expected to provide, at their expense, insurance protection for health and accident, property damage, and personal liability. Named Scholarships The Seminary offers a number of named scholarships every year. These named scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate strong academic ability, community involvement, promise for ministry and leadership experience. The amounts of the scholarship range from $4,000 to $14,000 per year. Em p l o y m e n t Almost 100 percent of field education positions in congregations are compensated. LTS offers a limited number of stipends to students who wish to experience education in a non-church setting. On-campus employment opportunities are also available. Central Christian Church, Newark, Ohio, provides scholarships that enable these students to attend LTS and prepare for service as Christian ministers. 12
Continuing Education Resource for the Church The Seminary understands itself to be a theological resource center for the church. Accordingly, educational programs for clergy and laity are designed to enhance the life of the church while providing learning opportunities for specific constituencies of the church. Continuing education units as recommended by the Society for the Advancement of Con- tinuing Education for Ministry (SACEM) are awarded for all programs upon request of the participant. Continuing Education courses are not available for degree credit. Annual programs offered include the Lay School of Theology (LST@LTS), Elders Workshops, Regional Ministers Conference, Summer Seminary, Lay Ministers School, and a variety of one-day workshops. Lexington Theological Seminary has an active continuing education program for laity and clergy. Above, commissioned ministers pose for a group photo before departing at the end of the week of summer study. At left, Dr. Sharon R. Warner, professor of educational ministry, teaches a summer continuing education class. 13
Student Services Student Housing The Seminary has on-campus housing available for students. These units include efficiency apartments, one and two-bedroom apartments, and two-bedroom townhouses. Utilities are included in the rental cost except for the use of telephone and cable television. Both are available, but it is the responsibility of the student to arrange for installation and cost of services. Pets are not allowed. Student housing fees and rent charges are based on current market value rates for the Lexington area. Please contact the Business Office for additional information and current rates. Li b r a ry The Bosworth Memorial Library at Lexington Seminary has close to 170,000 volumes and regularly receives over 1,000 periodicals from around the world. Over 200 new titles are added to the collection each month. They are prominently displayed and available for loan immediately. An additional two million volumes are available from the University of Kentucky, located across the street from the Seminary. Lexington also has a librarysharing agreement with the other members of TEAM-A, which have combined resources of over 500,000 books and periodicals. Additional books and journals are available through interlibrary loan with other institutions. In addition to the books and journals, Bosworth Library has audio tapes available in all of the areas of academic study. We also maintain, for check-out, audio and video tapes of chapel and convocation services. We provide a number of library guides and have a collection of microtexts. Lexington has a large collection of materials containing biographies, local church histories, denominational and ecumenical pamphlets, and items relating to the Seminary. Study carrels, a copier, and computer/ printer stations are available for student use. Post Office Lexington offers a full-service post office for students, staff, and faculty. Each person has a private mailbox to which in-seminary mail Townhouses and apartments and a playground for children of students are located on campus. 14
Student Services At left, master of divinity student Greg Kupar finds a spot to read during lunch. Below, from left, students Michael Fetty, Jody Heil, Kathryn Wilson, and Tracy Siegman pause from studying in Bosworth Memorial Library is delivered. The Post Office sells stamps and has the ability to receive and send packages. Accessibility Specially designated parking spaces, ramps, and elevators provide access to all classrooms as well as the fellowship hall, library, and chapel. Seminary housing includes accessible units. Parking On-campus parking is available for all students. Parking is also available for family members living on campus. Chaplain Services The Seminary provides chaplain services for students. These services include spiritual direction and pastoral counseling. Students, faculty and families gather for a picnic during orientation. 15 Student Handbook A detailed Student Handbook, which provides detailed policies, privileges, and procedures for academic and student life is distributed during orientation for entering students. Updates and revisions to the Handbook are provided to all students.
Community Life Ccommunity life at Lexington Theological Seminary is understood to enhance the mission of the institution. The following are various programs which enrich community life at the Seminary. Chapel and Convoc at i o n The Seminary community assembles on Tuesdays for worship and on Thursdays for convocation during the spring and fall semesters. Faculty, staff, students, and speakers from off-campus contribute to these services. At Lexington, we consider these gatherings to be the core of our time together. On-campus activities bring the Seminary community together. as official announcements and other information of general campus interest. Le c t u r e s The Seminary has a series of lectureships provided for students and the local community. Lecturers in recent years have included such notable speakers as Wendell Berry, Nancy Eiesland, and Rabbi Yitz Greenberg. Seminary Publications The Lexington Theological Quarterly is issued four times each year. It contains lectures and sermons delivered in the Seminary community and scholarly papers prepared by the faculty, other scholars, and students. The Bulletin is issued four times each year. It is distributed without charge to alumni/ae, churches, and friends to communicate the current activities and purposes of the Seminary. QuadNotes is an internal publication of Student Services which shares events as well Informal Student Groups Students are encouraged to create informal structures to meet needs as they arise. Groups have included prayer groups, fellowship and study groups and a pan-african caucus. Students form other groups throughout the year around topics of special interest. Student Activity Lexington Seminary has an active Student Services Committee which plays a vital role in the life of the community. The Student Services Committee develops projects to enhance student life. Committees form around the tasks of fellowship and service inside and outside the Seminary community. 16
Academic Programs Ge n e r a l Ac a d e m i c In f o r m at i o n Gr a d e s Lexington Theological Seminary uses a 4.0 grading scale. Graduation requires a 2.5 GPA. Tr a n s f e r a n d Sh a r e d Cr e d i t from Other Schools Credit can be transferred into the degree programs at Lexington Seminary. To be accepted for transfer, the credits must be less than ten years old, earned at a seminary or graduate school accredited by an organization recognized by the United States Department of Education (or international equivalent) appropriate to the degree at Lexington, and must carry a grade of B or above. If the student is already in a degree program at Lexington, the work at another institution must be approved ahead of time by the Dean. Work taken through the TEAM-A exchange is not considered transfer work. The maximum transfer credits for hours not used toward another degree is 30 for the M.Div., 15 for the M.A., and three for the D.Min. Ex t e n s i o n o f Ti m e Limit for Degree The time limit for completion of a Master of Divinity degree is five years, Master of Arts and Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies is seven years, and Doctor of Ministry is seven years. Students who have not completed the program by the end of this period must petition the faculty for an extension and must specify a schedule for the completion of the work. Some further course work may be required. Master of Divinity The Master of Divinity is a professional degree designed to help men and women preparing for Christian ministry. This degree is required for ordination by many denominations. The degree can be completed in three years of full-time study. Curriculum Overview Foundations for Ministry (6 hours FM 500 Introduction to Theological Studies (Must be taken in first two semesters) FM 700 Senior Symposium (Must be taken in last spring semester) AREA 1: Bible (12 hours) B 500 Survey of the First Testament B 500 Survey of the New Testament B 600 First Testament Exegesis Elective B 600 New Testament Exegesis Elective AREA 2: Theology & History (15 hours) CH 500 Survey of Church History (Must be taken in the first 27 hours of study) TH 500 Historical Theology TH 500 Systematic Theology (Pre-requisite: Historical Theology) CH 600 Church History Elective (Denominational history or history courses can be used for this requirement) TH 600 Theology Elective AREA 3: Ethics & Culture (9 hours) ES 500 Introduction to Christian Social Ethics CUL 500 Survey of World Religions ES/CUL 600 Ethics or Culture Elective AREA 4: Practice of Ministry (24 hours) PLFE 500 Pastoral Leadership/Field Education 17
Academic Programs EM 500 Educational Ministry PC 500 Principles of Pastoral Care & Counseling WOR 500 Introduction to Worship WOR 500 Introduction to Preaching FE 600 Field Education Elective PL/EM 600 Pastoral Leadership or Educational Ministry Elective (Polity course can be used to fulfill this requirement.) 700 Seminar Electives (15 hours) One of these classes must be an Immersion Course Biblical language courses can be substituted for two of these electives, but must be followed by an exegesis course in that language to receive credit. TOTAL HOURS: 81 Dr. Jerry Sumney, professor of biblical studies, lecturing in class. Field Education Students gain formative experience in ministry through field education. Through supervised work in a ministerial setting, students: deepen their understanding of themselves in ministry, practice and develop ministerial skills, develop a conversation between course work and ministerial experience, and learn to ask "why" as a regular component of ministerial work. Master of Arts The Master of Arts is a program designed to Professor Laurence H. Kant serves as associate professor of the history of religion. 18
Academic Programs prepare men and women for a wide variety of ministries including advanced graduate study in one of the theological disciplines. It introduces students to the main theological disciplines, provides opportunity for some specialization, and requires a thesis relevant to the student s goal. It is designed to be flexible enough to accommodate preparation for a variety of vocational goals. M.A. Basic Curriculum Overview One course in each of these subjects: First Testament (3 hours) New Testament (3 hours) Church History (3 hours) Theology (3 hours) Ethics and Society (3 hours) Christian Ministries (3 hours) (Courses include: CM, EM, HOM, PC, PM, WOR) Three additional courses (9 hours) selected from the above subjects Five electives (15 hours) Thesis (6 hours) Total required = 48 semester hours Ma s t e r o f Ar t s in Pastoral Studies The purpose of the degree is to prepare Roman Catholics for lay ministry at a diocesan or parish level. The degree is designed only for Roman Catholics who do not seek ordination. Others will not be admitted. Graduates of this program will have a basic knowledge of scripture, contemporary biblical scholarship, the Christian tradition, theology, moral theology, and sacramental traditions. They will have skills in developing and executing programs of education, administration of parish life, and pastoral care and nurture of Christian communities. Curriculum Overview Bible (6 hours to be approved by the advisor) CH 550 Introduction to Church History (3 hours) TH 550 Introduction to Theology: Historical (3 hours) PM 677 Pastoral Studies Practicum (3 hours) TH 577 Doctrinal Teachings of the Roman Catholic Church (3 hours) CHTH 578 Modern Catholic Ecclesiology (3 hours) TH 581 Sacraments of the Roman Catholic Church (3 hours) ES 582 Catholic Moral Theology (3 hours) One course in each of the following departments: Educational Ministry (3 hours) Pastoral Care (3 hours) Practice of Ministry (3 hours) Three electives (9 hours) Research Paper (3 hours) Total required = 48 semester hours Do u b l e Co m p e t e n c e in Social Work The Double Competency program in theology and social work enables students to acquire the M.Div., M.A., or M.A.P.S. from Lexington Theological Seminary and the Master of Social Work degree (M.S.W.) from the College of Social Work of the University of Kentucky. The program is for students whose career interests are social work and the ministry or who recognize the relevance of the knowledge base of social work to their roles in the ministry and vice-versa. Graduates of the program may be qualified for employment by both church and social agencies. The transfer in of hours from the College of Social Work makes possible the shortening of the overall time required to acquire both degrees separately. 19
Academic Programs Ce rt i f i c at e in Ge r o n t o l o g y Lexington Theological Seminary students may earn a Certificate in Gerontology from the University of Kentucky s Sanders-Brown Center on Aging. The certificate requires 12 hours of classroom work and a field experience for which three hours of credit are earned. The Seminary will transfer in all 15 hours from the University. Doctor of Ministry The Doctor of Ministry program at Lexington Theological Seminary is an advanced professional degree, requiring 32 semester hours, and designed to strengthen ministry practice and leadership in the midst of today s rapidly changing cultures. The faculty intends to make this program a setting for sustained reflection on the practice of ministry. At Lexington, students seek to be critical interpreters of culture and theology, skilled practitioners, and faithful pastoral leaders. D.Min. studies call for rigorous academic work within the context of collegiality. Priorities include spiritual formation and a high level of commitment to the life and witness of the Church. The goal of this doctoral program is the integration of an advanced level of theological reflection with the ongoing practice of ministry, thereby raising the standards of ministry and contributing to the renewal and mission of the Church. Curriculum Overview Core Studies (8 hours to be completed in the first year) These are foundational courses that enable the student to enrich personal understanding around the issues of vocation, cultural contexts, and pastoral leadership. These offerings also open the door to advanced learning in the areas of research and writing. Ar e a St u d i e s (12 hours to be begun in the second year) Students must choose one course from each of the following three areas, plus one additional course in one of these areas for a total of four Area Studies: Bible, Theology, Ethics Church History, Interfaith and Cross- Cultural Studies Christian Ministries: Homiletics, Pastoral Care, Educational Ministry, Worship, Pastoral Leadership Elective Studies (6 hours) Two studies may be chosen in any of the three areas listed above. For these two courses only, Directed Study is possible, as are enhanced M.Div. classes. Students may also transfer three hours of Elective Study credit from an accredited institution, as approved by the director and the dean. The Thesis/Project (6 hours) After completing 17 hours in the D.Min. program, students apply for D.Min. candidacy by submitting a Thesis/Project proposal to the faculty. Once the proposal is approved and under the tutelage of a faculty advisor, the student begins work on the Thesis/Project. Following the completion of all course work, and as they undertake the research and writing of the Thesis/Project, students will enroll in a one-hour research course each spring and fall semester with a limit of six semesters. This requirement helps students and their faculty advisors to keep pace toward the successful completion of the D.min. Thesis/ Project. 20
Academic Programs The Doctor of Ministry Thesis/Project The D.Min. Thesis/Project is the final phase of the program. It is a concrete expression of the aim to integrate theology and practice by addressing a particular issue in the life of the congregation or church agency served by the doctoral candidate. The goal is to require candidates to express their calling as practical theologians in defining, exploring, and reflecting on an issue of significance. The Thesis/Project must reflect substantive, scholarly research in the area of inquiry. Depending upon the nature of the inquiry, candidates may be required to enlist a collaborative team of leaders from the congregational or agency context in which they serve. Models for the Thesis/Project are: Action/Reflection The development and implementation of a program in a congregational or church agency setting, with particular emphasis on the theological grounding and the critical evaluation of the program. Extended Research Essay An inquiry into a topic related to the integration of theology and the practice of ministry in a congregation or church agency. Admission and Enrollment Enrollment in the D.Min. program is possible in the fall semester only. Application materials may be submitted to the Director of Admissions at anytime, but the final deadline is July 1 of each year. Applicants must be currently engaged in the practice of ministry and hold an M.Div. from an accredited theological school. They should have at least three years of ministry experience beyond the granting of the M.Div. degree and should give evidence of congregational or agency support for the applicant s enrollment in the program. Admission Standards A GPA of 3.25 is required. (A GPA of 3.00 must be maintained while in the program). An autobiographical essay (2-3 pages, single-spaced) is required. A Ministry Reflection Paper (8-10 pages, double-spaced) is required. Computer Needs Each D.Min. enrollee is expected to have computer skills and access for e-mail contact with the Seminary staff and faculty. Computers are an important part of each D.Min. student's academic life. 21