Exploring Spirituality and Scholarship:
Monthly Chapels and CTS Talks
As the academic year unfolds, Christian Theological Seminary (CTS) embarks on a journey of spiritual exploration and academic enrichment through newly announced monthly Chapel (held in person and livestreamed) and CTS Talks. These gatherings seek not only to nurture the soul but also to stimulate the mind, providing an engaging platform for the CTS community to come together, reflect, and engage with thought-provoking ideas.
Chapel services at CTS hold a significant place in the seminary’s calendar, embodying our belief that preparation for leadership and ministry should be not only intellectually rigorous but also spiritually formative and emotionally supportive. Chapel services have become a life-giving rhythm, attended by staff, faculty, students, alumni, and community members alike. The inclusivity of speakers ranging from faculty to guests from around the world creates a rich tapestry of perspectives that enhances the spiritual experience. Rooted in the values of inclusivity and transformation, chapel offers a chance for all individuals to partake in worship and communion, receive inspiration, and depart with renewed vigor to contribute to God’s transformative work in the world. While previously held weekly on Wednesdays, this academic year witnesses a strategic shift to make chapels more accessible. Occurring once a month on Thursdays from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, Chapel services this year will be both held in-person and livestreamed synchronously, allowing students to participate whether on campus or remote. Led by various speakers, including CTS faculty, staff, students, and guest preachers, each chapel provides a unique message inspired by key scripture readings.
CTS Talks are “TED Talk” style lectures that serve as a testament to CTS’s dedication to advancing scholarship and formation. The CTS Talks series encapsulates the essence of intellectual curiosity and academic pursuit. Designed to foster engaging discussions and deepen understanding, these lectures offer a platform for CTS Faculty and guests to delve into topics that align with their areas of expertise and passion. Four times during the academic year, community members have the privilege to engage with the scholars, gaining insights into issues of significance to the community. The 2023-2024 lineup covers a range of thought-provoking themes, including “Whose Kingdom is it Anyway? Jesus, Little Children, and the Poor,” “How to Uncover Your Spiritual Story,” “Unpeeling Whiteness: A Latino Perspective on Biblical Interpretation,” and “Remembering as a Spiritual Discipline.” These talks not only expand academic horizons but also encourage dialogue and reflection on matters of faith, spirituality, and social engagement.
As Christian Theological Seminary’s 2023-2024 academic year unfolds, the convergence of spirituality and scholarship continues to be a driving force, deeply rooted in our commitment to be an academic learning community that gives witness to God’s liberative, restorative, and life-affirming message. For those seeking a deeper connection with the spiritual and academic fabric of the seminary, monthly Chapel and CTS Talks stand as invitations to engage, reflect, and explore the transformative power of faith and knowledge.
CTS Talks
Whose Kingdom is it Anyway? Jesus, Little Children, and the Poor
Dr. Amy Lindeman Allen, October 12, 2023 from 4-5pm, in Shelton Auditorium
How to Uncover Your Spiritual Story
Dr. Suzanne Coyle, November 9, 2023 from 4-5pm, in Sweeney Chapel
“Unpeeling Whiteness”: A Latino Perspective on Biblical Interpretation
Dr. Francisco Lozada, Jr., February 8, 2024 from 4-5:30pm, in Shelton Auditorium
Remembering as a Spiritual Discipline
Dr. Scott Seay, April 11, 2024 from 4-5pm, in Shelton Auditorium
Chapels
August 24, 2023 at 11:30am – Dr. Francisco Lozada – Exodus 1:1-22, Acts 2:1-12, Revelation 7:9-10
September 21, 2023 at 11:30am – Rev. Dr. Tito Madrazo – Genesis 11:1-9, Acts 2:1-12, Revelation 7:9-10
October 4, 2023 at 4pm – St. Francis Pet Blessing at the Chapel Driveway Entrance
October 19, 2023 at 11:30am – Rev. Dr. Nicole Robertson – Deuteronomy 6:1-9, Matthew 10:24-31, Psalm 40:1-8
November 16, 2023 at 11:30am – Rev. Ayanna Garrett – Exodus 15:1-21, John 11:32-44, Psalm 130
December 7, 2023 at 11:30am – Rev. Dr. David Mellott – 1 Samuel 2:1-10, Luke 1:39-56, Psalm 130
January 25, 2024 at 11:30am – Dr. Rob Saler – Isaiah 60:1-6, 19-22, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12
February 14, 2024 at 11:30am – Ash Wednesday Special Chapel – Professor Tim McNinch
February 22, 2024 at 11:30am – Rev. Dr. Nick Peterson – Genesis 21:8-21, Mark 15:16-21, 1 John 5:1-4, 14-15
March 21, 2024 at 11:30am – Seven Last Sayings Chapel – Members of the CTS Student Body
April 4, 2024 at 11:30am – Rev. Dr. Winterbourne Harrison-Jones – Hosea 6:1-3, Luke 24:1-12, Psalm 16
May 9, 2024 at 11:30am – Rev. Dr. Amy Lindeman Allen – Deuteronomy 34:1-12, Luke 24:13-35, 1 Corinthians 12:27-31
May 17, 2024 at 3:00pm – Baccalaureate – Rev. Dr. Joretta Marshall – Joshua 5:10-15, Luke 9:28-36, Psalm 146
