Rev. Dr. Scott Seay Explores “Remembering as a Spiritual Discipline” in Upcoming CTS Talk
Rev. Dr. Scott Seay, a distinguished professor in the School of Theology and the William G. Irwin Associate Professor of Church History at Christian Theological Seminary, is set to deliver a thought-provoking CTS Talk titled “Remembering as a Spiritual Discipline.” The event is scheduled to take place on April 11, 2024, in Shelton Auditorium.
In his multifaceted roles at CTS, Dr. Seay wears many hats, including serving as the Director of Library and Information Services, Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program, and Senior Editor of Encounter: A Journal of Theological Scholarship. He was recently appointed to the prestigious William G. Irwin Associate Professor of Church History endowed chair, sponsored by the Christian Foundation to honor philanthropist William G. Irwin. He continues the chair’s legacy of honoring the importance of history in theological education and daily life, following in the footsteps of previous occupants Newell Williams (1995-2003) and Ron Sommerville (2010-2014).
Dr. Seay’s CTS Talk is inspired by his passion for history, theology, and ministry. He believes that remembering, both through storytelling and material history, is a spiritual discipline that helps individuals understand God’s purposeful action in the world and invites them to actively participate in God’s work of transformation.
“Forgetting our history can have detrimental effects, causing us to lose our place, fail to engage constructively with the present, and lose hope for the future,” explains Seay. “By remembering, we gain insight into our place in God’s purposeful work, make sense of the present, and find hope for the future.”
Drawing from his extensive scholarly background, Dr. Seay’s talk will explore various themes, including why the study of history matters for theological education and ministry, the significance of library and archival work, and insights from overseas travel experiences.
Dr. Seay’s academic journey has been characterized by a commitment to teaching, scholarship, and ministry. He holds degrees from Wabash College, the University of Chicago Divinity School, and Vanderbilt University, where he earned a PhD in American religious history.
Throughout his career, Dr. Seay has been dedicated to preparing leaders for effective ministry. As Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at CTS, he has overseen the program’s growth and success, with an impressive graduation rate and a focus on integrating academic study with ministry experience.
Dr. Seay’s talk “Remembering as a Spiritual Discipline” aligns with CTS’s mission to advance scholarship and formation, fostering engaging discussions that deepen understanding of critical issues. It promises to be a transformative experience, inviting participants to reflect on the role of remembering in shaping their faith and engagement with the world.
The event is open to the entire CTS community and beyond, inviting individuals to participate in a stimulating conversation on the intersection of history, spirituality, and transformation. Dr. Seay’s dedication to intellectual curiosity, academic pursuit, and exploration of faith and society positions him as a leader poised to inspire the CTS community for years to come.
For more information and to register for the event, visit the “Remembering as a Spiritual Discipline” web event.
