CTS Lifelong Learning Webinar Series 2024-2025: Navigating a Disorienting Age

 

In an increasingly complex world, faith communities are often on the front lines of addressing some of the most pressing social and cultural challenges. From mental health crises to questions about sexuality, identity, and inclusion, the task of nurturing congregations that are responsive to these issues requires ongoing education and growth. In response, Christian Theological Seminary is proud to present the 2024-2025 Lifelong Learning Webinar Series, Navigating a Disorienting Age: Tools for Faith Communities.

This free webinar series offers pastors, laity, and faith leaders the opportunity to engage with emerging and distinguished scholars on topics that are both theologically rich and practically relevant. With a focus on equipping faith communities to thrive in an age marked by disorientation and rapid change, the series addresses a broad spectrum of issues from welcoming newcomers and affirming diversity to supporting mental wellness and understanding the role of elders in church life.

Throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, CTS will host six free webinars under two sub-series, Skills for Flourishing Congregations and Our Life in Common, offering fresh insights and practical tools for fostering vibrant, inclusive, and resilient faith communities.

 

Skills for Flourishing Congregations: Building Practical Leadership in Faith Communities

The Skills for Flourishing Congregations sub-series is specifically designed for congregation leaders looking to sharpen their practical skills. Formal theological education provides a strong foundation for ministry, but the fast-paced nature of contemporary church leadership demands constant adaptation. This sub-series offers clergy and lay leaders the opportunity to gain practical knowledge in key areas of congregational leadership that can help their communities thrive.

Each session in this sub-series addresses critical issues that impact the day-to-day life of congregations, offering tools for building inclusive, healthy church environments that are rooted in hospitality, acceptance, and care. The three webinars in this series include:

Welcoming the Stranger to Your Church

October 2, 2024 – 12-1pm Eastern

Rev. Hipólito Fernández Reina

In this webinar, Rev. Fernández Reina, Cathedral Canon at Christ Church Cathedral, explores how churches can become more hospitable and inclusive. Through practical insights and real-life stories, participants will learn how to create welcoming environments that foster connections and strengthen community life. Whether new to church or long-standing members, this conversation will empower participants to embody the spirit of hospitality in their congregations.

From Open to Affirming to Celebrating: A Congregational Journey

November 6, 2024 – 12-1pm Eastern

Rev. Dr. Katie Hays

In this insightful webinar, Rev. Dr. Katie Hays, founder and Lead Evangelist at Galileo Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), will guide participants through a congregational journey toward inclusivity. Dr. Hays will offer practical strategies for creating inclusive communities that celebrate diversity, from LGBTQ+ members to people of varied ethnic and neurodiverse backgrounds. Participants will reflect on what it means to affirm the richness of human diversity within their congregations and how to translate these values into tangible practices.

The Wisdom Keepers: Holistic Pastoral Care with Elders

February 19, 2025 – 12-1pm Eastern

Rev. Dr. Karen D. Scheib

This webinar, led by Rev. Dr. Karen D. Scheib, Emerita Professor of Pastoral Theology at Emory University, delves into the critical role that elders play within congregations. Participants will learn how to challenge cultural assumptions about aging and discover the invaluable wisdom elders bring to community life. Dr. Scheib will provide holistic strategies for pastoral care that nurture flourishing and honor the contributions of elders in faith communities.

 

Our Life in Common: Theological Reflection and Community Engagement

The Our Life in Common sub-series brings participants together to explore theological and ethical questions that shape our shared lives. These sessions offer a space for deep reflection on topics that impact both individual faith journeys and the broader community. This series is open to all, with no prerequisites for participation, making it an ideal opportunity for anyone interested in engaging in thoughtful theological dialogue. Through the lens of contemporary issues, this series focuses on how faith intersects with societal challenges, offering insights that are rooted in both scripture and real-world experience. The three webinars in this series include:

Children at the Border

September 18, 2024 – 12-1pm Eastern

Dr. Irasema Coronado

In this timely session, Dr. Irasema Coronado, Director of the School of Transborder Studies at Arizona State University, will address the pressing issue of child welfare at the U.S.-Mexico border. Participants will explore the intersection of immigration, child welfare, and geopolitical concerns. Dr. Coronado’s expertise will guide the conversation as participants consider ways to support vulnerable children caught in migration crises while navigating the complexities of political debate.

Love, Desire, and Identity: Navigating Faith and Sexuality

October 30, 2024 – 12-1pm Eastern

Dr. Ken Stone

In this thought-provoking webinar, Dr. Ken Stone, Professor of Bible, Culture, and Hermeneutics at Chicago Theological Seminary, will explore the intersections between faith, sexuality, and identity. Using scriptural texts as a foundation, Dr. Stone will invite participants into a nuanced conversation on how theology can shape and inform contemporary understandings of sexuality. This session promises to inspire participants to think critically about faith and identity in ways that are compassionate and inclusive.

Spirituality & Mental Wellness: Help, Harm, & Healing

January 22, 2025 – 12-1pm Eastern

Dr. Pamela Ayo Yetunde

Dr. Pamela Ayo Yetunde, Community Dharma Leader in the Insight Meditation tradition, will lead this important conversation on the relationship between spirituality and mental wellness. Participants will examine how faith practices can both support and challenge mental health, offering insights for those in faith communities to engage in healing practices that promote holistic well-being. This webinar is essential for leaders looking to better support their congregations in navigating mental health challenges.

 

Registration Information

All webinars in the Navigating a Disorienting Age: Tools for Faith Communities series are free, but registration is required. These sessions are open to all—whether you’re a pastor, lay leader, or simply someone interested in learning and growing alongside others in a faith community. Webinars will be hosted online via Zoom from 12-1pm Eastern on Wednesdays throughout the year.

For more information and to register, visit the CTS website. Join us for this opportunity to engage in thoughtful conversations that equip us to navigate today’s most pressing issues, fostering resilience, connection, and growth within our faith communities.