CTS Announces Application Period for PhD Cohort 4

 

Christian Theological Seminary is excited to announce the upcoming application period for Cohort 4 of our groundbreaking PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric. This unique program is dedicated to cultivating practitioner-scholars who delve into the rich traditions of African American preaching and sacred rhetoric, contributing both to the church and the academy.

Launched as the world’s first and only academic program of its kind, the PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric at CTS offers an unparalleled opportunity for in-depth study and research. The program is designed to:

• Research and Develop: Engage in scholarly exploration of the history and theology of African American preaching and sacred rhetoric.
• Expose Untold Treasures: Highlight and celebrate the unique contributions of African American homiletic traditions to the global church.
• Prepare Practitioner-Scholars: Equip students to serve effectively in both ecclesial and academic settings, bridging the gap between practice and scholarship.

Students benefit from a cohort-centered learning environment, rigorous academic coursework, practical teaching experiences, and opportunities for writing development aimed at publication. Current PhD students are a living testimony to the insights and value of African American preaching and sacred rhetoric. These practitioner-scholars are already making significant contributions to pastoral ministry, activism, and the academy. Take for example:

• Gina M. Stewart of Cohort 1, pastor of Christ Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee and President for the Lott Carey Foreign Mission Convention, serving as the first female president in the organization’s history
• Frederick Haynes, III of Cohort 2, the visionary and innovative Senior Pastor of Friendship-West Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas who is well-known as a passionate leader, social activist, eloquent orator, and educator engaged in fighting against racial injustice
• Dominique A. Robinson of Cohort 2, the John E. Hines Assistant Professor of Preaching at the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas (a historical assignment as she is the first African American full-time faculty member of the institution)
• Michael W. Waters of Cohort 3, Founder and Lead Pastor of the Abundant Life African American Episcopal Church in Dallas, Texas and renowned social activist

Each PhD candidate accepted into the program is fully supported by scholarships, underscoring CTS’s commitment to accessible and affordable theological education. May 2024 marked the inaugural graduation of students from the program, with 4 incredible leaders successfully defending their dissertations and going forth to serve as pastors, preachers, and professors.

The application window for Cohort 4 opens on May 1, 2025, and closes on May 31, 2025. To provide prospective students with comprehensive insights into the program, CTS is hosting a PhD Program Open House on March 20, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM (EDT). This event offers an opportunity to:

• Engage with Faculty and Current Students: Learn firsthand about the program’s impact and community.
• Understand the Curriculum: Gain clarity on course offerings, research opportunities, and practical experiences.
• Navigate the Application Process: Receive guidance on application requirements and timelines.

Attendees can choose to participate in the Open House either in person at the CTS campus in Indianapolis, IN, or virtually by Zoom. Registration is required for all participants.

Participating in the Open House allows prospective students to immerse themselves in the CTS community and gain valuable information to inform their application. It’s an opportunity to ask questions, meet potential peers, and envision your future in this pioneering program.

 

Next Steps

1. Mark Your Calendar: Save the dates for the Open House on March 20, 2025, and the application period from May 1 to May 31, 2025.
2. Register for the Open House: Visit the CTS website to secure your spot for the event online or in person.
3. Stay Connected: For updates and additional information, reach out to the CTS admissions team or visit www.cts.edu.

Embark on a transformative journey that honors and advances the legacy of African American preaching and sacred rhetoric. Register for the PhD Open House today! We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of dedicated scholar-practitioners to Christian Theological Seminary.