CTS lives out and advances its core values of justice, wholeness, and respect for the dignity of all people. In addition to weaving these values into its coursework and programming, this means caring for students and stepping into prophetic and civically engaged community leadership.
In light of the urgency of the 2020 election and the many related, pressing issues facing our local and national communities, CTS has worked to be a constructive and compassionate voice during this time. This fall, the Seminary has been active in the community, reminding people to complete their 2020 census, encouraging them to vote, and calling on religious and community leaders to help ensure others can do so as well.
Recognizing the difficulty that this season might bring to members of the student body, the Dean’s office has scheduled online gatherings during the month of November to come alongside students as they process the election, to address polarization, and to offer pastoral care.
Focusing especially on the difficulties and demands of community life, CTS has convened online gatherings around the topic of leadership in divisive and adversarial times. On September 1, CTS hosted an online dialogue with Prof. Bill Kincaid about his newest book, Letters to the Church: Encouragement and Engagement for the 2020 Election. The event featured Prof. Kincaid in conversation with local leaders, Episcopal Bishop Jennifer Baskerville-Burrows, Disciples of Christ Pastor Rev. Lori Tapia, and Faith in Indiana’s Min. Nicole Barnes, and was moderated by Dean Leah Gunning Francis. Watch the conversation here.
On November 5, President David Mellott moderated an online gathering of local faith leaders from different religious traditions on the topic of “Living in a Post-Election World, Leading in a Country Divided.” President Mellott began this conversation by acknowledging how deeply divided the country has become as it faces an uncertain future. “That said,” he continued, “we are not without resources. Our religious traditions have important teachings and wisdom and guidance that can help us. We are connected to other communities and organizations with whom we can work, which remind us that we are not alone.”
Watch the whole conversation here:
Speaking to the unease and concern of the moment, to the critical ongoing and future work before us, and to a hopeful way forward, President Mellott addressed the members of the CTS community the day before the election. As President Mellott states, “As those called to provide religious and pastoral leadership, we must cultivate wisdom and resilience in our communities. We must remind one another that it is possible to build communities where all God’s people can flourish.”
