Resident Scholar for Faith Formation – First Presbyterian – Dallas, TX
The Resident Scholar for Faith Formation is a trained Bible interpreter called to teach in a congregational setting. The Scholar is an artful translator of ancient wisdom for modern ears and a thoughtful architect of learning communities. In collaboration with the pastoral staff, the Scholar reads the times through the lens of faith and shows us how to do the same, so that our worship and public witness carry on with theological coherence and integrity. Under the Scholar’s patient guidance, substantive engagement with the foundational texts of our tradition will become accessible and life-giving.
Essential Functions
- Lead and inspire the congregation in close reading of the Bible, providing historical, literary, and theological resources for encountering truth and poetry, wisdom, and questions that integrate intellectual inquiry and faith formation.
- Design a collection of regularly scheduled adult education offerings, including classes for new members and/or those new to Christian faith.
- Collaborate with pastors to complement formation in worship with various extended learning engagements (e.g.: classes related to sermon series, devotional resources during liturgical season).
- Train and support lay teams who teach in various small groups throughout the congregation: Home Group facilitators, Presbyterian Women moderators, Adult Sunday School leaders.
- Curate and convene lecture series with guest scholars and practitioners whose perspectives enrich the community’s theological imagination and faith-informed commitments in the world.
- Gather small and large groups for retreats, offering guided times for study and reflection.
- Conceive and coordinate travel seminars that converge history, culture, art, and theology on place, people, and faith.
- Join pastors in interfaith relationships with local clergy colleagues and with shared institutional commitments to justice-seeking work.
Qualifications
The Resident Scholar for Faith Formation serves as a member of the pastoral staff, so must be committed to working in the congregational context of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas and embodying its mission and values. Education and experience:
- Ph.D. (Th.D., or D.Phil.) in Biblical Studies or in a theological discipline
- Teaching experience in academic and congregational settings
- A record of scholarly engagement in respective field
Terms of Employment
Salary, benefits, and other terms of employment will be administered in accordance with the policies contained in the First Presbyterian Church of Dallas Personnel Manual, a copy of which is provided to each employee.
To Apply
Interested candidates should send a letter of interest and their curriculum vitae to
residentscholar@fpcdallas.org. Materials will be reviewed as they are received, until May 15, 2026.
Questions may be directed to Janet Bilhartz, search committee chair, 214.356.7203 or
residentscholar@fpcdallas.org.
About First Presbyterian Church of Dallas
The hope of First Presbyterian Church of Dallas is to seek the transformation of our city as ministers of reconciliation, peace, and justice. We follow the way of Jesus where the healing is generous and everyone is welcome. Our church is not the finish line, it’s a starting place on a journey to discover the light and love of God.
FPC Dallas is an open and affirming congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA) denomination.
