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SUMMARY:Special Course: Healing Haunted Histories
DESCRIPTION:Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\nMondays\, January 12 – April 6\, 2026\nRegister and view full schedule at the bottom of this page\n\n\n\n\nCOURSE DESCRIPTION \nThis course utilizes social analysis\, communal narratives\, historical literacy\, and biblical reflection to address deep-rooted injustices between settlers and the worlds of Indigenous (and other marginalized communities) in North America. Participants will engage with the Landlines-Bloodlines-Songlines (LBS) model tailored to their context\, focusing on practical research and engagement rather than passive learning. Commitment to readings\, research\, and mutual accountability is essential for fostering Restorative Solidarity and deepening decolonization efforts. Please visit this website for more information about Healing Haunted Histories.  \nThis course will require 3.0-3.5 hours per week for course preparation and attendance\, and is 4.0 CEUs. \nMeet the Course Facilitators\nRev. Dr. Lynne B. Caldwell\, Pastor and Educator \n \nWhile Lynne Caldwell’s “re-schooling” and personal work with her racism began in college\, she only became connected with Healing Haunted Histories a few years ago. She sensed from the beginning that ‘doing the work’ (Audre Lorde) through Elaine Enns’ and Ched Myers’ model for Healing Haunted Histories is one of the best \nBorn in Asheville\, NC\, Lynne grew up in Black Mountain\, NC. She earned a B.A. in Child Development\, Berea College\, Berea\, KY; an M.Div.\, Asbury Theological Seminary\, Wilmore\, KY; D.Min.\, Wesley Theological Seminary\, Washington\, DC and two certificates in leadership from the Divinity School of Duke University. She has served appointments through the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church for more than 35 years\, including 10 years “on-loan” to the Virginia Conference. Assignments/appointed positions include Associate Minister\, Lead Pastor\, Senior Pastor\, District Superintendent\, faculty member\, and administrator of a non-profit. \nAmong Lynne’s passions is the exploration of the intersection of real faith and real life through meaningful relationships\, spiritual practices\, and a commitment to learning something new every day. She’s energized by a lifelong curiosity about human development and community. Inspired to sustain learning about how we grow in love for God\, self\, neighbors\, and our enemies\, she seeks to pursue integrity between words and behaviors. And\, so…she seeks to press on\, in the company of others\, daily practicing what it might mean to become God’s beloved community\, until we’ve practiced our way into becoming embodiments of love\, justice\, equity\, inclusion and forgiveness. \nLynne currently serves as pastor of Danbury Community Church in Stokes County\, NC; and is an Adjunct Faculty member in the Religion\, Ethics and Philosophy Department of Greensboro College. Lynne makes her home in Winston-Salem\, NC. \nHome Missioner Steve Taylor\, Activist and Educator \n \nSteve Taylor is a Home Missioner in the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church\, serving as Director of Anti-racist Discipleship and Beloved Community at Spring Forest New Monastic and Missional Community. Steve leads a transformative ministry integrating Christian discipleship with the pursuit of racial equity and justice. His work extends throughout the United Methodist Church\, local congregations\, and ecumenical partnerships\, centering on peacebuilding\, healing\, and the creation of beloved community. \nAt Spring Forest\, Steve develops and leads trainings and conversations addressing systemic racism—its historical roots\, present realities\, and spiritual paths toward reconciliation. He organizes community partnerships and advocacy efforts\, helps congregations integrate antiracism into prayer and worship\, and facilitates the Healing Haunted Histories process created by Dr. Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Through these practices\, Steve helps communities confront the past and embody God’s reconciling love in the present. \nSteve’s vision is shaped by the Beloved Community — a vision of justice\, equity\, and unconditional love reflecting the Kin-dom of God on earth. “In intentional actions of education\, advocacy\, deep listening\, honest and confessional truth-telling\, and the work of antiracism as worship\,” Steve says\, “we build a community where every person is valued. Discipleship—patterning our lives after Jesus—must include the work of antiracism. It is the work of building peace and beloved community.” \nPreviously\, Steve served as Executive Director of Connectional Ministries and Director of Missions for the North Carolina Conference and as a Church and Community Worker in Robeson County. His 35-year ministry has included work in both rural and urban settings and in Slovenian refugee camps during the Balkan wars. Across all contexts\, he helps congregations engage deeply with their communities through shared spiritual and social transformation. \nSteve is married to Sheryl Taylor\, “the portrait of God’s grace\,” and they have two children and four grandchildren. \nSpecial Class Sessions with Elaine Enns and Ched Myers\, Co-authors of Healing Haunted Histories  \n \nElaine Enns has worked in the field of restorative justice since 1989\, first focusing on victim-offender dialogue in the Criminal Justice System\, and over the last decade looking at how restorative solidarity applies to historical violations\, including issues of intergenerational trauma\, healing and decolonization.  With a DMin from St. Andrew’s Saskatoon\, Elaine trains and teaches throughout North America\, and her latest book\, co-authored with her partner activist theologian Ched Myers\, is Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (Wipf & Stock\, 2021); in 2009 the two-volume Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A New Testament Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (Orbis Books\, 2009); and has published over a dozen articles. An ecumenical Mennonite\, Elaine was born and raised in Saskatoon\, Saskatchewan\, and lives in southern California where she co-directs Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries on traditional Chumash land. \n \nA fifth generation Californian\, Ched Myers is an activist theologian who has worked in social change and radical discipleship movements for more than 45 years.  With a degree in New Testament Studies\, he is a popular educator who animates scripture and its relationship to issues of faith-based peace and justice.  He has authored over 100 articles and more than a half-dozen books\, including Binding the Strong Man: A Political Reading of Mark’s Story of Jesus; Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A N.T. Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (with Elaine Enns); Our God is Undocumented: Biblical Faith and Immigrant Justice (with Matthew Colwell); Watershed Discipleship: Reinhabiting Bioregional Faith and Practice; Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (with Elaine Enns\, Cascade\, 2021); and most recently Healing Affluenza and Resisting Plutocracy: Luke’s Jesus and Sabbath Economics (Fortress\, 2024). Ched’s articles and books can be found on the linked sites. \n\nCourse Text:\nHealing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\, (The Center and Library for the Bible and Social Justice Series)\, by Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Eugene\, OR: Cascade Books\, an imprint of Wipft and Stock Publishers\, 2021.  ISBN (pbk): 978-1-7252-5535-7. Also available in hardback and as ebook.\n\n\nStudents should have their own copy in format personally preferred as we will utilize the text each session.\n\n\nClick to order Healing Haunted Histories\nRegister and purchase a copy of Healing Haunted Histories by December 31\, 2025 to receive a 40% discount on the book\, use code HHHEV225 at check-out (publisher\, Wipf & Stock).\n\n\n\nRegister by December 15\, 2025\n\n\n \n\nThis course is offered by the Leadership Institute of Union Presbyterian Seminary in collaboration with Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries and The Church at Spring Forest UMC in Hillsborough\, North Carolina\n\nWe believe everyone should have access to this learning opportunity. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “HHH: Financial Aid”.UPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free.\n\nIf you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.\n\n\n\nSchedule\n\nJanuary 12           WELCOME TO HHH! Practical Matters /Introduction to the course\nJanuary 19           MLK Day; no class; encourage participants to engage in service in their local communities\nJanuary 26           1st class session:  Introduction and Chapter 1 of the book\, Elaine Enns attending\nFebruary 2           Session 2\, Chapter 2\nFebruary 9           Session 3\, Chapter 3\nFebruary 16         Session 4\, Chapter 4\nFebruary 23         Session 5\, Theological Interlude\, Elaine Enns and Ched Myers attending\nMarch 2               Session 6\, Chapter 5\nMarch 9               Session 7\, Chapter 6\nMarch 16             Session 8\, Chapter 7\nMarch 23             Session 9\, Epilogue and Preparation for Making Commitments for Next Steps\nApril 6                  Closing and Session 10: Celebration and Commitment\, Elaine Enns attending
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/special-course-healing-haunted-histories/2026-03-02/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260226T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260226T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250519T152831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163128Z
UID:10000636-1772132400-1772139600@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Worship & Sacraments
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThis course will examine the history\, theology\, and practice of worship and sacraments. While rooted in the reformed tradition\, the goal is to deepen appreciation for a variety of worship services and liturgical practices. Through reflections on readings and discussions of observed liturgical rituals\, the course will seek to cultivate enlivened worship leadership practices and their theological impact within the particular ecclesial context for each person. At the end of the course\, participants will be equipped and inspired to craft and lead worship that is lifegiving for them and their worshiping congregation. \nMeet the Instructors \n \nDr. Donna Giver-Johnston is an ordained minister of word and sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Over her twenty years in ministry\, she has served churches in New Jersey and Ohio\, and most recently as Pastor of Community Presbyterian Church of Ben Avon in Pittsburgh\, Pennsylvania. Currently\, she is a member of the faculty and the Director of the Doctor of Ministry degree program at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. She has earned degrees from Vanderbilt University (PhD and MA)\, Princeton Seminary (MDiv)\, and Westminster College (BA). Her published books include Claiming the Call to Preach: Four Female Pioneers of Preaching in Nineteenth-Century America (Oxford\, 2021); Writing for the Ear\, Preaching from the Heart (Fortress\, 2021); For Every Matter Under Heaven: Preaching for Special Occasions (Fortress Press\, 2022). \n \nRev. Dr. Diane Walton Hendricks has served as pastor of Clifton Presbyterian Church in Clifton\, VA\, since September of 2020. She is passionate about nurturing a community that is growing in relationship with one another\, with God\, with the community\, and with God’s ongoing work in the world. Before coming to CPC\, Pastor Diane served churches in Arlington and Falls Church. In addition\, she serves the greater church as a spiritual director (trained in the contemplative tradition)\, and has also served on staff at Wesley Theological Seminary and in the Pathways program of Union Presbyterian Seminary. She also served National Capital Presbytery as its immediate past moderator and is presently chair of the Leadership Council. She received her Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and her Doctor of Ministry from Virginia Theological Seminary. \nDates: Thursdays\, 7-9pm EST\, February 19 – March 26\, 2025 \nRegistration closes 2 days before the first class meeting on February 17\, 2025. \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “PWWS : Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-worship-sacraments/2026-02-26/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260226T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260226T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20251017T175330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T195147Z
UID:10000736-1772130600-1772137800@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Special Course: Sacraments and Grace in Wesleyan Theology
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThe keynote of Wesleyan theology is grace\, understood experientially by the followers of Jesus in at least three modes of grace: prevenient\, justifying\, sanctifying. This course will explore the modes of grace within Wesleyan Theology\, specifically related to the Sacraments. \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRev. Alan Combs is an ordained elder in the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church\, serving as pastor of First United Methodist Church in Salem\, VA. With over 15 years of experience\, he is dedicated to Wesleyan theology\, spiritual formation\, and ecumenical dialogue. He has also been involved with the General Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns. \nDates: Thursdays\, February 19 – March 26\, 2026 | 6:30-8:30pm EST via Zoom \nClick here to register!\n\nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \nWe believe everyone should have access to this learning opportunity. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “SCWT: Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, please contact Deborah for a promo code.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/special-course-sacraments-and-grace-in-wesleyan-theology/2026-02-26/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260226T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260226T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20260123T171826Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T171826Z
UID:10000762-1772105400-1772110800@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Campus Cafe
DESCRIPTION:Grab some lunch and stop by our campus swag store in Richmond Hall! We’ll have sandwiches (grilled cheese and chicken salad)\, soups\, and cookies.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/campus-cafe-5/
LOCATION:Campus Cafe at Richmond Hall\, 1007 Melrose Avenue\, Richmond\, VA\, 23227\, United States
GEO:37.578918;-77.448257
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260225T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260225T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250708T140423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250708T163136Z
UID:10000702-1772046000-1772053200@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 WLI Course: Queer Womanist Preaching
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThis course will expose students to the queering of religious concepts such as redemption and salvation that create a decolonized preaching experience that centers the lived experiences of Black\, queer women. Bishop Yvette Flunder’s preaching method\, the Apocalyptic Method will be taught as an example of a sermonic method of a queer\, womanist preacher. Students will learn the fundamental tenets of queer womanist preaching while critically reflecting on their own beliefs\, especially their espoused sexual ethics. The course considers theological frameworks that inform queer womanist preaching\, such as womanist theology and queer theology while keeping an eye towards Black\, queer\, women’s lived experiences. \nMeet the instructor \n \nThe Reverend Dr. Nicole McDonald is a recent graduate of the Ph.D. program in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric at Christian Theological Seminary. She is an adjunct professor who teaches Queer Womanist Preaching at Chicago Theological Seminary and Diversity\, Oppression\, and Privilege at Ball State University’s Department of Social Work. Currently\, Dr. McDonald serves as the Interim Senior Pastor of Central Christian Church in Indianapolis. Prior to entering the pastorate\, she served over 14 years as a healthcare chaplain in hospice and level-one trauma centers. Pastor Nicole has a heart for God’s people. As a queer\, womanist practitioner-scholar\, she strives to build justice-oriented communities of radical inclusivity where all feel welcomed. \nDates: Wednesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, February 18 – March 25 \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \n\n \n\n Registration closes on February 16\, 2 business days before the first class meeting. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “WLIQWP: Financial Aid.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-wli-course-queer-womanist-preaching/2026-02-25/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:KGCCWL,Leadership Institute
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260225T114000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260225T114000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20260123T170225Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T170225Z
UID:10000754-1772019600-1772019600@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Campus Chapel
DESCRIPTION:Join us for chapel\, with Rancy Zarr.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/campus-chapel-3/
LOCATION:Union Presbyterian Seminary: Richmond Campus\, Lake Chapel\, 3401 Brook Rd.\, Richmond\, VA\, 23227\, United States
CATEGORIES:RIC
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260223T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260223T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250122T143356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T191508Z
UID:10000574-1771862400-1771867800@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Special Course: Healing Haunted Histories
DESCRIPTION:Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\nMondays\, January 12 – April 6\, 2026\nRegister and view full schedule at the bottom of this page\n\n\n\n\nCOURSE DESCRIPTION \nThis course utilizes social analysis\, communal narratives\, historical literacy\, and biblical reflection to address deep-rooted injustices between settlers and the worlds of Indigenous (and other marginalized communities) in North America. Participants will engage with the Landlines-Bloodlines-Songlines (LBS) model tailored to their context\, focusing on practical research and engagement rather than passive learning. Commitment to readings\, research\, and mutual accountability is essential for fostering Restorative Solidarity and deepening decolonization efforts. Please visit this website for more information about Healing Haunted Histories.  \nThis course will require 3.0-3.5 hours per week for course preparation and attendance\, and is 4.0 CEUs. \nMeet the Course Facilitators\nRev. Dr. Lynne B. Caldwell\, Pastor and Educator \n \nWhile Lynne Caldwell’s “re-schooling” and personal work with her racism began in college\, she only became connected with Healing Haunted Histories a few years ago. She sensed from the beginning that ‘doing the work’ (Audre Lorde) through Elaine Enns’ and Ched Myers’ model for Healing Haunted Histories is one of the best \nBorn in Asheville\, NC\, Lynne grew up in Black Mountain\, NC. She earned a B.A. in Child Development\, Berea College\, Berea\, KY; an M.Div.\, Asbury Theological Seminary\, Wilmore\, KY; D.Min.\, Wesley Theological Seminary\, Washington\, DC and two certificates in leadership from the Divinity School of Duke University. She has served appointments through the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church for more than 35 years\, including 10 years “on-loan” to the Virginia Conference. Assignments/appointed positions include Associate Minister\, Lead Pastor\, Senior Pastor\, District Superintendent\, faculty member\, and administrator of a non-profit. \nAmong Lynne’s passions is the exploration of the intersection of real faith and real life through meaningful relationships\, spiritual practices\, and a commitment to learning something new every day. She’s energized by a lifelong curiosity about human development and community. Inspired to sustain learning about how we grow in love for God\, self\, neighbors\, and our enemies\, she seeks to pursue integrity between words and behaviors. And\, so…she seeks to press on\, in the company of others\, daily practicing what it might mean to become God’s beloved community\, until we’ve practiced our way into becoming embodiments of love\, justice\, equity\, inclusion and forgiveness. \nLynne currently serves as pastor of Danbury Community Church in Stokes County\, NC; and is an Adjunct Faculty member in the Religion\, Ethics and Philosophy Department of Greensboro College. Lynne makes her home in Winston-Salem\, NC. \nHome Missioner Steve Taylor\, Activist and Educator \n \nSteve Taylor is a Home Missioner in the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church\, serving as Director of Anti-racist Discipleship and Beloved Community at Spring Forest New Monastic and Missional Community. Steve leads a transformative ministry integrating Christian discipleship with the pursuit of racial equity and justice. His work extends throughout the United Methodist Church\, local congregations\, and ecumenical partnerships\, centering on peacebuilding\, healing\, and the creation of beloved community. \nAt Spring Forest\, Steve develops and leads trainings and conversations addressing systemic racism—its historical roots\, present realities\, and spiritual paths toward reconciliation. He organizes community partnerships and advocacy efforts\, helps congregations integrate antiracism into prayer and worship\, and facilitates the Healing Haunted Histories process created by Dr. Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Through these practices\, Steve helps communities confront the past and embody God’s reconciling love in the present. \nSteve’s vision is shaped by the Beloved Community — a vision of justice\, equity\, and unconditional love reflecting the Kin-dom of God on earth. “In intentional actions of education\, advocacy\, deep listening\, honest and confessional truth-telling\, and the work of antiracism as worship\,” Steve says\, “we build a community where every person is valued. Discipleship—patterning our lives after Jesus—must include the work of antiracism. It is the work of building peace and beloved community.” \nPreviously\, Steve served as Executive Director of Connectional Ministries and Director of Missions for the North Carolina Conference and as a Church and Community Worker in Robeson County. His 35-year ministry has included work in both rural and urban settings and in Slovenian refugee camps during the Balkan wars. Across all contexts\, he helps congregations engage deeply with their communities through shared spiritual and social transformation. \nSteve is married to Sheryl Taylor\, “the portrait of God’s grace\,” and they have two children and four grandchildren. \nSpecial Class Sessions with Elaine Enns and Ched Myers\, Co-authors of Healing Haunted Histories  \n \nElaine Enns has worked in the field of restorative justice since 1989\, first focusing on victim-offender dialogue in the Criminal Justice System\, and over the last decade looking at how restorative solidarity applies to historical violations\, including issues of intergenerational trauma\, healing and decolonization.  With a DMin from St. Andrew’s Saskatoon\, Elaine trains and teaches throughout North America\, and her latest book\, co-authored with her partner activist theologian Ched Myers\, is Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (Wipf & Stock\, 2021); in 2009 the two-volume Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A New Testament Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (Orbis Books\, 2009); and has published over a dozen articles. An ecumenical Mennonite\, Elaine was born and raised in Saskatoon\, Saskatchewan\, and lives in southern California where she co-directs Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries on traditional Chumash land. \n \nA fifth generation Californian\, Ched Myers is an activist theologian who has worked in social change and radical discipleship movements for more than 45 years.  With a degree in New Testament Studies\, he is a popular educator who animates scripture and its relationship to issues of faith-based peace and justice.  He has authored over 100 articles and more than a half-dozen books\, including Binding the Strong Man: A Political Reading of Mark’s Story of Jesus; Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A N.T. Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (with Elaine Enns); Our God is Undocumented: Biblical Faith and Immigrant Justice (with Matthew Colwell); Watershed Discipleship: Reinhabiting Bioregional Faith and Practice; Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (with Elaine Enns\, Cascade\, 2021); and most recently Healing Affluenza and Resisting Plutocracy: Luke’s Jesus and Sabbath Economics (Fortress\, 2024). Ched’s articles and books can be found on the linked sites. \n\nCourse Text:\nHealing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\, (The Center and Library for the Bible and Social Justice Series)\, by Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Eugene\, OR: Cascade Books\, an imprint of Wipft and Stock Publishers\, 2021.  ISBN (pbk): 978-1-7252-5535-7. Also available in hardback and as ebook.\n\n\nStudents should have their own copy in format personally preferred as we will utilize the text each session.\n\n\nClick to order Healing Haunted Histories\nRegister and purchase a copy of Healing Haunted Histories by December 31\, 2025 to receive a 40% discount on the book\, use code HHHEV225 at check-out (publisher\, Wipf & Stock).\n\n\n\nRegister by December 15\, 2025\n\n\n \n\nThis course is offered by the Leadership Institute of Union Presbyterian Seminary in collaboration with Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries and The Church at Spring Forest UMC in Hillsborough\, North Carolina\n\nWe believe everyone should have access to this learning opportunity. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “HHH: Financial Aid”.UPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free.\n\nIf you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.\n\n\n\nSchedule\n\nJanuary 12           WELCOME TO HHH! Practical Matters /Introduction to the course\nJanuary 19           MLK Day; no class; encourage participants to engage in service in their local communities\nJanuary 26           1st class session:  Introduction and Chapter 1 of the book\, Elaine Enns attending\nFebruary 2           Session 2\, Chapter 2\nFebruary 9           Session 3\, Chapter 3\nFebruary 16         Session 4\, Chapter 4\nFebruary 23         Session 5\, Theological Interlude\, Elaine Enns and Ched Myers attending\nMarch 2               Session 6\, Chapter 5\nMarch 9               Session 7\, Chapter 6\nMarch 16             Session 8\, Chapter 7\nMarch 23             Session 9\, Epilogue and Preparation for Making Commitments for Next Steps\nApril 6                  Closing and Session 10: Celebration and Commitment\, Elaine Enns attending
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/special-course-healing-haunted-histories/2026-02-23/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260219T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260219T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250519T152831Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163128Z
UID:10000635-1771527600-1771534800@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Worship & Sacraments
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThis course will examine the history\, theology\, and practice of worship and sacraments. While rooted in the reformed tradition\, the goal is to deepen appreciation for a variety of worship services and liturgical practices. Through reflections on readings and discussions of observed liturgical rituals\, the course will seek to cultivate enlivened worship leadership practices and their theological impact within the particular ecclesial context for each person. At the end of the course\, participants will be equipped and inspired to craft and lead worship that is lifegiving for them and their worshiping congregation. \nMeet the Instructors \n \nDr. Donna Giver-Johnston is an ordained minister of word and sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (USA). Over her twenty years in ministry\, she has served churches in New Jersey and Ohio\, and most recently as Pastor of Community Presbyterian Church of Ben Avon in Pittsburgh\, Pennsylvania. Currently\, she is a member of the faculty and the Director of the Doctor of Ministry degree program at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. She has earned degrees from Vanderbilt University (PhD and MA)\, Princeton Seminary (MDiv)\, and Westminster College (BA). Her published books include Claiming the Call to Preach: Four Female Pioneers of Preaching in Nineteenth-Century America (Oxford\, 2021); Writing for the Ear\, Preaching from the Heart (Fortress\, 2021); For Every Matter Under Heaven: Preaching for Special Occasions (Fortress Press\, 2022). \n \nRev. Dr. Diane Walton Hendricks has served as pastor of Clifton Presbyterian Church in Clifton\, VA\, since September of 2020. She is passionate about nurturing a community that is growing in relationship with one another\, with God\, with the community\, and with God’s ongoing work in the world. Before coming to CPC\, Pastor Diane served churches in Arlington and Falls Church. In addition\, she serves the greater church as a spiritual director (trained in the contemplative tradition)\, and has also served on staff at Wesley Theological Seminary and in the Pathways program of Union Presbyterian Seminary. She also served National Capital Presbytery as its immediate past moderator and is presently chair of the Leadership Council. She received her Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary and her Doctor of Ministry from Virginia Theological Seminary. \nDates: Thursdays\, 7-9pm EST\, February 19 – March 26\, 2025 \nRegistration closes 2 days before the first class meeting on February 17\, 2025. \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “PWWS : Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-worship-sacraments/2026-02-19/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ws.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260219T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260219T203000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20251017T175330Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T195147Z
UID:10000735-1771525800-1771533000@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Special Course: Sacraments and Grace in Wesleyan Theology
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThe keynote of Wesleyan theology is grace\, understood experientially by the followers of Jesus in at least three modes of grace: prevenient\, justifying\, sanctifying. This course will explore the modes of grace within Wesleyan Theology\, specifically related to the Sacraments. \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRev. Alan Combs is an ordained elder in the Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church\, serving as pastor of First United Methodist Church in Salem\, VA. With over 15 years of experience\, he is dedicated to Wesleyan theology\, spiritual formation\, and ecumenical dialogue. He has also been involved with the General Commission on Christian Unity and Interreligious Concerns. \nDates: Thursdays\, February 19 – March 26\, 2026 | 6:30-8:30pm EST via Zoom \nClick here to register!\n\nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \nWe believe everyone should have access to this learning opportunity. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “SCWT: Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, please contact Deborah for a promo code.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/special-course-sacraments-and-grace-in-wesleyan-theology/2026-02-19/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/featured-image1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260219T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260219T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20260123T171826Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T171826Z
UID:10000761-1771500600-1771506000@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Campus Cafe
DESCRIPTION:Grab some lunch and stop by our campus swag store in Richmond Hall! We’ll have sandwiches (grilled cheese and chicken salad)\, soups\, and cookies.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/campus-cafe-4/
LOCATION:Campus Cafe at Richmond Hall\, 1007 Melrose Avenue\, Richmond\, VA\, 23227\, United States
GEO:37.578918;-77.448257
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Campus Cafe at Richmond Hall 1007 Melrose Avenue Richmond VA 23227 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1007 Melrose Avenue:geo:-77.448257,37.578918
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250708T140423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250708T163136Z
UID:10000701-1771441200-1771448400@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 WLI Course: Queer Womanist Preaching
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThis course will expose students to the queering of religious concepts such as redemption and salvation that create a decolonized preaching experience that centers the lived experiences of Black\, queer women. Bishop Yvette Flunder’s preaching method\, the Apocalyptic Method will be taught as an example of a sermonic method of a queer\, womanist preacher. Students will learn the fundamental tenets of queer womanist preaching while critically reflecting on their own beliefs\, especially their espoused sexual ethics. The course considers theological frameworks that inform queer womanist preaching\, such as womanist theology and queer theology while keeping an eye towards Black\, queer\, women’s lived experiences. \nMeet the instructor \n \nThe Reverend Dr. Nicole McDonald is a recent graduate of the Ph.D. program in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric at Christian Theological Seminary. She is an adjunct professor who teaches Queer Womanist Preaching at Chicago Theological Seminary and Diversity\, Oppression\, and Privilege at Ball State University’s Department of Social Work. Currently\, Dr. McDonald serves as the Interim Senior Pastor of Central Christian Church in Indianapolis. Prior to entering the pastorate\, she served over 14 years as a healthcare chaplain in hospice and level-one trauma centers. Pastor Nicole has a heart for God’s people. As a queer\, womanist practitioner-scholar\, she strives to build justice-oriented communities of radical inclusivity where all feel welcomed. \nDates: Wednesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, February 18 – March 25 \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \n\n \n\n Registration closes on February 16\, 2 business days before the first class meeting. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “WLIQWP: Financial Aid.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-wli-course-queer-womanist-preaching/2026-02-18/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:KGCCWL,Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/wliqwp.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T114000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260218T114000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20260123T170224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T170224Z
UID:10000753-1771414800-1771414800@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Campus Chapel
DESCRIPTION:Join us for Ash Wednesday Chapel\, with Dr. Dorothee Tripodi.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/campus-chapel-2/
LOCATION:Union Presbyterian Seminary: Richmond Campus\, Lake Chapel\, 3401 Brook Rd.\, Richmond\, VA\, 23227\, United States
CATEGORIES:RIC
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260217T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260217T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250519T153007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163058Z
UID:10000644-1771354800-1771362000@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Biblical Interpretation
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThis course has as its primary goal the equipping of Christian leaders to interpret biblical texts faithfully. The course provides an overview of the ways in which the church has approached the work of biblical interpretation and then offers a practical guide for close reading of passages. \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRev. Dr. Megan Fullerton Strollo is Assistant Professor of Biblical Languages\, beginning in July 2020. She received both her Master of Divinity and Doctor of Philosophy in biblical studies degrees from Union Presbyterian Seminary in 2012 and 2020\, respectively. Her primary research interests include the Megilloth\, post-exilic literature\, Wisdom literature\, biblical languages\, biblical theology\, women in the Bible\, intertextuality in the Bible\, and feminist biblical interpretation. She has published articles and reviews in peer-reviewed journals and is a contributor in Megilloth Studies: The Shape of Contemporary Scholarship (Sheffield Phoenix Press\, 2016). \nDates: Tuesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, January 6 – February 24\, 2026 (8 weeks; 4 synchronous) \nRegistration closes 2 days before the first class meeting on January 4\, 2026. \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “PWBI : Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-biblical-interpretation/2026-02-17/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bi.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260216T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260216T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250122T143356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T191508Z
UID:10000573-1771257600-1771263000@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Special Course: Healing Haunted Histories
DESCRIPTION:Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\nMondays\, January 12 – April 6\, 2026\nRegister and view full schedule at the bottom of this page\n\n\n\n\nCOURSE DESCRIPTION \nThis course utilizes social analysis\, communal narratives\, historical literacy\, and biblical reflection to address deep-rooted injustices between settlers and the worlds of Indigenous (and other marginalized communities) in North America. Participants will engage with the Landlines-Bloodlines-Songlines (LBS) model tailored to their context\, focusing on practical research and engagement rather than passive learning. Commitment to readings\, research\, and mutual accountability is essential for fostering Restorative Solidarity and deepening decolonization efforts. Please visit this website for more information about Healing Haunted Histories.  \nThis course will require 3.0-3.5 hours per week for course preparation and attendance\, and is 4.0 CEUs. \nMeet the Course Facilitators\nRev. Dr. Lynne B. Caldwell\, Pastor and Educator \n \nWhile Lynne Caldwell’s “re-schooling” and personal work with her racism began in college\, she only became connected with Healing Haunted Histories a few years ago. She sensed from the beginning that ‘doing the work’ (Audre Lorde) through Elaine Enns’ and Ched Myers’ model for Healing Haunted Histories is one of the best \nBorn in Asheville\, NC\, Lynne grew up in Black Mountain\, NC. She earned a B.A. in Child Development\, Berea College\, Berea\, KY; an M.Div.\, Asbury Theological Seminary\, Wilmore\, KY; D.Min.\, Wesley Theological Seminary\, Washington\, DC and two certificates in leadership from the Divinity School of Duke University. She has served appointments through the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church for more than 35 years\, including 10 years “on-loan” to the Virginia Conference. Assignments/appointed positions include Associate Minister\, Lead Pastor\, Senior Pastor\, District Superintendent\, faculty member\, and administrator of a non-profit. \nAmong Lynne’s passions is the exploration of the intersection of real faith and real life through meaningful relationships\, spiritual practices\, and a commitment to learning something new every day. She’s energized by a lifelong curiosity about human development and community. Inspired to sustain learning about how we grow in love for God\, self\, neighbors\, and our enemies\, she seeks to pursue integrity between words and behaviors. And\, so…she seeks to press on\, in the company of others\, daily practicing what it might mean to become God’s beloved community\, until we’ve practiced our way into becoming embodiments of love\, justice\, equity\, inclusion and forgiveness. \nLynne currently serves as pastor of Danbury Community Church in Stokes County\, NC; and is an Adjunct Faculty member in the Religion\, Ethics and Philosophy Department of Greensboro College. Lynne makes her home in Winston-Salem\, NC. \nHome Missioner Steve Taylor\, Activist and Educator \n \nSteve Taylor is a Home Missioner in the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church\, serving as Director of Anti-racist Discipleship and Beloved Community at Spring Forest New Monastic and Missional Community. Steve leads a transformative ministry integrating Christian discipleship with the pursuit of racial equity and justice. His work extends throughout the United Methodist Church\, local congregations\, and ecumenical partnerships\, centering on peacebuilding\, healing\, and the creation of beloved community. \nAt Spring Forest\, Steve develops and leads trainings and conversations addressing systemic racism—its historical roots\, present realities\, and spiritual paths toward reconciliation. He organizes community partnerships and advocacy efforts\, helps congregations integrate antiracism into prayer and worship\, and facilitates the Healing Haunted Histories process created by Dr. Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Through these practices\, Steve helps communities confront the past and embody God’s reconciling love in the present. \nSteve’s vision is shaped by the Beloved Community — a vision of justice\, equity\, and unconditional love reflecting the Kin-dom of God on earth. “In intentional actions of education\, advocacy\, deep listening\, honest and confessional truth-telling\, and the work of antiracism as worship\,” Steve says\, “we build a community where every person is valued. Discipleship—patterning our lives after Jesus—must include the work of antiracism. It is the work of building peace and beloved community.” \nPreviously\, Steve served as Executive Director of Connectional Ministries and Director of Missions for the North Carolina Conference and as a Church and Community Worker in Robeson County. His 35-year ministry has included work in both rural and urban settings and in Slovenian refugee camps during the Balkan wars. Across all contexts\, he helps congregations engage deeply with their communities through shared spiritual and social transformation. \nSteve is married to Sheryl Taylor\, “the portrait of God’s grace\,” and they have two children and four grandchildren. \nSpecial Class Sessions with Elaine Enns and Ched Myers\, Co-authors of Healing Haunted Histories  \n \nElaine Enns has worked in the field of restorative justice since 1989\, first focusing on victim-offender dialogue in the Criminal Justice System\, and over the last decade looking at how restorative solidarity applies to historical violations\, including issues of intergenerational trauma\, healing and decolonization.  With a DMin from St. Andrew’s Saskatoon\, Elaine trains and teaches throughout North America\, and her latest book\, co-authored with her partner activist theologian Ched Myers\, is Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (Wipf & Stock\, 2021); in 2009 the two-volume Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A New Testament Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (Orbis Books\, 2009); and has published over a dozen articles. An ecumenical Mennonite\, Elaine was born and raised in Saskatoon\, Saskatchewan\, and lives in southern California where she co-directs Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries on traditional Chumash land. \n \nA fifth generation Californian\, Ched Myers is an activist theologian who has worked in social change and radical discipleship movements for more than 45 years.  With a degree in New Testament Studies\, he is a popular educator who animates scripture and its relationship to issues of faith-based peace and justice.  He has authored over 100 articles and more than a half-dozen books\, including Binding the Strong Man: A Political Reading of Mark’s Story of Jesus; Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A N.T. Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (with Elaine Enns); Our God is Undocumented: Biblical Faith and Immigrant Justice (with Matthew Colwell); Watershed Discipleship: Reinhabiting Bioregional Faith and Practice; Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (with Elaine Enns\, Cascade\, 2021); and most recently Healing Affluenza and Resisting Plutocracy: Luke’s Jesus and Sabbath Economics (Fortress\, 2024). Ched’s articles and books can be found on the linked sites. \n\nCourse Text:\nHealing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\, (The Center and Library for the Bible and Social Justice Series)\, by Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Eugene\, OR: Cascade Books\, an imprint of Wipft and Stock Publishers\, 2021.  ISBN (pbk): 978-1-7252-5535-7. Also available in hardback and as ebook.\n\n\nStudents should have their own copy in format personally preferred as we will utilize the text each session.\n\n\nClick to order Healing Haunted Histories\nRegister and purchase a copy of Healing Haunted Histories by December 31\, 2025 to receive a 40% discount on the book\, use code HHHEV225 at check-out (publisher\, Wipf & Stock).\n\n\n\nRegister by December 15\, 2025\n\n\n \n\nThis course is offered by the Leadership Institute of Union Presbyterian Seminary in collaboration with Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries and The Church at Spring Forest UMC in Hillsborough\, North Carolina\n\nWe believe everyone should have access to this learning opportunity. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “HHH: Financial Aid”.UPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free.\n\nIf you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.\n\n\n\nSchedule\n\nJanuary 12           WELCOME TO HHH! Practical Matters /Introduction to the course\nJanuary 19           MLK Day; no class; encourage participants to engage in service in their local communities\nJanuary 26           1st class session:  Introduction and Chapter 1 of the book\, Elaine Enns attending\nFebruary 2           Session 2\, Chapter 2\nFebruary 9           Session 3\, Chapter 3\nFebruary 16         Session 4\, Chapter 4\nFebruary 23         Session 5\, Theological Interlude\, Elaine Enns and Ched Myers attending\nMarch 2               Session 6\, Chapter 5\nMarch 9               Session 7\, Chapter 6\nMarch 16             Session 8\, Chapter 7\nMarch 23             Session 9\, Epilogue and Preparation for Making Commitments for Next Steps\nApril 6                  Closing and Session 10: Celebration and Commitment\, Elaine Enns attending
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/special-course-healing-haunted-histories/2026-02-16/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260212T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260212T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250519T152608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163104Z
UID:10000628-1770922800-1770930000@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Reformed Theology
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: This course is designed to provide students with knowledge of and appreciation for the Reformed theological tradition in which the PC(USA) is rooted. The course will explore the central tenets of the Reformed tradition\, its contemporary significance for the life of the church\, and its relationship to the broader ecclesial and social contexts. \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRachel S. Baard is an Assistant Professor of Theology and Ethics at Union Presbyterian Seminary and directs the Master of Arts in Public Theology Program. Originally from South Africa\, her work is influenced by the anti-apartheid movement. She holds a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary and has published the award-winning book “Sexism and Sin-Talk.” Her research focuses on feminist theologies\, Reformed confessions\, and the responses of theologians Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Paul Tillich to Nazism. \nDates: Thursdays\, 7-9pm EST\, January 8 – February 12\, 2026 \nRegistration closes on January 6\, 2026\, 2 days before the first class meeting. \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “PWRT: Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-reformed-theology/2026-02-12/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/rt.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260212T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260212T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20260123T171826Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T171826Z
UID:10000760-1770895800-1770901200@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Campus Cafe
DESCRIPTION:Grab some lunch and stop by our campus swag store in Richmond Hall! We’ll have sandwiches (grilled cheese and chicken salad)\, soups\, and cookies.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/campus-cafe-3/
LOCATION:Campus Cafe at Richmond Hall\, 1007 Melrose Avenue\, Richmond\, VA\, 23227\, United States
GEO:37.578918;-77.448257
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Campus Cafe at Richmond Hall 1007 Melrose Avenue Richmond VA 23227 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1007 Melrose Avenue:geo:-77.448257,37.578918
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260210T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260210T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250528T135731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163529Z
UID:10000674-1770750000-1770757200@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 WLI Course: Womanist Biblical Interpretation
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThis course introduces students to the concept\, methods\, scholars\, and practice of womanist biblical interpretation. Students will engage in diverse readings that center on the experiences of Black women and explore how womanist interpretation offers new insights into the biblical text\, while sometimes challenging dominant interpretative traditions. \nThis is a core course in the 6-course Womanist Leadership Institute program \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRev. Dr. Kamilah Hall Sharp enjoys examining the intersection of race\, gender\, and class with the biblical text and contemporary culture using a trauma-informed womanist approach. She is currently working on her manuscript examining survival in the book of Esther. Her experience in church planting\, pastoring\, and community organizing has shaped her interest in womanist ecclesiology\, womanist leadership\, and the dynamics of thriving in public ministry\, which are also areas of her research interest. She is an ordained minister in the Disciples of Christ (Christian Church) and currently serves as a Co-Pastor at The Gathering\, A Womanist Church. \nDates: Tuesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, January 6 – February 10\, 2026 \nRegistration closes on January 2\, 2026\, 2 business days before the first class meeting \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “WLIWBI: Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-wli-course-womanist-biblical-interpretation/2026-02-10/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:KGCCWL,Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/wliwbi.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260209T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260209T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250122T143356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T191508Z
UID:10000572-1770652800-1770658200@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Special Course: Healing Haunted Histories
DESCRIPTION:Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\nMondays\, January 12 – April 6\, 2026\nRegister and view full schedule at the bottom of this page\n\n\n\n\nCOURSE DESCRIPTION \nThis course utilizes social analysis\, communal narratives\, historical literacy\, and biblical reflection to address deep-rooted injustices between settlers and the worlds of Indigenous (and other marginalized communities) in North America. Participants will engage with the Landlines-Bloodlines-Songlines (LBS) model tailored to their context\, focusing on practical research and engagement rather than passive learning. Commitment to readings\, research\, and mutual accountability is essential for fostering Restorative Solidarity and deepening decolonization efforts. Please visit this website for more information about Healing Haunted Histories.  \nThis course will require 3.0-3.5 hours per week for course preparation and attendance\, and is 4.0 CEUs. \nMeet the Course Facilitators\nRev. Dr. Lynne B. Caldwell\, Pastor and Educator \n \nWhile Lynne Caldwell’s “re-schooling” and personal work with her racism began in college\, she only became connected with Healing Haunted Histories a few years ago. She sensed from the beginning that ‘doing the work’ (Audre Lorde) through Elaine Enns’ and Ched Myers’ model for Healing Haunted Histories is one of the best \nBorn in Asheville\, NC\, Lynne grew up in Black Mountain\, NC. She earned a B.A. in Child Development\, Berea College\, Berea\, KY; an M.Div.\, Asbury Theological Seminary\, Wilmore\, KY; D.Min.\, Wesley Theological Seminary\, Washington\, DC and two certificates in leadership from the Divinity School of Duke University. She has served appointments through the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church for more than 35 years\, including 10 years “on-loan” to the Virginia Conference. Assignments/appointed positions include Associate Minister\, Lead Pastor\, Senior Pastor\, District Superintendent\, faculty member\, and administrator of a non-profit. \nAmong Lynne’s passions is the exploration of the intersection of real faith and real life through meaningful relationships\, spiritual practices\, and a commitment to learning something new every day. She’s energized by a lifelong curiosity about human development and community. Inspired to sustain learning about how we grow in love for God\, self\, neighbors\, and our enemies\, she seeks to pursue integrity between words and behaviors. And\, so…she seeks to press on\, in the company of others\, daily practicing what it might mean to become God’s beloved community\, until we’ve practiced our way into becoming embodiments of love\, justice\, equity\, inclusion and forgiveness. \nLynne currently serves as pastor of Danbury Community Church in Stokes County\, NC; and is an Adjunct Faculty member in the Religion\, Ethics and Philosophy Department of Greensboro College. Lynne makes her home in Winston-Salem\, NC. \nHome Missioner Steve Taylor\, Activist and Educator \n \nSteve Taylor is a Home Missioner in the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church\, serving as Director of Anti-racist Discipleship and Beloved Community at Spring Forest New Monastic and Missional Community. Steve leads a transformative ministry integrating Christian discipleship with the pursuit of racial equity and justice. His work extends throughout the United Methodist Church\, local congregations\, and ecumenical partnerships\, centering on peacebuilding\, healing\, and the creation of beloved community. \nAt Spring Forest\, Steve develops and leads trainings and conversations addressing systemic racism—its historical roots\, present realities\, and spiritual paths toward reconciliation. He organizes community partnerships and advocacy efforts\, helps congregations integrate antiracism into prayer and worship\, and facilitates the Healing Haunted Histories process created by Dr. Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Through these practices\, Steve helps communities confront the past and embody God’s reconciling love in the present. \nSteve’s vision is shaped by the Beloved Community — a vision of justice\, equity\, and unconditional love reflecting the Kin-dom of God on earth. “In intentional actions of education\, advocacy\, deep listening\, honest and confessional truth-telling\, and the work of antiracism as worship\,” Steve says\, “we build a community where every person is valued. Discipleship—patterning our lives after Jesus—must include the work of antiracism. It is the work of building peace and beloved community.” \nPreviously\, Steve served as Executive Director of Connectional Ministries and Director of Missions for the North Carolina Conference and as a Church and Community Worker in Robeson County. His 35-year ministry has included work in both rural and urban settings and in Slovenian refugee camps during the Balkan wars. Across all contexts\, he helps congregations engage deeply with their communities through shared spiritual and social transformation. \nSteve is married to Sheryl Taylor\, “the portrait of God’s grace\,” and they have two children and four grandchildren. \nSpecial Class Sessions with Elaine Enns and Ched Myers\, Co-authors of Healing Haunted Histories  \n \nElaine Enns has worked in the field of restorative justice since 1989\, first focusing on victim-offender dialogue in the Criminal Justice System\, and over the last decade looking at how restorative solidarity applies to historical violations\, including issues of intergenerational trauma\, healing and decolonization.  With a DMin from St. Andrew’s Saskatoon\, Elaine trains and teaches throughout North America\, and her latest book\, co-authored with her partner activist theologian Ched Myers\, is Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (Wipf & Stock\, 2021); in 2009 the two-volume Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A New Testament Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (Orbis Books\, 2009); and has published over a dozen articles. An ecumenical Mennonite\, Elaine was born and raised in Saskatoon\, Saskatchewan\, and lives in southern California where she co-directs Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries on traditional Chumash land. \n \nA fifth generation Californian\, Ched Myers is an activist theologian who has worked in social change and radical discipleship movements for more than 45 years.  With a degree in New Testament Studies\, he is a popular educator who animates scripture and its relationship to issues of faith-based peace and justice.  He has authored over 100 articles and more than a half-dozen books\, including Binding the Strong Man: A Political Reading of Mark’s Story of Jesus; Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A N.T. Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (with Elaine Enns); Our God is Undocumented: Biblical Faith and Immigrant Justice (with Matthew Colwell); Watershed Discipleship: Reinhabiting Bioregional Faith and Practice; Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (with Elaine Enns\, Cascade\, 2021); and most recently Healing Affluenza and Resisting Plutocracy: Luke’s Jesus and Sabbath Economics (Fortress\, 2024). Ched’s articles and books can be found on the linked sites. \n\nCourse Text:\nHealing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\, (The Center and Library for the Bible and Social Justice Series)\, by Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Eugene\, OR: Cascade Books\, an imprint of Wipft and Stock Publishers\, 2021.  ISBN (pbk): 978-1-7252-5535-7. Also available in hardback and as ebook.\n\n\nStudents should have their own copy in format personally preferred as we will utilize the text each session.\n\n\nClick to order Healing Haunted Histories\nRegister and purchase a copy of Healing Haunted Histories by December 31\, 2025 to receive a 40% discount on the book\, use code HHHEV225 at check-out (publisher\, Wipf & Stock).\n\n\n\nRegister by December 15\, 2025\n\n\n \n\nThis course is offered by the Leadership Institute of Union Presbyterian Seminary in collaboration with Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries and The Church at Spring Forest UMC in Hillsborough\, North Carolina\n\nWe believe everyone should have access to this learning opportunity. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “HHH: Financial Aid”.UPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free.\n\nIf you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.\n\n\n\nSchedule\n\nJanuary 12           WELCOME TO HHH! Practical Matters /Introduction to the course\nJanuary 19           MLK Day; no class; encourage participants to engage in service in their local communities\nJanuary 26           1st class session:  Introduction and Chapter 1 of the book\, Elaine Enns attending\nFebruary 2           Session 2\, Chapter 2\nFebruary 9           Session 3\, Chapter 3\nFebruary 16         Session 4\, Chapter 4\nFebruary 23         Session 5\, Theological Interlude\, Elaine Enns and Ched Myers attending\nMarch 2               Session 6\, Chapter 5\nMarch 9               Session 7\, Chapter 6\nMarch 16             Session 8\, Chapter 7\nMarch 23             Session 9\, Epilogue and Preparation for Making Commitments for Next Steps\nApril 6                  Closing and Session 10: Celebration and Commitment\, Elaine Enns attending
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/special-course-healing-haunted-histories/2026-02-09/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250519T152608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163104Z
UID:10000627-1770318000-1770325200@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Reformed Theology
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: This course is designed to provide students with knowledge of and appreciation for the Reformed theological tradition in which the PC(USA) is rooted. The course will explore the central tenets of the Reformed tradition\, its contemporary significance for the life of the church\, and its relationship to the broader ecclesial and social contexts. \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRachel S. Baard is an Assistant Professor of Theology and Ethics at Union Presbyterian Seminary and directs the Master of Arts in Public Theology Program. Originally from South Africa\, her work is influenced by the anti-apartheid movement. She holds a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary and has published the award-winning book “Sexism and Sin-Talk.” Her research focuses on feminist theologies\, Reformed confessions\, and the responses of theologians Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Paul Tillich to Nazism. \nDates: Thursdays\, 7-9pm EST\, January 8 – February 12\, 2026 \nRegistration closes on January 6\, 2026\, 2 days before the first class meeting. \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “PWRT: Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-reformed-theology/2026-02-05/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/rt.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20260123T171825Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T171825Z
UID:10000759-1770291000-1770296400@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Campus Cafe
DESCRIPTION:Grab some lunch and stop by our campus swag store in Richmond Hall! We’ll have sandwiches (grilled cheese and chicken salad)\, soups\, and cookies.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/campus-cafe-2/
LOCATION:Campus Cafe at Richmond Hall\, 1007 Melrose Avenue\, Richmond\, VA\, 23227\, United States
GEO:37.578918;-77.448257
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Campus Cafe at Richmond Hall 1007 Melrose Avenue Richmond VA 23227 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1007 Melrose Avenue:geo:-77.448257,37.578918
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260204T114000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260204T114000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20260123T170224Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T170224Z
UID:10000752-1770205200-1770205200@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Campus Chapel
DESCRIPTION:Join us for International Student Worship at 11:40am.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/campus-chapel/
LOCATION:Union Presbyterian Seminary: Richmond Campus\, Lake Chapel\, 3401 Brook Rd.\, Richmond\, VA\, 23227\, United States
CATEGORIES:RIC
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250528T135731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163529Z
UID:10000673-1770145200-1770152400@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 WLI Course: Womanist Biblical Interpretation
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThis course introduces students to the concept\, methods\, scholars\, and practice of womanist biblical interpretation. Students will engage in diverse readings that center on the experiences of Black women and explore how womanist interpretation offers new insights into the biblical text\, while sometimes challenging dominant interpretative traditions. \nThis is a core course in the 6-course Womanist Leadership Institute program \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRev. Dr. Kamilah Hall Sharp enjoys examining the intersection of race\, gender\, and class with the biblical text and contemporary culture using a trauma-informed womanist approach. She is currently working on her manuscript examining survival in the book of Esther. Her experience in church planting\, pastoring\, and community organizing has shaped her interest in womanist ecclesiology\, womanist leadership\, and the dynamics of thriving in public ministry\, which are also areas of her research interest. She is an ordained minister in the Disciples of Christ (Christian Church) and currently serves as a Co-Pastor at The Gathering\, A Womanist Church. \nDates: Tuesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, January 6 – February 10\, 2026 \nRegistration closes on January 2\, 2026\, 2 business days before the first class meeting \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “WLIWBI: Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-wli-course-womanist-biblical-interpretation/2026-02-03/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:KGCCWL,Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/wliwbi.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250519T153007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163058Z
UID:10000643-1770145200-1770152400@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Biblical Interpretation
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThis course has as its primary goal the equipping of Christian leaders to interpret biblical texts faithfully. The course provides an overview of the ways in which the church has approached the work of biblical interpretation and then offers a practical guide for close reading of passages. \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRev. Dr. Megan Fullerton Strollo is Assistant Professor of Biblical Languages\, beginning in July 2020. She received both her Master of Divinity and Doctor of Philosophy in biblical studies degrees from Union Presbyterian Seminary in 2012 and 2020\, respectively. Her primary research interests include the Megilloth\, post-exilic literature\, Wisdom literature\, biblical languages\, biblical theology\, women in the Bible\, intertextuality in the Bible\, and feminist biblical interpretation. She has published articles and reviews in peer-reviewed journals and is a contributor in Megilloth Studies: The Shape of Contemporary Scholarship (Sheffield Phoenix Press\, 2016). \nDates: Tuesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, January 6 – February 24\, 2026 (8 weeks; 4 synchronous) \nRegistration closes 2 days before the first class meeting on January 4\, 2026. \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “PWBI : Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-biblical-interpretation/2026-02-03/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/bi.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260202T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260202T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250122T143356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T191508Z
UID:10000571-1770048000-1770053400@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Special Course: Healing Haunted Histories
DESCRIPTION:Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\nMondays\, January 12 – April 6\, 2026\nRegister and view full schedule at the bottom of this page\n\n\n\n\nCOURSE DESCRIPTION \nThis course utilizes social analysis\, communal narratives\, historical literacy\, and biblical reflection to address deep-rooted injustices between settlers and the worlds of Indigenous (and other marginalized communities) in North America. Participants will engage with the Landlines-Bloodlines-Songlines (LBS) model tailored to their context\, focusing on practical research and engagement rather than passive learning. Commitment to readings\, research\, and mutual accountability is essential for fostering Restorative Solidarity and deepening decolonization efforts. Please visit this website for more information about Healing Haunted Histories.  \nThis course will require 3.0-3.5 hours per week for course preparation and attendance\, and is 4.0 CEUs. \nMeet the Course Facilitators\nRev. Dr. Lynne B. Caldwell\, Pastor and Educator \n \nWhile Lynne Caldwell’s “re-schooling” and personal work with her racism began in college\, she only became connected with Healing Haunted Histories a few years ago. She sensed from the beginning that ‘doing the work’ (Audre Lorde) through Elaine Enns’ and Ched Myers’ model for Healing Haunted Histories is one of the best \nBorn in Asheville\, NC\, Lynne grew up in Black Mountain\, NC. She earned a B.A. in Child Development\, Berea College\, Berea\, KY; an M.Div.\, Asbury Theological Seminary\, Wilmore\, KY; D.Min.\, Wesley Theological Seminary\, Washington\, DC and two certificates in leadership from the Divinity School of Duke University. She has served appointments through the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church for more than 35 years\, including 10 years “on-loan” to the Virginia Conference. Assignments/appointed positions include Associate Minister\, Lead Pastor\, Senior Pastor\, District Superintendent\, faculty member\, and administrator of a non-profit. \nAmong Lynne’s passions is the exploration of the intersection of real faith and real life through meaningful relationships\, spiritual practices\, and a commitment to learning something new every day. She’s energized by a lifelong curiosity about human development and community. Inspired to sustain learning about how we grow in love for God\, self\, neighbors\, and our enemies\, she seeks to pursue integrity between words and behaviors. And\, so…she seeks to press on\, in the company of others\, daily practicing what it might mean to become God’s beloved community\, until we’ve practiced our way into becoming embodiments of love\, justice\, equity\, inclusion and forgiveness. \nLynne currently serves as pastor of Danbury Community Church in Stokes County\, NC; and is an Adjunct Faculty member in the Religion\, Ethics and Philosophy Department of Greensboro College. Lynne makes her home in Winston-Salem\, NC. \nHome Missioner Steve Taylor\, Activist and Educator \n \nSteve Taylor is a Home Missioner in the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church\, serving as Director of Anti-racist Discipleship and Beloved Community at Spring Forest New Monastic and Missional Community. Steve leads a transformative ministry integrating Christian discipleship with the pursuit of racial equity and justice. His work extends throughout the United Methodist Church\, local congregations\, and ecumenical partnerships\, centering on peacebuilding\, healing\, and the creation of beloved community. \nAt Spring Forest\, Steve develops and leads trainings and conversations addressing systemic racism—its historical roots\, present realities\, and spiritual paths toward reconciliation. He organizes community partnerships and advocacy efforts\, helps congregations integrate antiracism into prayer and worship\, and facilitates the Healing Haunted Histories process created by Dr. Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Through these practices\, Steve helps communities confront the past and embody God’s reconciling love in the present. \nSteve’s vision is shaped by the Beloved Community — a vision of justice\, equity\, and unconditional love reflecting the Kin-dom of God on earth. “In intentional actions of education\, advocacy\, deep listening\, honest and confessional truth-telling\, and the work of antiracism as worship\,” Steve says\, “we build a community where every person is valued. Discipleship—patterning our lives after Jesus—must include the work of antiracism. It is the work of building peace and beloved community.” \nPreviously\, Steve served as Executive Director of Connectional Ministries and Director of Missions for the North Carolina Conference and as a Church and Community Worker in Robeson County. His 35-year ministry has included work in both rural and urban settings and in Slovenian refugee camps during the Balkan wars. Across all contexts\, he helps congregations engage deeply with their communities through shared spiritual and social transformation. \nSteve is married to Sheryl Taylor\, “the portrait of God’s grace\,” and they have two children and four grandchildren. \nSpecial Class Sessions with Elaine Enns and Ched Myers\, Co-authors of Healing Haunted Histories  \n \nElaine Enns has worked in the field of restorative justice since 1989\, first focusing on victim-offender dialogue in the Criminal Justice System\, and over the last decade looking at how restorative solidarity applies to historical violations\, including issues of intergenerational trauma\, healing and decolonization.  With a DMin from St. Andrew’s Saskatoon\, Elaine trains and teaches throughout North America\, and her latest book\, co-authored with her partner activist theologian Ched Myers\, is Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (Wipf & Stock\, 2021); in 2009 the two-volume Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A New Testament Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (Orbis Books\, 2009); and has published over a dozen articles. An ecumenical Mennonite\, Elaine was born and raised in Saskatoon\, Saskatchewan\, and lives in southern California where she co-directs Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries on traditional Chumash land. \n \nA fifth generation Californian\, Ched Myers is an activist theologian who has worked in social change and radical discipleship movements for more than 45 years.  With a degree in New Testament Studies\, he is a popular educator who animates scripture and its relationship to issues of faith-based peace and justice.  He has authored over 100 articles and more than a half-dozen books\, including Binding the Strong Man: A Political Reading of Mark’s Story of Jesus; Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A N.T. Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (with Elaine Enns); Our God is Undocumented: Biblical Faith and Immigrant Justice (with Matthew Colwell); Watershed Discipleship: Reinhabiting Bioregional Faith and Practice; Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (with Elaine Enns\, Cascade\, 2021); and most recently Healing Affluenza and Resisting Plutocracy: Luke’s Jesus and Sabbath Economics (Fortress\, 2024). Ched’s articles and books can be found on the linked sites. \n\nCourse Text:\nHealing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\, (The Center and Library for the Bible and Social Justice Series)\, by Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Eugene\, OR: Cascade Books\, an imprint of Wipft and Stock Publishers\, 2021.  ISBN (pbk): 978-1-7252-5535-7. Also available in hardback and as ebook.\n\n\nStudents should have their own copy in format personally preferred as we will utilize the text each session.\n\n\nClick to order Healing Haunted Histories\nRegister and purchase a copy of Healing Haunted Histories by December 31\, 2025 to receive a 40% discount on the book\, use code HHHEV225 at check-out (publisher\, Wipf & Stock).\n\n\n\nRegister by December 15\, 2025\n\n\n \n\nThis course is offered by the Leadership Institute of Union Presbyterian Seminary in collaboration with Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries and The Church at Spring Forest UMC in Hillsborough\, North Carolina\n\nWe believe everyone should have access to this learning opportunity. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “HHH: Financial Aid”.UPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free.\n\nIf you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.\n\n\n\nSchedule\n\nJanuary 12           WELCOME TO HHH! Practical Matters /Introduction to the course\nJanuary 19           MLK Day; no class; encourage participants to engage in service in their local communities\nJanuary 26           1st class session:  Introduction and Chapter 1 of the book\, Elaine Enns attending\nFebruary 2           Session 2\, Chapter 2\nFebruary 9           Session 3\, Chapter 3\nFebruary 16         Session 4\, Chapter 4\nFebruary 23         Session 5\, Theological Interlude\, Elaine Enns and Ched Myers attending\nMarch 2               Session 6\, Chapter 5\nMarch 9               Session 7\, Chapter 6\nMarch 16             Session 8\, Chapter 7\nMarch 23             Session 9\, Epilogue and Preparation for Making Commitments for Next Steps\nApril 6                  Closing and Session 10: Celebration and Commitment\, Elaine Enns attending
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/special-course-healing-haunted-histories/2026-02-02/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260129T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260129T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250519T152608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163104Z
UID:10000626-1769713200-1769720400@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Reformed Theology
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: This course is designed to provide students with knowledge of and appreciation for the Reformed theological tradition in which the PC(USA) is rooted. The course will explore the central tenets of the Reformed tradition\, its contemporary significance for the life of the church\, and its relationship to the broader ecclesial and social contexts. \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRachel S. Baard is an Assistant Professor of Theology and Ethics at Union Presbyterian Seminary and directs the Master of Arts in Public Theology Program. Originally from South Africa\, her work is influenced by the anti-apartheid movement. She holds a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary and has published the award-winning book “Sexism and Sin-Talk.” Her research focuses on feminist theologies\, Reformed confessions\, and the responses of theologians Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Paul Tillich to Nazism. \nDates: Thursdays\, 7-9pm EST\, January 8 – February 12\, 2026 \nRegistration closes on January 6\, 2026\, 2 days before the first class meeting. \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “PWRT: Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-reformed-theology/2026-01-29/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/rt.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260129T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260129T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20260123T171824Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T171824Z
UID:10000758-1769686200-1769691600@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Campus Cafe
DESCRIPTION:Grab some lunch and stop by our campus swag store in Richmond Hall! We’ll have sandwiches (grilled cheese and chicken salad)\, soups\, and cookies.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/campus-cafe/
LOCATION:Campus Cafe at Richmond Hall\, 1007 Melrose Avenue\, Richmond\, VA\, 23227\, United States
GEO:37.578918;-77.448257
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Campus Cafe at Richmond Hall 1007 Melrose Avenue Richmond VA 23227 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=1007 Melrose Avenue:geo:-77.448257,37.578918
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260128T114000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260128T122000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20260123T163544Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260123T163650Z
UID:10000751-1769600400-1769602800@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Weekly Service @ Lake Chapel
DESCRIPTION:Our preacher will be Dr. Frances Taylor Gench. Join us in Lake Chapel at 11:40!
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/weekly-service-lake-chapel-2/
LOCATION:Union Presbyterian Seminary: Richmond Campus\, Lake Chapel\, 3401 Brook Rd.\, Richmond\, VA\, 23227\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260127T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260127T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250528T135731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163529Z
UID:10000672-1769540400-1769547600@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 WLI Course: Womanist Biblical Interpretation
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: \nThis course introduces students to the concept\, methods\, scholars\, and practice of womanist biblical interpretation. Students will engage in diverse readings that center on the experiences of Black women and explore how womanist interpretation offers new insights into the biblical text\, while sometimes challenging dominant interpretative traditions. \nThis is a core course in the 6-course Womanist Leadership Institute program \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRev. Dr. Kamilah Hall Sharp enjoys examining the intersection of race\, gender\, and class with the biblical text and contemporary culture using a trauma-informed womanist approach. She is currently working on her manuscript examining survival in the book of Esther. Her experience in church planting\, pastoring\, and community organizing has shaped her interest in womanist ecclesiology\, womanist leadership\, and the dynamics of thriving in public ministry\, which are also areas of her research interest. She is an ordained minister in the Disciples of Christ (Christian Church) and currently serves as a Co-Pastor at The Gathering\, A Womanist Church. \nDates: Tuesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, January 6 – February 10\, 2026 \nRegistration closes on January 2\, 2026\, 2 business days before the first class meeting \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “WLIWBI: Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-wli-course-womanist-biblical-interpretation/2026-01-27/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:KGCCWL,Leadership Institute
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.upsem.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/wliwbi.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260126T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260126T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250122T143356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T191508Z
UID:10000570-1769443200-1769448600@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Special Course: Healing Haunted Histories
DESCRIPTION:Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\nMondays\, January 12 – April 6\, 2026\nRegister and view full schedule at the bottom of this page\n\n\n\n\nCOURSE DESCRIPTION \nThis course utilizes social analysis\, communal narratives\, historical literacy\, and biblical reflection to address deep-rooted injustices between settlers and the worlds of Indigenous (and other marginalized communities) in North America. Participants will engage with the Landlines-Bloodlines-Songlines (LBS) model tailored to their context\, focusing on practical research and engagement rather than passive learning. Commitment to readings\, research\, and mutual accountability is essential for fostering Restorative Solidarity and deepening decolonization efforts. Please visit this website for more information about Healing Haunted Histories.  \nThis course will require 3.0-3.5 hours per week for course preparation and attendance\, and is 4.0 CEUs. \nMeet the Course Facilitators\nRev. Dr. Lynne B. Caldwell\, Pastor and Educator \n \nWhile Lynne Caldwell’s “re-schooling” and personal work with her racism began in college\, she only became connected with Healing Haunted Histories a few years ago. She sensed from the beginning that ‘doing the work’ (Audre Lorde) through Elaine Enns’ and Ched Myers’ model for Healing Haunted Histories is one of the best \nBorn in Asheville\, NC\, Lynne grew up in Black Mountain\, NC. She earned a B.A. in Child Development\, Berea College\, Berea\, KY; an M.Div.\, Asbury Theological Seminary\, Wilmore\, KY; D.Min.\, Wesley Theological Seminary\, Washington\, DC and two certificates in leadership from the Divinity School of Duke University. She has served appointments through the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church for more than 35 years\, including 10 years “on-loan” to the Virginia Conference. Assignments/appointed positions include Associate Minister\, Lead Pastor\, Senior Pastor\, District Superintendent\, faculty member\, and administrator of a non-profit. \nAmong Lynne’s passions is the exploration of the intersection of real faith and real life through meaningful relationships\, spiritual practices\, and a commitment to learning something new every day. She’s energized by a lifelong curiosity about human development and community. Inspired to sustain learning about how we grow in love for God\, self\, neighbors\, and our enemies\, she seeks to pursue integrity between words and behaviors. And\, so…she seeks to press on\, in the company of others\, daily practicing what it might mean to become God’s beloved community\, until we’ve practiced our way into becoming embodiments of love\, justice\, equity\, inclusion and forgiveness. \nLynne currently serves as pastor of Danbury Community Church in Stokes County\, NC; and is an Adjunct Faculty member in the Religion\, Ethics and Philosophy Department of Greensboro College. Lynne makes her home in Winston-Salem\, NC. \nHome Missioner Steve Taylor\, Activist and Educator \n \nSteve Taylor is a Home Missioner in the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church\, serving as Director of Anti-racist Discipleship and Beloved Community at Spring Forest New Monastic and Missional Community. Steve leads a transformative ministry integrating Christian discipleship with the pursuit of racial equity and justice. His work extends throughout the United Methodist Church\, local congregations\, and ecumenical partnerships\, centering on peacebuilding\, healing\, and the creation of beloved community. \nAt Spring Forest\, Steve develops and leads trainings and conversations addressing systemic racism—its historical roots\, present realities\, and spiritual paths toward reconciliation. He organizes community partnerships and advocacy efforts\, helps congregations integrate antiracism into prayer and worship\, and facilitates the Healing Haunted Histories process created by Dr. Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Through these practices\, Steve helps communities confront the past and embody God’s reconciling love in the present. \nSteve’s vision is shaped by the Beloved Community — a vision of justice\, equity\, and unconditional love reflecting the Kin-dom of God on earth. “In intentional actions of education\, advocacy\, deep listening\, honest and confessional truth-telling\, and the work of antiracism as worship\,” Steve says\, “we build a community where every person is valued. Discipleship—patterning our lives after Jesus—must include the work of antiracism. It is the work of building peace and beloved community.” \nPreviously\, Steve served as Executive Director of Connectional Ministries and Director of Missions for the North Carolina Conference and as a Church and Community Worker in Robeson County. His 35-year ministry has included work in both rural and urban settings and in Slovenian refugee camps during the Balkan wars. Across all contexts\, he helps congregations engage deeply with their communities through shared spiritual and social transformation. \nSteve is married to Sheryl Taylor\, “the portrait of God’s grace\,” and they have two children and four grandchildren. \nSpecial Class Sessions with Elaine Enns and Ched Myers\, Co-authors of Healing Haunted Histories  \n \nElaine Enns has worked in the field of restorative justice since 1989\, first focusing on victim-offender dialogue in the Criminal Justice System\, and over the last decade looking at how restorative solidarity applies to historical violations\, including issues of intergenerational trauma\, healing and decolonization.  With a DMin from St. Andrew’s Saskatoon\, Elaine trains and teaches throughout North America\, and her latest book\, co-authored with her partner activist theologian Ched Myers\, is Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (Wipf & Stock\, 2021); in 2009 the two-volume Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A New Testament Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (Orbis Books\, 2009); and has published over a dozen articles. An ecumenical Mennonite\, Elaine was born and raised in Saskatoon\, Saskatchewan\, and lives in southern California where she co-directs Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries on traditional Chumash land. \n \nA fifth generation Californian\, Ched Myers is an activist theologian who has worked in social change and radical discipleship movements for more than 45 years.  With a degree in New Testament Studies\, he is a popular educator who animates scripture and its relationship to issues of faith-based peace and justice.  He has authored over 100 articles and more than a half-dozen books\, including Binding the Strong Man: A Political Reading of Mark’s Story of Jesus; Ambassadors of Reconciliation: A N.T. Theology and Diverse Christian Practices of Restorative Justice and Peacemaking (with Elaine Enns); Our God is Undocumented: Biblical Faith and Immigrant Justice (with Matthew Colwell); Watershed Discipleship: Reinhabiting Bioregional Faith and Practice; Healing Haunted Histories: A Settler Discipleship of Decolonization (with Elaine Enns\, Cascade\, 2021); and most recently Healing Affluenza and Resisting Plutocracy: Luke’s Jesus and Sabbath Economics (Fortress\, 2024). Ched’s articles and books can be found on the linked sites. \n\nCourse Text:\nHealing Haunted Histories: A Settler’s Discipleship of Decolonization\, (The Center and Library for the Bible and Social Justice Series)\, by Elaine Enns and Ched Myers. Eugene\, OR: Cascade Books\, an imprint of Wipft and Stock Publishers\, 2021.  ISBN (pbk): 978-1-7252-5535-7. Also available in hardback and as ebook.\n\n\nStudents should have their own copy in format personally preferred as we will utilize the text each session.\n\n\nClick to order Healing Haunted Histories\nRegister and purchase a copy of Healing Haunted Histories by December 31\, 2025 to receive a 40% discount on the book\, use code HHHEV225 at check-out (publisher\, Wipf & Stock).\n\n\n\nRegister by December 15\, 2025\n\n\n \n\nThis course is offered by the Leadership Institute of Union Presbyterian Seminary in collaboration with Bartimaeus Cooperative Ministries and The Church at Spring Forest UMC in Hillsborough\, North Carolina\n\nWe believe everyone should have access to this learning opportunity. If you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “HHH: Financial Aid”.UPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free.\n\nIf you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.\n\n\n\nSchedule\n\nJanuary 12           WELCOME TO HHH! Practical Matters /Introduction to the course\nJanuary 19           MLK Day; no class; encourage participants to engage in service in their local communities\nJanuary 26           1st class session:  Introduction and Chapter 1 of the book\, Elaine Enns attending\nFebruary 2           Session 2\, Chapter 2\nFebruary 9           Session 3\, Chapter 3\nFebruary 16         Session 4\, Chapter 4\nFebruary 23         Session 5\, Theological Interlude\, Elaine Enns and Ched Myers attending\nMarch 2               Session 6\, Chapter 5\nMarch 9               Session 7\, Chapter 6\nMarch 16             Session 8\, Chapter 7\nMarch 23             Session 9\, Epilogue and Preparation for Making Commitments for Next Steps\nApril 6                  Closing and Session 10: Celebration and Commitment\, Elaine Enns attending
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/special-course-healing-haunted-histories/2026-01-26/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260122T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260122T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T063250
CREATED:20250519T152608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163104Z
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SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Reformed Theology
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: This course is designed to provide students with knowledge of and appreciation for the Reformed theological tradition in which the PC(USA) is rooted. The course will explore the central tenets of the Reformed tradition\, its contemporary significance for the life of the church\, and its relationship to the broader ecclesial and social contexts. \nMeet the Instructor \n \nRachel S. Baard is an Assistant Professor of Theology and Ethics at Union Presbyterian Seminary and directs the Master of Arts in Public Theology Program. Originally from South Africa\, her work is influenced by the anti-apartheid movement. She holds a Ph.D. from Princeton Theological Seminary and has published the award-winning book “Sexism and Sin-Talk.” Her research focuses on feminist theologies\, Reformed confessions\, and the responses of theologians Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Paul Tillich to Nazism. \nDates: Thursdays\, 7-9pm EST\, January 8 – February 12\, 2026 \nRegistration closes on January 6\, 2026\, 2 days before the first class meeting. \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary\n\n \n\nIf you are in financial need of a discounted registration fee\, please contact Deborah Keyes\, subject line “PWRT: Financial Aid”. \nUPSem faculty\, staff\, and students can register for this class for free. If you are a UPSem faculty\, staff\, or student\, you can register here using your UPSem email address.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-reformed-theology/2026-01-22/
LOCATION:VA
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
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