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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260210T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260210T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
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/
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:20260404T081736
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/
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260205T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
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/
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:20260404T081736
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:20260404T081736
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:20260404T081736
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/
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:20260404T081736
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/
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:20260404T081736
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/
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260129T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260129T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
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/
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:20260404T081736
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:20260404T081736
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:20260404T081736
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/
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:20260404T081736
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/
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260122T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260122T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250519T152608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163104Z
UID:10000625-1769108400-1769115600@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/2026-01-22/
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:20260121T114000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260121T122000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20260120T204432Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T204432Z
UID:10000750-1768995600-1768998000@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:Weekly Service @ Lake Chapel
DESCRIPTION:
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/weekly-service-lake-chapel/
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:20260120T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260120T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250528T135731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163529Z
UID:10000671-1768935600-1768942800@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/2026-01-20/
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:20260120T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260120T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250519T153007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163058Z
UID:10000642-1768935600-1768942800@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/2026-01-20/
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:20260118T105529
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260118T105529
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250707T173600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T155529Z
UID:10000748-1768733729-1768733729@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Mission & Evangelism
DESCRIPTION:Pathways Online Course instructed by Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg: Mission & Evangelism\n \nBefore joining Bayside\, Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg was the associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville. The shape of her call began in ministry with youth & families before shifting towards outreach & adult faith formation. \nAram attended Smith College and taught fifth grade before going to Princeton Seminary (MDiv).  She continued her theological education at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond (MACE) and Union Theological Seminary in New York City (PhD) where she served as director of family ministries at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. She is an instructor for Union Presbyterian Seminary’s continuing education program\, teaching mission & evangelism. \nCourse Description: \nThe overarching goal of this course is to develop a contextual framework to understand mission and evangelism. Students will re-imagine the contours of mission and the task of evangelism\, involving a theologically based approach to mission and evangelism and considering the impact of the growing demographic of the “unaffiliated” (or Spiritual But Not Religious) across the religious landscape of America. Students will examine an approach to mission and evangelism that addresses the needs of society\, reflecting ways in which a local church continues its commitment to the gospel message (love God and love neighbor) and to the great commission (go and make disciples). \nDates: Wednesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, April 22 – May 27\, 2026 \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \n \nRegistration closes on April 20\, 2026\, 2 business days before the first class meeting.\n \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 “PWME: Financial Aid.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-mission-evangelism/2026-01-18/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260115T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260115T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250519T152608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163104Z
UID:10000624-1768503600-1768510800@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/2026-01-15/
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:20260113T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260113T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250528T135731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163529Z
UID:10000670-1768330800-1768338000@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/2026-01-13/
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:20260112T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260112T173000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250122T143356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251124T191508Z
UID:10000569-1768233600-1768239000@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/2026-01-12/
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260111T105529
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260111T105529
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250707T173600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T155529Z
UID:10000747-1768128929-1768128929@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Mission & Evangelism
DESCRIPTION:Pathways Online Course instructed by Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg: Mission & Evangelism\n \nBefore joining Bayside\, Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg was the associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville. The shape of her call began in ministry with youth & families before shifting towards outreach & adult faith formation. \nAram attended Smith College and taught fifth grade before going to Princeton Seminary (MDiv).  She continued her theological education at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond (MACE) and Union Theological Seminary in New York City (PhD) where she served as director of family ministries at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. She is an instructor for Union Presbyterian Seminary’s continuing education program\, teaching mission & evangelism. \nCourse Description: \nThe overarching goal of this course is to develop a contextual framework to understand mission and evangelism. Students will re-imagine the contours of mission and the task of evangelism\, involving a theologically based approach to mission and evangelism and considering the impact of the growing demographic of the “unaffiliated” (or Spiritual But Not Religious) across the religious landscape of America. Students will examine an approach to mission and evangelism that addresses the needs of society\, reflecting ways in which a local church continues its commitment to the gospel message (love God and love neighbor) and to the great commission (go and make disciples). \nDates: Wednesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, April 22 – May 27\, 2026 \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \n \nRegistration closes on April 20\, 2026\, 2 business days before the first class meeting.\n \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 “PWME: Financial Aid.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-mission-evangelism/2026-01-11/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260108T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260108T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250519T152608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163104Z
UID:10000623-1767898800-1767906000@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/2026-01-08/
CATEGORIES:Leadership Institute
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260106T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260106T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250528T135731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163529Z
UID:10000669-1767726000-1767733200@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/2026-01-06/
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:20260106T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260106T210000
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250519T153007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250714T163058Z
UID:10000641-1767726000-1767733200@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/2026-01-06/
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:20260104T105529
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260104T105529
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250707T173600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T155529Z
UID:10000746-1767524129-1767524129@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Mission & Evangelism
DESCRIPTION:Pathways Online Course instructed by Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg: Mission & Evangelism\n \nBefore joining Bayside\, Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg was the associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville. The shape of her call began in ministry with youth & families before shifting towards outreach & adult faith formation. \nAram attended Smith College and taught fifth grade before going to Princeton Seminary (MDiv).  She continued her theological education at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond (MACE) and Union Theological Seminary in New York City (PhD) where she served as director of family ministries at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. She is an instructor for Union Presbyterian Seminary’s continuing education program\, teaching mission & evangelism. \nCourse Description: \nThe overarching goal of this course is to develop a contextual framework to understand mission and evangelism. Students will re-imagine the contours of mission and the task of evangelism\, involving a theologically based approach to mission and evangelism and considering the impact of the growing demographic of the “unaffiliated” (or Spiritual But Not Religious) across the religious landscape of America. Students will examine an approach to mission and evangelism that addresses the needs of society\, reflecting ways in which a local church continues its commitment to the gospel message (love God and love neighbor) and to the great commission (go and make disciples). \nDates: Wednesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, April 22 – May 27\, 2026 \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \n \nRegistration closes on April 20\, 2026\, 2 business days before the first class meeting.\n \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 “PWME: Financial Aid.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-mission-evangelism/2026-01-04/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251228T105529
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251228T105529
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250707T173600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T155529Z
UID:10000745-1766919329-1766919329@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Mission & Evangelism
DESCRIPTION:Pathways Online Course instructed by Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg: Mission & Evangelism\n \nBefore joining Bayside\, Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg was the associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville. The shape of her call began in ministry with youth & families before shifting towards outreach & adult faith formation. \nAram attended Smith College and taught fifth grade before going to Princeton Seminary (MDiv).  She continued her theological education at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond (MACE) and Union Theological Seminary in New York City (PhD) where she served as director of family ministries at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. She is an instructor for Union Presbyterian Seminary’s continuing education program\, teaching mission & evangelism. \nCourse Description: \nThe overarching goal of this course is to develop a contextual framework to understand mission and evangelism. Students will re-imagine the contours of mission and the task of evangelism\, involving a theologically based approach to mission and evangelism and considering the impact of the growing demographic of the “unaffiliated” (or Spiritual But Not Religious) across the religious landscape of America. Students will examine an approach to mission and evangelism that addresses the needs of society\, reflecting ways in which a local church continues its commitment to the gospel message (love God and love neighbor) and to the great commission (go and make disciples). \nDates: Wednesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, April 22 – May 27\, 2026 \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \n \nRegistration closes on April 20\, 2026\, 2 business days before the first class meeting.\n \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 “PWME: Financial Aid.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-mission-evangelism/2025-12-28/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251221T105529
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251221T105529
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250707T173600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T155529Z
UID:10000744-1766314529-1766314529@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Mission & Evangelism
DESCRIPTION:Pathways Online Course instructed by Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg: Mission & Evangelism\n \nBefore joining Bayside\, Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg was the associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville. The shape of her call began in ministry with youth & families before shifting towards outreach & adult faith formation. \nAram attended Smith College and taught fifth grade before going to Princeton Seminary (MDiv).  She continued her theological education at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond (MACE) and Union Theological Seminary in New York City (PhD) where she served as director of family ministries at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. She is an instructor for Union Presbyterian Seminary’s continuing education program\, teaching mission & evangelism. \nCourse Description: \nThe overarching goal of this course is to develop a contextual framework to understand mission and evangelism. Students will re-imagine the contours of mission and the task of evangelism\, involving a theologically based approach to mission and evangelism and considering the impact of the growing demographic of the “unaffiliated” (or Spiritual But Not Religious) across the religious landscape of America. Students will examine an approach to mission and evangelism that addresses the needs of society\, reflecting ways in which a local church continues its commitment to the gospel message (love God and love neighbor) and to the great commission (go and make disciples). \nDates: Wednesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, April 22 – May 27\, 2026 \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \n \nRegistration closes on April 20\, 2026\, 2 business days before the first class meeting.\n \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 “PWME: Financial Aid.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-mission-evangelism/2025-12-21/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251215T105806
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251215T105806
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20251215T155728Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T155806Z
UID:10000629-1765796286-1765796286@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: The Christian Life
DESCRIPTION:Course Description: This course is designed to provide knowledge of Protestant perspectives on the Christian life. Participants will explore biblical and theological foundations that shape an understanding of the Christian life. Reflection on focused experiences of spiritual practices will engage students in critical analysis of their own spiritual lives and nurture opportunities for congregational ministry and leadership. Through assignments\, online discussion\, and class lectures\, participants will engage in vital components of the Christian life. \nMeet the Instructor: Karen-Marie Yust \n \n\n\nKaren-Marie’s work nurtures spirituality and fosters theological reflection across generations. Currently\, she researches the impact of digital culture on spirituality among children\, youth\, and young adults\, using insights from media studies\, psychology\, and education. She examines how online interactions influence identity and community and how the Church can respond to modern realities. She also explores moral development in young children and how adults can nurture their moral sensibilities.\nAdditionally\, she investigates changing dynamics in congregational life\, seeking new approaches to faith formation and educational ministries outside traditional settings\, including online platforms and non-religious spaces. She is an experienced pastor and Christian educator\, ordained in both the United Church of Christ and Disciples traditions. \n\n\nDates: Thursdays\, 7-9pm EST\, May 21 – June 25\, 2026 \nRegistration closes 2 days before the first class meeting on May 19\, 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 “PWTCL : 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-the-christian-life-2/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251215T105529
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251215T105529
DTSTAMP:20260404T081736
CREATED:20250707T173600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251215T155529Z
UID:10000743-1765796129-1765796129@www.upsem.edu
SUMMARY:25-26 Pathways: Mission & Evangelism
DESCRIPTION:Pathways Online Course instructed by Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg: Mission & Evangelism\n \nBefore joining Bayside\, Rev. Dr. Aram Feinberg was the associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville. The shape of her call began in ministry with youth & families before shifting towards outreach & adult faith formation. \nAram attended Smith College and taught fifth grade before going to Princeton Seminary (MDiv).  She continued her theological education at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond (MACE) and Union Theological Seminary in New York City (PhD) where she served as director of family ministries at the Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church. She is an instructor for Union Presbyterian Seminary’s continuing education program\, teaching mission & evangelism. \nCourse Description: \nThe overarching goal of this course is to develop a contextual framework to understand mission and evangelism. Students will re-imagine the contours of mission and the task of evangelism\, involving a theologically based approach to mission and evangelism and considering the impact of the growing demographic of the “unaffiliated” (or Spiritual But Not Religious) across the religious landscape of America. Students will examine an approach to mission and evangelism that addresses the needs of society\, reflecting ways in which a local church continues its commitment to the gospel message (love God and love neighbor) and to the great commission (go and make disciples). \nDates: Wednesdays\, 7-9pm EST\, April 22 – May 27\, 2026 \nOffered by the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary \n \nRegistration closes on April 20\, 2026\, 2 business days before the first class meeting.\n \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 “PWME: Financial Aid.
URL:https://www.upsem.edu/event/25-26-pathways-mission-evangelism/2025-12-15/
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR