Soulscape Worship Service

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Evanston, Illinois, April 30, 2014: What happens when we slow down the pace of life? What do we hear when we are quiet enough to be still? Answers to the questions can be found at SoulScapes, a unique worship service open to the public and featuring Music Serving the Word, a national ministry fusing the arts and faith. Hosted on Wednesday, April 30th, at 6:00 p.m. by Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, the service offers an opportunity to explore issues of faith, beauty, reflection, and renewal within the context of the arts.

Music Serving the Word offers a unique presentation for both students and the public. The service’s artistic SoulScapes format offers amazing soundscapes and textures using keyboards, acoustic bass, and drums designed to nourish the soul with prayerful reflection. SoulScapes explores avenues through jazz-inspired improvisational music, Scripture, and visual arts. Featuring Bob Ravenscroft’s keyboards, Dwight Kilian’s upright bass, and Rob Moore’s drums, the musicians break the traditional labels of “jazz” and “classical” music. Their improvisational artistry creates a contemplative soundscape for the spoken word of Rev. Richard Parrish. Caleb Kilian completes the experience with visual arts that complement the musical score and bring focus to Scripture and Christian spirituality. This unique SoulScapes service takes place Wednesday, April 30th, at 6:00 p.m. To learn more about Music Serving the Word, contact 480-575-1303 or visit www.musicservingtheword.org. 

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from many denominations and various cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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Inauguration of Dr. Lallene J. Rector as President of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

EVANSTON, Illinois, January 2014 – The inaugural celebration of Lallene J. Rector as president of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary will take place February 28 and March 1, with the inaugural ceremony set for Saturday, March 1. A variety of events, including a panel discussion, concert and a worship service, will be held during the two-day period. 

The inaugural ceremony will begin at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 1 at First United Methodist Church in Evanston, Illinois. President Rector’s inauguration address is titled “A Place in God’s Purpose.” The title and address were inspired by the plaque that appears outside of Garrett-Evangelical’s main entrance in honor of Horace G. Smith who served as president of Garrett Biblical Institute from 1932-1953. A reception at First United Methodist Church will be held immediately after the ceremony.

"We hope that many will join us for this momentous occasion," said Dr. Mark Fowler, associate professor of church leadership and chair of the inauguration planning task force. "This will be the 26th time there has been an inauguration of a new president or principal in the 160-year history of the three institutions that merged to form Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, and we anticipate it will be a memorable event."

The inauguration festivities will kick off on Friday, February 28 with a public theology conversation titled, “Establishing Justice at the City Gate.”  This conversation will begin at 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel of the Unnamed Faithful with dinner to follow at 5:45 p.m. in Loder Hall.  Participants will then return to the Chapel of the Unnamed Faithful for a concert of celebration beginning at 7:00 p.m. Prior to the inauguration service on March 1, a service of worship will be held at 10:30 a.m. followed by a luncheon at First United Methodist Church.  All members of the Garrett-Evangelical community, delegates, and special guests are invited to attend all inaugural events over the two day celebration. 

For more information on the inaugural festivities and President-Elect Lallene J. Rector, go to www.garrett.edu/inauguration.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from many denominations and various cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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Guaranteed Tuition Rate for Masters Students Starting Fall 2014

EVANSTON, Illinois, December 2013 – Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary is pleased to announce a guaranteed tuition rate for master’s level students, starting in the fall of 2014. This initiative provides students a new layer of financial stability by guaranteeing the same tuition rate for two or three years, pending which masters degree program they seek to complete. Beginning with the 2014-2015 academic year, tuition rates for new Master of Divinity students will be guaranteed through the Summer Term 2017.  Tuition rates for new Master of Arts or Master of Theological Studies students will be guaranteed through Summer Term 2016. Rev. Becky Eberhart, associate vice president for enrollment management, said, “We are excited to roll out this new initiative. We have spent many months deliberating, thinking about ways we as an institution could help alleviate some of the financial pressure on our students. We found that a guaranteed tuition rate would not only help students financially for their two or three years at the seminary, but would also encourage students to complete their degree in a timely fashion.” As the cost of seminary education continues to rise throughout the country, Garrett-Evangelical continues to find ways to ease the financial stress on students. This academic year, Garrett-Evangelical awarded over 2.5 million dollars in financial aid, offered numerous federal work-study positions, and assisted with paid internship opportunities through field education. The new guaranteed tuition rate is yet another step in insuring students graduate with as little debt as possible as they enter the world of ministry. To learn more Garrett-Evangelical's master degree programs and tuition, go to www.garrett.edu/admissions. Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from various denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy, and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world. # # #

Garrett-Evangelical and MTSO Appoint Timothy Eberhart Assistant Professor of Theology and Ecology

EVANSTON, Illinois, December 2013 – Methodist Theological School in Ohio and Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary have appointed Rev. Dr. Timothy Eberhart assistant professor of theology and ecology. Eberhart will serve Garrett-Evangelical and MTSO through a joint appointment, teaching classes on both campuses through a variety of formats.

The appointment of Eberhart furthers the two seminaries’ commitment to integrating ecological perspectives and sustainable practices throughout the curriculum, campus life and the communities they serve. Garrett-Evangelical recently finished the renovation of Loder Hall, which earned Gold LEED certification for environmental sustainability. MTSO, which offers two ecological degree specializations, recently launched a sustainability and land-use initiative that includes on-campus farming.

MTSO and Garrett-Evangelical, both of which are related to The United Methodist Church, entered into a collaborative agreement in October 2012. This has led to shared use of educational technology in a way that enhances teaching and learning at both schools and in their greater communities. The joint appointment of Eberhart extends and strengthens the collaboration.

"This appointment not only furthers our creative collaboration with MTSO, our sister school, but more importantly it will support the preparation of our graduates for effective leadership in the increasingly urgent matters of sustainable living and creation care," said Dr. Lallene Rector, president-elect of Garrett-Evangelical. "Dr. Eberhart is the perfect person for this initiative, bringing passion, expertise, and inspired commitment."

Eberhart earned his Ph.D. from the Graduate School at Vanderbilt University, his Master of Divinity degree from the Vanderbilt Divinity School, and his B.A. in Religion from St. Olaf College, where he graduated magna cum laude. His doctoral dissertation was titled “Rooted and Grounded in Love: Joining God’s Feast of Holy Communion in the Global Market Economy.”

Eberhart has taught at Garrett-Evangelical, the Vanderbilt Divinity School and Dakota Wesleyan University. He is an ordained elder in the Dakotas Conference of The United Methodist Church and has served on various boards and committees of the church. He was recently invited to serve on the national planning committee for the 2014 Congress on Urban Ministry and was elected North American secretary for the Oxford Institute of Methodist Theological Studies.

“How we live as members of the creation reveals a great deal about who we believe God to be and what it means to lead a faithful existence,” Eberhart said. “I’m eager to play a role in this collaborative effort to equip leaders with the wisdom of an ecological perspective and the practical knowledge of how to guide communities into the ways that lead to life.”

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, located on the campus of Northwestern University in greater Chicago, creates bold leaders through its master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy and doctor of ministry degrees. Learn more at www.garrett.edu.

Methodist Theological School in Ohio, located in greater Columbus, shapes lives of lasting significance, offering master’s degrees in divinity, counseling ministries, theological studies and practical theology, as well as a Doctor of Ministry degree. Learn more at www.mtso.edu.

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Remembering Nelson Mandela (1918-2013)

Photo Credit: Forbes.com

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary wishes to express its sympathy as we weep with the family of Nelson Mandela during this time of bereavement. The world has lost one of its iconic, great leaders. As we anticipate the state funeral and the last traditional ceremony that will lay him to his final rest, the seminary community takes this moment to publicly express our gratitude for the remarkable life of this servant leader.   Mandela embodied the transformative power that comes from loving one’s enemies and praying for one’s persecutors.  His deep commitment to reconciliation and to the justice of equal opportunity for all renews and inspires our determination to prepare bold, spiritual leaders for the church, the academy, and the world.  We look to the life of Nelson Mandela and to his almost inconceivable acts of reconciliation for insight into our pursuit of equipping graduates who will also “bring good news to the oppressed; who will proclaim liberty to the captives and release to the prisoners.” The life of Nelson Mandela makes us believe it is possible to so live with a spirit of forgiveness that wellness and wholeness within the world community may, indeed, become a reality. Blessed is this peacemaker, for surely he shall be called a child of God. # # # Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from various denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy, and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

Historic Day of Giving for Garrett-Evangelical on #GivingTuesday

EVANSTON, Illinois, December 2013 – On December 3, 2013, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary participated in #GivingTuesday, an international campaign to encourage giving to nonprofit organizations. The day began with alums and friends making gifts online at midnight and calling the development office to make gifts over the phone during office hours. The seminary is pleased to announce that over $48,000 was donated to Garrett-Evangelical by over 100 people. This marks a historic day in fundraising for the seminary, and Garrett-Evangelical could not be more thankful for the generosity of our alumni and friends.

Garrett-Evangelical’s involvement in #GivingTuesday was bolstered by anonymous donors who provided matching gifts up to $25,000. The Garrett-Evangelical community was overwhelmed by the generosity it received, as the money raised will go to further the work of theological education at the seminary to create bold leaders for the church and the world.

“We are feeling pretty inspired and energized right now,” said Kay Burlingham, Director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations at Garrett-Evangelical.  “We all watched results tally up as #GivingTuesday unfolded in our office.  I am already looking forward to inviting everyone back again next year.  Generosity is a spirit and approach to life that is waiting to happen in everyone. #GivingTuesday confirmed this during a 24 period for us.  We made gift giving history together.”

The seminary worked very hard to get the word out about #GivingTuesday and the response from our alumni and friends exceeded our expectations. Garrett-Evangelical began prepping for #GivingTuesday by producing a video to accompany the campaign and enlisting current students to spread the word through Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and email.

Garrett-Evangelical would like to express its deepest gratitude to all the students, staff, faculty, and donors who made #GivingTuesday an incredible day for theological education at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from various denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy, and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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Dr. Philip Amerson, President Emeritus, to Serve as Interim Pastor at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch, Colorado

EVANSTON, Illinois, December 2013 – The Rev. Dr. Philip A. Amerson, outgoing president of Garrett-Evangelical, will serve as interim pastor at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch, Colorado beginning February 2014. Dr. Amerson, who retires as president as of December 31, 2013, will serve as interim pastor at St. Andrews UMC through June 2014.

In a video played for the 2,100 member congregation of St. Andrew this past Sunday, Dr. Amerson offered greetings and challenged the congregation to prepare for the future now by continuing to pray, worship together and to support the church’s extensive ministries with their time and money. Founded in 1960, St. Andrew UMC averages over 1,100 in worship, has a strong clergy and program staff and identifies as a reconciling congregation.  

A cradle Methodist and an elder in the Indiana Conference of The United Methodist Church, Dr. Amerson served as a pastor for 21 years in Evansville, Indianapolis and Bloomington, Indiana prior to being named president of Claremont School of Theology in 2001 and serving as president at Garrett-Evangelical since 2006.  Dr. Amerson received a Ph.D. degree from Emory University in 1976, and a master of divinity degree from Asbury Theological Seminary in 1971.

Upon retirement, Dr. Amerson and his spouse, Dr. Elaine Amerson, will reside in the La Porte, Indiana area – close enough to the train for an easy trip to Chicago and the grandchildren there.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from many denominations and various cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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Ruth C. Duck honored as Fellow by Hymn Society

THE HYMN SOCIETY IN THE UNITED STATES AND CANADA

RICHMOND, Virginia, December 2013 - Ruth C. Duck has been honored by The Hymn Society in the United States and Canada at its annual conference in Richmond from July 14-18, 2013, by being named a Fellow of The Hymn Society. This award, the highest honor given by the organization, was conferred because of Duck’s pioneering work in inclusive language for worship, her preeminence as a hymn poet and teacher, and her significant contributions to The Society.

Born in Washington, DC, Ruth Duck earned degrees from Southwestern University, Memphis, Tennessee (B.A.), Chicago Theological Seminary, Illinois (M.Div.), University of Notre Dame, Indiana (M.A.), and Boston University School of Theology, Massachusetts (Th.D.).Her areas of study included Christian education, liturgy, and worship; her doctoral work was on the Trinitarian baptismal formula. An ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, Duck served churches in Hartford and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Currently she is Professor of Worship at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, Evanston, Illinois; her teaching areas have included congregational song, healing and reconciliation, and worship and the arts.

Duck began her hymn writing by adapting older hymns with language that was more inviting. She edited several inclusive language hymn collections, including Everflowing Streams: Songs for Worship (1981). Her work as a hymn text writer has now spanned over 40 years. She has written over 150 hymns and psalm paraphrases, which have appeared in many hymnals and supplements in the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, Australia, Scotland, and England. Her most recent project is a textbook on worship, Worship for the Whole People of God: Vital Worship for the 21st Century (Westminster John Knox Press, 2013). Robin Knowles Wallace, Professor at Methodist Theological School in Ohio, Delaware, OH, notes: “[Her] hymn texts and worship resources call for a world that looks more like God's vision for the world, with flourishing nature, especially birds, and flourishing human relationships based on justice, mercy, and love.”

Reflecting on her work, Duck writes, “Teaching and learning about Christian liturgy is endlessly fascinating. Students are passionate about the praise and worship of God and eagerly discuss questions from the meaning of baptism to the place of announcements in worship. Prayer, preaching, and the breaking of bread are common threads of Christian worship, while contrasting textures of worship styles from varied cultures and traditions show how the gospel is incarnate in particular contexts. For all these reasons, studying worship is exciting; above all, teaching and learning about worship inspire awe and humility, because as planners and leaders of congregational praise, we share in the Spirit's labor to draw humanity into just and loving relationship with God and all creation.” (www.garrett.edu)

Founded in 1922, The Hymn Society in the United States and Canada is an ecumenical organization of people who are passionate about hymns and congregational song. We recognize the importance of the people’s song in worship and want to assure its vitality in the future. The Hymn Society community, open to all, is made up of scholars, church musicians, poets, composers, choir directors, choir members, clergy, worship planners, song leaders, music publishers, music educators, and people who love to sing. The mission of The Hymn Society is to encourage, promote, and enliven congregational singing.

For further information about The Hymn Society in the United States and Canada, contact Deborah Carlton Loftis, Executive Director, 3400 Brook Road, Richmond, VA 02215 or call 800-THE-HYMN. Please visit the website at www.thehymnsociety.org.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from many denominations and vario us cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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Two Prominent Figures in the Seminary's History, Roth and Clymer, Now Deceased

EVANSTON, Illinois, November 2013 – This week the Garrett-Evangelical community was saddened to learn of the passing of two prominent figures in the history of the seminary.  Dr. Wolfgang Roth, former professor of Old Testament and academic dean, died on Sunday, November 24.  Bishop Wayne Clymer, former president of Evangelical Theological Seminary, died on Monday, November 25.

Dr. Wolfgang Roth

Born in Germany, a professor in India, a pastor in Canada and a professor at Garrett Theological Seminary beginning in 1967, Roth was remembered as an educator who worked the text like a detective finding nuggets of evidence that would support his probing explorations. Upon his retirement in 1996, Roth was named Emeritus Professor of Old Testament Interpretation.

After suffering with Alzheimer’s for several years, Roth died peacefully on Sunday while surrounded by his family, including his wife, Mary Beth. A memorial service in January 2014 will be held at Northwestern University’s Alice Millar chapel.  No specific date has been set at this time.

Bishop Wayne Clymer

Bishop Clymer served as president of Evangelical Theological Seminary in Naperville, Illinois from 1967-1972 and an elder with the Evangelical United Brethren Church prior to the merger that formed The United Methodist Church in 1968. He served as bishop of the Minnesota Episcopal Area from 1972 to 1980, and as bishop of the Iowa Episcopal Area from 1980 to 1984, when he retired.

Bishop Clymer died after suffering from a stroke on Monday. He was 96. Bishop Clymer is survived by wife Virginia Schoenbohm Clymer; two sons, Kenton James Clymer and Richard George Clymer, and their wives; and grandchildren and great grandchildren. Cards may be sent to Virginia Schoenbohm Clymer at 2850 Inner Road, Wayzata, Minnesota 55391. 

A funeral service for Bishop Clymer will be held Friday, November 29, at 2 p.m., at Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, 511 Groveland Avenue, Minneapolis, Minnesota. A visitation will take place prior to the service, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the church. Dr. Philip Amerson, President of Garrett-Evangelical, will be in attendance on behalf of the Garrett-Evangelical community.

We give thanks for Dr. Roth and Bishop Clymer and their tremendous impact on Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, the Church, and our world. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Roth and Clymer families in this time of loss.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from many denominations and vario us cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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Matching Opportunity for #GivingTuesday on December 3, 2013

Blog:  This is about . . . Christer Mawia

EVANSTON, Illinois, November 2013 – On December 3, 2013, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary will participate in #GivingTuesday to boost gift-giving to the seminary.  #GivingTuesday is one day of giving that kicks off the giving season. This year it is on Tuesday, December 3rd following Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. This is the second year for this national day of philanthropy.  In the same way that retail stores take part in Black Friday and online shippers participate in Cyber Monday, #Giving Tuesday allows people to utilize the power of social media and to create a national moment dedicated to giving. Following two days that are good for the economy, here is a new day good for the soul.

An anonymous donor has pledged to match every dollar given to Garrett-Evangelical on #GivingTuesday up to $25,000. The development staff of Garrett-Evangelical looks forward to a generous response upon hearing of this offer. “This is the first time Garrett-Evangelical is participating in #GivingTuesday and knowing that gifts will be matched has our hearts pounding,” said Kay Burlingham, Director of Annual Giving and Alum Relations.  “It will only take a few minutes to give a gift online and each gift sends a huge message of encouragement to the seminary community. December 3rd holds much promise for our students, faculty, and our beloved institution. Let’s do this!”

For 160 years, Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary has served as a graduate theological school that prepares skilled, bold and articulate leaders who share the transforming love of Jesus Christ. Related to The United Methodist Church, with an ecumenical and international reach, we prepare servant leaders who are equipped to live and proclaim the Gospel. This can only happen because of the many gifts we receive from alumni, friends, churches, foundations, and corporations each year.

If you would like to give to Garrett-Evangelical, you can do so immediately online at www.garrett.edu/giving. If you would like to read more about the mission and the 160-year history of Garrett-Evangelical, please go to http://www.garrett.edu/who-we-are. Finally, if you would like to learn more about #GivingTuesday and all the organizations participating in this event, please visit their website at www.givingtuesday.org.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from various denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy, and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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President Philip Amerson confirmed as President Emeritus

EVANSTON, Illinois, October 2013 – It is with profound gratitude and honor that Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary announces the confirmation of President Philip A. Amerson the honorary title of President Emeritus of Garrett-Evangelical upon his retirement on December 31, 2013. The Garrett-Evangelical Board of Trustees unanimously approved this title at their semi-annual meeting held on October 24.

Mr. Jerre Stead, chairperson of the board of trustees, proposed the following resolution: “Philip Amerson provided thoughtful leadership and tireless commitment to Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary for nearly eight years, and we, the board of trustees, wish to honor Phil’s past and future connection with the seminary in an appropriate and significant way. Be it therefore resolved that upon his retirement, Philip A. Amerson be designated President Emeritus of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary.”

“I am honored to receive this recognition,” President Amerson responded. “I have loved my time at Garrett-Evangelical and believe that it is poised for continued greatness with President-Elect Lallene Rector at the helm. Thank you.”

Since June 2006, Amerson has served as president of Garrett-Evangelical and has provided leadership during exciting and challenging days. He has brought imagination and tireless commitment to theological education at the school, the national church, and beyond. Under his leadership, Garrett-Evangelical emphasized hospitality and sustainability, added faculty positions in Wesley and United Methodist studies, global Christianity and world religions, and supported the establishment of the Rueben P. Job Chair in Spiritual Formation. During this time a renewed emphasis was given to strengthening the Center for the Church and the Black Experience and broadening the school’s reach through online learning.

Amerson received a doctor of philosophy degree from Emory University in 1976, a master of divinity degree from Asbury Theological Seminary in 1971, and a bachelor of arts degree from Asbury College in 1967. Prior to arriving at Garrett-Evangelical, he served as president of the Claremont School of Theology for six years. As an ordained elder of the United Methodist Church, he has also served as pastor for 21 years, including appointments at three congregations in the South Indiana (now Indiana) Conference.  Amerson is the author of numerous books, articles and papers, including Tell Me City Stories: A Journey for Urban Congregations and his most recent publication, “The Vocation of Peacebuilding,” with John W. Woell in Choosing Peace Through Daily Practices.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from various denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy, and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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Dr. Elaine Amerson Honored with the Eliza Garrett Distinguished Service Award

EVANSTON, Illinois, October 2013 – Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary was overjoyed to present the Eliza Garrett Distinguished Service Award to Dr. Elaine Amerson, spouse of President Philip Amerson, for her many years of selfless service to the seminary community. President-elect Lallene Rector presented the award to Dr. Amerson at a community meal held in honor of President and Dr. Amerson. The award is given in the name and spirit of Eliza Clark Garrett to honor a person, who by their imaginative acts of communal restoration and healing, reflect God’s mission and purposes for our world.

Dr. Amerson has served Garrett-Evangelical in multiple capacities and has never failed to enrich the lives of our students, faculty, and staff. As Assistant Vice-President for Enrollment Management, she was responsible for bringing in one of the largest entering classes in the history of Garrett-Evangelical. In her role as Special Assistant to the President, she piloted a program to foster a spirit of volunteerism, which invited Garrett-Evangelical’s students on scholarship to find ways to do “good works” and to give back to the seminary. Lastly, Dr. Amerson has been heavily involved with innumerable events and special projects for Garrett-Evangelical.

When presenting Dr. Amerson with this award President-elect Rector said, “The contributions Elaine has made to changing lives and preparing leaders who have and who will continue to make a difference in the world is incalculable. I can assure you that theological education is better for Elaine having been in it and Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary has been incredibly enhanced by her gifts and by her dedication. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

Prior to coming to Garrett-Evangelical, Dr. Amerson served as the Director of Leadership for the California-Pacific Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. She holds a Doctorate of Education from the University of Kentucky and was awarded a post-Doctoral fellowship from the University of California at Berkeley. Her lifelong commitments to education and The United Methodist Church have made her an undeniable force for good here at Garrett-Evangelical and the church at large.

Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary and all who have been apart of this community cannot sufficiently express our gratitude to Elaine for the exceptional service she has provided. While the community will be sad to see her leave her official duties at Garrett-Evangelical at the end of the year, we are comforted knowing she is continuing a more important role as grandma to four grandchildren.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from various denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy, and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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Political, Religious Leaders hold Conference on Navigating Health Care Reform

The Daily Northwestern
DANNY KELLEHER, REPORTER
October 2, 2013

As the highly anticipated Affordable Care Act’s insurance exchanges opened across the nation Tuesday, local religious figures, Evanston politicians and other community members gathered on Northwestern’s campus to discuss the bill’s implications and educate attendees on the new health care system.

The forum “Navigating the Affordable Care Act,” held at the Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, featured a plenary speech Tuesday night from Gary Gunderson, who serves as vice president of faith and health ministries at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center. Gunderson has long been involved in bridging the gap between faith congregations and social health policy.

“This is a landmark, perhaps a tipping point, in the development of what it means to be a free democracy,” Gunderson said, “in which everyone is a citizen, including in the most basic sense, of being part of the health system that is fundamentally part of being a full human being in the 21st century.”

The news conference, which kicked off two days' worth of events, featured an ensemble of community leaders, with state Sen. Daniel Biss (D-Evanston), state Rep. Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston), Bishop Wayne Miller of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Metro Chicago Synod branch, Pam Holliman of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, Garrett-Evangelical president-elect Lallene Rector and Gunderson all speaking at the event.

The organizers each shared positive sympathies about the new system the ACA is set to create.

“There are people in positions of governmental leadership, faith leadership, community leadership who stand ready to walk us through this transition,” Biss said. “There will be moments when the transition will be difficult, but these difficulties don’t really come in fundamental contact with the underlying principle that led to this day.”

Gabel, who, prior to taking office in April 2010, had served throughout the past two decades on Illinois health care committees and has an extensive background in women's and children's health issues, said she had spent a lifetime working toward universal health care.

“This is a very exciting day for me and for all of us in this country,” she said. “I think there is now a new philosophy in America — health care is now a right and responsibility, rather than a privilege, and everyone contributes based on their ability to pay.”

Though the religious leaders at the gathering trended strongly toward favoring universal health care, they did acknowledge that people of the Christian faith have many different ways of viewing laws in relation to their beliefs. Miller suggested that at most individual Protestant congregations, one would likely find many different opinions on the ACA, specifically regarding certain provisions within the bill.

One such detail that has drawn criticism from Christian groups throughout the country has been the mandate requiring health care providers to cover the costs of contraceptives for clients.

“Part of the issue is, what do we try to accomplish through broad public policy, and what do our congregations and the families in them need to take responsibility for?” Miller said. “For example, many of our churches actually do sex education and value education around sexuality within their congregations. We feel that’s a more effective way to deal with those issues than with broad policies prohibiting the availability of contraception.”

Throughout Wednesday, conference attendees were taught about specific aspects of the new law and broken into smaller groups concerned with “empowering congregational leaders to help constituents access health care benefits,” according to Garrett’s website.

Both Biss and Gabel strongly encouraged people to visit getcoveredillinois.gov, the website for Illinois' new state health exchange, to sign up for coverage or clarify questions about the new system. Though the conference's speakers said they know the implementation of the law will be far from seamless, they emphasized the historic implications of universal health care's debut in the United States.

“This is not a fully polished ensemble of practices or policies, but this is a profound moment," Gunderson said. "And I think even in this very contentious time, filled with vitriol and exaggeration, much of it cynical, that we should pause with humility and just express a simple gratitude that we are alive in this moment. Many of us did not think we would live to see it, and in fact, we did live to see it. I think that’s worth celebrating.”

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Garrett-Evangelical to Host a Healthcare Education Conference for Religious and Community Leaders

Registration at www.garrett.edu/navigatingaca

EVANSTON, Illinois, August 2013 – On October 1 and 2, 2013, faith leaders and the people they serve will gather together for "Navigating the Affordable Care Act: People of Faith Seeking Justice and Health." Participants, gathered at Garrett-Evangelical and across Chicagoland at three partner satellite sites, will share knowledge and resources to help people access health security provided by the Affordable Healthcare Act (Obamacare). Our satellite locations have been selected to get essential information to the people who need it. It will be vitally important for all of us to hear accurate, up-to-date information and to create networking opportunities.

Conference Overview
The conference begins Tuesday, October 1 at 7PM with a plenary at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, streamed to 3 satellite sites featuring The Rev. Gary Gunderson, Professor of Faith and Health of the Public, Wake Forest University, School of Divinity.

On Wednesday, October 2, the conference continues at 8:30AM. The morning plenary and break-out sessions will focus on Affordable Care Act basics. The afternoon plenary and break-out sessions with focus on Illinois state implementation, navigation and the marketplace.

Conference Sponsors and Community Partners
Garrett-Evangelical, the conference host, is inviting faith leaders and constituents to gather with us. We are a seminary that educates faith leaders for the wider community and the world, drawing justice-minded people together to have an impact beyond the local community.

Sponsors include: The Center for the Church and the Black Experience (CBE) at Garrett-Evangelical, Campaign for Better Health Care and The Center for Faith and Community Health Transformation, Advocate Health System. Community Partners include: The American Association of Pastoral Counselors, The Center for Religion and Psychotherapy of Chicago, and The Samaritan Center for Congregations – a division of Samaritan Interfaith.

Satellite Site Information
Our southside satellite site is Maple Park United Methodist Church. Maple Park was chosen for its impactful commitment to mission. Through community organizing, their partnerships are transforming the immediate neighborhoods into healthier places to live and work.

Our west suburban satellite site in Aurora is Main Baptist Church. This church is part of a unique partnership with Samaritan Center for Congregations, a division of Samaritan Interfaith. Their gathering will address marketplace realities, specifically benefits for immigrant populations.

Our far west satellite site is the Unitarian Universalist Society of Geneva. They are partnering with Delnor Community Hospital to positively impact the people they treat and serve. The Delnor gathering will target particular benefits granted through ACA for the uninsured.

Registration
Register for the conference online at www.garrett.edu/navigatingaca. Registration is $75 to attend at Garrett and $50 to attend at a satellite location.

Plenary Speaker: The Rev. Gary Gunderson

Our plenary speaker, The Rev. Gary Gunderson is Professor of Faith and Health of the Public at the School of Divinity, Wake Forest University. Gunderson is the Vice President for Faith and Health of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center where he focuses on how faith is an asset for healthcare and the health of the community. He is internationally recognized for fundamental creative conceptual work in the field and the large scale networks of congregations with proven impact on health outcomes in Memphis, TN, where he remains a scholar in the Center of Excellence in Faith and Health.

Gunderson serves on advisory panels for the World Council of Churches and a network of global faith-based hospitals, another network of US health systems focusing on the health of the poor and retains a faculty role with the University of Cape Town. Research interests include conceptual work on the "leading causes of life" and "religious health assets." His most recent book, co-written with Dr. James Cochrane of South Africa, is Religion and the Health of the Public: Changing the Paradigm (Palgrave-McMcillian, 2011) was released just as he began his move to Wake Forest. He will be working with divinity and medical students in teaching and applied research in the medical center and community contexts. Gunderson, an ordained Baptist minister, is the author of five books in the field of faith and health.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from various denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy, and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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For more information, press only:
The Rev. Kevin M. Goodman, ACA Event Administrator
847.866.3982
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
For more information:
www.garrett.edu/navigatingaca

Garrett-Evangelical Welcomes 90 Students for New Student Orientation

EVANSTON, Illinois, August 2013 – Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary will welcome 90 new students to campus during New Student Orientation beginning on Wednesday, August 28.  This three-day orientation will provide a wealth of information for new students including an introduction to theological education led by members of the faculty. In addition, a number of activities have been planned such as worship services, a community-building workshop with local artists from Evanston’s Piven Theater, and a tour of First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple located in Chicago’s Loop.

Key administrators and faculty have been planning this year’s orientation for months in anticipation of the new students’ arrival. “We are excited to welcome our new students to Garrett-Evangelical, the cities of Evanston and Chicago, the shores of Lake Michigan, and the campus of Northwestern University,” said Rev. Becky Eberhart, Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management. “These students will join a community that is over a century and a half old and includes thousands of living alumni/ae that are engaged in ministry across the country and throughout the world.” 

In preparation for orientation, new students were asked to read Blessed are the Peacemakers by S. Jonathan Bass (Louisana State University Press, 2001). The book takes an intentional look at the composition of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Letter from Birmingham Jail” and the eight white clergymen who Dr. King addressed in this letter. Dr. Stephen Ray, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs and Academic Dean, will offer reflections and foster discussion on this book at one of the sessions of orientation.

Using a variety of social media platforms, new students can express their excitement and interact with other incoming students about moving to Evanston and beginning their seminary education.  Garrett-Evangelical (@garrettseminary) will use the Twitter hashtag #new2gets (New To Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary) for this year’s orientation. You can also stay connected with all that the happenings regarding orientation at the Office of Admissions Facebook page (www.facebook.com/GarrettAdmissions) and all seminary events at the seminary’s official Facebook page (www.facebook.com/garrettseminary). Lastly, the seminary will be posting pictures of orientation on Instagram  (www.instagram.com/garrettseminary).

Orientation for all students is on August 28-30.  For additional information, including the schedule of events, go to, www.garrett.edu/going-to-garrett.

Garrett-Evangelical, a graduate school of theology related to The United Methodist Church, was founded in 1853. Located on the campus of Northwestern University, the seminary serves more than 500 students from various denominations and cultural backgrounds, fostering an atmosphere of ecumenical interaction. Garrett-Evangelical creates bold leaders through master of divinity, master of arts, master of theological studies, doctor of philosophy, and doctor of ministry degrees. Its 4,500 living alumni serve church and society around the world.

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