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Fall 2024
Our lives are filled with constant demands—work, family, social media, and a 24-hour news infotainment cycle that never sleeps. But in the midst of this, we find ourselves preparing for a new academic year of learning, reflection, and growth in the knowledge of God.
The word “seminary” originates from the Latin word seminarium, meaning seedbed or plant nursery. It evokes the image of a place where the seeds of knowledge and faith are sown. It evokes the image of a place where paideia and piety are nurtured.
Princeton Seminary is committed to cultivating such a space. We do so by exposing learners to a range of ideas, often controversial, that will challenge accepted dogmas and unpack prevailing doctrines. We aim to help students think critically about traditions, customs, and teachings and to expand our understanding of God’s call on our lives. As a result, we will expand our knowledge of how God calls and whom God calls. We are indeed a seedbed—a place where ideas take root and grow.
Entering students in the Master of Theology & Ecology program gather at the Farminary.
Matthew Novenson joins the Biblical Studies Department as the Helen H.P. Manson Professor of New Testament
Professor Elaine T. James, Associate Professor of Old Testament, offers a prayer at the Opening Convocation.
First-year students gather during orientation week activities.
Professor Mark S. Smith, the Helena Professor of Old Testament Literature and Exegesis offered the Opening Convocation Address entitled, “More than Human Expectation: Our God of Mercy and Justice.”
First-year students gather at Springdale for an opening reception prior to Opening Convocation.
The goal is not to uproot faith or belief. On the contrary, we work to strengthen faith by deepening and extending our intellectual and spiritual roots. Through critical and constructive dialogue and exchange, we strive to fertilize and stir up the gifts God has placed within us.
The Princeton Seminary journey should not be without challenges. We cannot promise you that every day will be sunny and that each evening will be Hallelujah. To do so would be a disservice. Constant affirmation and comfort can undercut the intellectual growth and moral challenge that comes with pursuing knowledge.
Moreover, part of the beauty and brilliance of Princeton Seminary is our diversity of backgrounds and theological traditions. Our student body represents over 57 Protestant denominations from 25 countries. On this campus, you will encounter ideas and viewpoints that may seem contrary to your beliefs and understanding. We hope to provide you with the tools and space to be a mature, ethical, responsible, and sober moral agent who seeks to understand before desiring to judge.
There are a few events this fall semester that I would like to highlight. On September 19th, the PhD Studies program will host a faculty panel entitled, “Can We Hold Together in a World Coming Apart?” Funded by a one-year grant from the Wabash Foundation, the goal of the program is to encourage teaching practices that can facilitate honest, difficult conversations without eroding mutual respect and community care. This community-wide event features Princeton Seminary faculty, and Professor Heath Carter, Associate Professor of American Christianity and Director of the PhD Studies program, will serve as moderator.
In October, the Institute for Youth Ministry will host an online forum entitled “Blessed are the Peacemakers.” This one-day gathering is for Christian leaders, pastors, parents, and all who work with youth and young adults. Participants will explore Jesus’s words in Matthew 5:9 to engage strategies for active conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and justice-oriented approaches grounded in grand theological traditions that range from Aquinas to Martin Luther King, Jr. You can learn more about and register for this event here. Please mark your calendar for this gathering as we celebrate 30 years of the Institute for Youth Ministry, which has inspired us with such important learning opportunities.
Princeton Theological Seminary offers unparalleled scholarly resources in theological education, underscored by a global reputation, exceptional faculty, and immersive learning experiences in one of the world’s most intellectually respected towns.
These are just a few of the dozens of events taking place on campus this semester. They capture the myriad of ways Princeton Theological Seminary offers unparalleled scholarly resources in theological education, underscored by a global reputation, exceptional faculty, and immersive learning experiences in one of the world’s most intellectually respected towns.
Please take advantage of these opportunities to learn how to be at home in the world. Please take advantage of these opportunities to meet God in the beautiful patchwork quilt of God’s creation. Please take advantage of these opportunities to be rooted and grow in this seedbed of Princeton Theological Seminary.
One Luv,
Jonathan Lee Walton, President
“The love of God and the love of humanity are one love”—Benjamin Elijah Mays
