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July 16, 2026
Legacy VOICES

Rev. Dr. Molly T. Marshall to Retire in 2027 Following Six Exemplary Years as President

Her Vision and Leadership Have Transformed United Following six historic and transformative years as President of United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, Rev. Dr. Molly T. Marshall will retire on June 30, 2027, upon completion of the seminary’s 65th academic year. President Marshall secured United’s financial standing, advanced institutional objectives toward long-term sustainability, and catalyzed historic growth in institutional fundraising and student enrollment. Rev. Dr. Marshall assumed her role as Interim President in March 2021 following thorough vetting by a search committee and the Board of Trustees’ unanimous vote. Having served in theological education for more than 40 years, her reputation preceded her. She made headlines as the first woman appointed to the School of Theology at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, the flagship school of the Southern Baptist Convention. Ordained as a Southern Baptist, she later received the privilege of call by the American Baptist Church.  In 1997, she joined the faculty of Central Baptist Theological Seminary as professor of Theology and Spiritual Formation, thereafter stabilizing and revitalizing the school as President from 2004 to 2020, becoming the first woman ever to lead a Baptist seminary or divinity school. President Marshall’s respect and renown culminated in her executive report on effective seminary leadership, written for The Association of Theological Schools (ATS) before she arrived at United. Her experiences as a congregational minister, feminist theologian, prodigious academician, and her achievements as an administrator in theological education augured well for the seminary’s future in her care. Less than a year later, her position was made permanent, formally making her United’s tenth president, and, desiring to honor United's legacy, she pursued and received clergy standing with the MN United Church of Christ. United trustees outlined a set of priorities at the beginning of President Marshall’s tenure, on which she began immediate work. She invested much of her first several months in office in forming connections with alums, donors, and faculty. She concentrated her relational acumen on Advancement, and donors responded enthusiastically. In September 2021, United announced the Johnson-Fry Chair in World Religions and Intercultural Studies, endowed by Rev. Dr. Andrea Johnson (’17, ’23) and David Fry. Cultivating “respect for the lived religion of others,” as President Marshall often asserts, is a pillar of her scholarship and the seminary’s academic ethos. The Sophia Chair in Religious and Theological Studies, funded by a generous gift from Dr. Mary Farrell Bednarowski—Professor Emerita of Religious Studies (1976–2004)—and her husband and former trustee, Keith Bednarowski, followed in 2024. Finally, in 2025, a cadre of friends, alums, and former faculty established the Wilson Yates Chair in Theology and the Arts. These chairs, paired with substantial growth in endowed scholarships, feature prominently in President Marshall’s legacy and will endure as a witness to her faithful stewardship of alum and donor relations. Rev. Dr. Cindi Beth Johnson, Vice President for Advancement, reflects, “President Marshall’s enthusiasm, attention, and engagement with our donors have been important components of her leadership. She has honored our alums and delighted in our students. Molly has valued United’s history even as she has led us into new ways of being. She has built a culture that reflects her dedication, vision, and generosity. She has been a bright light in the broader community, embodying her passion for and dedication to United. Molly arrived with both expertise and heart, and she has shared them generously. She leaves a lasting imprint, and we are better for that. On a personal note, it has been a great gift to be her colleague.” Historic enrollment has been a fixture of President Marshall’s tenure. Between fall 2020 and fall 2025, degree-seeking student enrollment grew 57 percent, with the seminary welcoming its largest incoming class of degree-seeking students ever in fall 2025. In a climate where many theological schools have experienced stable or declining enrollment, United has surged. The Association of Theological Schools (ATS), one of the seminary’s two accrediting bodies, named United in its 2023 Holiday Colloquy Online issue as one of only 18 ATS-accredited seminaries to have demonstrated “steady year-over-year growth during the past five years.” President Marshall has positioned United as a leader in progressive theological education and a model for historically Mainline Christian schools. Commenting on what makes the seminary unique, President Marshall astutely noted United’s “desirable curriculum that emphasizes social transformation, theology and the arts, interreligious engagement, and public theology” and the intentional welcome of “students with myriad religious, spiritual, and theological leanings.” She sharpened and raised the seminary’s prophetic voice, believing that progressive theological education exists to serve the common good. From considerable growth in the Interreligious Chaplaincy program to the establishment of the Sims Scholars Initiative, she has expanded the student body’s depth and breadth. Under President Marshall’s fastidious leadership, United completed a Five-Year Strategic Plan in 2026. David S. Anderson, former Chair of the Board of Trustees (2020–2026), witnessed firsthand President Marshall’s effective management of United’s revitalization and her manifold accomplishments in office. On his close friend and colleague, David writes, “In her writings, President Marshall, Molly to me, once observed, ‘. . . following the Spirit will require of all of us faith—all the guidance we usually get is enough to take the next uncertain step.’ United, in late 2020, was indeed in a state of uncertainty, and President Marshall’s emergence as its next president must be seen as a revelation of the Spirit. She has led United to a platform of stability from which it will move forward with confidence, heeding the Spirit toward an uncertain, as human endeavors are, but bright and sustainable future.” Dr. Kyle Roberts, Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs, shared the news of President Marshall’s retirement with students this morning. With profound gratitude for her enrichment of the seminary’s faculty and scholarship, he remarked, “President Marshall has been just the leader this seminary needed to reclaim its vision, its vibrancy, and its voice in theological education. She has led a process of internal healing and of increasing external influence. She has been a champion of rigorous but applied theological education for spiritual leadership, supporting and encouraging the faculty in their teaching and the staff in their work. United,” he affirmed, “will always be indebted to her years of service and to her passion and care in moving the seminary to its next stage. United is, once again, a leading voice in progressive seminary education in large part because of President Marshall.” Rev. Dr. Dianne Oliver, Chair of the Board of Trustees, celebrates President Marshall’s transformative tenure and looks toward a bright future ahead. She affirms, “President Marshall’s impact on United is really extraordinary, and she will leave a profound legacy at the institution. Clearly, she has been successful in the ways often highlighted for an outstanding President—record enrollment, expanded academic programs, and financial stability, building a strong foundation for the next steps on United’s journey. Add to these leadership successes Molly’s theological acumen and prophetic voice in challenging times, and it is easy to see the scope of her leadership. Just as importantly, though, Molly has helped create a deep sense of community among the faculty, staff, students, trustees, and the broader community who support the work of United. Her leadership and accomplishments ensure United will keep living into the fullness of its mission and vision as the context for theological education continues to evolve.” Reflecting on her service to the seminary, President Marshall writes, “Serving as United’s President has been a joyful pursuit over these past several years as I have lived into the storied history of this good seminary. I have been invited into a theologically expansive landscape where courageous learning and creative ministries have renewed my own vocation in theological education.” She continues, “Faculty, staff, students, board members, donors, and friends have welcomed me to help craft this chapter of our shared mission. I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to serve as United’s tenth president. (Don’t say goodbye to me yet; there’s still work to be done!)” A Presidential Search Committee, comprised of trustees and representatives from the student body, alums, faculty, and staff, has been engaged in faithful preparation ahead of the public search for President Marshall’s successor. The seminary will share details about this process in the days ahead. Friends and colleagues from throughout President Marshall’s career were invited to submit reflections in her honor. These have been published on our announcement page. United eagerly anticipates celebrating President Marshall and her myriad contributions to the life of the seminary community during special events in spring 2027. Details will be made available in the months ahead. Strengthened and invigorated by President Marshall’s faithful leadership over these six years, United enters its 65th year of progressive theological education, steadfast in its mission: preparing innovative and compassionate leaders for the equipping of churches, other faith communities, and society toward justice and peace. Honoring President Marshall In celebration of President Marshall's tenure, a webpage featuring images, reflections by friends and colleagues, and opportunities to honor her achievements is now available. Visit the link below to learn more. Learn More About United Founded by the United Church of Christ (UCC) as a welcoming, ecumenical school that embraces all denominations and faith traditions, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities has been on the creative edge of progressive theological thought and leadership since it was established in 1962. Today, United continues to educate leaders who, through the eyes of faith, engage in the dismantling of systems of oppression, exploring multi-faith spirituality, and pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Media Contact Nathanial Green (he/him) Director of Marketing and Communications press@unitedseminary.edu • 651.255.6138

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November 3, 2023
Legacy VOICES

The Lasting Legacy of Hildegard and Marion Bunge

For twin sisters Marion and Hildegard, life centered around church. Their father, Rev. John Bunge, was pastor of Pleasant Prairie Evangelical Church when they were born. Later, he served in judicatory roles and, at the time of his death, was pastor of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ (UCC) in Welcome, Minnesota. Hildegard and Marion grew up in and stayed at St. Paul’s.  As their niece, Lisa, explains, “I think church was important to them because that is how they were brought up. Their father was a minister, their mother played the organ, so doing church things were important. It is just what they did.” When their brother, Jonathan (’63†), decided to follow in his father’s footsteps, their mother enlisted the twins to help with tuition expenses. Like many students today, he was able to attend seminary because he had financial support. The sisters gave their first gifts to United in 1967. Tragically, Jonathan died in 1969. In his honor, classmates established the Jonathan Bunge Memorial Scholarship and the sisters’ donations then provided ongoing support to his endowed scholarship. They also planned a legacy gift; in death, as in life, they made a gift to support the Bunge Memorial Scholarship. Identical twins, Marion and Hildegard dressed alike their whole lives. Their lives and work were also closely aligned. Graduates of St. Cloud’s Teacher’s College, they both taught phy ed and health in southern Minnesota.  The twins supported girls’ athletics before it was popular. They involved girls in sports, and organized and coached girls’ gymnastics and volleyball in the 1950s and 1960s. Nominated to the Coaches Hall of Fame, State Volleyball Coaches Hall of Fame, and the MN State High School League Hall of Fame, they were active with the National Physical Education Association and traveled to the 1960 Rome Olympics. Though they retired in 1981, the sisters remained active. They were very involved in St. Paul’s UCC, worked for Habitat for Humanity, and enjoyed traveling, walking, gardening, and visiting family.  Jonathan Bunge isn’t the only alum in the family. In 2004, 41 years after Jonathan earned his degree, his grandson—Rev. Brian Wohlhuter—graduated. Brian chose United because he wanted to attend a UCC-affiliated seminary and serve as a UCC minister.  Brian says of United, “It was invaluable in my faith formation. It was at United where my childhood beliefs were challenged and I was forced to form my own thoughts and beliefs around my Christian faith…United gave me the freedom to ask questions and not be chastised for doing so. The ability to question, and yet take seriously, what the Bible says allowed me to form my beliefs and make my faith my own.” At the time of her death in 2023, Hildegard was 97. Marion died two years earlier, almost to the day, at 95. Services were held at their church home and Brian preached at both funerals.  As he described his great-aunts, Brian said, “For them, a way to live out their faith and express their Christianity was to be vital members of the church…the [physical one] and the wider United Church of Christ. They gave of themselves to support both.” Marion and Hildegard’s faithful gifts to their brother’s Bunge Scholarship will support the wider church for years to come as they support the next generation of leaders. Blessed be the memory of the inspirational Bunge sisters.     † Deceased

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October 24, 2023
Announcements

United’s Enrollment Climbs to Best Level Since 1996

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA, UNITED STATES, October 24, 2023. United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities is exceedingly proud to announce that 239 students are enrolled for the fall 2023 term, representing a historic 281 percent increase from 2017. To put this good news into perspective, we must remember that United began in 1962 as a newly constructed residential seminary. In its first 10 years, United grew to 30 graduates, and by 1990, 45 graduates matriculated, including six Doctor of Ministry recipients. Recent figures tell the story of significant, sustained growth: In the fall of 2017, 85 students were enrolled. As the chart below shows, enrollment has since continued to rise year over year. This fall represents United’s largest enrollment in 27 years. What inspired this signal improvement during the last six years? Admissions and enrollment staff have engaged prospective students through innovative outreach and marketing. Additionally, United’s distance education is an enormous success story, allowing United to grow beyond the Twin Cities, Minnesota, and even the United States. Importantly, United’s alums make great ambassadors for the seminary, as do its stellar faculty. Speaking to the impact United’s growth is having on the educational experience and classroom life, Dr. Kyle Roberts, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean, says, “Our growing enrollment has equated to full and vibrant classes, with a remarkable diversity of perspectives represented. This diversity and collective energy creates profound learning experiences that can't be replicated otherwise." United is led by a visionary of extraordinary skill and drive. Reflecting on United’s upward trajectory, President Molly T. Marshall shares: “At a time when many seminaries cannot attract students, United is experiencing a vibrant enrollment. I believe this is occurring because of our splendid faculty, enlivening curriculum, and our accessibility—both online and in person. Also, our admissions team is unparalleled in offering great support for those discerning whether seminary is for them.” United continues to evolve into the times in which it lives. Long concerned with issues of social justice, United has a history replete with examples of faculty, students, and alums fighting for ecological justice and an end to discrimination against people of color, women, individuals caught in the prison system, and those in the LGBTQIA+ community. Between four masters degree programs and a Doctor of Ministry program, students of myriad traditions, backgrounds, and identities are pursuing their vocations to become congregational ministers, chaplains, advocates, organizational leaders, and more. United’s future is filled with hope, creativity, and sustainability. The seminary looks ahead with eagerness to realize its mission, preparing innovative and compassionate leaders for the equipping of churches, other faith communities, and society toward justice and peace. Media Contact Nathanial Green, Director of Marketing & Communications ngreen@unitedseminary.edu About United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities Founded as a welcoming, ecumenical school that embraces all denominations and faith traditions, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities has been on the cutting edge of progressive theological thought leadership since it was established in 1962. Today, United continues to train leaders who dismantle systems of oppression, explore multi-faith spirituality, and push the boundaries of knowledge.

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October 23, 2023
statement

Statement by President Molly T. Marshall on Israel-Hamas War (Oct. 23)

Rev. Dr. Molly T. Marshall, President of United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, shared the following message with students amidst the war between Israel and Hamas: In the days following the brutal attack of Hamas on Israeli citizens, each of us has experienced many emotions of horror at the carnage of the violence. We also acknowledge the pent-up anger of marginalized Palestinians who bear insufferable conditions of displacement in their homeland. War only escalates internecine suffering and makes rebuilding trust as well as a decimated infrastructure more difficult, and we stand against war. Fundamentalist theology and white nationalism conspire to prompt standing with Israel as an unwavering national commitment. This stance must be interrogated and corrected. At United, we have Jewish students and adjunctive faculty, a professor whose ethnicity is Palestinian, and it is our desire to respect them all amidst the complexity of regional conflict generations old. We believe that justice is necessary for peace, and it is our deepest longing to cultivate the sensibilities and skills that can contribute to human flourishing in our fragile and deeply connected world. In service to the beloved community, Rev. Molly T. Marshall, PhD President

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September 29, 2023
Anti-racism Antiracism social justice Symposium Week

“Reorienting Ourselves to the Reality of Not Yet” Launches Second Phase of Anti-Racist Initiatives at United

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA, UNITED STATES, September 27, 2023 — United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities (United) and Rev. Dr. Gary F. Green, II—Director of Anti-Racist Initiatives—are thrilled to announce that on Monday, October 23, at 7:30 PM, we will cap off the first day of Symposium Week with a free, public event that officially launches the second wave of United’s Anti-Racist Initiatives. (more…)

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September 14, 2023

What Is Seminary?

Seminary is a word that originally comes from the Latin seminarium, “plant nursery, seed plot.” Long since obsolete, that definition of seminary has been wholly replaced by the centuries-long practice of describing a seminary as a training school. A theological seminary represents a remarkable graduate school program rooted in the pursuit of knowledge and understanding through the interplay of faith and reason. While initially established for the vocation of ordained church ministry (Catholic priesthood or Protestant pastorate), seminary is now for those who wish to gain theological knowledge and apply this knowledge toward any number of possible vocations. Today, seminaries equip students with a diverse skill set, enabling them to embrace their unique calling and fulfill their purpose within their chosen vocation of ministry or spiritual leadership. What’s the Difference Between Bible College and Seminary? Bible colleges and seminaries serve distinct purposes within the realm of theological education, though some institutions may use the terms interchangeably or combine aspects of both approaches in their programs. That’s why it’s important to research specific institutions and their offerings so you know exactly what kinds of educational opportunities are available to you. Bible colleges and seminaries generally differ in four key ways: Focus and Scope: Bible colleges typically emphasize undergraduate education with a strong focus on biblical studies, theology, and practical ministry training. They aim to provide a comprehensive foundation in Christian teachings, equipping students for various forms of ministry or leadership within churches or Christian organizations. Seminaries, on the other hand, are graduate schools that offer advanced theological education, focusing on preparing students for ministry or social justice leadership, pastoral roles, chaplaincy, academic pursuits, or specialized areas of study within the broader field of theology. United is unique in its focus on interreligious engagement and the eager exploration of beliefs beyond Christian traditions. Degree Offerings: Bible colleges generally offer associate's or bachelor's degrees in disciplines such as biblical studies, theology, ministry, or Christian education. These degrees typically span a broader range of subjects and provide a well-rounded education. Seminaries offer advanced degrees, including master's degrees (such as Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Leadership, and Master of Arts in Ministry) and doctoral degrees (such as Doctor of Ministry), allowing students to engage in more specialized, in-depth study and research within their chosen field of interest. Academic Rigor: While both Bible colleges and seminaries offer rigorous academic programs, seminaries tend to provide a deeper level of intellectual and theological engagement. Seminary education often involves critical analysis, advanced biblical exegesis, theological reflection, interreligious engagement, and research, preparing students for leadership positions, scholarship, and nuanced engagement with contemporary issues. Targeted Student Population: Bible colleges often attract recent high school graduates or individuals seeking a foundational education in theology and ministry. They may offer programs tailored to accommodate students with diverse backgrounds and interests. Seminaries, however, tend to draw students who already possess an undergraduate degree, as many of their programs require a bachelor's degree as a prerequisite. Seminary students often bring prior ministry experience, academic backgrounds, or a strong commitment to pursuing vocational ministry or advanced theological study. What is a Seminary Degree? Just as each individual's journey in answering their vocational call is unique, the path to a seminary degree is equally diverse. At United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, we recognize the importance of offering a range of programs to accommodate the diverse needs and aspirations of our students. Whether you prefer in-person or online learning, our seminary provides a variety of flexible options. Master of Divinity Prepare for the pulpit and beyond with this versatile ministry degree. Whether you’re called to ordained parish ministry or board-certified chaplaincy, your Master of Divinity degree at United will prepare you to be an effective and compassionate faith leader in an ever-changing world. Master of Arts Are you interested in religion and theology primarily from an academic perspective? Want to pursue a PhD and/or a teaching role in a religious or academic institution? If that sounds like you, it's time to see what United’s Master of Arts degree has to offer. Master of Arts in Leadership Are you looking for the theological framework and practical skills you need to become an effective leader in a business, elected office, or nonprofit? Our Master of Arts in Leadership degree is ideal for those who wish to lead from a faith-based perspective but aren't interested in pursuing traditional ordination. Master of Arts in Ministry Are you seeking an academic and practical ministry training program, designed for flexibility and efficiency? If you’re preparing for ministry but neither need nor desire an MDiv, the MAM will provide you with foundational ministry knowledge and skills at a fraction of the time and cost. Doctor of Ministry Increase your capacity to minister in our globalized and multifaith world. United's Doctor of Ministry degree offers specialized, focused training designed to further enhance the ministry of those with substantial experience in a ministerial leadership role. For more information, visit our Degree Programs page. What Can You Do With a Seminary Degree? A seminary degree opens up a multitude of meaningful and impactful opportunities for individuals seeking to make a difference in the world. With a seminary degree, you can pursue various paths aligned with your unique interests, skills, and calling. A degree from United will set you up for success in the following vocational paths and meaningful pursuits: Congregational Ministry: Many seminary graduates become ordained or licensed ministers and serve as pastors, providing spiritual leadership, guidance, and support to congregations. They have the privilege of leading worship, delivering sermons, conducting sacraments, and offering pastoral care to individuals and communities. Chaplaincy: Seminary graduates can work as chaplains in various settings such as hospitals, military organizations, correctional facilities, universities, and hospices. They offer spiritual and emotional support to individuals during challenging times, provide counsel, and facilitate religious services and rituals. Counseling and Therapy: With additional training, seminary graduates can become counselors or therapists, specializing in pastoral counseling, marriage and family therapy, or mental health counseling. They integrate their theological background with therapeutic techniques to support individuals, couples, and families in their emotional and spiritual well-being. Spiritual Directors: Seminary graduates who take coursework in spiritual direction can effectively support others in their personal spiritual development in both one-on-one and group settings. Nonprofit and Community Leadership: Seminary graduates can contribute to the nonprofit sector, taking up roles in organizations focused on social justice, community development, advocacy, or humanitarian work. They can lead religious or faith-based organizations, guiding their vision, mission, and community outreach efforts. Teaching and Education: Some seminary graduates pursue careers in teaching theology, religious studies, or ethics at educational institutions, including seminaries, colleges, universities, and schools. They inspire and educate students, fostering understanding and dialogue about faith, spirituality, and religious traditions. Writing and Publishing: With a seminary degree, you can explore opportunities in writing and publishing, such as becoming an author, editor, or contributing to theological journals and publications. This avenue allows you to share insights, research, and perspectives on matters of faith and spirituality. Arts Activism: With a seminary background, you can blend your passion for the arts with social activism. Whether through visual arts, music, theater, or film, you can use creative expressions to address social issues, advocate for justice, and inspire positive change within communities. This may involve organizing art exhibitions, performances, or cultural events that promote dialogue and raise awareness about important causes. Public Policy and Advocacy: Seminary graduates can contribute to shaping public policy by working in advocacy organizations, think tanks, or government agencies. Drawing on their theological perspectives and ethical frameworks, they can engage in research, analysis, and advocacy to influence policies that address poverty, human rights, environmental justice, and other social concerns. Social Services and Community Development: With a seminary degree, you can work in various social service organizations, nonprofits, or community development agencies. This may involve coordinating programs that provide food, shelter, healthcare, and counseling services to vulnerable populations. Seminary graduates can contribute their spiritual insights and compassionate approach to help uplift individuals and communities facing social challenges. These are just some examples, as the true possibilities are vast! A seminary degree equips you with a strong foundation in theology, ethics, pastoral care, and spiritual leadership, enabling you to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals, communities, and society as a whole—in your own unique way. What Are the Requirements to Get Into Seminary? It’s important to recognize that each seminary and seminary degree program may have its own set of requirements. That said, there are overarching factors that commonly influence the graduate admissions process, fostering inclusivity and opportunity for aspiring scholars and ministers alike. At United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities, for example, there are NO LIMITS to admission based on religious affiliation, age, race, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, or physical abilities and conditions. There are, however, academic, personal, and completion requirements for each of our four degree programs that prospective students need to meet. You can view them on our Admissions page. Perceptions of Seminaries Because seminaries have a long but not well-known history, outsiders may not know how to react when someone they know goes to a seminary. Rev. Phil Romine, a 2016 and 2021 alum, notes that when he told others he was attending seminary, he got a mix of reactions. “Oftentimes,” he reports, ”people either changed the subject abruptly or took the liberty to share their experiences with faith/faith communities—either supremely bad experiences or ‘how they found Jesus.’ Most people I’ve interacted with think seminary is about indoctrination, so you can indoctrinate others.” As Romine discovered, however, United was founded as an ecumenical seminary—a seminary that does not champion one branch of Christianity over another. In fact, the seminary’s students and faculty come from more than two dozen different faith communities, among them Muslim, Jewish, Pagan, and Humanist. With a healthy, diverse student body, United’s scholarly, student-invested faculty can illuminate the origins of many faith traditions. Far from prescriptive, United is a seminary that invites critical thought and deep questions. The Reality of United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities Though our seminary’s deep foundational roots were forged in the seminaries of Mission House Theological Seminary (founded 1859 in Wisconsin) and the School of Theology at Yankton College (established 1932 in South Dakota)—precursors to the United Church of Christ (UCC)—United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities emerged into the vibrant and rapidly changing world of the 1960s. In 1962, when United came boldly into being, it became the first seminary formed under the auspices of the nascent UCC. Today, we continue to honor our UCC heritage and our original commitment to multi-denominational relationships as a foundation for genuine dialogue and a profound spiritual experience. Because United is a Theological Seminary and not a School of Divinity, Rev. Romine suggests our focus is primarily pragmatic. Our seminary’s work, in other words, is grounded in the realities of the world in which we live. Or as Dr. Demian Wheeler has asserted, “United is a progressive seminary committed to the hard work of social justice.” This personal and grounded approach to theological education at United has other benefits too. Rev. Romine sees seminary degree work as “a way to become a better human.” He continues, “The ability to practice and prioritize self-reflection, humility, and chart a course for personal and collective liberation are only a few of the very tangible benefits of attending seminary.” Are You Being Called to Seminary? United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities can answer that call. With a progressive ethos, a creative culture, and an activist spirit, our seminary will challenge, nurture, and prepare you to be the innovative and compassionate leader the world needs you to be.  Click here to start a conversation with a member of our admissions team and learn more about our 30+ seminary degree programs.

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August 17, 2023
Announcements

United Debuts Newly Redesigned Website

SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA, UNITED STATES, August 16, 2023. United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities today debuted its newly redesigned, reimagined, and reinvigorated website, modernized to better serve our mission and our communities. On the revised site, prospective students, current students, alums and other community members will find: A sitewide menu with organized, tiered information Landing pages for each of United’s five degrees One standardized admissions interest form for degree and admissions pages United’s Four Pillars on a page that explains our values and our corresponding degree programs Our responsive design offers prospective applicants, current students, alums, and our wider community a more enjoyable experience. A new sitewide menu and interactive sidebars allow for greater contextualization, serving our communities’ varied needs with organized content. Most importantly, our mission—our core values—are reflected clearly throughout our new site. Updated imagery and graphic elements frame the rich, ongoing story and legacy of United’s work in the world.  United President Molly T. Marshall reflects: A website provides a window to the world, a portal through which one learns of the unique identity of a school and discerns whether it provides what one is seeking. United’s new website invites those who love theological education or are simply curious about its formative work to take a closer look. We hope to meet you there soon. We invite you to take time to get acquainted with our redesigned site, and hope that United’s artistic, diverse, and hopeful spirit shines through. Media Contact Nathanial Green Director of Marketing & Communications ngreen@unitedseminary.edu About United Theological Seminary of the Twin Citie Founded as a welcoming, ecumenical school that embraces all denominations and faith traditions, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities has been on the cutting edge of progressive theological thought leadership since it was established in 1962. Today, United continues to train leaders who dismantle systems of oppression, explore multi-faith spirituality, and push the boundaries of knowledge.

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July 5, 2023
students

Recent Encounters with Theaster Gates’ Black Vessel for a Saint: Viewing the Sacred through Locked Steel Doors

Black Vessel for a Saint sits on the southwest end of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden with an air of incongruous monumentality. A 20-foot-tall cylinder of coal-black bricks, the Vessel rests on a raised cement platform, with two long cement ramps leading to a pair of doorways. Inside the cylinder, one encounters a six-foot tall, roofing tar-blackened statue of Saint Lawrence, who holds a luxuriant quill pen in his right hand and a Bible in his left. According to the didactics accompanying the Vessel, Theaster Gates—a polymathic Chicago artist known for his urban revitalization efforts and use of reclaimed materials—intended the temple-like structure to serve as “a secular sacred sanctuary—a place open to all for gathering and reflection.” In contrast to this stated purpose, however, entry into this sculpture is currently obstructed by a plate steel door installed securely inside each doorway. The reason for the doors is perhaps evident: at some point, Lawrence’s pen and two forefingers seem to have suffered a blow that chipped them clean off, exposing what looked like white plaster underneath the tarred surface. While the need to protect the statue of St. Lawrence is understandable, this addition also seems to have a significant impact on how one experiences the piece as a whole. After all, don’t the locked doors represent an enormous alteration to the artwork’s original concept and stated purpose of creating interior space? In an attempt to answer this question, I decided to talk to other viewers about how they were experiencing Black Vessel for a Saint in its present form, and what new meanings they were making out of a closed vessel. Reactions to the Altered Art Installation Not surprisingly, the presence of the locked doors impacted many peoples’ experiences of Black Vessel for a Saint. I began most of my conversations with viewers by introducing myself and asking, basically, “What did you think about this piece?” One viewer seemed to think this was a silly question, and responded matter-of-factly, “Well, it was locked, so we didn’t spend much time looking at it.” Most people simply expressed frustration about the way the doors limited their experience of the sculpture, like the person whose first response was, “Well, we thought it was going to be open.” One viewer interpreted the discrepancy between the locked doors and the welcoming didactic materials as part of the piece itself: “The sign says ‘please enter,’ and then you can’t go in, so that made me wonder if it was like”—here, the viewer scrunched up their face, mimicking the expression of an impish artist thumbing his nose at a gullible audience— “like, I guess that’s part of it? ” While not dissimilar in logic to other interpretations of the Vessel that took the doors as given, this response was particularly interesting because the materials provided by the museum—which the viewer had, understandably, taken at face value—led the viewer to assume that some intentional trickery was afoot. The presence of the locked doors was not a total barrier to most viewers’ interaction with the Vessel, however, and in fact my own perception of the piece was greatly expanded by viewers who did not share my fixation with the doors. Several viewers’ responses revolved around the tactility of the brick structure, and it was interesting that the Vessel seemed to solicit a consciously embodied experience for many of the people with whom I talked. One person told me, “I wanted to touch it. I don’t usually do that, but I wanted to touch it.” Another viewer began their critical appraisal of the piece by saying, “It doesn’t feel good to me. It feels cold.” Interestingly, I spoke to the former viewer on a sunny spring afternoon, and to the latter on a day that was cool and gloomy. Viewers’ tactile responses to the Vessel might simply reflect their common-sense understanding that brick is pleasant to touch under certain conditions, and not others. Additionally, viewers might feel implicitly invited to touch the structure by the (currently misleading) signage provided by the Walker, which reads, “Please enter, but do not touch the figure.” Not having been specifically prohibited from touching the structure that surrounds the figure, viewers may feel empowered to physically engage with the brick cylinder as they would any other building. One person may have landed on this distinctive aspect of Black Vessel for a Saint when they wondered aloud, “In a way it seemed more interactive than a lot of the pieces here, if that makes sense?” Even as the doorways are barred, preventing entry into the sanctuary, it seems possible that many viewers still respond to this structure as something that was made for them, because a “building” in its most basic definition is a structure made for people. To push further on this viewer’s insightful response, I wonder how many visitors to the Sculpture Garden are unsure if the other postmodern works on display are really “for them.” Perhaps it is fair to say that many of the other sculptures are not as interactive as Gates’ piece because the habitable form of the Vessel makes it more psychologically accessible, even if its doors are closed. Reflecting on Gates’ Purpose In thinking about this aspect of the sculpture, it seems important here to recall Gates’ long standing practice as a potter. In a 2017 conversation with Walker curator Victoria Sung, Gates outlined some of the ways in which Black Vessel for a Saint—which he referred to as “a large pot made out of clay”— connects to the themes present in the rest of his oeuvre: You’re never thinking about the pot independent of those who might gather with the pot.… What I’m after is creating opportunity after opportunity for more people to gather. And if they gather in front of a tar painting, inside of a museum, that’s awesome. But I also love the idea that I could create a space where people would be able to have shelter, experience performances, and reflect together on the possibilities and the challenges of urban space. My investment in things is really about a deep investment in people.1 That Gates’ intentions for this piece are still being partially fulfilled by a Vessel with locked doors is a testament to the strength of the concepts in play. However, because Gates’ primary intention seems to have been to create a space for people to gather, those locked doors forced many viewers to formulate an almost tragically contrasting interpretation. In general, many of these interpretations seemed to hinge on the feeling of alienation that arose when viewers peered into the Vessel at the figure of St. Lawrence through the apertures in the thick steel doors. One viewer was almost indignant when they considered the meaning of the piece: “This is what religion does. It makes you feel curious but then it shuts you out. It’s like there’s something going on in there, but I am not invited to it.” This viewer’s companion said simply, if somewhat metaphysically, “I feel like my third eye isn’t open.” For another person, it felt like “looking in on a religion that I wasn’t necessarily a part of.” But not all responses were negative. Last summer, I visited the sculpture and saw that coins and flowers had been thrown at the base of the statue, possibly indicating that at least one person was treating the sculpture as a shrine, and perhaps responding to some “sacred” power that St. Lawrence retained in his current “secular” home. Finally, one of the viewers I spoke to made an open-ended appraisal of the piece as it currently stands: “I think it mostly just provokes curiosity.” This is, perhaps, Black Vessel for a Saint’s greatest virtue, at least for now. While originally intended as a secular-sacred space for gathering and reflection, viewers now have to contend with what it means to be shut out of a sanctuary that they might have otherwise been invited to. Most of them, from what I could tell, didn’t feel the loss too painfully, as if it felt appropriate that full access to the saint and his shrine was not really for them, perhaps in the same way that the Basilica of Saint Mary, looming to the northeast, might not really be for them. Instead of creating a physical space, it seems possible that Black Vessel for a Saint currently functions mostly to provoke curiosity, opening up enough internal space within viewers so they are able to ask themselves, “if I could enter this sacred space, would I really want to?” 1. Victoria Sung, “Creating Space for the Possibility of a Sacred Moment: Theaster Gates on Black Vessel for a Saint,” August 27, 2019, walkerart.org/magazine/theaster-gates-discusses-black-vessel-for-a-saint

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July 4, 2023
Alums Arts theology and the arts VOICES

2023 Graduate Stephani Pescitelli and the Power of YES, AND…

Stephani Pescitelli, who graduated April 30, 2023 with an MDiv in Theology and the Arts, admits that United wasn’t even on her radar when she first felt called to seminary. She intended to enroll in a Unitarian Universalist (UU) seminary. Still, after a phone call with a kind soul in United’s admissions office, followed by a whirlwind visit with faculty, alums, and students during a February blizzard (naturally), the uniquely heartfelt and open sense of welcome, and United’s arts and theology program won her over. As she recalls, “I walked out into the bitter cold after that day carrying a warm, welcoming, enthusiastic YES! Lessons Learned at United Though she could have safely stayed in her UU community, Stephani is thankful she was exposed to so many differing faith traditions and histories at United. One “gift of learning…in classrooms and conversations with voices from other traditions,” she shares, “is appreciating how all of our traditions have evolved in relation, often in syncretic ways, even when in opposition.” “Sometimes,” she adds, “confronting these differences and histories is uncomfortable and has meant learning to speak and listen to different… perspectives, letting go of the coziness of knowing, and stepping into the practice of saying YES, AND to others.” This practice of affirmation and openness is important for spiritual leaders who must face myriad challenges in today’s world. Personal relationships are also key. “The relationships I’ve cultivated at United,” Stephani emphasizes, “are the most important gift I’ve received.…I can’t imagine any other graduate program or learning community where I could have truly practiced the messy, beautiful new ways of creating, relating, and leading together.” “United to me is what I wanted and needed church to be,” Marjorie asserts. “It is a non-judgemental place where I am able to think theologically, I'm able to experience the spirit, but also to have intellectual discourse around what I believe to be true and what it is like to be with other Christ-centered people who believe differently than I do, but we have this core place of connection.” Looking to the Future Thanks to connections made while in seminary, Stephani’s future is rapidly taking shape. Through a research project for Dr. Awes Freeman’s Images and Ideologies course about the changing landscape of monuments, last summer she was able to intern with a national nonprofit, Monument Lab. Now, since presenting research about a community arts approach to saving memories and sharing stories at the Midwest American Academy of Religion Meeting, she’s Monument Lab’s part-time partnership research associate. “I am grateful,” Stephani says, “to be able to bring this unique perspective and the holistic formational and practical leadership training I received as an MDiv student to this important art and social justice work at Monument Lab.” At the same time, Stephani is exploring a call to support people one-on-one, and hopes to focus on “offering discernment and relational spiritual care to makers, seekers, and activists through creative embodied practice.” Learn more on her website: stephanipescitelli.com. Stephani credits her experiences and education at United for making these and other vocational options possible. As she explains, “Engaging in rigorous academic and rich formational learning within a community full of diverse, dynamic beliefs and spiritual backgrounds has helped me to contextualize and deepen my own theologies. It has also increased my desire and capacity for building coalitions across differences in my leadership work and in relationships beyond seminary.” No matter where she goes after commencement, Stephani now knows “that the most important repair and liberation is done…within our five-foot radius.” She adds, “I am lucky that my immediate circle has included some of the finest faculty, co-conspirators, dance—and wrestling—partners, and humans, and even luckier to be able to carry these relationships with me in whatever lies ahead.”

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June 30, 2023

Statement by United on the Supreme Court’s Recent Rulings

United aims to be a beloved community committed to intersectional justice, creativity, and curiosity. Our values, grounded in six decades of transformative education, put many of us in sharp disagreement with multiple opinions delivered this week by the United States Supreme Court. United is an inclusive community and a leader among seminaries in LGBTQ+ rights. LGBTQ+ people are entitled to full legal protections and equality under the law, and we are concerned that carving out accommodations for discrimination will have grave consequences. At a time when state legislatures are passing legislation calling into question the very existence of trans and gender-expansive identities, affording businesses the ability to deny LGBTQ+ people service on the grounds of free speech could have devastating repercussions. The pursuit of diversity and representation in our student body benefits us all; it is incumbent on academic institutions to address systemic injustices whose consequences persist. Meaningful relief for millions struggling under the burden of student loan debt is a moral issue and one of grave practical concern for so many. As Emma Lazarus wrote, “we are none of us free” until all of us are free. This week, only days before the United States celebrates its independence, a majority on the Supreme Court has pushed “liberty and justice for all” even further out of reach for swaths of American society. For these reasons and more, we worry deeply at the direction these decisions will take us and the consequences they will have. The community of United is determined to realize a future far better than that imagined by the Court. Media Contact: Nathanial Green Director of Marketing & Communications ngreen@unitedseminary.edu About United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities Founded as a welcoming, ecumenical school that embraces all denominations and faith traditions, United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities has been on the cutting edge of progressive theological thought leadership since it was established in 1962. Today, United continues to train leaders who dismantle systems of oppression, explore multi-faith spirituality, and push the boundaries of knowledge.

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