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July 16, 2026
Announcements Faculty

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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July 2, 2024
Announcements Faculty

Remembering Rev. Dr. Don White, Professor Emeritus

Appointed to replace Theophilus Hilgeman, Don became the assistant professor of historical theology at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in 1965. He was from Youngstown, Ohio, and he received his BA from Berea College in Kentucky, his BD from Chicago Theological Seminary, and his MA and PhD from the University of Chicago Divinity School. Originally ordained as a Presbyterian, Don would later transfer his standing to the United Church of Christ (UCC). During his 37-year tenure at United, Don taught both historical theology and constructive theology. At his retirement in 2002, he noted that his favorite courses were process theology (which he began teaching in 1966) and popular culture (a course he taught starting in 1977). A former colleague, Rev. Dr. Clyde Steckel, professor emeritus, recalls being “struck with his keen mind… I was pleased to find him on the United faculty, which I joined in 1970. Don was especially good at teaching process theology and helping students transition from traditional theologies needing to be deconstructed and then reconstructed.” Mary Kay Huntley Sauter (’95) fondly remembers Don for “Theology.” She continues, “Process theology is my theology because of him. Very grateful.” While a member of United’s faculty, Don worked closely with Rev. Dr. Wilson Yates, president emeritus, first as a colleague, and then as dean. Reflecting on his passing, Wilson shares, “Don White came to United soon after the school had been created, and here, he spent his career not only as a popular professor, but as one of the early faculty who helped the school define its role in theological education.” Wilson continues, “He taught the history of Christianity and pressed students to understand not only the theology of the churches that developed over those 2,000 years, but those churches’ institutional lives and the roles they played in shaping the cultures of which they were a part…. For those students who worked with him, he will still be remembered for the vital role he played in their lives. We are grateful for his time with us and mourn his passing.”  It is a testament to Don’s enduring connection with students that both Phil Johnson and Ted Meads (’71) were still in touch 40 years later. As Ted wrote to Don after reviewing Don’s explanation of process theology concerning United’s recently highlighted 1967–1968 football team, “Your response to Phil reinforced why I so thoroughly enjoyed your classes so many years ago.” Alum Rev. Casey Baggot (’93), retired minister of Community Church of Vero Beach, spoke highly of Don’s impact after retiring. She wrote, “For several years after his retirement from United, Don continued inspiring students of all ages at Community Church of Vero Beach as Theologian in Residence. His intellect was untiring, and his lectures, talks, and programs were incredibly popular.” Don also served his church as a counselor. Casey continues, “Community Church members found themselves doubly blessed as he brought wisdom to enlighten and compassion to sustain the faithful journey.” “A seminary professor is able to leave a graceful imprint in the lives of students and faculty colleagues,” reflects current President Molly T. Marshall. “From all I have read of the service of Don White at United, I would echo the words of the writer of the Apocalypse: his ‘deeds will accompany him’ (Rev. 14:13b).” For all the students he taught, mentored, and coached, all the faculty and staff with whom he worked, and his service to the church, United is deeply grateful for the legacy of Rev. Dr. Don White, now of blessed memory. A service for Don will take place at Community Church of Vero Beach in Florida on Saturday, November 23, 2024, on what would have been Don’s 90th birthday.

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July 1, 2024
Academics Scripture

The Role of Biblical Studies in Seminary

At its most basic level, biblical studies involves studying the Bible. In practice, biblical studies involve the deliberate interplay of diverse disciplines—from ancient history, philology, and theology, to literary criticism, art, and comparative religion—to gain a contextual foundation for making meaning out of the Bible’s Old Testament (Hebrew Bible) and New Testament (Christian Bible). Because of how these diverse disciplines inform the Bible and the Bible informs these disciplines, biblical studies are relevant to seminarians, whether they intend to preach, teach, write, practice art, or lead an organization. What Is Biblical Studies? The core focus of biblical studies is exegesis—a careful, analytical study of biblical texts that emerged from Judaic and Christian written traditions and became the basis for today’s Bible. To inform exegesis, subcategories of exploration include textual criticism, hermeneutics (the scholarly study of interpretation), biblical archaeology, biblical history, biblical languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek), and biblical theology. Fields that undergird exegesis call for an understanding of the geographic, historic, and linguistic context in which the humans who wrote and translated early texts existed. By examining the location, culture, time, and language in which early biblical texts came into being, we gain meaningful clues for enriching our perspective about modern translations of biblical texts. Biblical Studies vs. Theology: What Is the Difference? As discussed above, biblical studies is concerned with the Bible. Through exegesis, biblical scholars strive to gain contextual knowledge about ancient texts—including the Hebrew Bible, the Dead Sea Scrolls, and the Septuagint—and the times in which they were created to illuminate biblical comprehension. Theology, by contrast, is the broader study of God. Instead of solely examining the Bible book by book or passage by passage to discern the meaning of biblical texts, theological scholars use numerous sources to reflect on the nature of Divine reality and construct concepts, ideas, and imaginative descriptions to attempt to articulate ultimate reality. Though different in many ways, theology and biblical studies also complement one another. What Does a Biblical Studies Degree Involve? United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities offers both a Master of Arts (36-credit) and a Master of Divinity (72-credit) degree in Biblical Studies. Both degrees require students to take classes in: Religious Texts (such as the Hebrew Bible and New Testament) Theological Tradition (basic theology courses and courses that explore the history of Christian or modern theology) Ethics and Justice (including Christian or Comparative Religious Ethics) Academic Contextualization (including biblical exegesis, as well as biblical Hebrew or New Testament Greek) The MDiv in Biblical Studies degree requires a broader range of exploration that encompasses art and theology courses, world religions and global Christianity courses, a constructive theology course, and a social transformation course. It also features a section of vocational contextualization and skills courses that involve preaching, faith formation, and a congregational internship. To learn more, visit United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities’ Degree Programs page. What Can You Do with a Biblical Studies Degree? A biblical studies degree gives students an opportunity to deeply engage with the cultural and historical contexts, overarching narratives, theological themes, and critical issues of the Bible, as well as attend to the ethical implications of interpreting Scripture. These skills are well-suited for a variety of ministerial and academic roles—from parish ministry and chaplaincy to textual scholarship and teaching. A biblical studies degree opens up many meaningful and impactful opportunities for individuals seeking to make a difference in the world. With a biblical studies degree, you can pursue paths aligned with your unique interests, skills, and calling. A biblical studies degree from United will set you up for success in the following vocational paths and meaningful pursuits: Congregational Ministry: Many biblical studies MDiv 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, preaching sermons that bring the Bible to life, conducting sacraments, and offering pastoral care to individuals and communities. Public Policy and Advocacy: As a biblical studies graduate, you can contribute to shaping public policy by working in advocacy organizations, think tanks, or government agencies. Drawing on your theological understanding, analytical skills, and ethical frameworks, you can research, analyze, and advocate to influence policies addressing poverty, human rights, environmental justice, and other social concerns. Social Services and Community Development: With a biblical studies 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. As a seminary graduate, you can contribute your spiritual and contextual insights and compassionate approach to help uplift individuals and communities facing social challenges. Nonprofit and Community Leadership: As a biblical studies graduate, you can contribute to the nonprofit sector, assuming roles in organizations focused on research, educational pursuits, social justice, community development, advocacy, or humanitarian work. You can lead religious, or faith-based organizations, guiding their vision, mission, and community outreach efforts. Writing and Publishing: With a biblical studies degree, you can explore opportunities in writing and publishing, such as becoming an author or editor, or contributing to theological journals and publications. This avenue allows you to share insights, research, and perspectives on matters of faith, art, and spirituality. Chaplaincy: With a chaplaincy certificate, you can use your MDiv in Biblical Studies degree to work as a chaplain in various settings such as hospitals, military organizations, correctional facilities, universities, and hospices. You can offer spiritual and emotional support to individuals during challenging times—through your understanding of context—and provide counsel as well as facilitate religious services and rituals. Teaching and Education: If you are a biblical studies graduate who obtains a doctoral degree, you can pursue careers in teaching biblical studies, theological studies, or ethics at educational institutions, including seminaries, colleges, universities, and other schools. You can then inspire and educate students, fostering understanding and dialogue about faith, spirituality, and religious traditions. These are just some of the many examples, as the true possibilities are vast! A biblical studies degree equips you with a strong foundation in theology, ethics, exegesis, 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. Online Biblical Studies Programs Are Flexible, Accessible, and Rigorous United’s MA and MDiv in Biblical Studies degrees are both offered online through our distance learning program. Online biblical studies courses allow for greater flexibility in studying and learning, a feature that accommodates students wherever they live and in concert with other demands on their time. In fact, not only can biblical studies students at United obtain their degree 100 percent online, but many courses are offered asynchronously! Asynchronous courses offer students additional online resources and the freedom to access course instruction and complete coursework at their own pace. Synchronous courses, by contrast, require all students to attend a live online class at the same time. A mix of synchronous and asynchronous biblical studies courses offers both the benefit of community and the flexibility of faculty-guided independent study. As United students will attest, online courses are no less rigorous than those taught in traditional in-person courses. Like the best biblical studies degree programs at other seminaries, United’s MDiv in Biblical Studies requires students to dive deeply into exegesis through intensive studies related to world religions, art and theology, religious texts, and biblical Hebrew and New Testament Greek. Is a Biblical Studies Degree Right for You?  No matter what faith or belief community you come from, there is a place for you in United’s biblical studies degree programs. Whether you intend to promote biblical scholarship or serve as a teacher, preacher, or community leader, United’s programs will equip you with the knowledge, creativity, ethical grounding, and spirit of curiosity that will enhance your vocation. We invite you to sit in on a class, view our recorded past events and lunches, or set up a meeting with a faculty member or student to learn more! Interested in learning more about or pursuing a biblical studies degree at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities in Minnesota? Contact our admissions team to explore our 30+ seminary degree programs today!

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June 21, 2024
VOICES

Bob McCrea: Remembering a Steadfast Ambassador for United

In his youth, Robert “Bob” Kyle McCrea* was an acolyte at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, and a founding member of the Edina High School Alpine Ski Team. As an adult, Bob was a founding partner and CEO of Colour Graphics Corporation, a member of St. Martin’s by-the-Lake Episcopal Church, and an active husband and father. He discovered United through his church Priest, Rev. Edwin John Eilertsen, who was a member of United’s Board of Trustees. In 1976, Rev. Eilertsen encouraged Bob to take a course at United. One spring course, “Outlines of Christian Faith,” was all it took for Bob to decide to support United. Though he had to drive in a few evenings a week, Bob’s wife Polly remembers that he really enjoyed being a student, loved the environment at the school, and studying at United helped his faith journey. Bob joined the board in 1978. His first role was on the vice presidential search committee. Between 1982 and 1983, Bob was a member of the finance committee, and from 1983 to 1985, he was board chair. He served on the executive committee from 1985 to 1986 and on board affairs from 1984 to 1986, co-chaired two fundraising campaigns, and helped lead the 50th anniversary committee in 2012. Starting in 1978, Bob and Polly also began making regular donations to United and offering their fundraising expertise. They maintained that they had a responsibility to share their good fortune with causes in which they believed. Bob appreciated that United was not only educating future clergy, but supplying a theological edge to those pursuing work in nonprofits, schools, or other organizations. An effective networker, Bob worked closely with then-President Wilson Yates and Dr. Mary Bednarowski. Wilson recalls that Bob was always introducing him to new people, saying, “Wilson, you have to meet this person!” Gregarious by nature, Bob was a natural leader and staunch supporter. Long time friend Addison (Tad) Piper—whose father, Harry C. Piper,* graduated from United in 1974— attests, “Bob was a person of strong loyalties. He cherished his relationship with the wonderful United board, staff, and faculty and worked hard to keep the institution strong, relevant, and vibrant.” Bill George, former Medtronic CEO and United board member, asserts: “Bob McCrea was the most dedicated member of the United board. He was constantly talking about the good things happening at United and how important its work is. Long after he retired from the board, we continued working with prospective donors to raise money for United. I can’t imagine anyone serving a board better than Bob.” At a sold-out luncheon in late 2014, the Minnesota Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals honored Bob and Polly McCrea with the prestigious Outstanding Volunteer Fundraisers award. Speaking at the event, Bob said, “It’s a pleasure to share our enthusiasm for a good cause, program, or community resource with friends and acquaintances who might find value in supporting these organizations as well. It is a role of connecting the dots.” Polly notes that Bob’s hope for United was that it would become self-sustaining, and continue to grow. She adds, “I think one of the things we loved about United was making a lot of very good friends. We always enjoyed programs and the opportunities to hear speakers. United was a very important part of our life.” United is humbly grateful for the stalwart support that Bob and Polly McCrea gave to the seminary over four decades. Blessed be the memory of Bob McCrea. * indicates those of blessed memory

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June 20, 2024
VOICES

Amoke Kubat (’17) Transforms Artistry into Activism

In 1987, Amoke Kubat (’17) moved from Los Angeles to Minneapolis. “I wanted to work with Prince,” she explains. Two years later, she began a 25-year career teaching special education in North Minneapolis with Minneapolis Public Schools. Toward the end of that life chapter, Amoke discovered art, and art connected her to United. Connecting to United Chiaki O’Brien, a SAORI weaving artist from Japan, came to United for an artist residency during a summer institute. Amoke, who had already met Chiaki and wanted to learn more about SAORI weaving, came too. “I sat and watched United faculty and students learn to weave,” Amoke recalls. “I was invited to weave.” After the event, she continues, “staff encouraged me to apply to the seminary. As a non-Christian, I was very reluctant to do so.” Rev. Craig Lemming (’17), then a student who worked in admissions, walked Amoke to her bus stop and they began to talk. “Craig and I had a really deep conversation about United, social justice and religion, and Yoruba culture,” she recounts, and she missed her bus. After Craig chased down the bus, he handed Amoke an admissions packet and more information about United. “I felt I owed him that much for his time and making sure I got home,” she reflects. The Next Chapter Amoke earned an MA in Religious Leadership and a Certificate in Black Church Leadership at United. She also made lasting connections with fellow students and faculty—including Dr. Rufus Burrow, Rev. Dr. Jann Cather Weaver, Dr. Margaree Levy (’17), and Rev. Dr. John Lee (’19)—who were “inspiring and supportive.” United “definitely holds a special place in my heart,” she asserts, and seminary was “a challenging but stellar experience!” Looking back, Amoke has especially fond memories of Rev. Dr. Wilson Yates and the arts curriculum at United. “I loved the Art Practicum that [Rev. Dr. Cindi Beth Johnson] taught during United’s Summer Institute in Spirituality and the Arts and every member of that class. I would have loved to get a certificate in Art and Spirituality!” Leaning into Truth A lifelong learner, Amoke has earned a BA, two MAs, two certificates, and is still growing in knowledge. She has also experienced the worst of humanity—from the 1965 Watts and 1992 Rodney King riots in Los Angeles, to the 2020 murder of George Floyd and world pandemic—and fought tirelessly to empower mothers and families in disadvantaged communities. It is the grounding and divine practices of making art, living with honesty, and forging relationships, that bring her some measure of solace. The recipient of multiple grants and fellowships, Amoke is the founding executive director of YO MAMA’S HOUSE, Inc., an art and healing space for mothers. She is also the author of Missing Mama: My Story of Loss, Sorrow and Healing, as well as self-referential plays such as Angry Black Woman & Well-Intentioned White Girl, and many other short stories and articles. She and her work have appeared in installations at the Weisman Art Museum, the South London Gallery, the Minnesota Museum of American Art, and the Cora McCovey Health and Wellness Center. Though she will turn 74 in August, and lives with chronic pain, Amoke focuses on what’s next. On April 29, she became the YWCA Minneapolis’ Inaugural Camille J. Gage Fellowship Awardee, she is in discussion to have another show at the Minnesota Museum of American Art, and there is more writing and publishing to come in 2025. For her countless contributions, unwavering dedication, and indomitable spirit, we feel incredibly blessed to have Amoke Kubat as a United alum.

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June 14, 2024
Academics Announcements

Meet the Sims Scholars’ Advisory Committee

Announced in mid-February, the Sims Scholars Initiative—through which up to eight theology students in the Twin Cities can earn a tuition-free Master of Arts in Leadership degree at United—has been put into motion.  At an advisory committee meeting in May, members expressed their excitement about progress made in the intervening months. Comprised of United alums, trustees, faculty, and friends who wear myriad professional hats, the committee members are committed to seeking qualified candidates and providing mentorship and advising services while the cohort attends seminary.  Rev. Stacey Smith (’16), Presiding Elder for the Fourth District of the AME Church’s Chicago Annual Conference as well as a board member for United and the Minnesota Council of Churches, asserted that the initiative provides “an amazing opportunity for students to come [to United], have immediate community, [and] experience the seminary in a way that will help them blossom and gain additional skills.” Rev. Dr. DeWayne Davis, lead minister at Plymouth Congregational Church—as well as a member of United’s board and adjunct faculty—is inspired by the widening breadth of theology being explored through the program, including Black spirituality and womanist theology. His greatest hope is that the Sims Scholars will have more expansive theological conversations and make strides in “confronting the fears we hide behind boundaries that we’ve accepted from tradition.” The “Sims Scholars” Initiative is designed to address racial inequities in society and to educate and prepare leaders who desire to constructively engage issues confronting Black spiritual communities. Through this initiative, students will form an intentional cohort for mutual support, special studies, and mentoring. “Representation matters!” emphasized Dr. William Hart, professor of religious studies at Macalester College and United’s board secretary. Dr. Hart reflected on his experience with a Black cohort during his PhD experience at Princeton University, and noted that “having a critical mass [of similarly situated colleagues] can be incredibly powerful for students who come into a predominantly white institution.” “Who better than me to join this committee?” replied Rev. Dr. Darrell Gillespie (’23) when asked why he joined the advisory committee. Rev. Dr. Gillespie is the pastor/founder of Proverbs Christian Fellowship and a dean at Hope Academy. As someone who recently earned his DMin from United, he stated that United’s curriculum will enable students who study Black spirituality to “do church holistically well,” without the “financial burden” of earning a degree. Rev. Dr. Alika Galloway, the final member of the advisory committee, is co-pastor of Liberty Community Church, and co-founder of the Northside Healing Space and 21st Century Academy within the church. Rev. Dr. Galloway headlined at United in 2015 as that year’s 24th annual Susan Draper White lecturer, and co-taught courses with Professor Emerita of Biblical Interpretation, Rev. Dr. Carolyn Pressler. New cohort members may include persons already engaged in a profession who simply desire to learn more about the richness of Black spirituality. There will also be special learning opportunities for students that speak to Black experiences in church and society and extend beyond the core curriculum. Rev. Dr. Gary F. Green, II (associate professor of pastoral theology and social transformation), who chaired the advisory committee meeting, also came through a cohort program at Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas when United President Molly T. Marshall was its president. From his perspective, a supportive cohort “makes a day-to-day difference in the reality of matriculating through a [seminary] program…at a predominately white institution [where students may be] confronted with ideas…some of which are not very comfortable initially.” This program falls under the growing umbrella of United’s systemic anti-racism work, which Rev. Dr. Green leads. A retired Cargill corporate vice president and former United trustee, Frank Sims, and his wife Robyn, are the generous donors behind the Sims Scholars initiative. “I am truly impressed and inspired,” he shared after listening to committee members’ statements. Like Rev. Dr. Green and Dr. Hart, he acknowledged that a supportive cohort of peers is key in education and needed in corporate America too. We cannot overstate, President Marshall concluded, the “magnitude of inaugurating this program and the horizons that it promises.” Learn more about the Sims Scholars’ program.

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June 12, 2024
VOICES

Isabel Nelson Finds Kinship between Social Justice, Religion, and Storytelling

A physical theater and devising artist, Isabel Nelson (’24) traces her passion for theater back to childhood. “I have always been really compelled by story and the meaning that we make and drawn to what I call ‘old story’—folk tales, fairy tales, myth, etc.” At the same time, as a UCC minister’s child and a Macalester College liberal arts graduate (’04), Isabel is deeply concerned with social justice. At United, she affirmed the kinship between justice, religion, and story, and gained a greater sense of self. Finding United Though Isabel double majored in theater and religious studies during college, she says her religious studies degree was “much more of an intellectual interest than a personal call.” Instead, she undertook a two-year intensive physical theater training program in London. Transatlantic Love Affair, the company Isabel founded in 2010, “takes the seeds of an old story, and reimagines it into something really fresh and imaginative.” The plays have no props or set pieces; stories are conveyed by the actors’ movements, some dialogue, and imagination. Back in Minnesota, working at Macalester College, Isabel was struck by how interreligious campus chaplains served the community in times of crisis. At one point during a racial reckoning, she recalls, the chaplains were able to “invite authentic dialogue, hold a space that contained multiple perspectives, and guide folks toward wrestling with the hard questions and reaching mutual understanding.” This example of faith in action inspired Isabel to reconsider the idea of seminary. On a Zoom call with a colleague, she learned about United for the first time and our Theology and the Arts Program. Three months later, she enrolled. Finding Home While at United, Isabel began to understand when her heart first felt the spiritual tug toward justice, story, and religion. She traces that feeling back to the mountains in western North Carolina where her mother worked at Eagle’s Nest Camp. “Every summer of my life, including in utero, I was surrounded by nature and music and play and physical activity. We moved around a lot when I was a child, and Eagle’s Nest felt like home.” Returning to the camp many years later with her own children, Isabel was able to see the use of ritual and the ways in which “leaders of that community...called us to live into an interconnectedness with nature and presence with a sense of the Sacred.” Isabel had come home again. Moving Forward Isabel credits United for helping her to gain a deeper sense of herself and the unique gifts she can share. Her social transformation course with Rev. Dr. Gary F. Green II, she asserts, “was the first class in which I really felt like I could start to articulate this intersection of creativity and social justice work and spirituality.” Courses like Arts Praxis and Art, Religion, and Contemporary Culture with her advisor, Dr. Jennifer Awes Freeman, have allowed Isabel the opportunity to continue to live into that vital connection. What’s next? Isabel wants to slow down for a time. “I want to gift myself as close to a fallow period as I have ever had.” In addition to her theatrical pursuits, she still works as the administrative coordinator for the Lealtad-Suzuki Center for Social Justice at Macalester College and is happy there. When the time is right, she will live into the dream of where art, social justice, and spiritual practice will take her next.

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May 21, 2024

United’s Brief Foray into Football: 1967–1968

These days, it’s hard to imagine that United would ever have fielded a football team—flag or full contact. More than 50 years ago, however, it almost made sense. As Ted Meads (’71) and former seminary student Phil Johnson (pictured at right) recall, “When school started in the fall of 1967, a gaggle of seminarians played touch football on campus most afternoons.” There were also other sporting events. It is important to remember that seminarians and faculty in the 1960s were predominantly male. United’s first woman MDiv graduate, Marilyn Creel, didn’t cross the stage until 1972, and the first female faculty member on regular appointment, Patricia Wilson Kastner, wasn’t installed until 1975. So, when Mike Groh* (’69) asked his seminary mates if they wanted to play full-contact football against the Stillwater Prison football team, he was able to assemble a team, albeit a small one. At the time, Mike and Gary Miller* (’68) were ministering at the prison and had learned that the Colts (the prison team) had an opening in their schedule.  The Motivation for Playing Fielding a football team was not a meaningless diversion for seminary students. Between seminary classes, clinical pastoral education opportunities, and internships, the men were plenty busy. Ted and Phil like to think of this exercise as part of a continuum of practical social ministry promoted by United and its faculty. As they recollect, seminarians had driven to Milwaukee to march with activist Father James Groppi in support of a strong open housing law in the city. Others had gone door-knocking on behalf of candidates who opposed the Vietnam War. Several of their classmates interned with the Inner-City Project for Youth, formed by three Minneapolis churches in 1968, and those who took Wilson Yates’ Religion and Society course visited prisons in Lino Lakes and St. Cloud. Logistics Outfitting a team with protective gear was the first challenge. Happily, Gary was able to borrow used shoulder pads and helmets from the high school at which he was working in 1967. In 1968, Dave Rumpf (’70) collected used football equipment from Augsburg College where he was interning. The title of coach went to Professor Donald White,* United’s Professor Emeritus of Constructive Theology (1965–2002), pictured at left. Dr. White enjoyed the game and liked to view it from a process theology angle. As Don explained recently, “The key element of process theology demands a focus on the concrete, the specific at all levels, including the sub-atomic. For football, you are driven to the specific, the concrete, in all of its complexity. The second key element states that God is always seeking to lead us, as well as all things in the universe, at the same instant. “The problem remains that we are seldom aware of God’s leading, which seeks to move us toward the best possible outcome along with all of the particular universal participants. This means that God does not favor any team or player. [Phil and Ted] have often claimed that the best part of the experience of playing the prison football team remains the sharing of both food and conversation with the prison players, even though the prison team had lost. Seeing how their lives were not so different from our own, and being so accepted by their team members, demonstrates how harmony (rather than violence) feels better to us.  “As to the combative part of football, that is typical of human activity. We turn God's quest for harmony into combative violence, even though we can sometimes move toward a more peaceful and harmonious relationship. Notice how we flock to see violence and are bored by harmony.” United’s student coaches were Mike and Phil, both of whom had played football collegiately—Mike at Hanover College in Indiana, where he was a co-captain of the team, and Phil at North Park College in Illinois (see photo at right). Mike and Phil also determined the positions that each team member would play on offense and defense. Because they only had 11 players, each player needed to play at least two positions. According to Phil, who played quarterback and defensive tackle, “That’s the way to have fun!” Ted, an offensive and defensive lineman, didn’t remember it quite the same way. “I was running for my life!” he asserted last year. This 1964 photo from Hanover College in Indiana shows #86, Mike Groh (’69)—a team co-captain—in the third row toward the center. This 1965 photo from Elmhurst College in Illinois (Reinhold and H. Richard Niebuhr’s alma mater) shows three of United’s football players: in the first row are #44, Rich Grobe (’72),  and #51, Gary Miller (’68); #70, Hal Schippits (’69), is the third player in the second row. Game One at Stillwater Prison The Prison Mirror, a newspaper produced by inmates at Stillwater Prison since 1887, ran this headline in its October 20, 1967 edition: “Preachers Chill Colts.” The story began, “A good team from the United Theological Seminary combined an excellent passing and running attack to defeat the Colts in the rain by a score of 20–13.” Highlights of the game included two key interceptions by Mike, a fumble recovery by Ted, and a lot of running (with judicious passing on occasion) by Phil, the quarterback. Ted remembers that when he recovered the fumble, he heard Mike yelling, “Get up and run! It’s a live ball!” By then, however, the Colts had covered him. Ted still has the number 76 jersey he wore in that first game (see photo at left). “I kept that jersey as a survival trophy,” he explains. Games Two and Three According to Phil and Ted’s research, the Colts team routed United in the second game of 1967. As they wrote, “Our understaffed team was no match for ‘Ron the Bomb’ Holmes, who ran through and past us for 263 yards.” Rumors were that Holmes had been released from solitary the day before and was very keen to get out and run. By the fall of 1968, when United played its third and final game at Stillwater prison, United’s roster had grown to 15. One of the 15 was Ken Groh, Mike’s brother, who, Ted asserts, “had never darkened the door of a seminary classroom.” Ken had, however, played football at Indiana University (see photo at right) and was a welcome addition. Highlights of that third game included United’s successful two-point conversion after their first touchdown, and a fumble recovery to keep the Colts out of the end zone. Phil took the ball in for United’s next touchdown and a second two-point conversion. Ultimately, the Colts came within one point of tying the game, and the final score was 22–21. Thank goodness for those two-point conversions! The Prison Mirror article from the game concluded with this sentiment:  “A salute to Head Coach Donald White and his fine crew that he brought in, who, along with the Colts, played an extremely clean game of football. We’d like to note also that most of the players from the United team played offense and defense, and one in particular, Steve Steiner* (’71), who played despite a broken tooth and having the wind knocked out of him; he also scored the first touchdown for United.” Breaking Bread Together After the first game at Stillwater Prison, representatives from both teams met in a small dining room for a meal. Ted remembers that “conversations were animated, much of it focused on game highlights.” The men also swapped stories about their lives and dreams for the future. During the meal and through the conversations, stereotypes on both sides began to dissolve. Phil and Ted note, “Inmates were tough guys, but they had families, thoughts, senses of humor, and feelings. For their part, seminarians were regular guys who weren’t afraid of a tough game, and were taking time to visit men in prison and share a meal.” Ultimately, the games and meals, Ted and Phil share, “were a true example of what United preached as being open and responsive to others. It was a valuable lesson.” Postscript Despite their success on the gridiron, not one of the seminary players took up football as a career. Phil finished his seminary degree at Andover Newton and held several jobs, including pastor. He also founded and edited the journal Pietisten for 24 years. Mike spent his life working in and consulting with nonprofit organizations and developing community leaders. During his career, he worked with 500 groups in North America, Eastern Europe, and the Balkans supporting food security, environmental groups, and NGOs in nations with emerging democracies. Through Mike, Ted got a job at the University of Minnesota as a chemical dependency instructor. Since finishing his MPH at the University, he has worked for a variety of healthcare companies, primarily in sales. He is currently the senior vice president for national sales at Welvie, a company that offers online learning programs to help people make more informed decisions about their care options. Vince Carroll (’71, pictured at left) was the last Protestant chaplain ordered “in-country” with the Major Marine Corps Unit, working with Force Logistics Command and supporting troops in Vietnam from Phu Bai to the DMZ. Hal Schippits (’69) served as a UCC minister in Minnesota’s National Guard and then directed Hennepin County’s Day Treatment and Dual Diagnosis programs. Gary Miller served as a military chaplain too, but spent most of his life as a UCC pastor. Stephen Steiner and Rich Grobe (’72) were also UCC pastors. Don Miller (’71)—the team’s center, long snapper, and place kicker—went on to earn a DMin from Eden Theological Seminary and spent many years in parish ministry. Closing Thoughts As Ted reflects:  “During my four years at United, there were a number of events that bound the community together and spoke to the words in Matthew 36:25. Given the uniqueness of the prison football experience, it was perhaps the most dramatic expression of ‘social gospel’ at the time, but [very much in keeping with] the ‘social gospel’ espoused by the seminary. The United football team in the late 1960s perfectly exemplified our classroom lessons and I’ll be forever grateful for my seminary experience.” Phil adds, “I definitely agree with Ted. United was intentionally a wide-open place. There was no lid on the freedom to try things.” United is delighted to be able to share a story about the remarkable 1967–1968 football program and honor the players who invested their faith and risked their limbs in the process. We owe Ted and Phil credit for drawing our attention to their story and conducting important research, and are delighted that Professor Emeritus and coach Don White was able to give us a primer on process theology and football. Thanks also to Alicia Groh, Mike’s daughter, who tracked down photos of her dad (including him on the beach at sunset) for this article. * Deceased

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April 8, 2024
Alums

Clare Gromoll: United’s 2024 Spirit of United Alum

United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities is delighted to honor Rev. Clare Gromoll (’14) as its second Spirit of United alum award recipient. Established last year, the Spirit of United award celebrates recent alums who have done “exceptional work that reflects the mission of United in the church, in faith communities, or in society.” Clare—an adventurous scholar, gifted pastor, and skilled and thoughtful consensus builder—has accomplished that and more since she earned her MDiv. “At first glance,“ notes Rev. Kimi Floyd Riesch (’19, ’24), “nominating a person who has centered their work in parish ministry might seem strange, but that is only if you do not know the full scope of what Clare does in her life.” Currently, Clare serves as the pastor at St. Croix United Church in Bayport, Minnesota—a congregation recently formed from the merger of two local churches. Several years ago, St. Peter’s UCC in Stillwater entered a phase of contemplating a possible closure. Church participation was declining, and an interim legacy pastor decided to reach out to local churches to discuss options. Clare, then pastor of People’s Congregational Church in Bayport, agreed to invite the people of People's to explore the possibility of a merger. During this difficult time of growth, grieving, and transition, Clare joined the first cohort for United’s Leadership Center for Social Justice continuing education program in 2022. Reflecting on that experience, Clare asserts, “My experience with LCSJ helped my roots sink into my way of leadership. I drew upon community organizing principles and strategies so I could equip our Pastoral Relations Committee to engage in one-on-one conversations with church members on the periphery.” Announced by the Minnesota Conference of the United Church of Christ on November 1, 2023, the newly created St. Croix United Church is dually affiliated with the UCC and the NACCC (National Association of Congregational Christian Churches). In 2024, the new congregation is doing the creative work of strategic visioning. They are excited to discern who and how they want to be as a progressive Christian church in the St. Croix Valley. As members of the two predecessor churches became the 103 charter members of the new church, Clare encouraged them: “Let’s live into this reality together and trust that we will love again. When people feel commitment, they can be more brave and flexible than they imagined, building on the hopeful energy within their sense of commitment. I think that’s what is going to happen here.” This year, as in the past several, St. Croix United Church joined with other area congregations to worship together on Palm Sunday. “I give thanks,” Clare recently shared, “for how the deeply collegial energy of our St. Croix Valley Ministerial Association strengthens me for my work as pastor within St. Croix United Church.” Later this spring, Clare will conclude another professional training program, “Leadership in the Valley,” offered by the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce. Alongside 27 other community leaders, she participated in monthly learning days about aspects of the local area—from environment and agriculture; to business and economic development; to diversity, equity, and inclusion; to community and the arts. On behalf of the church, Clare is also a member of the Stillwater Noon Rotary Club. It is a long-standing connection. “I am forever grateful,” she explains, “for my year as a Rotary Youth Exchange student in the Dominican Republic in 2000, where I became bilingual and bi-literate.” She adds, “I think deep mutual appreciation lies at the heart of my approach to ministry…United has played a significant role in nurturing my approach to ministry.” On a personal and professional level, another trait that sets Clare apart is her unfailing optimism and nurturing for others. As Kimi explains, “She has modeled how to live without fear for both of her sons, one with Lowe Syndrome and one without, and she continues to show how becoming a minister is not about a title, but about transformation.”

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April 8, 2024
Alums

Sue Swanson: United’s 2024 Distinguished Alum

Sue Swanson, who earned her MDiv in 2005, has been selected as United’s 2024 Distinguished Alum. A highly skilled artist, teacher, and retreat leader, Sue has been serving communities through her arts ministry, Purple Apple Arts, since 2000. Classes, workshops, and retreats offer gateways to healing, wholeness, and meditation through art—beadwork, collage, knitting, labyrinth, Zentangle-style meditative drawing, journal-making, clay work, painting, drawing, music, and ritual. She calls her integrative ministry work Prayercraft.   According to nominator Kathy Deacon-Weber (’97), “Sue lives with intention.” She grounds her ministry with daily journaling and art practice, takes one art class every month, and offers up to four classes each month in art centers, churches, stores, conferences, schools, and with private groups. Sue also maintains memberships and certifications to deepen her understanding of spirit and context. She belongs to the Labyrinth Society and Minnesota Labyrinth Network and is an Advanced Certified Veriditas Facilitator, trained by Lauren Artress at Grace Cathedral. To enhance her appreciation, Sue made a pilgrimage to the early thirteenth-century labyrinth in Chartres Cathedral (France). Using her expertise, Sue has created hand labyrinths, canvas labyrinths, and outdoor labyrinths at churches, art centers, and even her backyard. Sue’s award-winning beadwork has appeared in several publications, and she involves herself with many group beadwork projects. Her beading classes include a history of how beads have been used as a meditation tool as well as for art and adornment. During the classes, participants can make meditation bracelets, gratitude beads, peace beads, house blessing beads, and spiritual journey necklaces. “I believe the thing that stands out with Sue’s arts ministry,” Kathy asserts, “is that she is responsible for the groundwork that formed it. She has researched and developed her classes and retreats on her own. She teaches traditional practices and crafts in a way that appeals to modern audiences. Her ministry is not grounded in one place or community.” One might posit that Sue’s gift for spiritual leadership emerged at the 1993 Reimagining Conference. Held in Minneapolis November 4–7, the event drew more than 2,200 participants—many feminist theologians, and mostly women. The conference invited participants to re-imagine the traditional male-centered language of Christianity and to broaden their understanding of God and what that might mean for the church. Sue attended the conference, and in the ensuing backlash, helped establish the Re-Imagining Community. She was a member of the ritual committee for the 1994 conference and worked to organize Re-Imagining groups throughout the country in 1995. In addition to committee work, Sue gave several faith labs or classes in local churches. She contributed writing and musical composition skills; she wrote for a Re-Imaging Community quarterly report and composed music for the conferences. For the 1996 conference, Sue and Nancy Berneking co-wrote “You Call Us,” a song published in Bring the Feast, Songs from the Re-Imagining Community (1998). In 2003, Sue edited the Re-Imagining ritual book, Bless Sophia: Worship, Liturgy, and Ritual of the Re-Imagining Community. Dr. Sherry Jordon, St. Thomas University’s Emerita Professor of Theology, who has been a part of Sue Swanson’s Re-Imagining Community for more than 30 years, notes, “Through her service to the Re-Imagining Community, her teaching, and her art, Sue has made great contributions to a variety of communities, both religious and secular.” She adds, “In her life and work, Sue exemplifies United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities’ commitment to theological exploration and artistic expression.” Join us in celebrating and congratulating Sue Swanson as this year’s Distinguished Alum!  

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