Alumni News
Governor Whitmer Appoints Dr. Herman Griffin IV (’25) to the 36th District Court in the City of Detroit
The following is an excerpt of an article from the Executive Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer, published on August 27, 2025. Click here to read the full article.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced the appointments of Dr. Herman Griffin IV ('25), Poncé Clay, and Chastity Youngblood, to the 36th District Court in the City of Detroit, Michigan.
“Today, I am proud to appoint Chastity, Poncé, and Herman to the bench,” said Governor Whitmer. “These skilled legal professionals bring years of experience to their new roles, where I am confident they will serve the people of Michigan admirably and uphold the rule of law.”
“I am humbled to be appointed to the bench and ready to serve Detroit,” said Dr. Griffin.
This appointment will be made to fill a partial term, expiring January 1, 2027, following the passing of Judge Donna Robinson Millhouse.
Senior Pastor, Full Time, University Baptist Church: Beavercreek, OH
University Baptist Church is a church that is on the move. We desire someone who is a
community builder and compassionate guide, possessing a deep understanding of scripture and the ability to convey its teachings through engaging sermons. Experience in the pulpit and a visionary outlook for growth are essential, coupled with a commitment to social justice and equity. UBC seeks a senior pastor who embodies a blend of inspiring leadership and deep faith. With a strong pastoral presence, they should be empathetic and caring, capable of guiding and supporting the community through tact and wisdom. Strong administrative abilities and collaborative organizational skills are desired to guide our church staff and congregation.
The senior pastor should be open-minded and innovative, fostering an environment of inclusivity and acceptance and valuing the diverse gifts within our congregation. They should be someone who appreciates our church’s musical and creative gifts in praise and worship.
UBC values a pastor who has integrity, is genuine in their faith and interactions, and who reverences God and loves all people deeply. They should be energetic and capable of motivating and inspiring the community. Open to learning and growth, the senior pastor should listen actively and connect with people from all walks of life.
A deep prayer life and a connection with the Holy Spirit are crucial, as is the ability to shepherd the flock with love and humility. Our congregation hopes for a senior pastor who will lead with vision, guide with wisdom, and love with an open heart, ensuring that all members feel included, valued, and inspired on their spiritual journey.
About University Baptist Church
God has blessed us with members from 30 nations and people of all races. We are a multi-racial, multi-ethnic, multi-theological congregation where people worship together, serve the same Lord, walk in love for one another, celebrate the same salvation in Jesus Christ, and embrace the same hope for the coming of the reign of God.
As a Baptist church, we associate with others locally and nationally to do more collectively than we are able to do on our own. We support mission and ministry in the Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Area through partnership with the District of Columbia Baptist Convention, and national and international mission and ministry through partnership with American Baptist Churches, USA, and the Alliance of Baptists. We are a founding member of Congregations United for Compassion and Empowerment, a non-profit addressing homelessness and economic need in Prince George’s County, Maryland.
We are currently in the process of an exciting opportunity to build a new building on our land with the proceeds from the sale of part of our land. The development of the Purple Line light rail will bring new opportunities and growth for our church.
We are called to continue to worship together, serve together, pray together, and work together until this world more closely represents the community envisioned by Jesus Christ and promised by God.
See our website to learn more about our church: https://www.weareubc.org/
Senior Pastor Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities
• Preach in the regular services except during approved absences. Lead in communion on first Sundays.
• In concert with church leaders, develop and maintain an innovative vision and strategic mission for the church.
• Teach at least one Bible Study.
• Lead and administer church staff and establish the management style in which staff work is accomplished.
• Lead Church Council and consult with various church committee chairs.
• Plan Worship alongside the Minister of Music and Education.
• Work with the Administrative Assistant to develop a weekly prayer list, congregational email, church calendar of events, and other church communications.
• Work with the Communication Director to optimize social media and technology use to connect with church members and the wider community.
• Coordinate with Deacons on pastoral care including visiting homebound and hospitalized members.
Other Responsibilities
• Oversee church budgeting and stewardship emphases.
• Consult with the Benevolent Committee to handle benevolent responses.
• Brief counseling of members upon request.
• Perform and prepare members for baby dedications, baptisms, weddings, and funerals.
• Maintain relationships with other local church, collegiate, and community leaders to
maximize community ministry.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Master of Divinity degree, or equivalent, or higher. At least 3 years of pastoral experience. Must be an ordained minister. Preference for candidates in the Baptist tradition or experience in, or at least familiarity with, American Baptist Churches and Alliance of Baptists is also preferred.
Compensation
UBC offers annual compensation packages consisting of a base salary, allowances for housing, auto, utilities, and continuing education totaling at least $100,000. The senior pastor will also receive a retirement annuity (16% of salary, housing, and utilities) and health insurance allowance/reimbursement. The senior pastor compensation package is open for negotiation.
Equal Opportunity Policy
UBC is committed to a workplace free of discrimination and seeks to provide an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
To Apply
Qualified individuals interested in the Senior Pastor position may apply online at weareubc.org. Upload your cover letter and resume and include a link to a sermon (if available) specific to this job description. Or email the same to Raymond Williams, Chair, University Baptist Church Pastoral Search Committee at pastoralsearch@ubccp.org.
Closing Date
This job posting will close on October 18, 2025.
Interim Pastor, Full Time, Windham Presbyterian Church: Windham, New Hampshire
Windham Presbyterian Church is seeking to hire a full-time Interim Pastor for a period of 9 to12 months, renewable as needed, or a 3-month bridge" pastor, as we search for our new installed pastor.
WPC is located in the town center of Windham, New Hampshire, a community of 17,000 people. The population is largely professional; many work in the Boston area, 45 minutes south. Our church, founded in 1742, has a history steeped in faith and a rich blend of traditional and contemporary worship. Attendance on Sundays averages 80 people in-person and 20 online. Our membership is currently 142 and includes many people from the surrounding towns.
We are a Biblically grounded Presbyterian church, providing a community of worship for all who wish to embrace a faith-centered life in the Christian tradition. We work to provide a welcoming and nurturing environment for families and individuals of all ages. We offer worship, service opportunities, youth programs, children’s ministry, and educational opportunities to bring us closer to God and to deepen our understanding of who God is and who He is calling us to be. We provide financial and in-person support to a diversity of local and global missions. Local programs such as Isaiah 58, Family Promise, the Shepherd’s Pantry, and GriefShare help us to be the hands and feet of Christ.
We try to live into our vision statement: “Growing in faith, showing God’s grace.”
For more information about WPC, find our website at windhamchurch.org.
For more information about this position, please contact the Chair of the search committee, Marjorie, at TIPSWPC2025@gmail.com.
The focus of this position is to:
• facilitate our living into our mission and vision during this crucial transition.
• provide for worship experiences and the practice of ministry with the Church and the community.
• support ongoing initiatives in our active church life.
• further the loving character of our congregation.
• officiate at baptisms, weddings and funerals, as requested.
• guide our congregation through the developmental tasks of the interim period.
o Reflect on our history
o Clarify our identity
o Accept shifts in leadership and structure
o Rethink wider church linkages
o Commit to new leadership and a bright future
• engage in self-study and goal-setting by reviewing the past and planning for the future in such a way as to strengthen and enhance the mission and unity of the Church.
• help the Church prepare to duly call an installed pastor.
Additional responsibilities include:
• coordinating with the choir director and praise team leader to prepare for Sunday morning worship.
• coordinating with the administrative assistant to manage church communications.
• supervising and mentoring the NextGen Director.
• providing intentional pastoral care and visiting the sick, as requested.
• being a resource for all boards and committees.
• taking an active role in conducting annual reviews.
Compensation includes:
• base annual salary and housing allowance: $77,000.
• study leave: two weeks per year, including Sundays; (one week for each 6 months of service).
• paid vacation leave: The session allows and encourages the Pastor to take vacation, one week including Sunday, for each three months of service.
For more information about WPC, find our website at windhamchurch.org.
For more information about this position, please contact the Chair of the search committee, Marjorie, at TIPSWPC2025@gmail.com.
Additional Information
Website: windhamchurch.org
Chief Innovator and Guiding Light, Full Time, Dunstable Evangelical Congregational Church: Dunstable, MA
Wanted: Chief Innovator and Guiding Light
You can’t keep a good church down! A small, but mighty church northwest of Boston is looking for the right person to lead us to a reimagined and effective future.
Dynamic ministries around the country are forging new strategies to reach the unchurched, energize believers, and make an impact in the world; we want to join them with guidance.
Are you this person?
The ideal candidate will:
-Develop and support a vision to share the good news of Jesus with those who have not yet heard it
-Lead the congregation in fostering a relationship with, and addressing the needs of, the community both locally and globally
-Develop biblically based sermons and worship experiences that are relevant across generations, cultures and Christian backgrounds
-Equip and motivate the congregation to disciple both fellow congregants and others
-Provide pastoral care of congregants and the wider community based on need
-Guide growth with courage and grace, as the church moves toward renewed vitality
Who are we?
The Dunstable Evangelical Congregational Church is an egalitarian, non-Reformed congregation located in a quaint historic town in northeastern MA, bordered by other small towns and the small city of Nashua, NH.
Ready to apply? Please read our belief statements at www.dunstablechurch.org to confirm that you are in agreement with our positions. Familiarity with New England or the Northeast region of the United States is preferred.
How to apply:
Please send a resume, a statement of faith describing your beliefs (theology and position on key issues) and your call to ministry to the email address below.
Contact Information:
DECC Pastoral Search Committee
decc_psc@dunstablechurch.org
More Information
Dunstable Evangelical Congregational Church
518 Main St
Dunstable, MA 01827
Website: www.dunstablechurch.org
Intergenerational Pastor, Part-Time, HopeGateWay: Portland, ME
The Congregation:
HopeGateWay is a denominationally independent community of faith with long and deep Methodist roots in Portland, Maine. Today we are old and young, lifelong Mainers and new immigrants, gay and straight, and differently abled. We are “cradle Christians” and newly exploring faith — full of questions, often skeptical, striving to be authentic. We are rethinking what it means to follow Christ — or considering this question for the first time.
Together, in all our great diversity, filled with hope, we are striving to do justice, and love kindness, and walk humbly with God.
Our Vision: We envision a world that embraces community, celebrates inclusivity, expresses creativity, seeks
transformation, and practices simplicity.
Our Mission: Inspired by the words of Micah 6:8, our mission is to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly
with God.
Statement of Purpose:
The Intergenerational Pastor works closely with the Lead Pastor and the Administrator to deepen and enrich a
diverse, intergenerational beloved community where all are valued, welcomed, and enabled to use their gifts as
well as find ways to connect and stay spiritually grounded even through challenging times.
The ideal candidate will be seeking the opportunity to grow personally, professionally, and spiritually, not only
serving in the church but also contributing one’s personal gifts to the collective task of discerning and embracing
HopeGateWay’s future.
Responsibilities:
The Intergenerational Pastor will:
• Collaborate with Lead Pastor and others in developing and implementing programming that aligns with the vision, mission, core values, and programmatic priorities of HopeGateWay with a particular focus on
nurturing intergenerational community
• Contribute as an important member of a small staff team, serving as a resource and collaborator at all
levels of the congregation
• Coordinate a team of volunteers and offer leadership for monthly HopeGateWay Kids Sunday morning
programming as well as opportunities for parents to connect during that window and beyond
• Collaborate on weekly worship design
• Co-lead Sunday morning worship and serve on a preaching rotation with Lead Pastor and lay leaders
• Co-manage the Community Outreach Fund and respond to requests in consultation with Lead Pastor and
Administrator
• Coordinate Sunday morning hospitality teams
• Help to nurture positive relationships within the HopeGateWay community, with partners, and with the
broader community
• Attend Leadership Team meetings, assist with mission-centered planning, and help to nurture a culture of
creativity, courage, and compassion
• Respond to pastoral care needs in coordination with the Lead Pastor
• Manage building use on assigned days
• Write occasionally for social media, newsletter, and other congregational communications
Note: The duties and responsibilities described here do not represent a comprehensive list. Additional tasks may be
required from time to time.
Desired Qualifications
• Personal faith commitments in alignment with progressive Christian values and theological perspectives
• Strong resonance with the mission, vision, and core values of HopeGateWay
• The ability to design worship and source or create liturgy that is creative, hopeful, and theologically rich
• Evidence of training and experience in efforts to examine and eradicate forms of systemic oppression in self, congregation, community, and world. These oppressive systems include but are not limited to:
white supremacy, religious bias, socioeconomic inequity, sexism, anti-LGBTQ bias, and ableism.
• Effectiveness in caring for people’s material, emotional, and spiritual needs through a variety of life
stages.
• Highly effective verbal and written communication skills
• Able to use one’s voice at the table while being attuned to and sensitive to the voices and views of
others
• A desire to be part of a vibrant, growing congregation, serving on an engaged and committed team
• Technical competencies: Google & Microsoft suites; Canva
Desired Characteristics
• Collaborative spirit and intent
• Actively pursuing personal, professional, and spiritual growth
• Well-developed administrative, organizational, and leadership skills
• Attention to detail
• A self-starter, able to take initiative, working independently yet collaboratively
• Ability to establish and uphold personal boundaries in the context of congregational ministry
• Flexibility, adaptability, and ongoing practice of self-reflection
• Ability to strategize, plan, and delegate effectively
Desirable Experience:
• Graduate level theological education at an accredited institution
• Pastoral experience with children, families, and elders
• Preaching experience
• Volunteer coordination experience
Salary & Benefits:
This is a part-time, exempt position, anticipating 15-20 hours per week, offering the following compensation:
• Salary: $25,000 – $30,000, commensurate with experience
• Three (3) weeks personal paid time off annually plus a sabbatical option
• 12 paid holidays
• Opportunities for professional development
• Access to a professional expenses account
• At least two regular days off per week with flexible schedule
• One Sunday off each summer month (June, July, & August) when
HopeGateWay gathers in alternative ways
Collaboration & Accountability: The Intergenerational Pastor works collaboratively with and under the supervision of the Lead Pastor, in close collaboration with the Administrator and the Leadership Team.
Work Space: The position will be oriented toward the church facility located on Woodford Street in Portland, Maine, with flexibility for a hybrid office / at-home work balance.
Start date: October 1 or as soon as a qualified candidate is found.
To Apply: Please send a thoughtful cover letter and resumé to both Pastor Sara Ewing-Merrill at
sara@hopegateway.com and the church office at hello@hopegateway.com.
BUSTH announces Distinguished Alumni for 2025
The Boston University School of Theology (BUSTH) is pleased to announce this year’s Distinguished Alumni for 2025. A list of previous winners can be found on the BUSTH website.
“Exuding light in a troubled world, these amazing alumni are preeminently distinguished by their bridge-building work—bridging cultures of east and west or north and south, bridging across the disciplines of social work, ecological justice, and divinity, and building bridges of mutual respect, dialogue, and justice advocacy,” says G. Sujin Pak, dean. “They exquisitely embody the convergent thinking needed in our world today clearly evident in their impact at the intersections of health, worship, sustainability, ecumenism, and higher learning.”
A celebration of these alums and their achievements will be part of our annual Community Day, scheduled for Wednesday, September 24, 2025. Please register for our Community Day by responding on this page.
2025 School of Theology Distinguished Alumni
Reverend Dr. Casely B. Essamuah, ('03)
Reverend Philomena Hare, ('11)
Reverend Dr. Sung-Deuk Oak, ('02)
In the category of Emerging Leader:
Reverend Mariama M. White-Hammond ('17)
2025 Distinguished Alumni Biographies
Rev. Dr. Casely Baiden Essamuah (ThD’03) is the Secretary of the Global Christian Forum (GCF), where he provides leadership to a worldwide platform that nurtures Christian unity by fostering mutual respect and understanding as well as by addressing common challenges. Through the GCF, he facilitates dialogue and faith-sharing among key Christian bodies, including the World Council of Churches, the World Evangelical Alliance, the Pentecostal World Fellowship, and the Roman Catholic Church.
Born in Ghana and ordained in the Methodist Church Ghana, Dr. Essamuah has studied and worked in Africa, Europe, and North America. He is a missiologist and practical theologian with more than two decades of experience facilitating global missions. A reflective practitioner of his faith, he is a bi-cultural bridge-builder, straddling the spheres of the global South and North, while working in missions, ecumenism, the church, and the academy.
Dr. Essamuah holds a B.A. from the University of Ghana, an MDiv from Harvard Divinity School, and a ThD from Boston University School of Theology.
He is married to Dr. Angela Wakhweya-Essamuah, and they are blessed with three children.
Reverend Philomena Hare (MDiv’11) serves as pastor of the First Congregational Church of Wareham, United Church of Christ, a historic congregation founded in 1739 with a legacy of serving and loving the community. She is deeply engaged in prophetic and progressive ministry, drawing on the Black preaching tradition to connect scripture with everyday life in ways that inspire hope and action.
With a background in social work and divinity, Philomena brings a unique blend of pastoral care and community leadership. She chairs the board of the Cape Cod Council of Churches, is active in the Rotary Club of Bourne-Sandwich, the Junior League of Boston, and has secured funding for programs addressing food insecurity and social connection.
Her ministry extends globally through her work in El Salvador, where she has participated in eye health campaigns, clean water initiatives, and eco-stove building projects that improve health and sustainability.
Philomena is passionate about creating spaces of belonging and fostering collaboration across diverse communities. She has emphasized innovative approaches to worship and outreach, such as dinner church and partnerships between congregations and community organizations.
Her preaching and leadership are shaped by experiences including walking the Civil Rights Trail in Birmingham, Montgomery, and Selma, Alabama, and participating in In the Footsteps of St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi with the Shalem Institute. Whether in the pulpit or the community, she equips individuals and congregations to live out their faith as a public witness of God's grace, peace, and hospitality.
Reverend Dr. Sung-Deuk Oak's (ThD’02) extensive academic journey includes degrees from Seoul National University, Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and Princeton Theological Seminary, culminating in his graduation from Boston University School of Theology in January 2002. Since 2011, he has held the Dongsoon Im and Mija Im Endowed Chair of Korean Christianity at UCLA’s Department of Asian Languages and Cultures.
His research, initiated in 1984, focuses on the historical indigenization of Christianity in Korea and its global connections. His significant contributions to the field are reflected in his numerous publications. Key works include The Making of Korean Christianity: Encounters of Protestantism with Korean Religions, 1876-1915 (2013), and multi-volume edited collections such as the Horace G. Underwood Papers (5 volumes, 2005-10) and Samuel A. Moffett Papers (4 volumes, 2017). He has also authored A New History of Early Korean Protestantism (2016), The History of the Korean Bible Society, 1876-2002 (3 volumes, 1994, 1995, 2020), and The First Events of the Early Korean Protestant Churches (2025). Forthcoming works include History of Modern Nursing in Korea, 1885-1945 and Seoul Christianity and Pyongyang Christianity, 1876-1946.
Emerging Leader
Rev. Mariama White-Hammond (MDiv’17) is an advocate for ecological & social justice, youth engagement, and Spirit-filled organizing. She is the founding pastor of New Roots AME Church in Dorchester. New Roots is a multi-racial, multi-class community that is innovating new ways of being a church. Rev. Mariama is active in secular and interfaith justice efforts. In particular, she uses an intersectional lens in her ecological work, challenging folks to see the connections between immigration and climate change or the relationship between energy policy and economic justice.
From April 2021 - April 2024, Rev. Mariama served as the Chief of Environment, Energy, and Open Space for the City of Boston. In this role, she was responsible for enhancing environmental justice and quality of life in Boston by protecting air, water, climate, food and land resources, as well as preserving and improving the integrity of Boston's architectural and historic resources. She continues to serve as the Pastor of New Roots and is currently working on a book about scuba diving titled - Divine Diving: Sacred Lessons from Under the Sea.
BUSTH announces Faculty Publications and Presentations for September 2025
The School of Theology is pleased to announce the following faculty publications and scholarly presentations for September 2025:
- Alejandro Botta
- Book review: Reinhard Gregor Kratz, Bernd U. Schipper (Eds), Elephantine in Context: Studies on the History, Religion and Literature of the Judeans in Persian Period Egypt. Mohr Siebeck (2022). Review of Biblical Literature, Published 2025-08-22.
- Christopher Brown
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“Text, for the Record: The Most Notable Deeds of the Reverend Father Dr. Martin Luther, Briefly Listed, as in a Chronological Table (1555),” translated and edited by Christopher Boyd Brown & Samuel J. Dubbelman, Lutheran Quarterly 39.2 (Summer 2025):125-161.
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Martin Luther, Disputations I, edited by Christopher Boyd Brown, Luther’s Works: American Edition, vol. 72 (St. Louis: Concordia, 2025).
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- Eunil David Cho
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“Breaking the Asian American Silence at a Time Like This: Lessons from Esther 4,” Theology Today (co-authored with Hyun Woo Kim), published online first. https://doi.org/10.1177/00405736251358473
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“Is Eco-Anxiety Racial Anxiety?: Harnessing Eco-Anxiety for Practicing Racial and Climate Justice," International Academy of Practical Theology Conference Series 3 (2025): 31-37. https://doi.org/10.25785/iapt.cs.v4i1.1383
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Interview: "Episcopal Dioceses to Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month." Episcopal News Service.
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- Rebecca Copeland
- Presentation: The Ecological Freedom of A Christian” Panelist, Liberation Theology Unit, American Academy of Religion Online Meeting, June 26, 2025.
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Presentation: “The Nicene Creed and the 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea.” Invited Talk, First United Methodist Church, Morristown, TN, July 27, 2025.
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Book review: David Grumett, The Bible and Farm Animal Welfare, Scottish Journal of Theology.
- Daryl Ireland, et al
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Daryl R. Ireland and Francisca F. Ireland-Verwoerd, New Wineskins: Forming and Reforming the American Society of Missiology, 1973-2023 (Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock, 2025).
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- James McCarty, et al
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Barringer, Justin Bronson, Sarah F. Farmer, and James W. McCarty, eds. The Business of Incarceration: Theological and Ethical Reflections on the Prison-Industrial Complex. Cascade: 2025.
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McCants-Turner, Johonna and James W. McCarty. “Prison-Industrial Complex Abolition and Transformative Justice: A Primer for Christians,” in The Business of Incarceration,” 202-221.
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- Luis Menéndez-Antuña
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Panelist: Special Topics Forum. Status of LGBTQ+ Persons in the Profession. American Academy of Religion (June 2025).
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- Steven Sandage, et al
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Jankowski, P.J., Sandage, S.J., Davis, D.E., Stein, L.B., & Choe, E.J. (2025). Validating self-other differentiation in a psychodynamic psychotherapy context: Virtues, emotion regulation, and flourishing. Journal of Clinical Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.70012
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Hydinger, K.R., Stein, L.B., Wu, X., Sandage, S.J., & Crabtree, S.A. (2025). Seminary student perspectives on their formation strengths and vulnerabilities: A mixed method qualitative study. Pastoral Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11089-025-01242-2
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Palitsky, R., Captari, L. E., Maples-Keller, J. L., Peacock, C., Rupert, D., Kaplan, D. M., Stavros, G., Grant, G. H., & Sandage, S. J. (2025). Applying relational spirituality to develop spiritual and religious competencies in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training. Psychotherapy. Advance online publication. https://dx.doi.org/10.1037/pst0000594
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Crabtree, S. A., Captari, L. E., Guterres, K. M., Choe, E. J. Y., & Sandage, S. J. (2025). Therapists’ functioning and secondary traumatic stress emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed methods study. Traumatology. Advance online publication. https://dx.doi.org/10.1037/trm0000576
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Kim, S., Wang, D. C., Gin, D. H. C., Deasy, J. A., & Sandage, S. (2025). Contrasting Experiences: Gender Disparities in Spirituality, Character Strengths, Mental Health, and Social Justice among Next-Generation Religious Leaders. Review of Religious Research, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/0034673X251336459
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Jankowski, P.J., Sandage, S.J., Hill, P.C., Chan, A., Choe, E.J., & Wang, D.C. (2025). Discriminating the dimensions of humility: A construct validation study of intellectual and general humility. Current Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-025-08271-3
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- Andrew Shenton
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“The God of small things: celebrating Arvo Pärt at 90,” in The Guardian, Arts Section, July 31, 2025.
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“Arvo Pärt” and “Tintinnabuli,” in Enciclopedia della musica contemporanea (Sandro Cappelletto, editor), Treccani S.p.A., Italy, 2025.
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“Bach’s St. John Passion,” Program Note for BU Ensembles concert, March 2025.
- Presentation: “Creativity and the ‘Derivative’ Classical Covers of Arvo Pärt’s Für Alina,” presented (remotely) at the 18th International Conference on MusicPerception and Cognition, São Paulo, Brazil, July 2025.
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Presentation: “Understanding Messiaen’s Méditations sur le mystère de la Sainté Trinité,” presented at the international “Messiaen as Performer” symposium, Gothenburg, Sweden, June 2025.
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Presentation: “Faith and Fame: The Representation of Christian Contemporary Music at the Grammys®,” read at The Society for Christian Scholarship in Music annual conference, Nashville, TN, March 2025.
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Presentation: “Arvo Pärt: Tintinnabulation and Transcendence,” read at the Center for the Study of World Religions, Harvard University, February 2025.
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Presentation: “Grammy Gold: Celebrating Musical Innovation and influence,” St. Botolph Club, Boston, MA, January 2025.
- Performance: Derek Holman, Revelations of Julian of Norwich (World Premiere Recordings), Anne Harley, soprano, Andrew Shenton, organ (Voices of the Pearl, Volume 5, VoTP005, 2025).
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- emilie m. townes
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Award: William Rainey Harper Award awarded by The Religious Education Association on July 8th 2025.
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- Karen Westerfield Tucker
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“Reading the Bible in Christian Liturgy.” Bible Odyssey. 2025. Publication of the Society of Biblical Literature and related partners.
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The Rev. Dr. Robert Edgar Sherman (’83)
The Rev. Dr. Robert Edgar Sherman, age 94, of Monroeville, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 18, 2025. Bob was born May 3, 1931 in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Edgar and Jane (Henderson) Sherman. After his mother's death in 1937, he was raised by his father and step-mother, Eva (Pike) Sherman.
Bob was a 32nd degree Mason for over 50 years, and an officer for various Kiwanis Clubs. He enjoyed traveling, and was in over 100 countries and all 50 states.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Monroeville United Methodist Church designating it to Bob's favorite charity: UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief).
Arrangements entrusted to the Jobe Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. (MONROEVILLE/PLUM CREEK CHAPEL) www.jobefuneralhome.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rev. Dr. Robert Edgar Sherman, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
PAUMC Director of Music Application, Part Time, Park Avenue United Methodist Church: New York City, NY
JOB DESCRIPTION AND FUNCTIONS OF THE DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
The Director of Music (MD) will work with the Pastor(s), choir members, and church staff to provide and enable the highest possible standard in worship music. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, adaptable, and creative with a passion for excellence and a willingness to continue the music program.
The MD will report directly to the Senior Minister who will assist with general planning and leadership of the music ministry. In the absence of the Senior Minister, the Staff Parish Relations Committee will assume this responsibility. An annual evaluation will be provided by the Senior Minister and subject to review by the Staff Parish Relations Committee.
STATUS:
The MD is a part-time position, up to 20 hours per week.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The MD will supervise all professional and lay singers and musicians for Sunday service and will select appropriate organ and choral music in conjunction with the Senior Minister. He/she will also have oversight over the children’s choir and any other choirs that might emerge.
Additionally, the MD will provide organ/piano and choral music for the following “special” services throughout the year:
Animal Blessing - typically October Christmas Eve – Handel’s ‘Messiah’
Ash Wednesday
Maundy Thursday Good Friday Easter
Midweek Lenten services
The MD will be responsible for the leadership of the following:
● Rehearsal for Sunday services at an agreeable time.
● Be responsible for scheduling the tuning, preventative and/or corrective maintenance of all musical instruments.
● Be responsible for the purchase of all music and music supplies, and the hiring of instrumental and vocal soloists. Expenditures in this area shall not exceed the amount provided in the church budget for the current fiscal year.
● Own the copyright and/or the rights granted by copyright holder to any work composed, created, arranged, or otherwise modified by the MD, regardless of whether the composition, creation, arrangement, or modification was done during the term of this contract and/or at the direction of the Church.
● Supervise maintenance, storage, and cleaning of choir robes.
● Be responsible for submitting all payrolls, receipts, and unpaid invoices to the Finance Director in a timely manner as requested.
● Meet on a regular basis with the Senior Minister and other church staff and committees as may be necessary. Make reports on the condition and needs for the choir, maintenance of the Church’s musical instruments, and any other related needs.
● The MD will have access to the sanctuary, choir room, and copier during regular office hours as well as other times during the week as needed.
MINIMAL REQUIREMENTS:
The MD is expected to show superior competence as an pianist/organist and choirmaster. The ideal candidate will have competency in traditional and modern Church music as well as classical and diverse musical styles (including World Music), seasons of the Christian year and be able to connect the music with the Scriptural texts for the day/season. He/she must be amenable to taking additional training at the direction of the Senior Minister and/or Staff Parish Relations Committee. A minimum of 3+ years of experience as a church musician is recommended.
COMPENSATION:
The Director of Music position is a part-time, salaried position, up to 20 hours per week. Salary range is $25,000-$30,000 annually.
The MD is to contact the Senior Minister immediately if he/she is sick and unable to work at a time when expected. The earliest notification possible is expected. The MD is responsible for finding a replacement for all missed services; the exception being if he/she is too ill to contract a replacement.
WEDDINGS AND FUNERALS:
The MD will provide music at all weddings requiring organ music held within the Church’s premises. The fee for this service will be paid by the wedding couple and agreed upon ahead of time. If the MD is not available, he/she will assist in hiring a substitute musician. Any party wishing to bring in an organist other than the MD must request approval from the MD, and if this request is approved, the MD will receive their customary fee in full as if they were playing the service.
The MD will provide music for funeral services held within the Church premises if available at the time of the funeral. Additional compensation will be paid for this service provided by the bereaving family. If the MD is not available, he/she will assist in hiring a substitute musician. It shall be the obligation of the Church to secure said fee.
ORGAN:
In 1971 Park Avenue had the Schantz Organ Company build a new organ for the church. The result became our current organ, model Opus 1022 (1971). Featuring electro-pneumatic key, stop and combination action the Opus 1022 has three manuals, 45 stops, 41 ranks and 2,392 pipes.
More information about the Schantz Organ at PAUMC can be found at: http://paumcnyc.org/a-history-of-our-organ/
HOW TO APPLY:
Please submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, contact information for three (3) professional references and 3-5 links to audio/video samples of the applicant’s playing and choral conducting to office@paumcnyc.org with the subject header PAUMC Director of Music Application
Due to the large number of applicants only those asked to interview will be contacted regarding their status.
ALL CHURCH EMPLOYEES WILL BE SAFE GATHERINGS CERTIFIED AND SUBJECT TO A BACKGROUND CHECK PRIOR TO EMPLOYMENT.
ALL CHURCH EMPLOYEES WILL READ, SIGN AND ABIDE BY THE PARK AVENUE SEXUAL ETHICS, SAFE SANCTUARIES AND ETHICS POLICIES AND AGREE TO ATTEND SEXUAL ETHICS AND BOUNDARIES TRAINING ON AN ANNUAL BASIS.
Dr. Marylu J. Fowler (’58)
The following obituary was originally Published by Heritage Funeral Home and Cremation Services on August 19, 2025, and can be found here.
Mary Louise Frances (Marylu) Jensen Fowler, 104, a long-time resident of Signal Mountain, TN, passed away August 5, 2025. She was born in Spokane, WA in 1921, the daughter of Walter A. Jensen and Frances (Carr) Jensen Doser. After high school, she graduated from the University of Idaho.
Subsequently she earned a Master Degree in Religious Education from Boston University, followed in 1962 by her achievement of a Doctorate in Theology also from B. U. Among her professional positions, she was Director of Field Education and Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministries, Seabury-Western Theological Seminary, Evanston, IL during 1970-75.
Later she became Director of the Association for Creative Change, and trained during 1978-80, at the Virginia Institute of Pastoral Care at Richmond, to become a Pastoral Counselor. During 1980-85, she was Executive Director of Hospice of the North Shore, Wilmette, IL.
In 1987, she moved into Alexian Village at Signal Mountain, TN. There she continued her pastoral work, providing counseling visits to patients in the Alexian Health Care facility. This she did for many years, going four or five afternoons a week. Concurrently, she was an active member of St. Timothy's Episcopal Church at Signal Mountain. Marylu was preceded in death by her sister, Charlotte Morrill of California and brother, Walter Jensen of Washington. She is survived by her daughter, Patricia (Rikki) Fowler of Vermont and several West Coast nieces and nephews. A funeral service will be held at a later date at Signal Mountain.
Visit the online obituary www.heritagechattanooga.com to post tributes and share memories. Arrangements by Heritage Funeral Home, East Brainerd Chapel.