Alumni News
Professor of Church History and Reformation Studies Carter Lindberg, 1937 – 2024
The Boston University School of Theology announces the passing in April 2024 of former professor Carter Lindberg, who served the School for 28 years as Professor of Church History and Reformation Studies. Professor Lindberg long pursued his passions for teaching and research at Susquehanna University and the College of the Holy Cross before coming to Boston University in 1974. He was a father, grandfather, spouse, talented craftsman and outdoorsman, and an excellent listener.
"A fine human being and friend, Carter Lindberg will be sorely missed by all who knew him."
“Carter Lindberg was a superb scholar whose work undergirded sixteenth century studies, the history of church care of the poor, and interpretation of the Protestant Reformations,” says William Fairfield Warren Distinguished Professor and Lindberg's former colleague, Dana Robert. “For many years, he taught the one-semester church history course that introduced theology students to the range of Christian history. He was also a wonderful colleague. His wry wit enlivened many an area meeting. He was meticulous about keeping an open door during his office hours, except when deep snow made it impossible for him to navigate the roads in his red sportscar. A devout Lutheran, he enjoyed thumbing his nose at Methodist colleagues by, in the best European tradition, smoking a pipe. Professor Lindberg’s former students are some of the leading scholars of sixteenth century studies in major academic institutions. A fine human being and friend, Carter Lindberg will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”
Professor of the History of Christianity Rady Roldán-Figueroa (‘05) was a student of Dr. Lindberg, and shares that “Carter was a friend, a mentor, and teacher. He believed in me as a scholar and also understood that there was a horizon ahead of me that I could not see, but he knew it was there for me. I will always be grateful for the many conversations we had and for his unconditional support.”
A joint memorial service with his late wife is being planned by his family for the middle of June 2024; details can be found in Dr. Lindberg’s obituary.
Rady Roldán-Figueroa promoted to full Professor
The Boston University School of Theology is pleased to announce the promotion of Rady Roldán-Figueroa to full professor of History of Christianity as of spring 2024. In a letter to the Boston University community on April 19, 2024, Interim University Provost and Chief Academic Officer Kenneth Lutchen congratulated the 22 promoted faculty across the Charles River Campus and said they “...exemplify each day the depth and excellence of Boston University’s talented academic community. We are proud to count them as members of our faculty and excited to see them reach this significant milestone here at BU.”
Dean G. Sujin Pak congratulated Professor Roldán-Figueroa directly in an email to the BUSTH community in mid-April by saying “I am immensely grateful for your superb scholarship, teaching, and leadership on behalf of the School, the academy, and the church. May profound affirmation seep into your very soul and bones, as we all celebrate your presence, your gifts, and this confirmation of your academic, pedagogical, and service contributions.”
BUSTH Announces Faculty Publications and Presentations for April 2024
The School of Theology is pleased to announce the following faculty publications and scholarly presentations for April 2024:
- Eunil David Cho (panel)
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Panelist, "Classroom as Community," BU Faculty Forum: InnovateEDU: Exploring the Future of Learning at BU, April 9, 2024.
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Salt City Prayers. Wipf and Stock Publishers, 2024.
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Partnership in the gospel: Seven exercises in liberal biblical theology. Wipf and Stock Publishers.
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An Exercise in Liberal Biblical Theology (Keynote Address). Journal of the Council for Research on Religion, 4(2), 81–94. https://doi.org/10.26443/jcreor.v4i2.92
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- James McCarty
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Desmond Tutu's Spirituality of Protest. Spiritus: A Journal of Christian Spirituality 24(1), 120-137. https://doi.org/10.1353/scs.2024.a924576
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- Luis Menéndez-Antuña (lecture)
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Why do Biblical Interpreters Hate Sex so Much? 17th Annual Boswell Lecture. Center for LGBTQ and Gender Studies in Religion. Berkeley, CA
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- Dana Robert
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Introduction for John T. McGreevy, Catholicism: A Global History from the French Revolution to Pope Francis (2022). Church History. 2023;92(4):911-912. doi:10.1017/S0009640723002822.
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- Steven Sandage, et al
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Brown, E.M., Chin, E.G., Wang, D.C., Lewis, B., Fort, C., Captari, L.E., Crabtree, S.A., & Sandage, S.J. (2024). Adverse childhood experiences, religious coping, and congregational support among Black clergy and religious leaders. Religions 15: 396. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel15040396
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Captari, L. E., Choe, J. Y., Crabtree, S. A., Sandage, S. J., Gerstenblith, J., Stein, L., Hydinger, K. R., & Stavros, G. (2024). Evaluating a novel group intervention to support helping professionals in metabolizing suffering and engaging strengths: The CHRYSALIS program. International Journal of Group Psychotherapy, DOI: 10.1080/00207284.2024.2329565.
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- Claire Wolfteich (presentations)
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“Uncalled for Callings: Mothering, Mysticism, and Transgressive Public Vocations in Margery Kempe and Jarena Lee,” refereed paper, Mystical Theology Network International Conference Oxford, United Kingdom, March 20, 2024.
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“Listening as Spiritual Practice: Time, Sabbath, and Attention,” invited presentation, international conference, Listening Practices in Global Catholicism, Angelicum University, Rome, Italy, March 26, 2024, co-sponsored by the Centre for Catholic Studies, University of Durham, UK.
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Pastor, Full-Time/Part-Time, Progressive Ecumenical/Interdenominational: Tacoma, WA
Pastor
The Pastor will be a spiritual leader and communicator of the Urban Grace mission and values to staff, congregation, and community at large. He/She/They (They) will nurture and foster spiritual formation, administer the sacraments, and provide pastoral care and counseling as well as coordinate Sunday morning worship services.
E S S E N T I A L J O B F U N C T I O N S
Worship & Preaching
Coordinate Sunday morning worship services with the staff; executing the vision,
content, and direction for worship at Urban Grace.
Provide leadership during worship services, including preaching and administering the sacraments.
Facilitate creative worship expressions and ideas.
Pastoral Care, Spiritual Development and Mentoring
Reengage congregational life as we emerge from transition
Create a spirit of awareness and awakening for theological development within the
congregation.
Cultivate an environment of belonging and connection
Coordinate the engagement of children, youth, and teens with the Associate Pastor of Children’s and Youth Ministry to foster diverse connections within our multi-generational faith community.
Provide pastoral care and counseling to individuals and the congregation.
Provide premarital counseling, perform weddings and funerals for both the congregation and the larger community, as requested
Other Responsibilities or Duties
Participate in setting the agenda and moderating the Church Leadership Council and Board of Trustees meetings.
Share leadership and facilitation of congregational meetings and leadership retreats.
Participate in setting the agenda and leading staff meetings.
Co-supervise primary church staff.
Community Outreach and Partnerships
Continue to strengthen strategic relationships, partnerships, and connections with other community organizations, churches, and individuals that serve the Urban Grace mission and ministry.
Open until filled. We will consider a part-time position, with salary pro rated from listed full time salary. See website for all information on the church, the position, and how to apply.
Link in additional Information: https://www.urbangrace.org/core/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Church-Profile-and-Pastor-Job-Description.pdf
Director of Next Generation Ministries, Part-Time, UMC: Cambridge, MN
Director of Next Generation Ministries
Common Ground: A United Methodist Community, Cambridge, MN
32 hours per week, $33,000 annually
About Us:
Common Ground: A United Methodist Community is a welcoming and progressive church located in the heart of Cambridge, MN. We are a Christ centered community living out profound inclusivity, authentic questions, and compassionate justice. Our community values diversity and aims to create a safe space where everyone is accepted and celebrated. As we continue our mission, we are seeking a relational, passionate, and dedicated individual to serve as our Director of Next Generation Ministries, focusing on the spiritual development of youth and young adults in our community.
Position Summary:
The Director of Next Generation Ministries at Common Ground is a pivotal role responsible for guiding and nurturing the youth and young adults in our community. This position involves developing and implementing programs that encourage spiritual exploration, personal growth, and social engagement among youth and young adults in our congregation and community. We are seeking a candidate who shares our progressive Christian values, possesses a genuine passion for working with young people, and can create inclusive and innovative programs.
Responsibilities:
Develop relationships with youth and young adults in our community
Develop and implement a comprehensive and engaging ministry program for youth and young adults, integrating spiritual, educational, social activities, and service opportunities.
Cultivate a safe and supportive environment where young people can explore their faith, ask questions, and build a strong sense of community.
Lead regular studies, discussion groups, retreats, special events, service projects, and outreach activities tailored to the unique needs and interests of youth and young adults.
Provide pastoral care and mentorship to youth and young adults, offering guidance and support as they navigate life challenges and spiritual questions.
Provide welcoming, inviting, and safe space for youth and young adults in our community who identify as LGBTQIA+
Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers to assist with youth and young adult ministry activities.
Stay informed about current trends, issues, and challenges faced by youth and young adults, adapting ministry programs accordingly to address these concerns.
Build relationships with parents and families.
Establish a presence with local schools, colleges, and community organizations to expand the reach and impact of our ministry programs.
Actively participate in church leadership meetings, sharing insights and recommendations related to the needs of the youth and young adult community.
Develop Common Ground as a hub for youth and young adult ministry in our region.
Collaborate with other CG ministry staff - cross ministry
Qualifications:
Highly relational individual with energy and enthusiasm for this work.
Bachelor's degree in a related field
Strong understanding of progressive Christian theology and a commitment to social justice and inclusivity.
Proven experience working with youth and young adults in a ministry or educational setting. Enjoys spending time with youth and young adults.
Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds.
Demonstrated leadership abilities, with a passion for empowering others and fostering a sense of belonging.
Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and individuals, both within the church community and in external partnerships.
Creative and innovative mindset, with the ability to develop engaging and relevant ministry programs.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, ensuring the smooth planning and execution of events and activities.
Flexibility and adaptability to respond to the evolving needs of the youth and young adult community.
Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying informed about best practices in youth and young adult ministry.
Able to work a flexible schedule and approach the job with stamina and energy.
Able to work and connect with diverse personality types.
Inclusive of everyone regardless of religious or spiritual beliefs, particularly those who are not welcomed or included elsewhere.
Additional Information: commongroundumc.org
Coordinator of Church School, Part-Time, Episcopal: Arlington, MA
Dr. Alex Ray Mayfield (STH’21) Publishes The Kaleidoscopic City: Hong Kong, Mission, and the Evolution of Global Pentecostalism
Dr. Alex Ray Mayfield (STH'21) authored the 2023 book: The Kaleidoscopic City: Hong Kong, Mission, and the Evolution of Global Pentecostalism.
The book description states:
"The Kaleidoscopic City explores the development of Pentecostalism in Hong Kong between 1907 and 1942. Focusing primarily on Pentecostal missionaries and the Chinese leaders who worked alongside them, Alex R. Mayfield analyzes how changes within the social structures and ideological frameworks of global Pentecostalism dramatically impacted the movement within the colony. As such, Mayfield helps us to better understand both the spread of Pentecostalism in China and the evolution of global Pentecostalism in the first half of the twentieth century.
Throughout the book, Mayfield delves into specific facets of Pentecostalism’s development in the colony. First, he explores how Pentecostals' changing relationship to the space of Hong Kong reflected both historical happenstance and deep-rooted evangelical narratives. Second, Mayfield traces how the move from faith mission models to denominational models in Hong Kong marked a dramatic shift in Pentecostal aims, identities, and approaches. Third, he examines the ways Pentecostal evangelistic practices remained, for the most part, "un-Pentecostal" in their conformity to evangelical missionary norms. Fourth, Mayfield considers how Pentecostal spirituality gradually evolved to better respond to the competitive religious marketplace of Hong Kong. Finally, he studies the important roles of Chinese and Western Pentecostal women in Hong Kong and how their perceptions and enactments of gender changed as they fulfilled those roles.
With each turn of the kaleidoscope a different vision comes into view. In some places, Pentecostalism looked like standard evangelicalism; in others, it was a radical, ecstatic departure. It was urban one moment and rural the next; it was liberating for women but also not; it was a move of the Spirit, and it was careful planning. This unique volume marks a step forward in the attempt to make sense of the paradoxical early Pentecostal movement in China concentrated in the vibrant colonial city of Hong Kong."
Order a copy of the book here.
Bishop LaTrelle Easterling (STH ’04) Issues Comment on Key Bridge Collapse
The following is an excerpt from the article “Bishop Calls for Prayer Following Key Bridge Collapse," by Bishop LaTrelle Easterling (STH '04), published on March 26, 2024 by the Baltimore-Washington Conference of The United Methodist Church.
"Tragedies like these shake the foundation upon which we live our lives; we can take so much for granted. Watching the images of the bridge collapse, one can’t help but be moved by the fragility of our world. It makes us humble and vulnerable. But as we enter into Holy Week, we know that God is with us at all times and in all circumstances. God is with those who plunged into the water. God is with those who are being treated. God is with those who are performing rescue efforts. God is with the families awaiting news and clinging to hope. God is with us. That is our true foundation, comfort and strength."
Dr. Morley F. Hodder (STH ’56, STH ’63)
This obituary was originally posted by Carnell's Funeral Home and can be found here.
Morley Francis Hodder passed away peacefully surrounded by love, on March 5, 2024 at the age of 95, after a brief illness at St. Clare’s Mercy Hospital.
He is predeceased by his beloved parents Frank and Rose Hodder, his precious wife Vera, and sister Lorraine. 
He leaves behind his only brother Eric Hodder and a huge number of nieces, nephews, and beloved friends both here in Newfoundland and all over the world. He had so many people that he loved dearly. His beloved sister-in-law Ellen Mercer who called him faithfully every Sunday from New Hampshire USA and his nephew, Charles Taylor, NYC, and his many colleagues and friends from MUN and Queens College
When my dear Uncle Morley asked me to write his obituary, he asked that I keep it very very simple. No mention of his education etc. I am afraid I will just have to break that promise just a little. I was always so very proud of his academic accomplishments. At a time when it was very difficult to afford a good education, Uncle Morley attended McGill University. He returned to Newfoundland and became the United Church minister in Springdale, NL.
He then realized that he wanted to further his education. He attended Boston University and completed his Masters in theology. This was followed by a period of studying and working in Edinburgh, Scotland. He then made his decision to return to Boston and complete his PhD. He often said the work was difficult but with the support and love from Vera, he completed his doctorate studies. They then moved to Toronto where he took a position as chaplain for the University of Toronto. They remained there for several years until he received a call from Memorial University of NL. He was asked if he would consider returning to NL to help start a department of Religious Studies. He loved teaching and he loved his students. Many of those students still kept in touch. When I try to think of how to describe my uncle I think he was above all a very humble and spiritual man. He was incredibly kind and generous. He had a wonderful sense of humor.
At Morley’s request there will be a cremation, but no church service or visitation. Interment service will take place at Mount Pleasant Cemetery at a later date, to be announced.
Morley had requested that in lieu flowers, donations be made to The Gathering Place.
We will miss you always.
Reverend Robert C. Wilson (STH ’61)
This obituary was originally posted by Kepple Graft Funeral Home Inc. and can be found here.
Rev. Robert C. Wilson, 89, of Greensburg, died, Monday, March 11, 2024, at Select Specialty Hospital, Latrobe. He was born in Uniontown, March 5, 1935, a son of the late William Orris Wilson and Mary Elizabeth Jerrell Wilson. Prior to retirement, he was pastor of First United Methodist Church, Greensburg. Rev. Wilson was a member of the Lions Club, Elizabeth
Township, former member of Free and Accepted Masons, Salvation Army Board, past president of Rotary. He was a member of Alpha Psi Omega, KA Order, Worship, Social Concerns Committees of the Western Pennsylvania Conference of UMC. He initiated Way of the Cross in Coraopolis and Greensburg. He also was member of Ministerial Association of Greensburg and on Board of Directors Sherwood Forest Theatre. Rev. Wilson was Pastor Emeritus of First United Methodist Church Greensburg, graduate of Uniontown High School, Bethany College, Boston University School of Theology. His church appointments were in West Virginia, Massachusetts, and Western Pennsylvania. His last three church appointments were Coraopolis, Murrysville, and Greensburg. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Jeanne E. Ainsley and Lois E. Newcomer; a brother, James M. Wilson. Rev. Wilson is survived by his wife, Margaret Joan “Peg” Campbell Wilson; daughter, Mary Lynn Wilson; son, David Scott Wilson; grandchildren, Andrew Scott Wilson and Meghan Grace Wilson. Family and friends will be received from 4 to 7 pm Friday at Kepple-Graft Funeral Home,524 North Main Street, Greensburg. Additional visitation will be held on Saturday from 10 am until the hour of service at 11 am in First United Methodist Church, 15 East Second Street, Greensburg with Pastor Kevin Haley and Rev. Russell Shuluga officiating. Interment will follow in St. Clair Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, Greensburg. For online condolences, please visit www.kepplegraft.com