Alumni News
A Holiday Message from BUSTH and Dean Pak: December 2022

“Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul.” Emily Dickinson
May the fragile gift of Hope carry you to a needed dawn.
May it make your spirit buoyant and give you flight.
May the tender mercy of God seen in a guiding star,
the loving gaze of a mother, the sacred care of vulnerable flesh
Meet you this day for rediscovered joy and hope in the New Year.
“By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us.” Luke 1:78.
- G. Sujin Pak, Dean
BUSTH Announces Faculty Publications for December 2022
The School of Theology is pleased to announce the following faculty publications for December 2022:
- David Decosimo
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Review: William Wood. Analytic Theology and the Academic Study of Religion, in Journal of Analytic Theology, Vol. 10, Summer 2022.
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- Christopher Evans, et al
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Evans, C. Brown, Amanda. The Fellowship Church: Howard Thurman and the Twentieth-Century Religious Left. New York: Oxford University Press, 2021. i+236 pp. The Journal of Religion, 102(4), 573–574. https://doi.org/10.1086/721355, 2022.
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- G. Sujin Pak
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“Calvin’s Visual Exegesis of Old Testament Prophecy: Figural Reading and the Sacramental Character of Scripture,” International Journal of Systematic Theology. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijst.12609, 2022.
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- Dana L. Robert
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“The Birth of the International Missionary Council and the Discourse of Race Relations,” in Sonderdruck aus ZMiss 2, 2022, 97-112.
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“Series Introduction,” The Global Story of Christianity Series: History, Context, and Communities. In Mitri Rahab and Mark L. Lamport, eds. Surviving Jewel: The Enduring Story of Christianity in the Middle East. Eugene, OR: Wipf and Stock, 2022, ix-xviii.
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- Steven Sandage, et al
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Captari, L.E., Sandage, S.J., Vandiver, R.A., Jankowski, P.J., & Hook, J.N. Integrating positive psychology, religion/spirituality, and a virtue focus in culturally responsive mental healthcare. In E.B. Davis, E.L. Worthington, Jr., & S.A. Schnitker (Eds.), Handbook of positive psychology, religion, and spirituality (pp. 413-427). Cham, Switzerland: Springer Press, 2022.
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Choe, E.J.Y., Jankowski, P.J., Sandage, S.J., Crabtree, S.A., & Captari, L.E. Cultural humility and well-being among psychotherapy clients: A longitudinal practice-based study. Counselling and Psychotherapy Research. https://doi.org/10.1002/capr.12599, 2022.
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Hook, J. N., Hodge, A. S., Sandage, S. J., Davis, D. E., & Van Tongeren, D. R. Differentiation of self and cultural competence: A systematic review of the empirical literature. Practice Innovations. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1037/pri0000196, 2022.
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- Shively T. J. Smith
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“Mixed Messages, Virginia Broughton (1 Peter 2:9, 18-3:7,” Pages 40–42. Contributing Voice to 1 Peter.” In 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude Wisdom Commentary, by Pheme Perkins. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2022.
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“Zilpha Elaw and the ‘Spirit’ (1 Peter 1:15, 22),” Pages 29–32. Contributing Voice to 1 Peter.” In 1 Peter, 2 Peter, Jude Wisdom Commentary, by Pheme Perkins. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, 2022.
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“Witnessing Jesus Hang: A Womanist Reading of Mary Magdalene’s View of Crucifixion through Ida B. Wells’ Chronicles of Lynching.” In Stony the Road We Trod: African American Biblical Interpretation, 30th Anniversary Edition, edited by Cain Hope Felder; Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2021.
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“Preliminary Thoughts: The Hermeneutical Dilemmas of the Allies, Colleagues, and Guild of African American Biblical Scholar-Teachers.” In Black Scholars Matter, edited by Hugh R. Page and Gay L. Byron. Atlanta, GA: SBLPress, 2022.
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Review: Lisa Bowens, African American Readings of Paul: Reception, Resistance, and Transformation. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2020. Theological Studies 83.2: 319–20, 2022.
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Pastor, Full-time, UCC and UU: Charlton, MA
Senior Settled Pastor
Federated Church of Charlton, MA
The Federated Church of Charlton, located in central Massachusetts, is seeking a Senior Settled Pastor. We are looking to take our strong foundation and move forward with a settled minister who is Biblically and theologically grounded, who is involved, who is able to empower and guide leaders, and above all a minister who is caring, sensitive and inspiring.
Our church is comprised of a union of members from the United Church of Christ (Congregational) and Unitarian Universalist Association in Christian Worship Together.
Charlton is located a convenient distance from multiple directions... Boston, Springfield, Hartford, Providence, Manchester. We also have a wonderful parsonage on site.
To see if the Federated Church of Charlton is your next calling, please visit the conference website for the full profile.
Pastor, Full-time, Presbyterian: DeWitt, NY
Solo Pastor, Pebble Hill Presbyterian Church, DeWitt, NY
Pebble Hill Presbyterian Church is currently seeking a sole pastor who is spiritually grounded, intellectually curious, compassionate, and forward-thinking. PHPC has a history of community engagement and a commitment to social justice. Our congregation thrives on preaching that enriches and propels us to expand our thinking and motivates action. We are nourished through inspiring music and the loving nature of our faith community. We seek someone who is flexible, has a sense of humor, and flourishes in contexts where collaboration in leadership is the norm.
Position tasks include worship leadership & preaching, pastoral care, oversight of Christian education, moderating the Session, representing the congregation to outside groups that use our facility, assisting committees with guidance and insights as needed, participating and motivating members to become more active in social justice and mission projects.
PHPC was formed in 1956 in a suburb of Syracuse, NY. The church is located less than five miles from Syracuse University and Upstate Medical University, along with other institutions of higher education, multiple hospitals, and successful manufacturing facilities. We enjoy the benefits of a city with close proximity to the Finger Lakes, a pleasant drive to the Adirondacks, and a multitude of hiking and biking options in the immediate area, including those associated with the Erie Canal corridor. Onondaga County is on the cusp of major growth due to its selection as the site for an investment of $100 billion over ten years by Micron computer chip company.
To receive more information or to express interest in the position, please email the Pastoral Nominating Committee at pncpebblehill@gmail.com
Website: https://www.phpchurch.org
Minister of Children and Families, Part-time, UCC: Milton, MA
Job Posting for Minister of Children and Families
First Congregational Church of Milton, MA (United Church of Christ)
Hours: Part time, based on 15 hrs/week over school year with minimal hours during summer.
Must work on Sundays and every other Wednesday evening.
Reports to: Pastor and works in close partnership with Board of Christian Education.
First Congregational Church, Milton, MA, is an open and affirming congregation of the United Church of Christ. We are seeking a Minister of Children and Families, who will lead our vibrant and vital Sunday school programs and our Wacky Wednesday fun night. The spiritual formation and community building of children lies at the heart of our mission and purpose as a congregation.
Primary Responsibilities
• Working with the oversight of the Board of Christian Education to plan, coordinate, organize, support, and lead programs for children from Nursery through 8th grade.
• Recruit, develop, and supervise Sunday school teachers (high school students). Supervise the adult nursery worker.
• Organize and coordinate annual Sunday school registration process, keep attendance, and maintain an accurate database using Fellowship One (training for F1 available on job).
• Prepare curriculum and provide oversight and support to ensure the curriculum is incorporated into weekly lessons.
• Facilitate and lead teacher trainings and meetings as needed to help teachers grow and improve.
• Organize and coordinate special events including: Christmas pageant, teacher appreciation, children's Sunday, Palm Sunday, and the Easter egg hunt.
• Communicate all Christian education activities, and correspond with parents and the congregation as appropriate using a variety of mediums, including: social media, email, posters, mailings, newsletter, etc.
• Attend Board of Christian Ed meetings.
• Stay abreast of current trends and best practices in Christian education, and share insights with the Board of Christian Education.
Qualifications (Required)
The ideal candidate is a spiritually mature person with excellent communication skills and a desire to engage in the life of the congregation to help strengthen and grow our programs for children and support families as they seek to grow in faith. We seek someone who is invested in fostering a loving, safe, and caring environment where children can build friendships, learn the stories and practices of our faith, come to trust in God’s love for them, and connect their faith to their life in the world.
The ideal candidate has:
• A bachelor's degree in a related field and related experience OR direct experience.
• A personal commitment to the Christian faith, and an ability to share that faith authentically in a way that encourages the faith of others.
• An understanding of and commitment to the church’s mission.
• Proficiency with basic computer programs and social media platforms.
• Strong administrative, communication, leadership, and motivational skills.
Qualifications (preferred)
• Academic training in education or theology.
• General marketing and growth perspective that will assist with the continued growth and development of our educational programs.
• Experience working in a church either in a professional or voluntary position.
Other Pastoral Opportunities
For candidates who are ordained or seeking ordination, this position may offer opportunities for preaching, the administration of the sacraments, and providing pastoral support to the congregation as appropriate.
Financial compensation to be commensurate with qualifications. FCC of Milton is an open and affirming congregation and is an equal opportunity employer. To apply, please email a cover letter and resume to:
Rev. R.G. Wilson-Lyons
First Congregational Church of Milton
495 Canton Avenue
Milton, MA 02186
rg@fccmilton.org
(205) 532-0907
Junior High Director of Boys, Full-time, Presbyterian: Nashville, TN
Shortened Version
West End Community Church, in Nashville, TN is seeking a full-time Junior High Director of Boys position. All resumes and inquiries can be directed to elaine.pendergrass@ministryarchitects.com by February 10, 2023.
Full Job Description
TITLE: Junior High Director of Boys
REPORTS TO: Co-Youth Director
HOURS: Sunday – Thursday (Full-time position)
OVERVIEW OF POSITION:
- This position works with the Junior High Director of Girls, under the oversight of the Youth Directors, planning, coordinating and executing all aspects of junior high ministry
- This position works closely with entire Youth Ministry staff aiding in the oversight, coaching and encouragement of the entire Youth Ministry
Position Expectations:
Teaching and Development
- Aid in the developing, organizing and leading of Sunday School ministry to junior high students, including regular large group teaching
- Aid in the developing, organizing and leading of small group discipleship ministry to bring junior high students to maturity in Christ, personally leading one small group of students
Relational Ministry
- Meet regularly with students fostering relationship, while encouraging and directing them toward a committed relationship with Jesus (1v1, school lunches, games/plays, etc.)
- Aid in shepherding and growing a community of volunteers to invest in the lives of students and lead in the various programs of the youth ministry (fellowship, coaching, care, accountability, etc.)
- Meet regularly with parents developing intentional relationships
Communication and Events
- Aid in executing regular communication to junior high leaders, students and families, including social media
- Contribute to design, marketing and communication of all junior high events and ministry components
- Aid in developing, organizing and executing parent resource communication plan, including Sunday school and small group curriculum material
- Communicate regularly with parents developing and maintaining healthy relationships with families
- Lead in the development, organization and execution of all junior high special events, such as, winter and summer camps, mission trips and other events that foster relationship building, spiritual maturity, and advancement of the kingdom
- Aid in the development, communication and execution of ministry related forums designed to equip youth families
Maintenance
- Oversee and manage regular maintenance tasks associated with a growing youth ministry (stocking hospitality supplies, gathering ministry supplies, etc.)
- Oversee and manage effective execution of administrative duties as required
Qualifications and Requirements:
Education
- A bachelor’s degree is required
- 1-3+ years of ministry experience is desirable
- Proven capability of leading a discipleship ministry
- Track record of developing personal relationships and building ministry structure
Experience and Skills
- Excellent time management, communication, organizational, and execution skills
- Gift of gospel-centered teaching in an engaging manner to all students of the ministry
- Ability to work cooperatively with others, maintain a positive disposition and flexibility in solving problems
- Excellent communication and relational skills
- Desire and ability to work effectively with diverse staff, volunteers, students and parents
- Possesses effective organizational, coaching and networking abilities and gifts
- Is enthusiastic, energetic, a self-starter, and a collaborator
- Willing to face difficulties and conflict with humility
- Commitment to timeliness, reliability, and excellence in all things
- Takes initiative in accessing, meeting and completing needs
- Basic lay-counseling and listening skills appropriate for youth ministry
Requirements
- All employees must commit to performing their duties in accordance with the mission and vision of the church, West End Policies and Procedures Manual, and the Westminster Confession of Faith
Acting Ministry Associate, Part-time, UCC: Concord, NH
South Congregational Church (located in Concord, NH) is excited to announce a search for an Acting Ministry Associate who will spend about 20 hours a week with our congregation. In consultation with our Director of Education, they will co-lead our three youth group programs. This will include the Senior High, which meets weekly and takes a mission trip in the spring. It also includes meetings with the ‘Tween Group and the Junior High, each of which meets once per month. They will meet monthly with our Faith in Action and Faith Formation Ministries. This person will assist with Sunday morning worship (4 Sundays a month). They will help the Senior Pastor with visitation. Other duties may come up as assigned. Some experience in ministry is needed, however this individual does not need to be ordained. It is important that this individual be comfortable working with young people, with public speaking, leading meetings and working with a wide range of congregants from youth to older members. Experience in pastoral visitation will be needed as well. If the person comes with some IT experience, all the better.
Applications will be accepted until a candidate is identified.
Compensation: up to $30,000 based on experience.
Please contact the church office administrator: Kayla Pingree office@southchurchconcord.org
Senior High Director of Boys, full-time, Presbyterian: Nashville, TN
Shortened Version
West End Community Church, in Nashville, TN, is seeking a full-time Senior High Director of Boys position. All resumes and inquiries can be directed to elaine.pendergrass@ministryarchitects.com by 1/31/23.
Full Job Description
TITLE: Senior High Director of Boys
REPORTS TO: Co-Youth Director
HOURS: Sunday – Thursday (Full-time position)
OVERVIEW OF POSITION:
- This position works with the Senior High Director of Girls, under the oversight of the Youth Directors, planning, coordinating and executing all aspects of senior high ministry
- This position works closely with entire Youth Ministry staff aiding in the oversight, coaching and encouragement of the entire Youth Ministry
Position Expectations:
Teaching and Development
- Aid in the developing, organizing and leading of Sunday School ministry to students, including regular large group teaching
- Aid in the developing, organizing and leading of small group discipleship ministry to bring students to maturity in Christ, personally leading one small group of students
- Aid in the developing, organizing and leading of student leadership ministry for high school students
Relational Ministry
- Meet regularly with students fostering relationship, while encouraging and directing them toward a committed relationship with Jesus (1v1, school lunches, games/plays, etc.)
- Aid in shepherding and growing a community of volunteers to invest in the lives of students and lead in the various programs of the youth ministry (fellowship, coaching, care, accountability, etc.)
- Meet regularly with parents developing intentional relationships
Communication and Events
- Aid in executing regular communication to senior high leaders, students and families, including social media
- Contribute to design, marketing and communication of all senior high events and ministry components
- Aid in developing, organizing and executing parent resource communication plan, including Sunday school and small group curriculum material
- Communicate regularly with parents developing and maintaining healthy relationships with families
- Lead in the development, organization and execution of all senior high special events, such as, winter and summer camps, mission trips and other events that foster relationship building, spiritual maturity, and advancement of the kingdom
- Aid in the development, communication and execution of ministry related forums designed to equip youth families
Maintenance
- Oversee and manage regular maintenance tasks associated with a growing youth ministry (stocking hospitality supplies, gathering ministry supplies, etc.)
- Oversee and manage effective execution of administrative duties as required
Qualifications and Requirements:
Education
- A bachelor’s degree is required
- 1-3+ years of ministry experience is desirable
- Proven capability of leading a discipleship ministry
- Track record of developing personal relationships and building ministry structure
Experience and Skills
- Excellent time management, communication, organizational, and execution skills
- Gift of gospel-centered teaching in an engaging manner to all students of the ministry
- Ability to work cooperatively with others, maintain a positive disposition and flexibility in solving problems
- Excellent communication and relational skills
- Desire and ability to work effectively with diverse staff, volunteers, students and parents
- Possesses effective organizational, coaching and networking abilities and gifts
- Is enthusiastic, energetic, a self-starter, and a collaborator
- Willing to face difficulties and conflict with humility
- Commitment to timeliness, reliability, and excellence in all things
- Takes initiative in accessing, meeting and completing needs
- Basic lay-counseling and listening skills appropriate for youth ministry
Requirements
- All employees must commit to performing their duties in accordance with the mission and vision of the church,
West End Policies and Procedures Manual, and the Westminster Confession of Faith
Diocesan Youth Minster, full-time, Episcopal: Indianapolis, IN
Shortened Version
The Diocese of Indianapolis, in Indianapolis, IN, is seeking a full-time Diocesan Youth Minister position. All resumes and inquiries can be directed to martha.whitesides@ministryarchitects.com by 1/31/23.
Full Job Description
The Diocese of Indianapolis is seeking a Diocesan Youth Minister to be called to unabashedly promote and celebrate the faith formation of young people in the diocese.
This inclusive and innovative diocese spans 200 miles in southern and central Indiana including 47 churches.
The Diocesan Youth Minister will be charged with equipping and encouraging parish-level leaders through community, connection, and trainings;
visioning and leading meaningful initiatives and events with youth alongside a leadership team,
and managing the administrative aspects of the diocesan youth ministry. Follow this link to learn more and apply.
BUSTH Hosts Fall 2022 Bi-Annual Lowell Lecture

On November 2, 2022, the Boston University School of Theology with the generous support of the Lowell Institute was proud to sponsor the bi-annual Lowell Lecture in the Howard Thurman Center for Common Ground. The lecture by Dr. Emmett G. Price III, entitled “The Sacred Sounds of Black Disinherited Creatives,” sought to demonstrate how the Black/African-American experience has been shaped by and expressed through spirituality and the creative, transcendent power of music. Following the lecture, guest respondents Assistant Professor of New Testament Shively T.J. Smith and Rev. Joshua Lazard (STH’25) insightfully remarked on the engaging talk along with Greg Groover, Jr., Assistant Chair of Ensemble at Berklee College of Music, who responded musically by playing his tenor saxophone. The responsive panel was moderated by Professor of Music Andrew Shenton.
Watch the full lecture below, courtesy of the Lowell Institute and GBH Forum Network.
The Lowell Lecture is made possible by the generous support from the Lowell Institute.