Seminary is an important formation experience for those called to vocational ministry, and in many traditions a seminary degree (often a M.Div.) is a requirement for ordination. For many years, I was proud to tell the story of my experience at Logsdon Seminary at Hardin-Simmons University, and was glad to let others know I was a graduate (M.Diiv., 2001). Sadly, with the University's decisions to move in a very different direction theologically, I'm now at a place where I'm forced to say Read More …
statement of faith
Ten Unanswered Questions About HSU’s Statement of Faith (#1998)
Over the last three days, I've been more engaged in conversation about Hardin-Simmons University than I have at any time since graduating from Logsdon Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree in 2001. And, I've been asked far more questions than I can answer. This is happening because the University has chosen a new direction, and has made that direction more clear in the publication of a new Statement of Faith. I've attempted to summarize and categorize the unanswered questions I've Read More …
Ten Reasons for Concern About HSU’s Statement of Faith (#1997)
It is a big deal when a Christian University adopts a Statement of Faith. It is an even bigger deal when such a university is part of a non-creedal tradition. To achieve this outcome one would normally envision a robust process of considerable length that engaged all stakeholders, including students, alumni, supporters, faculty, and staff. In the case of Hardin-Simmons University it appears that not only were these important groups not a part of the process, they were unaware that there was a Read More …
Sermon: Stating Our Faith (#1585)
Sermon Text: Colossians 1:15-20 Sermon Excerpt As a resident of Southwest Florida for the last several years, I have been blessed to expand my horizons in many ways – including learning from many of you about what everyday life was like before I was born. I understand many of you grew up in a time I call “BT” – Before Television. In the world before every home had a television and every television had the ability to receive dozens of channels, there was radio. Perhaps Read More …