Dec. 26, Craig Hill, Dean of Perkins School of Theology at SMU Dallas, for a commentary advocating that students should not have to subscribe to any ideology when considering careers in the ministry. Published in the Dallas Morning News under the heading Yes, it is possible to study theology without choosing an ideological side: https://bit.ly/3HsFQI4
Times are tough for organized religion. Just 47% of American adults reported belonging to a church, synagogue or mosque in a Gallup survey earlier this year, so it should come as no surprise that the pool of prospective graduate theology students is declining, as well.
The polarization of mainline denominations only compounds the challenge. Imagine you are considering a career as a minister, or perhaps as a church musician or youth leader. Must you join an ideologically-pure alliance to follow that career path – even in choosing where to attend seminary?
Some require it, but I’m here to tell you in no uncertain terms the answer is no.
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