Sid Hall is Trinity’s Pastor Emeritus. Sid served as Trinity’s lead minister for 33 years, from 1988 to 2021. Now retired from full-time ministry in the United Methodist Church and in the United Church of Christ, Sid continues to write books and speak on various topics such as “Creation Spirituality,” “The History of Anti-Jewish Theology in the Church,” “LGBTQIA+ Inclusion in the Church,” and “Earth-based Ritual and Worship in the Church.” Sid currently serves on the national boards of Creation Spirituality Communities and Equity for Women in the Church.
How did your time at Perkins shape your faith, leadership style, and vocational path?
Faith:
One of the most valuable aspects of my time at Perkins was the safe space it provided to question, challenge, and rethink theology. During my studies, James Fowler’s The Stages of Faith had a profound impact on me. His framework for understanding faith as a developmental journey resonated deeply with my own spiritual path. Being part of a diverse community at Perkins—evangelicals, atheists, traditionalists, and activists—helped me embrace new perspectives and develop a faith I hadn’t imagined before seminary.
Leadership:
In the early 1980s, Perkins didn’t offer formal leadership courses, but the preaching curriculum—shaped by figures like Fred Craddock and Thomas H. Troeger—redefined my approach to leadership. I learned that effective preaching isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about engaging others through storytelling, collaboration, and shared experiences. This philosophy became the foundation for my pastoral leadership style.
Vocational Path:
Though I always felt a call to pastoral ministry, my time at Perkins opened my eyes to the necessity of aligning theology with action. My introduction to Liberation Theology, along with my activism on campus, shaped my vocational direction. Later, I found my place in an urban church in Austin that embraced social activism and LGBTQIA inclusiveness—something I never would have envisioned without the lessons learned at Perkins.
Lasting Influences
Are there any professors, courses, or experiences from Perkins that had a lasting impact on you?
There are so many, but a few stand out. My exegesis courses with Bill Power and Vic Furnish were transformative. I also had the privilege of studying under Rabbi Jack Bemporad, which deepened my understanding of Jewish thought. However, my greatest mentor at Perkins was Virgil Howard. His guidance helped shape my theological thinking and led to my first book, Christian Antisemitism and Paul’s Theology, for which I will forever be grateful.
Impact and Service
What are some of the most meaningful projects, ministries, or initiatives you’ve been a part of?
The most meaningful part of my ministry has been leading a 33-year experiment at Trinity Church of Austin, creating a community that merged activism with authentic spirituality. Our church became a place for the “nones,” reinterpreting Christian rituals to heal and motivate social justice work. I’ve also served on several boards, including the Political Asylum Project of Austin and PFLAG Austin, and continue to advocate for women in the church through my work with Equity for Women in the Church.
How do you continue to support the mission and goals of Perkins School of Theology and SMU?
I have been a direct recipient of Perkins’ mission to equip leaders for ministry, and I’ve carried that forward by supervising seminary interns, ensuring they are prepared for both theological depth and social awareness. I continue to inspire others through my work, teaching, and the communities I help shape. I also encourage pastors to pass on the rich academic insights they gained during their time in seminary, as congregations need intellectual and spiritual challenges.
Reflection on the Award
I had always thought that awards like the Distinguished Alumni Award were typically given to those who had achieved high-ranking positions in the church, such as a bishop or senior pastor of a large congregation. While those individuals certainly deserve such recognition, I never imagined someone like myself—whose ministerial aspirations were focused more on activism and serving on the margins—would be considered for such an honor. Yet, because Perkins was so instrumental in shaping my spiritual, social, and academic development, being named as the Perkins Distinguished Alumnus is one of the greatest honors of my life. Personally, it means the world to me. Professionally, it affirms that the kind of ministry I’ve pursued—one centered on social activism with the heart of a mystic—is valued by Perkins. This type of ministry, which Claus Rohlfs once described as ‘a rabble rouser ministry,’ is truly heartwarming to see recognized by Perkins School of Theology.
Nominate an Outstanding Perkins Alum for the Distinguished Alum Awards
Sid Hall’s remarkable journey exemplifies the values and impact of a Perkins education. His commitment to integrating faith, leadership, and social justice continues to inspire future generations.
Is there someone in your network who has made a significant impact in ministry, academia, or community service? We want to hear from you! Nominate a deserving alum for the next Distinguished Alum Awards. Visit our website for more information.
