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Dr. Frederick Aquino

Professor of Systematic Theology

We live in a world with unprecedented (and quicker) access to vast quantities of information. In one sense, we feel more connected through social media and various technological advances. At the tap of a finger, the requested pieces of information are readily available. In another sense,we feel overwhelmed by the noiseof social media, news outlets, and the relentless stream of facts and opinions. An important challenge involves learning how to cut through such noise and differentiate between peripheral and salient pieces of information.This course will explore how the Christian virtue of discernment helps us think about and respond to such a challenge.

Rev. Mark C. Grafenreed

Ph.D. Candidate in Religion and Culture, Graduate Program in Religious Studies at SMU

Thermometers and thermostats are invaluable instruments, especially during toasty, Texas summers! However, thermometers, which record temperatures, and thermostats, which regulate them, can be problematic when they are inoperable or ineffective. The same is true concerning the Christian Church! This workshop examines the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 1963 “Letter from Birmingham Jail” and explores whether today’s Christian Church is a thermometer that is an “archdefender of the status quo” or a thermostat that “transforms the mores of society.”

Dr. Grace Ji-Sun Kim
Professor of Theology, Earlham School of Religion
Featured Summit Guest Lecturer

Invisibility persists throughout the Asian American story. Invisibility is not only a racial and cultural issue, but also a profound spiritual issue. This lecture seeks to understand how marginalized and oppressed groups can become empowered by working toward a Theology of Visibility. A Theology of Visibility uplifts the voiceless and empowers the invisible, moving beyond experiences of oppression and toward claiming their space in the kingdom of God.

Rob Kranz

Ph.D. Student in Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, Graduate Program in Religious Studies at SMU

Since the earliest days of cinema, Bible stories have been popular subjects for filmmakers. However, films about the Bible can function as more than just mere entertainment. Film offers a unique interpretive method that engages multiple senses, opening new avenues of insight, dialogue, and questions. Utilizing a series of film clips, interactive activities, and discussions, this workshop will explore how films about the Bible can help us read the text with fresh eyes, ask new questions, and gain new insights about the Bible.

Dr. Susanne Scholz

Professor of Old Testament

This course is at capacity and registration has been closed.

Dr. Mark Stamm

Professor of Christian Worship and Chapel Elder

“Take me out to the ballgame” says the famous song (Jack Norworth ©1908, 1927).   What do you hear?  Perhaps you hear an invitation to an outing with friends and family, but perhaps also invitation to a journey that extends over a lifetime.  That phrase may stir memories, and these may be a complex mixture of hope and disappointment, of triumph and failure, even tragedy.  Using some well-known baseball narratives as our lens, we’ll discuss various spiritual themes and particularly some stories about healing and reconciliation.  And we’ll try to have some fun along the way.

Marcell Silva Steuernagel

Assistant Professor of Church Music and Director of the Sacred Music and Pastoral Music Programs

Christianity is a patchwork quilt of denominations and traditions. Oftentimes, participants see the music traditions of their denominations as consolidated bodies of music. But under that veneer of consolidation lie histories of transformation, resistance, and other modes of negotiation of musical styles and theologies. This session will explore those hidden flows, giving participants an opportunity to reflect on the musical journey of their own congregations and curate music that speaks to current contexts and challenges.

Dr. Theodore Walker, Jr.

Associate Professor of Ethics and Society

We will do theological and ethical studies of Matthew 5:43-48, Matthew 22:34-40, and Luke 4:14-19 (NRSV), and we will rehearse saying these passages aloud together. We will learn some of the theological and ethical content of selected biblical passages. We will learn to appreciate methodical-disciplined-supererogatory (Wesleyan) bible study, including bible rehearsal.  

Rev. Dr. James E. Woods

Adjunct Faculty, Spiritual Formation

The Labyrinth Workshop will explore the ancient practice of the prayer labyrinth as a means of engaging sacred space both without and within. As all contemplative disciplines are balanced by pragmatic action, this course will holistically combine brief classroom learnings on the history and symbolism of the labyrinth with the practical experience of navigating the labyrinth within the Perkins cloister.* The class will conclude with a moment of mutual sharing and reflection. Maximum of 20 attendees.