We hope you've been enjoying a fun and relaxing summer season. We're looking back at some highlights from the end of last year while looking forward to the start of another academic year at NBTS. | |
Graduation & Baccalaureate | |
New Brunswick Theological Seminary celebrated our Graduation weekend on May 17th and 18th, honoring 44 graduates in the Commencement and Baccalaureate Ceremonies. Graduation week was a joyous celebration of our graduates, alumni, and students. | |
What graduates are saying…
"The biggest impact in my chaplain work has been studying alongside others from diverse backgrounds. Having multiple perspectives helps me learn how to work more efficiently and effectively."
—Lee Ann Newland, MAPCC
"My favorite memories from my time at NBTS were the mission trip opportunities for interfaith dialogue both in Oman and The Netherlands."
—Kelly J. Williams, MDiv, MAPCC
"I have moved from my conservative views on other religions and Christianity to a broader perspective and acceptance."
—Kae Yong, Lee D. Min. Missiology
"The biggest impact for ministry from learning at NBTS is the ability to be more confident in sharing God’s work and mission of the church."
—Wilma Porter, MATS
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Alumni Awards
Congratulations to the 2024 Alumni Award recipients
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From left to right: Rev. Dr. Renée House, Rev. Dr. Ronald J. Wells, Rev. Kent McHeard
1784 Legacy Award: Rev. Dr. Renée House (MDiv 1987)
Rev. Dr. Renée House has served the RCA as a faculty member, Library Director, and Dean at NBTS, as pastor of the Old Dutch Reformed Church in Kingston, New York, as a General Synod Professor, as a member of the Classes of New York and New Brunswick. Though retired, Dr. House currently is a member of the Mid-Hudson Classis, the Kingston Interfatih Council, and the Kingston Coalition for Housing Justice – an organization she helped create.
Chaplaincy Award: Rev. Dr. Ronald J. Wells (MDiv 1984)
Rev. Dr. Ronald J. Wells has a distinguished military career, serving in the United States Navy for well over thirty years in active duty and the reserves. During his time of service, he was called to active duty and was deployed to Afghanistan. Dr. Wells began his chaplaincy service as a Lieutenant in 1985 and retired as a Captain in 2005. Currently, Dr. Wells serves as the pastor of the Union Congregational Church (United Church of Christ) in Harlem, New York.
Prophetic Ministry Award: Rev. Kent McHeard (MDiv 2009)
Rev. Kent McHeard has maintained a powerfully compassionate pastoral presence in his community for many years. Rev. McHeard serves on the Amsterdam, New York School Board and as the chaplain for three local fire departments, in addition to working with the Boy Scouts of America and other community organizations. For 22 years, Rev. McHeard has faithfully served as the pastor of the First Reformed Church in Rotterdam, New York.
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This year we honored the graduates, spouses and widows of the Alumni members of the Class of 1954, 1964, 1974, 1984, 1994, 1999, 2004, 2014, and 2019. The celebration took place during this years commencement weekend. | |
We are thrilled to share some exciting staffing updates with you:
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Rev. Charles M. Rix, PhD. has been appointed as the Interim Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs, in addition to his roles as Director of the M.A. in Theological Studies & Ministry Studies Programs and Professor of Biblical Studies. Rev. Beth Tanner, PhD has gracefully passed the baton to him as she returns to her cherished and longstanding position as the Rev. Dr. Norman and Mrs. Mary Kansfield Professor of Old Testament Studies.
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Rev. Stephen Mann will now also oversee the Admissions function at the seminary as our Vice President of Communications & Admissions.
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Ms. Ruth S. Almonte has been promoted to Director of Student Services and will continue her valuable work in the Admissions office.
We are confident that these changes will greatly benefit our community and look forward to the positive impact they will bring.
To celebrate these changes, Dr. Rix will be our preacher at our opening Convocation service this year!
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Convocation Service &
Annual Gathering on the Green
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September 14, 2024
Join us for the start of the new academic year!
Starting at 11:00 am (eastern) with our Convocation Service, followed by the Annual NBTS Community-wide “Gathering on the Green” at noon!
This will be a celebration of the beginning of another academic year, and a time of fun, fellowship, music, refreshments, grilling, and activities for children! Co-sponsored by NBTS, SSIM, and the NBTS Alumni Association.
Convocation speaker: Rev. Charles M. Rix, PhD, Interim Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs
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All are invited... FREE!
Join us, and bring your family & friends!
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Please join us for the 2024 Mark Kraai Lecture: Theological & Practical Principles on Community Development
October 26 @ 9:00 am - 3:00 pm • Eastern
Featuring Keynote Speaker:
Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, Jr.
President and CEO, Corporate Community Connections, Inc.
Followed by a series of workshops designed to equip and inform!
Registration
Admission is free, but registration is required.
Survey
As we work to set up workshops that respond to the needs of our community, we ask you to fill out a survey that will give us a clear picture of what kinds of things might be of interest or are needed in your particular ministry context.
This symposium is crafted to inspire & equip faith-based organizations with knowledge, tools, & strategies essential to contribute to the redevelopment of communities in the Garden State and beyond!
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Thriving Together:
A Beacon of Hope for Ministry Leaders
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In early June, The WELL Grant Program at New Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS) hosted the highly anticipated 2024 WELL Conference titled, "Thriving Together: Cultivating Holistic Wellness in Ministry," Now welcoming its fourth cohort of pastors, The WELL Grant Program directed by Dr. Gihane Jérémie-Brink is a 5-year grant program (generously funded by the Lilly Endowment Inc.) that promotes the mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of Black and Latino pastors and faith leaders. This one-day event proved to be a transformative experience for pastors and faith leaders as attendees gathered at NBTS to explore innovative approaches to mental health prevention and holistic well-being in ministry. This conference was not just an event; it marked a significant step towards sustainable, fulfilling service in faith communities.
At the heart of the conference was an exceptional lineup of speakers and facilitators. Dr. Thema Bryant, an award-winning author, minister, and past President of the American Psychological Association, delivered the keynote address, bringing her unique blend of psychological expertise and spiritual insight to the forefront. Her talk titled, “Reclaiming Yourself: Holistic Healing from the Wounds of Stress and Trauma,” offered both spiritual inspiration and practical strategies to overcome stress and trauma for pastors and the faith communities they serve. Dr. Bryant’s inspiring words set the tone for a day of growth and renewal. Attendees also engaged in a thought-provoking panel discussion which included NBTS's own President Micah McCreary, participated in hands-on workshops, and took advantage of valuable networking opportunities, all designed to equip leaders with practical tools for personal and community wellness.
The WELL Conference proved to be more than just a gathering; it served as a vital resource for ministry leaders seeking to thrive in their calling. By focusing on the holistic nature of wellness - encompassing mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions - the conference addressed the unique challenges faced by those in ministry. Participants left with fresh insights, renewed energy, and a supportive network of peers. Whether they came looking to enhance their personal well-being, find new ways to support their communities, or simply recharge their spiritual batteries, attendees found the WELL Conference offered a space for learning, connection, and transformation. The event marked a significant milestone in the journey of cultivating wellness in ministry, ensuring that those who care for others are themselves well-cared for.
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Please feel free to connect with us by clicking on the links below, or email at wellprogram@nbts.edu | |
A Proposed New Look for RCA Polity
September 19 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm • Eastern
Online Webinar
What is a “Middle Assembly,” and Why Will It Change Our Judicial Business?
The RCA’s Restructure Task Force has completed a two-year project - culminating in eleven key recommendations for the 2024 General Synod aimed at streamlining the church’s structure into a single tier of “middle assemblies” and revising judicial processes. This significant proposal, representing the largest amendment to the Book of Church Order in years, is slated for a classis vote by next March. This webinar hopes to clarify the implications and facilitate informed decision-making – and give us an opportunity to discuss what this means for the future of RCA Polity.
This program is free to attend, but registration is required.
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Talk About the WCRC and Reformed Ecumenism
November 14 @ 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm • Eastern
Online Webinar
Looking at the World Communion of Reformed Churches
Since its founding in June of 2010, the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) has been at the forefront of world ecumenical discussions. With 232 member denominations, it works on behalf of eighty million Reformed Christians globally. For ten of those twenty-four years, two members of the Reformed Church in America have been a crucial part of the WCRC’s work.
Lisa Vander Wal and Phil Tanis will lead this discussion. Both are friends of the Reformed Church Center and both are completing their work with the WCRC around the same time.
This program is free to attend, but registration is required.
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“NBTS — A Light in God’s Cities. Educating people and calling communities to Think Critically, Act Justly, and Lead Faithfully.”
If you, or anyone in your community or congregation is curious about exploring a seminary education, we'd like to suggest that you come see what's new at NBTS.
With our comprehensive 36-hour Masters of Arts in Ministry Studies, we provide a unique opportunity for individuals to embark on a transformative journey towards their ministry career goals. Our program begins with foundational courses in biblical and theological education, allowing students to tailor their studies by selecting from a wide range of electives that align with their specific ministry aspirations. We firmly believe that partnering with our students is the key to achieving their ministry career goals.
What sets us apart is our commitment to justice and dismantling systems of power and privilege. As Dr. Charles Rix, the new Dean of New Brunswick Theological Seminary, emphasizes, "In all our programs, from Certificate through Doctor of Ministry, you will be grounded in our commitment to justice and dismantling systems of power and privilege we encounter as we seek to enact justice in our communities."
Should students wish to further deepen their theological studies, their coursework and electives can apply to our academically focused Master of Arts in Theological Studies, Master of Arts in Pastoral Care and Counseling, or our esteemed Master of Divinity program.
Ready to go further? You can advance in your theological studies by applying for our Doctor of Ministry program, which focuses on innovative teaching centered in Social Justice. The program offers specializations in Pastoral Care, Prophetic Urban Ministry, Transformational Preaching, and Global Christianity. Through this program, you will learn to become a leader in your field of ministry. The DMin program provides an opportunity to deepen your understanding and skills in various areas of ministry. If you want to grow as a theological leader, our DMin program may be a beneficial opportunity for you.
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Make a gift today to support theological education
Your generosity can make a lasting impact on the future of theological education and leadership. By donating to New Brunswick Theological Seminary, you support our mission to nurture and equip students for ministry and service in diverse communities. Your contribution helps provide scholarships, enhance academic programs, and maintain our historic campus and library. Join us in shaping the next generation of faith leaders by making a donation today.
If you have any questions, please contact:
Cathy Proctor | cproctor@nbts.edu | 848-237-1706
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New Brunswick Theological Seminary
35 Seminary Place, New Brunswick, NJ 08901
732.247.5241
www.NBTS.edu
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