Louisville Seminary begins sesquicentennial events

Louisville, Ky., August 2002 – Beginning next month, Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary will commence a year-long celebration of 150 years of service to the church and community with a number of special events. Planned with the community in mind, each event is offered in gratitude for the historical relationships that have sustained Louisville Seminary since its Danville, Ky., beginnings in 1853.

WHAT: Fall Convocation of the 150th Academic Year
WHEN: September 12, 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Caldwell Chapel, Louisville Seminary

The Seminary will honor individuals, congregations, and agencies throughout Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio and Illinois that have been a part of the school’s historic commitment to integrating theological study with practical ministry through its Field Education program. Dr. F. Morgan Roberts, interim director of the program, will deliver the address, “The Making of a Minister”, based on the scripture I Corinthians 2:1-8.

WHAT: “Way to Live: Christian Practices for Teens,”
a conference for parents and practitioners. $30 per person includes lunch and book.
WHEN: October 9, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
WHERE: Laws Lodge, Louisville Seminary

Youth expert Don Richter will lead this workshop on how to teach Christian practices to youth using website resources from www.practicingourfaith.org and the publication Way to Live: Christian Practices for Teens, co-edited with Dorothy Bass. Richter was the founding director of the first Lilly Endowment-funded, seminary-sponsored youth program, now called the Youth Theological Initiative. Information to register is available on-line

WHAT: “We Believe in God: A Hymn Festival”
WHEN: October 25, 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Caldwell Chapel, Louisville Seminary

Renowned organist Bruce Neswick will lead a program of hymns based on the theme of the Nicene Creed. The free event will feature a new hymn for the church, commissioned by Louisville Seminary for its anniversary year. “There Is a Dream that Thrills God’s Heart” was written by Thomas H. Troeger and set to the tune, “BRAY”, an indigenous melody of rhythmic vitality from the Kentucky Harmony collection. The event is co-sponsored by supporting grants from the Presbyterian Association of Musicians (PAM) and the Louisville Chapter of the American Guild of Organists (AGO). Free tickets, which are required, may be requested from the Office of Communications at 800.264.1839, ext. 460, or by e-mail. They will be available beginning September 1.

WHAT: Release of a publication on Louisville Seminary
WHEN: November
WHERE: Eerdmans Publishing Co.; Hawley Cooke Booksellers, Louisville Seminary Bookstore

Many Lamps, One Light: Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary – A 150th Anniversary History tells the story of Louisville Seminary from the founding in 1853 until the present. More than just an institutional history, this book opens a window on American Protestantism by its examination of this one seminary. The history of the seminary mirrors the economic, social, political, intellectual, and ecclesiastical forces that have affected Protestantism and its institutions in the nation. This book is written by alumnus Rick Nutt, professor of religion at Muskingum College. It will be of interest both to those affiliated with Louisville Seminary and to those seeking a valuable case study in American Christian higher education. Copies of the new book may be purchased on-line through Erdmans Publishing. Inquiries may be directed to the sales department. www.eerdmans.com

WHAT: Service of Lessons & Carols and Booksigning
WHEN: December 6, 10 a.m.
WHERE: Service at Caldwell Chapel; Booksigning at Winn Center, Louisville Seminary

Celebrate the Christmas season at a service of traditional carols and hymns led by students, faculty, and staff of Louisville Seminary. In conjunction with a reception immediately following the service, alumnus Rick Nutt will sign his publication, Many Lamps, One Light: Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary – A 150th Anniversary History (Eerdmans 2002).

In addition to the events highlighted here, many more opportunities for continuing education will be offered as part of the 150th celebration and are listed in the 150th Anniversary web pages. For more information or personal assistance contact the Office of Communications at 800.264.1839, ext. 460, or by e-mail.