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Conference Archives

For specific scheduling and session information from previous years, contact the CSC at csc@lipscomb.edu.

SESSIONS

Past Years
  • 2023
  • 2022
  • 2021
Session Slot
  • Evening Focus
  • Plenary
  • Prevenient Sessions
  • Session 1
  • Session 2
  • Session 3
  • Session 4
  • Session 5
  • Session 6
Section
  • American Film Studies
  • American Religion
  • Arts & Spirituality 2024
  • Arts and Spirituality
  • Business and Economics
  • C.S. Lewis
  • Centers for Faith and Learning
  • Centers for Teaching and Learning
  • Christianity, Literature, and Language
  • Church and Academy
  • Civil Rights
  • Congregational Science
  • Creative Writing
  • Early Career Scholars in the Theological Disciplines
  • Everett Ferguson Lecture Early Christian Studies
  • Faith and Learning
  • Film Studies
  • Gender Studies
  • Health Sciences
  • Hermeneutics
  • Hermeneutics of Unity in and after Scripture
  • Higher Education
  • Hymnology
  • Interdisciplinary Studies
  • J.J.M. Roberts' Lecture in Old Testament Studies
  • Landon Saunders' Lecture
  • Law, Policy, and Justice
  • Mission and World Christianity
  • New Testament
  • Old Testament
  • Patristics
  • Philosophy
  • Plenary
  • Political Engagement
  • Political Science
  • Practical Theology
  • Practical Theology: DMin Projects
  • Practical Theology: Religious Education Track
  • Science
  • Special Sessions
  • Sustainability
  • Teaching, Learning and Technology
  • The Libraries
  • Theology
  • Theology and Philosophy
  • Theopoetics
  • Vocation
Speakers
View Featured Speakers

2023 Frank and Della Pack Plenary

Plenary
When: June 7, 2023, 9:30 am - Wednesday
Where: The Grand Hall in the Learning Center
Speakers
Mark Lanier, Civil Trial Attorney and Founder, Lanier Theological Library, Houston, Texas, "Law and Justice - From Mt Sinai to Washington D.C."

2023 John T. Willis Plenary

Plenary
When: June 7, 2023, 2:45 pm - Wednesday
Where: The Grand Hall in the Learning Center
Speakers
Sharon Dirckx, "Souls, Minds and Brains: What Does it Mean to Be Human in an Age of AI?"

2023 Fred D. Gray Plenary

Plenary
When: June 8, 2023, 10:45 am - Thursday
Where: The Grand Hall in the Learning Center
Speakers
Willie Jennings, Yale Divinity School, "Finding One Chord: Belonging as the Heart of Democracy"

2023 Robert E. and Bonnie Cone Hooper Plenary: No Small Endeavor

Plenary
When: June 8, 2023, 7:30 pm - Thursday
Where: The Grand Hall in the Learning Center
Speakers
Lee C. Camp, Lipscomb University, Host
  • N.T. Wright, Oxford University, Guest

2023 Abraham J. Malherbe Plenary

Plenary
When: June 9, 2023, 10:45 am - Friday
Where: The Grand Hall in the Learning Center
Speakers
N.T. Wright, Oxford University, "Defending the Gospel, Challenging the Culture: Urgent Lessons from Paul's Speech in Athens"

Poems on The Way: Drew Jackson Explores Luke’s Gospel in a New Poetic Register

Arts and Spirituality
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: Journals Room
Speakers
Sara Gaston Barton, Pepperdine University, Convener
  • Drew Jackson, Director of Mission Integration for the Center for Action and Contemplation, Participant
  • Kindy De Long, Pepperdine University, Respondent
  • David Holmes, Lipscomb University, Respondent
  • Zac Luben, Pepperdine University, Respondent

What Will Be Our Future? Impact of COVID on Teaching, Engagement, and Learning

Business and Economics
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: Malamat
Speakers
Russell Dabbs, Lubbock Christian University, Convener
  • Jennifer Golden, David Perkins, and Phil Vardiman, Abilene Christian University, “Impact of COVID on Teaching, Engagement and Learning: We Can’t Go Back to Where We Were, So How Do We Best Move Forward?”
  • Brad Lemler, Howard Payne University, “What Has Happened to My Students? Teaching Business Majors in a Post-virus Policy World”

Whither C.S. Lewis?: What Will Be the Future of the Lewis Legacy?

C.S. Lewis
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: LTL Main Hall
Speakers
Ken Durham, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Carrie Birmingham, Pepperdine University, Participant
  • Mark Lanier, Civil Trial Attorney and Founder, Lanier Theological Library, Houston, Texas, Participant
  • Gary Selby, Emmanuel Christian Seminary, Milligan University, Participant
  • Ryan Pemberton, Seattle Pacific University, Participant

Race, Heroism, and Moral Failure: Two Christian Colleges in Abilene, Texas

Civil Rights
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: Lamb & Scroll
Speakers
Richard Hughes, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Stephen V. Crowder, Sandia National Laboratories, “Early Student Voices for Integration at Abilene Christian College”
  • Travis Frampton and Kelvin J. Kelley, Schreiner University; Hardin-Simmons University, “A Story Buried for Far too Long: The Abolitionist Roots of Hardin-Simmons University”

Christian Responses to the Problem of Insularity

Early Career Scholars in the Theological Disciplines
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: TBD
Speakers
Isaac Borbon, Vanderbilt University, Convener
  • Travis Myers, Saint Louis University, “Bishop Ding’s Cosmic Christology as Interreligious Dialogue”
  • Aaron Ducksworth, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, “Reconceptualizing Racism: A Kelseyian Retrieval”
  • Nick Fagnant, Boston College School of Theology and Ministry, “‘For the Fire had had No Power over the Bodies of These Men’ - Transgressive Spirituality in The Book of Daniel”
  • Arthur Sutherland, Loyola University, MD, Senior Scholar, Respondent

Movies and Meaning: Film as an Arts-Based Pedagogy for Religious and Theological Reflection

Film Studies
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: Balliol
Speakers
Joi Carr, Pepperdine University, Convener

How Can Faith-based Education Refresh Souring Perceptions of Higher Education?

Higher Education
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: Stone Chapel
Speakers
Trace Hebert, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Candice McQueen, President, Lipscomb University, Moderator
  • Phil Schubert, President, Abilene Christian University, Participant
  • Scott McDowell, President, Lubbock Christian University, Participant
  • Michael Williams, President, Harding University, Participant
  • John deSteiguer, Chancellor, Oklahoma Christian University, Participant
  • Sherilyn Emberton, President, Huntington University, Participant

Adaptable for Life: The Message of the OT for Contemporary Readers, Session I

Old Testament
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: Baylor Seminar Room
Speakers
Kevin Youngblood and Kilnam Cha, Harding University; Abilene Christian University, Co-Conveners
  • Kevin Youngblood, Harding University, “Introduction to the Prophets”
  • Brandon Fredenburg, Lubbock Christian University, "Ezekiel"
  • Kipp Swinney, Baylor University, “Jonah: An Unwilling Prophet of Grace”

Ministerial Practice Refining Theology: Revising “Intergenerational Christian Formation”

Practical Theology
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: Board Room
Speakers
Ron Bruner, Editor, Discernment: Theology and the Practice of Ministry, Convener and Panelist
  • Samjung Kang-Hamilton, Abilene Christian University, Panelist
  • Jennifer Reinsch Schroeder, Abilene Christian University, Panelist
  • Holly Catterton Allen, Lipscomb University, Respondent

Women, Mission and Leadership: Recent Academic Studies on Efforts to Create Gender Inclusion and Equity in Faith Communities

Practical Theology
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: Pembroke
Speakers
John York, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Steve Gardner, Attorney, Authentic Theology, Aukenjam LLC, “Churches of Christ Ending Prohibitions Against Females Speaking and Leading: Case Studies & Observations on Steps for Success”
  • Amy Boone, Highland Church of Christ, Abilene, TX, Ecclesial Response
  • Tiffany Dahlman, Abilene Christian University in Dallas and Courtyard Church of Christ, Fayetteville, NC, Academic Response
  • Cheryl Russell, New Heritage Fellowship, Fairview, Texas, “The Spiritual Impact of Female Pastoral Leadership on the Members of New Heritage Fellowship”
  • Candace Nicolds, Brookline Church of Christ, Ecclesial Response
  • Amy McLaughlin-Sheasby, Abilene Christian University, Assistant Professor, Bible, Missions, and Ministry, Academic Response

Major Book Review, Elaine H. Ecklund and David R. Johnson, “Varieties of Atheism in Science” (OUP, 2021)

Science
When: June 7, 2023, 1:00 pm - Wednesday
Where: Yarnton
Speakers
John Lewis, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Greg Cootsona, California State University, Chico, Comparative Religion and Humanities, Reviewer
  • Dwayne Simmons, Baylor University, Biology, Reviewer
  • Amanda Nichols, Oklahoma Christian University, Natural Health and Sciences, Reviewer
  • Elaine Howard Ecklund, Rice University, Respondent

The Conscience of Churches of Christ: Dwain Evans, A Celebration of Life

American Religion
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: Stone Chapel
Speakers
Jeff Christian, Bering Drive Church of Christ, Houston, Texas, Convener
  • Richard Hughes, Lipscomb University, "Dwain's Historical Impact"
  • Greg McKinzie, Lipscomb University, "The Lasting Impact of 'Mission Journal'"
  • Raymond Carr, Harvard Divinity School, "The Impact on Race Relations"
  • Jack Scott, California Community College System, Chancellor, Emeritus, "The Integrity of Dwain Evans"
  • Alec Schrader, Bering Drive Church of Christ, Houston, Texas, "Dwain as Mentor and Model"
  • Mary Ethel Gale, West Islip Church of Christ, "The Impact of Exodus Bayshore"
  • Dwain Evans, Bering Drive Church of Christ, Houston, TX, Response

Topics in Economic Theory, Policy, and Practice

Business and Economics
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: Pembroke
Speakers
Orneita Burton, Abilene Christian University, Convener
  • Kyle Tippens, Monty Lynn, and Ryan Jessup, Abilene Christian University, “Financial Security: Insights, Critique, and Research Potential”
  • Janice Hauge, University of North Texas, “Thoughts on BEAD: Preventing Waste, Fraud, and Abuse in the $42.5 Billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program”
  • Chris Barker, Harding University, “Property Rights and Institutions: A Reappraisal of Teaching Economics”
  • Ernest Liang and Ellen Clardy, Houston Christian University, “Economic Perspectives on Entrepreneurship: Biblical Interpretations and Application”

Major Book Review: Catherine Meeks, “The Night is Long but Light Comes in the Morning: Meditations for Racial Healing”

Civil Rights
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: Balliol
Speakers
Claire Davidson Frederick, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Christopher S. Collins, Pepperdine University, Panelist
  • Angela D. Sims, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, Panelist
  • Derrick Jackson, First Baptist Church, Gallatin, TN, Panelist
  • Cookye Rutledge, Young Scholars Academy, Panelist
  • Catherine Meeks, Absalom Jones Center for Racial Healing, Respondent

The Future of Congregations I

Congregational Science
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: Lamb & Scroll
Speakers
Chris J. Gonzalez, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Greg Cootsona, California State University, Chico, “Faith and Science: Congregations As Safe Places for Emerging Adults”
  • Holly Catterton Allen, Lipscomb University, “Benefits, Challenges, and Recommendations for Intergenerational Ministry”
  • Daniel Crouch, Baylor University, “Congregations in Crisis”
  • Greg Brooks, Abilene Christian University, “Deconstructing Whiteness in Congregations”

Towards a Theology of Grace

Early Career Scholars in the Theological Disciplines
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: Board Room
Speakers
Chance Juliano, Southern Methodist University, Convener
  • Matthew B. Hale, Abilene Christian University, “Lonergan on Grace as the Principle of Social Recovery”
  • Darren Hagood, HYL (Heal) Church and Fuller Theological Seminary, “Breathwork and Christian Spirituality (A Proposal)”
  • John Kern, Pepperdine University, “Grace as Intersubjective in the Church: Balthasar on the Holy Spirit and Charisms”

Augustine’s Gradual Assembly of an Exploration of the Efficacy of the Baptismal Ritual

Everett Ferguson Lecture Early Christian Studies
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: Malamat
Speakers
Tera Harmon, Abilene Christian University, Convener
  • Patout Burns, Vanderbilt Divinity School, Emeritus, Lecturer

Major Book Review: Lauren Smelser White, “Flesh Made Word: The Protestant Interpretation Problem and an Embodied Hermeneutic” (Fortress Academic, 2022)

Hermeneutics of Unity in and after Scripture
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: LTL Main Hall
Speakers
Daniel Oden, Harding University, Convener
  • Kindy De Long, Pepperdine University, Reviewer
  • Carl Flynn, Baylor University, Reviewer
  • Jared Saltz, Florida College, Reviewer
  • Lauren Smelser White, Lipscomb University, Respondent

Adaptable for Life: The Message of the OT for Contemporary Readers, Session II

Old Testament
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: Baylor Seminar Room
Speakers
Kevin Youngblood and Kilnam Cha, Harding University; Abilene Christian University, Co-Conveners
  • Kilnam Cha, Abilene Christian University, “The Psalms: How Can We Sing the Songs of YHWH in a Foreign Land?”
  • Phillip Camp, Lipscomb University, “Ezra-Nehemiah as a Word of God to the Church Today”
  • Jordan Guy, Harding University, “Feasting on the Leftovers: Why We Must Include 1-2 Chronicles in Our Survey Classes!”

Community Grief: Churches, Changes, and Where Have All the Young People Gone?

Practical Theology
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: Yarnton
Speakers
Rob McRay, Interim Ministry Partners, Convener
  • Virgil Fry, The Institute for Spirituality and Health, Participant
  • Justin Thompson, Executive Director, Lifeline Chaplaincy, Houston, Participant
  • Paul Riddle, Director of Spiritual Care, Lifeline Chaplaincy, Houston, Participant
  • Stuart Nelson, Acting President, The Institute for Spirituality and Health, Participant

Theology on the Ground: Assessing Tim Sensing’s “Qualitative Research”

Practical Theology
When: June 7, 2023, 4:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: Journals Room
Speakers
Mason Lee, Abilene Christian University, Convener
  • Jack Holland, Emmanuel Christian Seminary, Panelist
  • Ron Bruner, Editor, Discernment: Theology and the Practice of Ministry, Panelist
  • Tim Sensing, Abilene Christian University Graduate School of Theology, Respondent

Landon Saunders’ Lecture: The Human Being: The Nexus of World and Faith, “Inviting the World to Wonder: Art and the Church’s Witness”

Landon Saunders' Lecture
When: June 7, 2023, 7:15 pm - Wednesday
Where: The Grand Hall in the Learning Center with overflow in Stone Chapel
Speakers
John D. Barton, Pepperdine University, Convener
  • James K. A. Smith, Calvin University, “Inviting the World to Wonder: Art and the Church’s Witness"

Christian Nationalism in Historical and Theoretical Perspective

American Religion
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: Malamat
Speakers
Christina Littlefield, Pepperdine University, Convener
  • James L. Gorman, Johnson University, “What Have Churches of Christ to do with Christian Nationalism?”
  • Christina Littlefield, Pepperdine University, “How the Christian Left Paradoxically Spurred the Right’s Christian Nationalism”
  • Jeremie Beller, Oklahoma Christian University, “When Religion Pulls Double-Duty: A Terror Management Approach to Christian Nationalism”
  • Chris Soper, Pepperdine University, “Reaping the Whirlwind: Religion and Nationalism in Global Perspective"

Topics in Teaching and Learning

Business and Economics
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: Baylor Seminar Room
Speakers
Chris Barker, Harding University, Convener
  • Orneita Burton, Abilene Christian University, “People Make the Space: Education as Informed by Advanced Learning Technologies”
  • David A. Bosch, Boyce College, “What Will Be Our Future? Business Education and AI in Christian Colleges and Universities”
  • Brad Lemler, Howard Payne University, “When Virus Policy Gives You Lemons: Using Recent Increases in Inflation and Interest Rates in Introductory Macroeconomics”
  • Shannon M. Leinen, York University, “Business as Mission: A Case-Study of Building an Experiential Learning Course”

Theological Education Outside the Academy

Church and Academy
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: Board Room
Speakers
Matthew B. Hale, Abilene Christian University, Convener
  • Zac Luben, Pepperdine University, “CrossWays: An Experiment in Theology and Vocation”
  • Garrett Best, York University, “They are like Trees Planted by Streams of Water: Theological and Spiritual Formation in the Local Church”
  • Kristi Miller Anderson, Fourth Purpose Foundation, “Theological Education in the Prison Setting”

Cultivating Diversity, Equity, and Belonging on University Campuses

Civil Rights
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: Lamb & Scroll
Speakers
William Lofton Turner, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Joel Anderson, Chancellor Emeritus, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Participant
  • Tanya Smith Brice, Council on Social Work Education, Participant
  • Joi Carr, Pepperdine University, Participant
  • Raymond Carr, Harvard Divinity School, Participant
  • Wes Crawford, Abilene Christian University, Participant
  • Richard Hughes, Lipscomb University, Participant
  • Jennifer Shewmaker, Lipscomb University, Participant

The Future of Congregations II

Congregational Science
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: Yarnton
Speakers
Chris J. Gonzalez, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Sara Salkil, Abilene Christian University, “The Process of Repair in a Distressed Eldership: An Emotionally Focused Approach”
  • Sumer Bingham Musick, University of Pikeville, “Embodies Theology and Sexual Abuse: Implications for Ritual, Language, and Community”
  • Ben Postlewaite, Regan Schaffer, and Christopher S. Collins, Pepperdine University, “Human Resource Practices in American Churches”
  • Marsha Vaughn, Adler University, “Toward A Trauma-informed Congregation”

The Psalms and Creation Theology

J.J.M. Roberts' Lecture in Old Testament Studies
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: Stone Chapel
Speakers
Mark W. Hamilton, Abilene Christian University, Convener
  • Bill Bellinger, Baylor University, Lecturer

Evangelism and History in World Christianity

Mission and World Christianity
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: LTL Main Hall
Speakers
Jeremy Hegi, Lubbock Christian University, Convener
  • Nadia Andrilenas, Baylor University, “Elite Vietnamese Women and European Jesuits: Indispensable Allies for the Survival of Christianity in 17th century Vietnam"
  • David Chrisna, Baylor University, “Journey to the East: A Search for a Historiography of Asian Christianity in the World Christianity Discourse”
  • Monty L. Lynn and Derran Reese, Abilene Christian University, “‘Oh, Will You Not Tell It Today?’ What Twentieth-Century Churches of Christ Sang about Missions”
  • Sam Twumasi-Ankrah and Nathan Bills, Heritage Christian College (Accra, Ghana), “Leadership Effectiveness in Christian Academic Institutions in Africa: A Reflection on Heritage Christian College in Accra, Ghana”

Major Book Review: David M. Moffitt, “Rethinking the Atonement: New Perspectives on Jesus’s Death, Resurrection, and Ascension” (Baker Academic, 2022)

New Testament
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: Balliol
Speakers
Ken Berry and Kindy De Long, Bible League International, Convener; Pepperdine University, Presiding
  • Christian Eberhart, University of Houston, Participant
  • James W. Thompson, Abilene Christian University, Participant
  • Christopher Hutson, Abilene Christian University, Participant
  • David Moffitt, University of St. Andrews, Respondent

Trauma, Doubt, and Resilience: Theology and Practice in an Age of Anxiety

Practical Theology
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: Pembroke
Speakers
Gary Selby, Emmanuel Christian Seminary, Milligan University, Professor of Ministerial Formation, Convener
  • Connie Horton, Pepperdine University, Vice President for Student Affairs, Participant
  • Amy McLaughlin-Sheasby, Abilene Christian University, Assistant Professor, Bible, Missions, and Ministry, Participant
  • David Pocta, Institute for the Study of Contemporary Spirituality at the Oblate School of Theology, Participant
  • Michael Woods, Inpatient Mental Health Ward, James H. Quillen, VAMC, Chaplain, Participant

The Good and the Right

Theology and Philosophy
When: June 8, 2023, 9:00 am - Thursday
Where: Journals Room
Speakers
Derek Estes, Pepperdine University, Convener
  • Kraig Martin, Harding University, Panelist
  • Jim Baird, Oklahoma Christian University, Panelist
  • David Baggett, Houston Baptist University, Panelist
  • Mac Sandlin, Harding University, Panelist

Topics in Higher Education

Business and Economics
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: Malamat
Speakers
Shannon M. Leinen, York University, Convener
  • Janice Hauge, University of North Texas, “Breaking into the Core Curriculum”
  • Ebenezer Obuobi Danso, Heritage Christian College, Ghana, “Internal Stakeholder Collaboration: Exploring Resilience in Higher Education during Emergencies”
  • Christopher S. Collins and Joshua R. Canada, Pepperdine University; Whittier College, “Organizational Identity in Christian Higher Education: A Case Study of Board Influence”
  • James Woodrow, Vanguard University, “Mission and Culture: The Heart and Soul of Christian Higher Education”

Finding Our Future in Fresh Consideration of Major Works I

Christianity, Literature, and Language
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: Balliol
Speakers
Jon Singleton, Harding University, Convener
  • Jon Singleton, Harding University, “‘The Old Order Changeth’: Reading Tennyson's Idylls of the King in 2023”
  • Rachel Gould, Pepperdine University, “Friend and Stranger: Welcoming the Refugee in Voltaire’s Candide, or All for the Best”
  • Martin Premoli, California State University, San Bernadino, “Imagining a Just Transition in Saci Lloyd’s The Carbon Diaries”

Moving Forward in Belonging: Engaging Willie James Jennings’ “After Whiteness: An Education in Belonging”

Civil Rights
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: Stone Chapel
Speakers
Joe Creech, Valparaiso University, Convener
  • Joi Carr, Pepperdine University, Panelist
  • Raymond Carr, Harvard Divinity School, Panelist
  • Angela D. Sims, Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, Panelist
  • William Lofton Turner, Lipscomb University, Panelist
  • Willie Jennings, Yale Divinity School, Respondent

What Will Be Our Future? A Reading by CSC Authors

Creative Writing
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: Board Room
Speakers
Nancy Posey, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Christine Galib, The Ion, Houston, TX, Panelist
  • Shelly Sanders, Abilene Christian University, Panelist
  • Nancy Posey, Lipscomb University, Panelist

The Hermeneutics of Unity in and after Scripture 2023: Genesis 11:10-25:11

Hermeneutics of Unity in and after Scripture
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: Baylor Seminar Room
Speakers
David Stark, Faulkner University, Convener
  • Laura Locke Estes, Pepperdine University, “Hagar and Her Children: Narrative, Allegory, and the Other in Christian Identity Construction”
  • Kilnam Cha, Abilene Christian University, “Genesis 16 and 21: Hagar and Ishmael”
  • Zane McGee, Abilene Christian University, “How to Misread Scripture Properly: The Hermeneutical Principles Behind Paul’s Recasting of Abrahamic Lineage”

The Public/Private Divide: A Conversation with Christian University Administrators at Public and Faith-based Universities

Higher Education
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: Lamb & Scroll
Speakers
Nancy Shankle, Associate Vice Chancellor, Texas A&M University System and Provost of the RELLIS Academic Alliance, Convener
  • James Hallmark, Vice Chancellor, The Texas A&M University System, Participant
  • Allison Garrett, Chancellor, Oklahoma State System of Higher Education, Participant
  • L. Randolph Lowry III, Lipscomb University, Emeritus, Participant
  • Robert Rhodes, Provost, Abilene Christian University, Participant
  • Kathy Pulley, Professor Emeritus, Missouri State University, Participant
  • Joel Anderson, Chancellor Emeritus, University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Participant

The Gailyn Van Rheenen Endowed Session on Mission and World Christianity

Mission and World Christianity
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: Yarnton
Speakers
Greg McKinzie, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Charles Kiser, Storyline Christian Community, "Trauma-Informed Evangelism"
  • Amy McLaughlin-Sheasby, Abilene Christian University, Assistant Professor, Bible, Missions, and Ministry, Respondent

Current Trends in Homiletics: Conversations in Theory and Practice

Practical Theology
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: Journals Room
Speakers
Tim Sensing and Mason Lee, Abilene Christian University Graduate School of Theology, Co-Conveners
  • Tiffany Dahlman, Abilene Christian University in Dallas and Courtyard Church of Christ, Fayetteville, NC, “Open On Purpose: The Influence of an Open Pulpit Culture on Congregational Formation”
  • Matthew Love, Baylor University, “Preaching in Place: Reflections on the Sermons of Oscar Romero, Dislocated Pulpits, and the Dangers of an Incarnate Word”
  • Candace Nicolds, Brookline Church of Christ, Respondent

Imagining a Future for Churches of Christ: Mission, Testimony, and Creation Care

Practical Theology
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: Pembroke
Speakers
John York, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Falon Barton, Pepperdine University Church of Christ, “Participating in the Testimony of Creation as an Act of Missional Hospitality: A Theology of Care and Practical Steps Forward”
  • Paul Prill, Lipscomb University, Ecclesial Response
  • Helen Holmlund, Pepperdine University, Academic Response
  • Christopher Cobbler, Reformation Memphis, Memphis, TN, “Recovering the Art of Testimony, as Embodied Within the Historical Black Church, as a Missionally Formative Practice”
  • Daryl Horton, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Austin, TX, Ecclesial Response
  • Kris Miller, Lipscomb University, Academic Response

The Sciences in Practice and Learning Communities

Science
When: June 8, 2023, 1:45 pm - Thursday
Where: LTL Main Hall
Speakers
John Lewis, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Juan Rojas, Lipscomb University, “Artificial Intelligence and the Road Ahead: Opportunities, Challenges, and Considerations”
  • John DeMassa, Independent Scholar, “Messages in the Genetic Code?”
  • Kendra Jernigan and Ian Shelburne, Abilene Christian University; Eden Center for Regenerative Culture, “Findings from Research on Student Attitudes and Understanding of Faith and Creation-care at Faith-based Universities”
  • Laura Callarman, Abilene Christian University, “Pedagogical Implications of Evolving Student Perspectives and a Demonstration Program”

A Case Study of a Church of Christ Congregation Through the Lens of Anthropology

American Religion
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: Pembroke
Speakers
Joshua Fleer, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Sam Victor, McGill University, Participant
  • Lamar Reinsch, Georgetown University, Respondent
  • Kraig Martin, Harding University, Respondent
  • Derek Estes, Pepperdine University, Respondent

The Holy Spirit, Ethics, and Aesthetics: Beauty and the Beautifier in Moral Theology, Art, and Rhetoric

Arts and Spirituality
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: Baylor Seminar Room
Speakers
Tessa Davidson, Harding University, Convener
  • Mac Sandlin, Harding University, “Riddling Towards the Spirit of Truth, Beauty, and Goodness”
  • C. Leonard Allen, Lipscomb University, “Where the Beauty Came From”
  • Matthew Love, Baylor University, “Preaching with Beautiful Words: George Herbert and the Beautiful Sermon”

Topics in Leadership, Management, and Mission

Business and Economics
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: Malamat
Speakers
Brad Lemler, Howard Payne University, Convener
  • William Sharp, University of the Cumberlands, “How Servant Leadership among Non-Profit Senior Leaders Influences Growth”
  • Christopher Horne, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Covenant College, “A Grounded Model of Christian Public Administrators’ Integration of Faith and Work”
  • Timothy Veach and Agam Iheanyi-Igwe, George Fox University; Bushnell University, “Entrepreneurship as Repatriation Coping Strategy for Returning Missionaries”
  • Jooho Lee, Pepperdine University, "Can There Be Any Intrinsic Value in Seeking Profits?"
  • Poster: James Meersman, Houston Christian University, "CSR and Sentiment: A Biblical Response to Greenwashing”

Finding our Future in Fresh Consideration of Major Works II

Christianity, Literature, and Language
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: Journals Room
Speakers
Greg Laing, Harding University, Convener
  • Karen Beth Strovas, Wayland Baptist University, “Putting off Penitence: Anticipation of Conscience in The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1886)”
  • Greg Laing, Harding University, “‘Though the World Said Otherwise’: Re-Reading Egil’s Saga in a Changing World”
  • Joel Nickels, University of Miami, “The Phenomenology of Discernment in Léonie Adams and Edith Stein”

Teaching Toward Vocation: Spiritual Formation and Pedagogy in Christian Universities

Church and Academy
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: Board Room
Speakers
Brandon Pierce, Independent Scholar, Convener
  • Katrina Gallardo, Pepperdine University, Panelist
  • Monica Nelson, Johnson University, Panelist
  • Amanda Pittman, Abilene Christian University, Panelist

Seeking Justice / Living Faith – A Dialogue Between Fred D. Gray and Mark Lanier – Two Christian Lawyers Who Changed the Nation

Civil Rights
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: Stone Chapel
Speakers
L. Randolph Lowry III, Lipscomb University, Emeritus, Convener
  • Fred D. Gray, Attorney at Law, Civil Rights, Participant
  • Mark Lanier, Civil Trial Attorney and Founder, Lanier Theological Library, Houston, Texas, Participant

Recent Research in Hymnology

Hymnology
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: LTL Main Hall
Speakers
Gregory Straughn, Abilene Christian University, Convener
  • D.J. Bulls, Glenwood Church of Christ, Tyler, TX, “Trinitarian Language in Church of Christ Hymns and Hymnals”
  • Megan MacDonald, Executive Director, Society for American Music, “'I Want to be a Worker for the Lord': Identities of Faith and Labor in Depression-era Hymnals”
  • Monty Lynn and Gregory Straughn, Abilene Christian University, “‘Work for the Night is Coming’: The Meaning and Significance of Labor in Christian Hymns”

The Future of Evangelism

Mission and World Christianity
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: Yarnton
Speakers
Greg McKinzie, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Amy McLaughlin-Sheasby, Abilene Christian University, Assistant Professor, Bible, Missions, and Ministry, Panelist
  • Michael L. Sweeney, Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan University, Panelist
  • David Pocta, Institute for the Study of Contemporary Spirituality at the Oblate School of Theology, Panelist
  • Charles Kiser, Storyline Christian Community, Respondent

Major Book Review: Ron Highfield, “The New Adam: What the Early Church Can Teach Evangelicals (and Liberals) about the Atonement” (Cascade, 2021)

Patristics
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: Balliol
Speakers
Jeff Childers, Abilene Christian University, Convener
  • Alden Bass, Oklahoma Christian University, Panelist
  • Tiffany Dahlman, Abilene Christian University in Dallas and Courtyard Church of Christ, Fayetteville, NC, Panelist
  • Yancy Smith, Bible League International, Panelist
  • David Mahfood, Johnson University, Florida, Panelist

Imagining a Future in Churches of Christ: Mission and Whole Person Experiences

Practical Theology
When: June 8, 2023, 3:30 pm - Thursday
Where: Lamb & Scroll
Speakers
John York, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Emily Bruff, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, “Spiritual Formation Through Visual Art in the Churches of Christ”
  • Lauren Smelser White, Lipscomb University, Theological Response
  • David Ayers, Bammel Road Church of Christ, Houston, TX, Ecclesial Response
  • Grant Azbell, Magnolia Church of Christ, Florence, AL, “The Spiritual Impact of Disability on Parents and Caregivers”
  • Pam Scretchen, Lipscomb University, Academic Response
  • Rodney Plunkett, Interim Ministry Partners, Ecclesial Response

The Gospel and John Prine

Arts and Spirituality
When: June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where: Balliol
Speakers
Micki Pulleyking, Missouri State University, Convener
  • Dwight A. Moody, The Meetinghouse, “John Prine’s Music of Christian Rhetoric and Images”
  • Nancy Posey, Lipscomb University, “John Prine and ‘the Least of These My Brethren’”
  • Micki Pulleyking, Missouri State University, “Friends: Iris Dement and John Prine”

What Will Be Our Future – If We Keep Teaching Ethics as if We Were Gnostics?

Business and Economics
When: June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where: Pembroke
Speakers
Regan Schaffer, Pepperdine University, Convener
  • Lamar Reinsch, Georgetown University, “What Will Be Our Future – If We Keep Teaching Ethics as if We Were Gnostics?”
  • Jooho Lee, Pepperdine University, Respondent
  • Monty L. Lynn, Abilene Christian University, Respondent
  • Joshua Sauerwein and Lamar Reinsch, Lubbock Christian University; Georgetown University, “The Stiff-Necked Syndrome: The Development of the Theory of Immoral Rights”

Contemporary Missiology

Mission and World Christianity
When: June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where: Lamb & Scroll
Speakers
Greg McKinzie, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Misael Cornelio-Arias, Fuller Theological Seminary, “Mission, Purpose, and Community Participation in the Proclamation of a Liberating Gospel in the Power of the Spirit: A Latinex Perspective”
  • David Baer, Theological Education Initiative, “Fullness and Deficit as Eschatological and Missional Values: The View from the Book Called Isaiah”
  • Travis Myers, Saint Louis University, “Comparative Theology and Why It Matters”
  • Glen Bowman, Grand Canyon University, “The Influence of Faith Sharing through Social Media on Young Adults who do not Identify Themselves as Christians”

Wright on Paul

New Testament
When: June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where: Stone Chapel
Speakers
Greg Sterling, Yale Divinity School, Yale University, Convener
  • Jeffrey Peterson, Lipscomb University, Participant
  • James W. Thompson, Abilene Christian University, Participant
  • Todd Still, Truett Seminary, Baylor University, Participant

Old Testament Colloquium

Old Testament
When: June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where: Malamat
Speakers
Robert Thomas Murphy, Hebrew Union College, Convener
  • David Mau, Colorado Christian University/University of Aberdeen, “Valley of Destruction, Gateway of Hope: Hosea 2 and the Covenant of Ecological Return”
  • Phillip Camp, Lipscomb University, Respondent
  • Thomas Paresi, Baylor University, “The Ishmaelite-Midianite Controversy of Genesis 37 in Light of Genesis 42–44”
  • Christopher Heard, Pepperdine University, Participant

Doctor of Ministry Research: Connecting Theology and Practice in Ministerial Contexts

Practical Theology
When: June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where: Baylor Seminar Room
Speakers
Ron Bruner, Editor, Discernment: Theology and the Practice of Ministry, Convener
  • Laura Callarman, Eden Fellows, “Refining the Eden Community’s Pathways for Shaping Regenerative Christian Culture”
  • Jennifer Reinsch Schroeder, Abilene Christian University, “An Inclusive Framework for Ministry: Fostering the Spiritual Formation of Children in a Multicultural Church”
  • Robert Musick, University of Pikeville, “‘Hollering’ Theology: Exploring Liberation Theology in Central Appalachia”
  • Mason Lee, Abilene Christian University, Respondent
  • Michael L. Sweeney, Emmanuel Christian Seminary at Milligan University, Respondent

The Future of Political Theology for Christian Scholars

Practical Theology
When: June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where: Board Room
Speakers
Matthew B. Hale, Abilene Christian University, Convener
  • Miriam Perkins, Milligan University, “Political Theology without a Platform: What the White Church can Learn from the Earliest African American Congregation in Savannah”
  • Stanley Talbert, Pepperdine University, “Whose Politics is it Anyway?”
  • Andrew Sutherland, Pepperdine University, “Entangled in the Economy: Thoughts on the Politics of Ecclesial Life”
  • Lee C. Camp, Lipscomb University, Respondent

This Is Our Story: The Stone-Campbell Movement Heritage at Risk and our Responsibility

The Libraries
When: June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where: Journals Room
Speakers
James Wiser, Abilene Christian University, Convener
  • Carisse Berryhill, Abilene Christian University, Participant
  • Scott Lambert, Heritage 21 Foundation, Participant
  • Lucy Perrin, Pepperdine University, Participant
  • Elizabeth Rivera, Baylor University, Participant

Vocational Discernment at Three Christian Universities

Vocation
When: June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where: LTL Main Hall
Speakers
Richard Hughes, Lipscomb University, Convener
  • Hannah Hutchens McNeely, Catawba College, “The Root of Who We Are: The Lilly Center for Vocation and Values”
  • Samuel Torvend, Pacific Lutheran University, “Context Matters: Promoting Human and Ecological Flourishing”
  • Earl Lavender, Lipscomb University, “Created and Creative in the Image of God: Lipscomb University’s Center for Vocational Discovery (CVD)”

Join us in 2024!

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James Cone with conferee at the CSC in 2017

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Pulitzer Prize winner Marilynne Robinson delivering the CSC plenary address

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Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), delivering the CSC plenary address.

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US Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith delivering the CSC plenary address

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David Brooks engaging conferees during breakfast at the CSC

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