Sessions

Sessions
Peer-reviewed and generative sessions cover a wide range of academic disciplines. Between 85 and 100 interactive paper, panel, poster, round table, and town hall sessions are scheduled in six 90-minute time slots and framed by five plenary events.Sessions will be slotted prior to the conference.
SESSIONS
Session Slot
- Evening Focus
- Plenary
- Session 1
- Session 2
- Session 3
- Session 4
- Session 5
- Session 6
Section
- American Religion
- Arts and Spirituality
- Business and Economics
- C.S. Lewis
- Christianity, Literature, and Language
- Church and Academy
- Civil Rights
- Congregational Science
- Creative Writing
- Early Career Scholars in the Theological Disciplines
- Film Studies
- Hermeneutics of Unity in and after Scripture
- Higher Education
- Hymnology
- Landon Saunders' Lecture
- Mission and World Christianity
- New Testament
- Old Testament
- Patristics
- Plenary
- Practical Theology
- Science
- The Libraries
- Theology and Philosophy
- Vocation
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
Past and Future Trends in Churches of Christ History
American Religion
When:
June 9, 2023, 9:00 am - Friday
Where:
Yarnton
Speakers
James L. Gorman,
Johnson University, Convener
-
Douglas A. Foster, Abilene Christian University, “Historiography of Churches of Christ since the 1960s”
-
Loretta Hunnicutt, Pepperdine University, “Historiography of Women in Churches of Christ”
-
Edward J. Robinson, Texas College, “Historiography of African Americans Churches of Christ”
-
Corey Markum, Freed-Hardeman University, Respondent
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)”