At a time when many graduate theological institutions are shrinking or shuttering, Claremont School of Theology (CST) is witnessing a remarkable surge in new student enrollment. At first, CST leadership was surprised by the increase\u2014but we have come to understand that this growth is not accidental. It is the result of something deeper: a rising call among justice-minded individuals who recognize CST as a place where their values are not only welcomed, but equipped and amplified<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In an era marked by widespread political attacks on progressive institutions, DEI programs, and marginalized communities, CST has emerged as a moral and academic sanctuary. We are drawing students who are unwilling to remain silent in the face of injustice\u2014students who are seeking a theological education that prepares them not just to preach from the pulpit, but to march in the streets, to organize for change. Students want to teach, to heal, and to lead movements of compassion, justice, and belonging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our academic programs\u2013\u2013like our new and expanding offerings in the areas of spirituality, professional counseling, and interreligious engagement\u2013\u2013are intentionally designed for this moment. These programs do not flinch from the challenges of the world; they confront them head-on. This is formation for ministry in the streets as well as the sanctuary. This is CST standing up\u2013\u2013faithfully, boldly, and without compromise. Because we believe the future belongs to those courageous enough to shape it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These are undeniably challenging times for theological education. Yet CST is uniquely positioned because of, not in spite of, the trials we\u2019ve faced. Over the past decade, we have endured a legal battle over our historic campus, made the difficult but faithful move from Claremont to Los Angeles, and are actively reducing our debt with a renewed sense of mission. Emerging from these trials has given us clarity: we are called to shape resilient leaders who will not shrink back in the face of oppression, but rise with prophetic vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At CST, we are proud of what we stand for: compassion<\/em>, justice<\/em>, y belonging<\/em>. These are not merely ideals\u2013\u2013they are our way of being in the world. Like Queen Esther, we believe we have come to this moment \u201cfor such a time as this.\u201d In our in-person and remote classrooms, we are forming leaders who are not only intellectually equipped but spiritually grounded to speak truth to power and serve those pushed to the margins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As we look to the future, we know this momentum must be matched by increased commitment. We invite all who share our values\u2013\u2013alumni, donors, churches, and friends\u2013\u2013to walk with us in this season of renewal and resistance. Your support makes this growth possible. Your voice amplifies our mission. Your presence strengthens our community. Thank you for being a part of the CST family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Steve Horswill-Johnston Behind the Scenes at CST: The Fourth in an Occasional Series At a time when many graduate theological institutions are shrinking or shuttering, Claremont School of Theology (CST) is witnessing a remarkable surge in new student enrollment. At first, CST leadership was surprised by the increase\u2014but we have come to understand that this growth is not accidental. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":45107,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_uf_show_specific_survey":0,"_uf_disable_surveys":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[417,21],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-45106","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-behind-the-scenes","category-news"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
Senior Vice President of Advancement & Communications<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"