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Read Hispanic Theological Initiative's newsletter to celebrate your community's many achievements and discover Latina/o resources to better serve the academy, the Church, and the world!

 
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October 2017



 
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Your HTI Website redesigned to keep you connected, inspired, and growing.
Lilly planning grant helps HTI enhance the “En Conjunto” Model


Your HTI Website got revamped!


Hispanic Theological Initiative proudly launched a new website designed with you in mind, with streamlined menus that offer quick and easy access to information on HTI member schools and what each one of them offers; Hispanic professors’ profiles and their publications; employment opportunities; HTI’s online newsletter, Journeys, Perspectivas, HTI’s bilingual peer-review journal, and much more!

Here is what Dr. Xochitl Alvizo, Assistant Professor of Religious Studies in the area of Women and Religion and the Philosophy of Sex, Gender, Sexuality, California State University Northridge, shared about her HTI website experience: “The website looks absolutely terrific! Very clear, easy to navigate, visually inviting.”

The website also has a comprehensive section dedicated to current scholars, mentors, and editors. This section, under “HTI En Conjunto”, offers specific information on the various components of the HTI program, including guidelines, requirements, and forms that can be processed online. The website has everything you need to stay connected with HTI!
 

“Thanks to the well-designed layout, the information that I needed was right there in front of my face and I knew exactly what I needed to do,” said Jasmin Figueroa, First Year HTI Scholar at Boston University.

Additionally, the HTI/Lilly Fellowship application is available on the HTI website for HTI Scholars who are enrolled by their member institution and are ABD (All But Dissertation).  Member schools, act now and enroll your students so they can compete for ten grants in the amount of $25,000.
 
HTI receives a Planning Grant from the Lilly Endowment, Inc.

With the support of the Lilly Endowment Inc., HTI received a $50,000 planning grant to work on two pilot programs and have its first meeting with a diverse group of denominational educational leaders.  The Lilly grant will allow HTI to consider a pilot program whereby a small group of HTI scholars will perform internships at partnering organizations to explore other ways they can use their skill sets to support theological and religious education in the church, the academy, and the world.  The second pilot program will be added to HTI’s Summer Workshop by which five to six recent graduates will be invited to four-day mentoring sessions that will address their particular questions and needs as they transition into a teaching position. For the final project, HTI plans to gather a diverse group of higher education directors of various denominations, who specifically work to recruit, offer support, and train Latinas/os for church administration, teaching, and service. This would be its first gathering, and hopefully one that will lead to more conversations and possible collaborations in the near future.

As you can see, your HTI is always striving to support talented Latina/o scholars in their pursuit of theological and religious education and make important and impactful contributions in the academy, the church, and the world.


In this edition of Journeys:


FROM THE DIRECTOR

Dear Friends,

Your Hispanic Theological Initiative is always striving to advance its mission. In doing so, we love to share that since the June issue, three HTI scholars defended their dissertations, four passed their comprehensive exams and three are in new appointments.  In this issue of Journeys, you will also read about HTI Scholars who are working on documentaries, launching educational centers, speaking at seminars and workshops, publishing books, as well as advocating for social justice.

All of these contributions are made possible because of  HTI’s “En Conjunto” model whereby the 24 consortium member schools support the mission of HTI; HTI’s mentors and editors unwaveringly dedicate their talents to PhD students; funders like the Lilly Endowment, Inc. and the Henry Luce Foundation provide funding for fellowships and for the implementation of exciting new ideas and projects; and individuals like you continue believing and giving to HTI. You all play a vital and important role in securing the leadership gifts and talents of Latina/o scholars to serve the church, the academy, and the world.  Tony Alonso, a recent HTI graduate, said it best: “It takes a village to finish a PhD.”

The village includes the American Academy of Religion and the Society of Biblical Literature (AAR/SBL) annual meetings, and that is why you will find a listing of HTI Scholars’ participation in Boston from November 17-21, 2017.  We also have some great surprises at the HTI reception on Saturday, November 18th from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm at the Westin Copley Place - America North (Fourth Level). It is an event you do not want to miss, and a great opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make new ones!

Blessed reading!




Rev. Joanne Rodríguez

 

LOGROS

Dissertation Defense


Congratulations to Horacio Vela (2011-2012 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar) who defended his dissertation, The Inner Person: The Transformation of a Platonic Metaphor in Ancient Judaism and Early Christianity, at the University of Notre Dame on July 10th!! Congratulations to the University of Notre Dame for graduating another HTI scholar. Horacio is an Instructor of Religious Life at the University of the Incarnate Word.

On October 3rd, Antonio (Tony) Alonso (2016-2017 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar) defended his dissertation at Emory University, surrounded by an excellent and supportive advisor, Ted Smith and four faculty members, family and friends.  Tony’s dissertation, Eucharistic Hope in a Commodified World,  was received without revisions. He is currently serving as Visiting Assistant Professor in the Practice of Theology and Culture, and Director of Catholic Studies at Candler School of Theology at Emory University.

Less than two days later, at Baylor University,  João Chaves (2017-2018 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar)  defended his dissertation titled “Disrespecting Borders for Jesus, Power, and Cash: Southern Baptist Missions, The New Immigration, and The Churches of the Brazilian Diaspora.” Dr. Douglas Weaver, João’s advisor, and the dissertation team were excited with the defense.  Currently, João is a lecturer at the Baptist University of the Américas.

Passing Comprehensive Exams

We are thrilled to announce that the following 2017–2018 Comprehensive Exams-Year Scholars have passed their comprehensive exams!
  • Yara González-Justiniano, Boston University Divinity School
  • Lydia Hernandez-Marcial, Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago
  • Christina Llanes, University of Chicago
  • Grace Vargas, Southern Methodist University

 
Congratulations on this academic achievement!

New appointments

Erica Ramírez (2017-2018 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar) accepted a tenure-track position, beginning Fall 2017, at Portland Seminary of George Fox University. As the Richard B. Parker Assistant Professor of Wesleyan Thought, Erica will have an opportunity to embed her dissertation project, a historical work on the development of American revivalism into carnival ritual, formally within the stream of Wesleyan studies. Erica shared:

“My project takes its departure from the foment of American Methodist revivalism into a distinct variant, becoming anti-establishment and anti-monarchical where British revivalism did not, and argues that the ritual forms of American revivalism became analogous in their function to the ritual logics of the French Revolution (as argued by Lynn Hunt). Under the direction of my advisor, Dr. Elias Ortega-Aponte (2009-2010 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar), my dissertation integrates historical work by Donald Dayton, former professor at Drew Theological School, and sociological insights from Dr. Otto Maduro (HTI Mentor - d. 2013), whose work on Pentecostalism highlighted its post-colonial functions. It's my honor to take my experiences, both with Drew and HTI, into my first teaching post at Portland Seminary, where I know they will benefit students who are working to build the church and society.”

Dr. Elaine Padilla (2009-2010 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar), recently joined the faculty of The University of La Verne as Associate Professor of Philosophy and Religion and LatinX/Latin American Studies. Her analysis constructively interweaves current philosophical discourse with Christianity, Latin American and Latino/a religious thought, mysticism, ecology, gender, and race. She is currently drafting a manuscript tentatively titled, The Darkness of Being, in which she explores views on the soul with implications for race and gender.

Dr. Theresa Yugar (2009-2010 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar) has accepted a one-year Visiting Assistant Professor position at Loyola Marymount University in the Women's and Gender Studies department. Theresa was serving as Lecturer, Liberal Studies, Chicana(o) and Latina(o) Studies, and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at California State University, Los Angeles. Congratulations!


On August 1, 2017, Dr. Nelson Rivera (HTI Mentor) accepted a position as Associate Professor of Theology at Moravian Theological Seminary. Dr. Rivera teaches courses on diverse theological topics, especially on Christology, Word and Sacrament, Creation, Theological anthropology, Lutheran Confessions, and Liberation Theology.  Dr. Rivera has a PhD in Religion from Temple University, and is an ordained minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.


HTI SCHOLARS EN ACCIÓN

New school opens in Humacao, Puerto Rico


After graduating from Graduate Theological Union, serving as an adjunct professor at the Seminario Evangélico de Puerto Rico, and providing several new bilingual textbooks on learning Hebrew, Dr. José Balcells (2013-2014 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar) decided to start up a non-profit educational center.  This summer he launched Iodea, from the Hebrew word or root ידע which conveys the meaning of knowing someone intimately or of knowing something through learning or experience. For Iodea this someone is God.

Iodea provides educational programs with a vast curriculum that addresses the needs of religious leaders, educators, and adult learners seeking personal growth. José's long-term goal has been to introduce enriching biblical and intercultural education to areas without adequate resources to help enhance the biblical understanding of pastors and laity. Ultimately, José seeks to serve communities on the east of Puerto Rico and foster an ecumenical environment for biblical studies, interfaith studies and education.

There are many unknowns at the moment due to the circumstances of the island of Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. Dr. Balcells plans to continue working on the development of the organization with some alterations, and he hopes that Iodea will provide an outstanding wealth of resources for an entire geographical area, and eventually create extraordinary opportunities for social and economic transformation.  For more information visit: www.iodea.org

Work in Action at the Ignatian Solidarity Network

Because of her long standing commitment in supporting undocumented students and advocacy work for social justice Dr. Cecilia Gonzalez-Andrieu (2005-2006 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar, HTI Mentor), Associate Professor of Theology and Theological Aesthetics at Loyola Marymount University, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Ignatian Solidarity Network. The Ignatian Solidarity Network works to “network, educate and form advocates for social justice animated by the spirituality of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the witness of the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador and their companions.” In addition to her board commitments, Dr. González-Andrieu also writes for America Magazine, where she presents essays on Latina/o issues of faith and culture, introducing the work of other Latina/o theologians, and addressing the problematic responses and attitudes regarding race, ethnicity and immigration in the context of the United States.

Privileging marginalized voices of the South

Dr. Robyn Henderson-Espinoza (2013-2014 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar) Visiting Scholar at Vanderbilt University Divinity School and Director of Public Theology Initiatives at Faith Matters Network, is currently working on several documentaries. One is a Humans of the South documentary in collaboration with Adelicia Company, Nashville, TN, and their own production company, A Wondering Mind. This documentary collects stories of humans in the south and seeks to privilege marginalized voices to create a robust narrative around public theology that amplifies the multitude over a singular narrative of public theology. The focus is to privilege women of color and other people of color, including non-Christian public theologians. Likewise, Robyn is working on a documentary in Nashville to highlight the housing crisis and the ways in which Nashville, called the 'it city' is only the 'it city' for the white dominant privileged people able to financially afford Nashville. This short film will be an advocacy film. In early fall, some other films will be released by Work of the People that highlight the work that Robyn does at Faith Matters Network, along with their colleagues, Director of Healing Justice, Micky ScottBey Jones and Founder & Executive Director, Rev. Jennifer Bailey. Faith Matters Network is a people of color-led collective that seeks to create a culture where the lives of those most marginalized are healthy and whole and able to bring forth a moral imagination that will heal our broken world. Faith Matters Network focuses on the South, and they are nationally active in multiple justice movements.

The First Discernment and Racial Engagement Forum in Thailand

From May 28th to June 2nd, the first Discernment and Radical Engagement Forum sponsored by the Council for World Mission took place in Bangkok, Thailand. The forum itself brought together 70 scholars and religious practitioners from 35 countries in order to investigate the complex interconnections between religion and empire. Dr. Jacqueline M. Hidalgo (2007-2008 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar, Current Steering Committee Member), Associate Professor of Latina/o Studies and Religion at Williams College, spoke about ‘Scriptures the Utopian and El Plan Espiritual de Aztlan in the Chicano Student Movement. Jacqueline further discussed how Chicano Student Movement rhetoric and practices could be understood as “religious” responses to the histories and legacies of European and Euro-North American imperial Christian domination.
 
Religion and Migration at  The Center for Theological Inquiry

Dr. Daniel Ramírez (2002-2003 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar) Associate Professor of American Religions at Claremont Graduate University,  was selected to be a member of the research team in the Inquiry on Religion & Migration for the 2017-2018 academic year at The Center for Theological Inquiry (CTI).  CTI  convenes leading thinkers in an interdisciplinary research environment where theology makes an impact on global concerns, and they share those discoveries to change the way people think and act.

What do Catholic and Protestant Murals have to tell us?

For the last five years Dr. David Sánchez (2005-2006 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar) Associate Professor and Graduate Director of Theological Studies at Loyola Marymount University, has conducted research on the murals of Northern Ireland. From August 7-11, 2017, at Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany, he had the opportunity to present a paper based on this research, titled: Scripturalizing Northern Ireland: Catholic and Protestant Mural Representations of the Troubles. In his paper, Dr. Sánchez explains how expanded cultural scriptures in a European context and the methodology can be germane to his own Latinx subjectivity. This groundbreaking research shows the work and methodology are not expressly Eurocentric, but applicable to all people who identify with either dominant, or resistant representations. This academic encounter has invoked the European Contested section of the EABS and International Society of Biblical Literature to seek expansion of their membership and presenters to create a space of critical intellectual engagements and resistance amongst an array of groups of people across the world with various identities.
 
 
What would Martin Luther say about migrants and refugee crises today?

Dr. Leopoldo A. Sánchez M. (2002-2003 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar and HTI mentor) Werner R. H. and Elizabeth R. Krause Professor of Hispanic Ministries, Professor of Systematic Theology, and Director of the Center for Hispanic Studies at Concordia Seminary, recently published an article in America Magazine, titled: “What would Martin Luther say about today’s migrant and refugee crises?” where he challenges readers to revisit the thinking of 16th-century reformers on hospitality, by stating, “As Christians commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, it is surprising that little has been said on what Martin Luther’s teaching on hospitality toward strangers and exiles might offer to our current situation.”

Teaching and learning at the  Lux Summer Theological Institute for Youth

From July 16-29, 2017, Lis Valle (2017-2018 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar), PhD candidate at Vanderbilt University Divinity School, served as Scripture and Theology professor at the Lux Summer Theological Institute for Youth, held in Monmouth College, Illinois. Lis taught a two-week course under the theme, Thinking Theologically about Food Security to an ecumenical and nationally represented group of high school students. Although students were at different stages of their faith journey, during the course, students learned to exercise active listening and shared knowledge, rather than imposed points of views.  Students learned how to exercise a de-colonialized pedagogy about Scripture and Theology when addressing issues revolving around Food Justice. Lis felt that she was stretched as a scholar and theological educator as much as the participants were, and she hopes that her students continue to apply the newly learned interactive methods in their daily lives.

New Testament HTI Scholar now serving at the Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas

Dr. Juan Hernández (2004-2005 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar, HTI Mentor) Professor of Biblical Studies at Bethel University, was nominated for membership into the Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas (SNTS) and accepted at the Montreal meeting in August 2016. Dr. Hernández will continue to play a pivotal role in working with the leading New Testament voices to bring to the guild and the larger landscape of theological education cutting edge lectures, and writings.

Aberlado Rivas presents at American Schools of Oriental Research (ASOR)

On Thursday, November 16, 2017, Aberlado Rivas (2017-2018 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar) of Andrews University will be presenting at ASOR from 4:20-6:25 pm at Westin Boston, ASOR meetings room 4H.  During this session Abelardo Rivas will be presenting his paper, titled, Jalul as a Border City in Iron Age Transjordan. The theme of the panel, Mr. Rivas will be presenting on is called, Border Dynamics in the 10th Century B.C.E. Levant: A Junior Scholars'  Panel.



HTI MEMBER SCHOOLS EN ACCIÓN

At the 15th Annual Pat Reif Memorial Lecture: Feminist Theology: Overcoming Violence, Embodying Liberation at Claremont Graduate University, Dr. María Pilar Aquino, Professor of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of San Diego, explored the connection between violence against women, liberation, and constructive transformation, and discussed the relevance of feminist theology to strengthen shared values, commitments, and goals for global justice.

The James Weldon Institute for Study of Race and Difference at Emory University welcomed Dr. Felipe Hinojosa (2008-2009 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar, HTI mentor) Associate Professor of History at Texas A&M University, with a 2017-2018 postdoctoral visiting fellowship.  While at Emory, Dr. Hinojosa is  working on his second book project, tentatively titled, Apostles of Change: Radical Politics and the Making of Latina/Latino Religion.


For the past five years Princeton Theological Seminary (PTS) has provided underrepresented potential masters students the opportunity to participate in The L.I.V.E. Symposium (Learning, Inclusion, Vitality, Exploration) an initiative to help them discern their vocation within the church.  At the November 5-8, L.I.V.E, Dr. Eric Barreto (2008-2009 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar, HTI Steering Committee Member), Weyerhaeuser Associate Professor of New Testament at PTS, will be the keynote speaker and his keynote topic is titled, Responding to the Call: Breaking Out of the Margins!  The conversation will focus on the  challenges of responding to God’s call in such an environment where the “margins” are amplified at every level of society and what is the church’s role during these times. More information here.

Southern Methodist University (SMU) in collaboration with the Center for the Study of Latino/a Christianity and Religions and the SMU Department of World Languages and Literature introduced a series of lectures titled,  “Cuba NOW!”  Since the 1990's the once suppressed religious life has flowed into mainline society and is experienced a re-awakening. Cuban singer Celia Cruz's lyrics from "La Vida es un Carnaval" expresses the island's popular religious resiliency to colonial conquest, tenacity for independence and post-Soviet Union life. How this religious re-awakening both shapes and is shaped by US-Cuba economic, historical and political relationships is the topic of this interdisciplinary dialogue.  The dialogue lectures will be lead by Dr. Carlos Cardoza-Orlandi (HTI Mentor), Professor of World Christianities and Mission Studies, and Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program at SMU, and Dr. David C. LaFevor and they are titled, “A Religious Re-Awakening in Cuba Today” and Living while Singing [that] God is with him-- Life is a Carnival.  Additionally, there will be an photograph exhibition at Prothro Great Hall.  This event is free and RSVP is required (latinocenter@smu.edu)

Do you have questions about what it means to be a Latinx in the classroom?  Then do not miss the wonderful opportunity to attend The Latinx Body & Pedagogy: Practical & Institutional Considerations, a seminar for Pre-Tenure Faculty and PhD candidates at The Center for the Study of Latino/a Christianity and Religions at Southern Methodist University.  There will be able to critically explore questions related to what it means to be Latinx and to teach in higher education in the United States today with the experienced and committed scholar Dr. Daisy Machado (HTI former Director, HTI Mentor) Professor of American Church History at Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York, who will be leading the workshop. For more information about the program and scholarships e-mail  latinocenter@smu.edu.


EN CONJUNTO” PARTNERS EN ACCIÓN

Louisville Institute receives grant

HTI is delighted to share that Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary received an $8 million grant award from the
Lilly Endowment, Inc. (Lilly) to continue the work of the Louisville Institute, directed by Dr. Edwin Aponte (1997-1998 HTI Dissertation Scholar), for the period of January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2021. With this renewed support, the Institute will:

* Provide fellowships in theological education to identify and support a new generation of exceptionally well-prepared faculty for theological schools;

* Bring together and engage cohorts of pastors and professors to address issues confronting the church; and

* Award grants to pastors and academic leaders to support their innovative research projects.

This will be the ninth time in 27 years that Lilly has awarded a grant to fund the Louisville Institute's work. Christopher L. Coble, the Endowment's Vice President of Religion, shared, "We are pleased that the Louisville Institute will continue its important work of supporting pastors, religious leaders and academic scholars as they explore critical challenges facing Christian communities.”

Check out ¡Excelencia in Education! great resources

Excelencia In Education, now in its eleventh year, continues the important work of highlighting and supporting outstanding Latina/o led education programs. Recently, Excelencia in Education announced its 2017 Examples of Excelencia, spotlighting four programs that have shown outstanding, evidence-based results of improving Latina/o student success in higher education. At the Accelerating Latino Student Success (ALASS) gathering on October 6th, Excelencia in Education brought over 300 representatives from a broad network of national educational programs to share the best practices of the four awardees, funding institution, data collection, and evaluation and assessment experts.  Examples of Excelencia is the only national initiative recognizing and celebrating programs at the forefront of advancing educational achievement for Latina/o students.  Their website contains a wealth of information on how to attract, retain, and graduate Latina/o students, and potential funding resources.  


NEW PUBLICATIONS

A Puerto Rican Decolonial Theology: Prophesy Freedom (New Approaches to Religion and Power)
by Teresa Delgado (2001-2002 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar, HTI Mentor, HTI Steering Committee Member) Preface by Jorge Juan Rodríguez (2017-2018 HTI Second-Year Doctoral Scholar)

Series: New Approaches to Religion and Power
Hardcover: 204 pages
Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan; 1st ed. 2017 edition (September 22, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 3319660675
ISBN-13: 978-3319660677

This book explores the themes of identity, suffering, and hope in the stories of Puerto Rican people to surface the anthropology, soteriology, and eschatology of a Puerto Rican decolonial theology.  Using an interdisciplinary methodology of dialogue between literature and theology, this study reveals the oppression, resistance, and theological vision of the Puerto Rican community. It demonstrates how Puerto Rican literature and Puerto Rican theology are prophetic voices calling out for the liberation of a suffering people, on the island and in the Puerto Rican Diaspora, while employing personal Puerto Rican family/community stories as an authoritative contextual reference point. This work stands within the continuum of contextual theology and diasporic studies of religion in the United States, as well as research in the interdisciplinary field of decolonial and post-colonial studies.

Buy

Household and Family Religion in Persian-Period Judah: An Archaeological Approach (Ancient Near East Monographs)
by José E. Balcells Gallarreta (2014-2015 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar)

Series: Ancient Near East Monographs
Paperback: 244 pages
Publisher: SBL Press; First edition (July 28, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1628371781
ISBN-13: 978-1628371789

Balcells Gallarreta investigates the ritual artifacts from Persian period Tell en-Nasbeh in their original contexts, as a case study that provides a deeper understanding of the religious ideas and practices of households in Persian period Judah. Unlike previous scholarship that focused on official or state religion, he utilizes archaeology of religion and domestic contexts to reveal the existence of household religion and rituals in Persian period Tell en-Nasbeh, along with other contemporary sites in Yehud. Archaeological data from Tell en-Nasbeh and other sites in the Shephelah region of Yehud demonstrate that family and household rituals and religion were practiced in Persian period Judah.

Features:
Examination of remains from an extensively excavated site
Maps, tables, photos, and illustrations
Analysis of Persian-period biblical texts

Buy

Cain, Abel, and the Politics of God: An Agambenian reading of Genesis 4:1-16
by Julián Andrés González Holguín (2013-2014 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar)

Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Routledge (July 17, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN: 9781138738485

The Genesis story of Cain’s murder of Abel is often told as a simplistic contrast between the innocence of Abel and the evil of Cain. This book subverts that reading of the Biblical text by utilising Giorgio Agamben’s concepts of homo sacer, the state of exception and the idea of sovereignty to re-examine this well-known tale of fratricide and bring to the fore its political implications.

Drawing from political theory, philosophy, and psychoanalysis, this book creates a theoretical framework from which to do two things: firstly, to describe and analyse the history of interpretation of Genesis 4:1-16, and secondly to propose an alternative reading of the Biblical text that incorporates other texts inside and outside of the Biblical canon. This intertextual analysis will highlight the motives of violence, law, divine rule, and the rejected as they emerge in different contexts and will evaluate them in an Agambenian framework.

The unique approach of this book makes it vital reading for any academic with interests in Biblical Studies and Theology and their interactions with politics and ethics.

Buy

Embracing Hopelessness
by Miguel A. De La Torre (2000-2001 HTI Post-doctoral Scholar)

Paperback: 240 Pages
Publisher: Fortress Press (October 1, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN: 9781506433417
ISBN: 9781506433424

This book will attempt to explore faith-based responses to unending injustices by embracing the reality of hopelessness. It rejects the pontifications of some salvation history that move the faithful toward an eschatological promise that, when looking back at history, makes sense of all Christian-led brutalities, mayhem, and carnage.

Hope, as an illusion, is responsible for maintaining oppressive structures. This book struggles with a God who at times seems mute, demanding solidarity in the midst of perdition and a blessing in the midst of adversity. How can the Creator be so invisible during the troubling times in which we live—times filled with unbearable life-denying trials and tribulations? The book concludes with a term De La Torre has coined in other books: an ethics para joder—an ethics that “f*cks with.” When all is hopeless, when neoliberalism has won, when there exists no chance of establishing justice, the only choice left for the oppressed is to “screw” with the structure, literally turning over the bankers’ tables at the temple. By upsetting the norm, an opportunity might arise that can lead us to a more just situation, although such acts of defiance usually lead to crucifixion. Hopelessness is what leads to radical liberative praxis.

Buy

Divine Enjoyment: A Theology of Passion and Exuberance by Elaine Padilla (2009-2010 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar, HTI Mentor)

Paperback: 286 pages
Publisher: Fordham University Press (2015)
Language: English
ISBN: 9780823263561
eISBN: 9780823266296

This book makes the case for a God of enjoyment who passionately suffers and yearns because of love, and permeably intermingles with the cosmos, loving intensely, and becoming like a divine silhouette of so “good a lover” that grotesquely incarnates the many, even if appearing improper. The thematic development invites the reader to journey through paths of excess of the intemperate kind initially drawn from the insights of St. Thomas Aquinas on the ecstatic love of God, and encountered in the erotic poetry of mystics like St. Teresa de Avila, whose delectable arrows provide an opening for passage and divine transfiguration of God in the manifold shapes of the cosmos. Comfortably locating itself in postmodern and process theological and philosophical discourse, and culminating with hospitable images of banqueting, fiesta, and the carnival, drawn mainly from the work of assorted Spanish and Latin American thinkers, the book progressively grants a flesh of pain mixed with joy to God’s affect.

Buy

Faith and Resistance in the Age of Trump
by Miguel A. De La Torre (2000-2001 HTI Post-doctoral Scholar)

Paperback: 272 pages
Publisher: Orbis Books (September 14, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1626982473
ISBN-13: 978-1626982475

For many people of faith, the election of Donald Trump represents not just a political crisis -- a threat to our republic and a danger for the entire world -- but also a confessional crisis, a moment that calls into question the deepest meaning of our religious claims and values.

Reflections by notable religious scholars, ministers, and activists address this crisis. With chapters treating issues of gender, race, disability, LGBT justice, immigration, the environment, peace, and poverty, the contributors seek to name our situation and to set forth an agenda for faith and resistance.

Contributors include Susan Thistlethwaite, Amir Hussain, David Gushee, Miguel Diaz, Kelly Brown Douglas, Christiana Zenner, Sister Simone Campbell, Kwok Pui-lan, George "Tink" Tinker, and Rabbi Steven Greenberg.

Buy

Christian Martyrdom and Political Violence: A Comparative Theology with Judaism and Islam
by Rubén Rosario Rodríguez (2009-2010 HTI Dissertation-Year Scholar, HTI Mentor)

Hardcover: 300 pages
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (July 13, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1107187141
ISBN-13: 978-1107187146

In recent years, martyrdom and political violence have been conflated in the public imagination. Rubén Rosario Rodríguez argues that martyr narratives deserve consideration as resources for resisting political violence in contemporary theological reflection. Underlying the three Abrahamic monotheistic traditions is a shared belief that God requires liberation for the oppressed, justice for the victims and, most demanding of all, love for the political enemy. Christian, Jewish and Muslim martyr narratives that condone political violence - whether terrorist or state-sponsored - are examined alongside each religion's canon, in order to evaluate how central or marginalized these discourses are within their respective traditions. Primarily a work of Christian theology in conversation with Judaism and Islam, this book aims to model religious pluralism and cooperation by retrieving distinctly Christian sources that nurture tolerance and facilitate coexistence, while respecting religious difference.

Buy

Sermons from the Latino/a Pulpit
by Elieser Valentin (Editor)

Paperback: 100 pages
Publisher: Wipf and Stock (June 28, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1498278973
ISBN-13: 978-1498278973

The Latino/a community continues to grow at a faster pace than any other racial or ethnic group in the country. In part because of this growth, Latino/as have begun to be recognized as bona fide contributors to American society, whether through sports, music, literary work, theology, or ministry. Largely missing from this, however, has been attention to the creative and indeed prophetic expression coming from the Latino/a pulpit--that is, the sermons being developed and preached from the Latino/a churches. This books fills that void. Eli Valentin has gathered some of the top US Latino/a theologians and religious practitioners to contribute actual sermons that have been constructed out of the rough and tumble of the Latino/a reality. The sermons in this book approach nitty-gritty issues that directly impact Latinos/as in the United States. What we find as a result is a message of hope that continues to emanate from the Latino/a pulpit, a hope placed in a God who promises a restored cosmos.

Buy

En la mesa de Dios/At God's Table
by María Cornou, Carrie Steenwyk, John D. Witvliet (authors), Joel Schoon-Tanis (Illustrator)

Age Range: 6 - 10 years
Grade Level: 1 - 4
Hardcover: 40 pages
Publisher: CICW Books (May 15, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1937555070
ISBN-13: 978-1937555078

En la mesa de Dios-At God's Table is a Spanish-English children's book that explores the richly symbolic practice of the Lord's Supper in Christian worshiping communities. In this vividly illustrated book, the celebration of the Lord's Supper unfolds as a multi-faceted event that nourishes our faith and stirs our imagination to see the gifts of grace and signs of God's ongoing work in our lives and God's world. In his endorsement of this publication, Dr. Justo L. González (former HTI Executive Director) expressed: “I am enthused about the book ‘At God's Table,’ It has the rare virtue of being able to serve as a children's book and as a catalytic for many a profound adult conversation. And --an even rarer virtue-- it is likely to provoke and sustain many a cross-generational discussion in which children can participate jointly with adults. Try using it!”

Buy


UPCOMING EVENTS

Hispanic Theological Initiative at AAR/SBL


(For participation by HTI Scholars at AAR/SBL Annual Meetings, please see detailed list at the end of this publication)

M17-107
Hispanic Theological Initiative Member Council Meeting
Friday, November 17, 2017 - 11:00am - 3:00pm
Location: Westin Copley Place-America South (Fourth Level)
(By invitation only)
 

M18-414
HTI Reception at AAR/SBL
Saturday, November 18, 2017 - 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm

Location: Westin Copley Place-America North (Fourth Level)

For HTI Family and Friends. Join us for your annual HTI Reception and gathering. We hope to see you there!


Asociación para La Educación Teológica Hispana (AETH)

The Association of Hispanic Theological Education/Asociación para La Educación Teológia Hispana (AETH) is offering a great opportunity to be in conversation with bilingual pastors and leaders serving in Hispanic theological organizations across the nation via webinars!  On November 9th, 2017, Dr. Elizabeth Conde-Frazer; Dr. Michael Ortiz, and Dr. Oscar Gracía-Johnson will lead a webinar titled: Weaving Relationships Between Institutions of Theological Education and the Church. Schedule: 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM (3:30 p.m. EST; 2:30 p.m. CST; 1:30 p.m. MST; 12:30 p.m. PST). Register at buenosfrutos.aeth.org.

La Comunidad Annual Meeting

La Comunidad of Hispanic Scholars of Religion and the Latina/o Society, Culture and Religion Group will hold their annual meeting during the AAR/SBL annual meetings in Boston, MA, on Sunday, November 19th from 12:30-3:00 pm at the Westin Copley Place-Defender (Seventh Level). The meeting will include a panel discussion on Latinxs Ethical and Theological Readings of Scriptures. Speakers include:

Leticia Guardiola-Saenz, Seattle University: From the Pulpit to the Academy—Latinx Scriptural Hermeneutics
Maria T. Davila, Andover Newton Theological School: For a Time Such as This—Scripture, Theological Ethics, and Multi-faith Reflection
Harold Morales, Morgan State University: Beyond Bible—Scripture Among Diverse Latinx Communities
Efrain Agosto, New York Theological Seminary: Scripture and Liberating Ethics—Honoring Eldin Villafañe

Responding:
Eldin Villafañe, Gordon-Conwell Theological

Business Meeting:
Loida I. Martell, Lexington Theological Seminary


Hispanic Summer Program 2018

The 2018 Hispanic Summer Program (HSP) will take place from June 16 to June 30, 2018 at Perkins School of Theology, SMU in Dallas, TX. Course information and details about professors will be available in November. Applications go live on HSP website the first week of December 2017. Space is limited, so apply early!

HSP offers 7 choices of 3-credit, accredited courses geared toward master-degree level Latina/o seminarians and graduate students. There are a limited number of slots for DMin and PhD students from sponsoring institutions only. Students may take only one course, and all courses must be taken for credit and a grade will be awarded. The program is designed primarily for Latina/o students enrolled in theological seminaries and university departments of theology or religion. HSP also has welcomed about 10% of non-Latina/o students nationwide who are involved in Latino-centered ministries and advocacy. HSP provides the opportunity for students to study with Latina/o peers and professors.Each summer, the HSP brings together nearly 70 participants from the United States and Puerto Rico, representing a wide variety of traditions, denominations, and theological perspectives. The HSP also provides a limited number of slots for Latina/o pastors seeking continuing theological education.


2018 Through Hispanic Eyes Workshop

Hispanic Summer Program (HSP)  will offer its 14th annual Through Hispanic Eyes workshop for non-Latina/o faculty and staff in sponsoring schools, from June 24 to June 27, 2018 at Perkins School of Theology, SMU in Dallas, TX. Applications live on HSP website  the first week of December 2017. Space limited to 10 participants.

American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHHE)

The thirteenth annual national conference of the American Association of Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHHE) will be held in Irvine, California on  March 8-10, 2018, at the Hotel Irvine, Irvine, California.  The theme will be: “Latina/o Students: Policy, Assessment and Academic Preparation for Success”. More information here.


EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

To post a job opportunity on the HTI site, Facebook, and online newsletter, Journeys, visit htiprogram.org.


The Association of Theological Schools - Director, Accreditation and Institutional Evaluation

The Commission on Accrediting of The Association of Theological Schools (COAATS) is seeking a Director, Accreditation and Institutional Evaluation to enlarge its professional director-level staff in order to meet the expanding needs of accredited graduate theological education in the United States and Canada. The starting date for this position is July 1, 2018, or earlier.

ATS is a membership organization of more than 270 graduate schools of theology in the United States and Canada whose mission is to promote the improvement and enhancement of theological schools to the benefit of communities of faith and the broader public. Through the work of accreditation and institutional evaluation, the director will have the opportunity to support the mission and values of ATS by (1) engaging with the diversity of ATS member schools, (2) participating in and shaping the quality and improvement of accredited graduate theological education, (3) experiencing the collegiality of the work of the Commission and the Association, and (4) providing shared leadership for the work of the organization in a team and learning environment.

The Director, Accreditation and Institutional Evaluation will be one of five directors who are responsible for (1) facilitating the accrediting relationship with member schools through visits and other types of accrediting-related activities; (2) providing education, training, and support to member schools about the process of accreditation; (3) supporting the work of the Board of Commissioners; (4) maintaining collegial and supportive relationships as institutional liaisons to approximately 60 schools; (5) contributing to the programs and services offered by the Association, as needed; and (6) maintaining involvement with the broader community of theological and higher education.

The Director, Accreditation and Institutional Evaluation shall possess an earned doctoral degree or its equivalent in a theological discipline or a related field in higher education and have significant work experience in theological education, preferably at both faculty and administrative levels.

The position requires the ability to
• work effectively with a highly educated and diverse constituency;
• perform data analysis, making complex judgments in problem-solving contexts related to policy and practice;
• think creatively, analytically, and holistically;
• manage multiple, sometimes overlapping programs or projects and activities at once;
• work collaboratively with other director and administrative staff;
• work in a technologically enhanced and production-oriented environment;
• communicate effectively both orally and in writing to a wide and diverse range of constituencies; and
• travel to member schools and other accreditation-related events as needed.

Applicants familiar with Roman Catholic graduate theological education and/or who have proficiency in Spanish are especially encouraged to apply.

The Director, Accreditation and Institutional Evaluation is a full-time position with competitive salary and benefits. The successful candidate is expected to relocate to Pittsburgh.

Review of nominations and applications will begin November 1, 2017, and will continue until the position is filled. Applications should include: (1) a letter of interest, (2) a curriculum vitae, and (3) contact information for three references. Application materials may be sent by email to accrediting@ats.edu with the subject line “Application for Director Position” entered. Electronic submissions in one PDF file are preferred. A detailed position description can be found at this link. ATS is an equal opportunity employer.



Baylor University - Associate or Full Professor of Global Christianity (Tenured)

Baylor University is a private Christian university and a nationally ranked research institution, consistently listed with highest honors among The Chronicle of Higher Education’s “Great Colleges to Work For.” The university is recruiting new faculty with a deep commitment to excellence in teaching, research and scholarship. Baylor seeks faculty who share in our aspiration to become a tier one research institution while strengthening our distinctive Christian mission as described in the strategic vision, Pro Futuris. As the world’s largest Baptist University, Baylor offers over 40 doctoral programs and has almost 17,000 students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries.

Candidates should possess an earned doctorate. The successful candidate will have a vibrant, established, and on-going research and publication agenda in Global Christianity. Candidates with research agendas in Global Christianity and Transatlantic Christianity, Christianity in Colonial or Post-Colonial Latin America, or Gender are especially encouraged to apply. It is expected that the applicant will be appointed to the Graduate Faculty in Religion; thus experience working with and mentoring graduate students is desired. Preference will be given to Baptist candidates.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Applications will be reviewed beginning 10/09/2017 and will be accepted until the position is filled. To ensure full consideration, complete applications must be submitted by 10/09/2017. More information here.



Brite Divinity School - Assistant or Associate Professor in Methodist Studies
 
Brite Divinity School, an ecumenical, progressive theological school affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and with Texas Christian University, invites applications for a tenure-track position in Methodist Studies. Level of appointment is at the rank of Assistant or Associate Professor.
 
The Ph.D. or equivalent is required, in an appropriate discipline such as theology or history. Demonstrated competence in teaching, scholarly research, and publication record appropriate to the level of appointment is expected. Successful candidates will bring an expertise in Methodist history, theology, and doctrine, including awareness of the diversity of traditions (UMC, Pan-Methodist, AME, CME, AME Zion, etc.).

To apply, upload a letter of application describing interests in teaching and research addressed and C.V. to Dean Joretta L. Marshall. Three letters of recommendation must be emailed directly from the reviewer or dossier service to hrtalentacquisition@tcu.edu. Review of applicants will begin November 1, and will continue until the position is filled. The appointment will begin in the fall of 2018.
 


Emory University - Assistant Professor in Catholic Studies

Candler School of Theology invites applications and nominations for a faculty position at the level of Assistant Professor (tenure-track) in Catholic Studies. The position will begin in Fall 2018. Preference will be given to complete applications submitted by October 31, 2017.

The successful candidate will have a research focus that substantively relates to Catholic Studies but may be rooted in a number of disciplines, including but not limited to theology, liturgical studies, Hispanic studies, sociology of religion, or religious education. In addition, the candidate will demonstrate the capacity to design and direct the emerging Catholic Studies program at Candler. Experience with Latino/a/x communities is encouraged. The ability to contribute to a broad theological curriculum and situate research and teaching within larger multi-faith and/or global contexts is essential, as is attentiveness to issues pertaining to gender, race, and cultural diversity.

The person selected for this position will develop and teach courses in several of the degree programs of Candler School of Theology, including the MDiv, MTS, and DMin program. The appointee will be responsible for teaching introductory courses in her or his area of specialization as courses in Catholic Studies within the individual's disciplinary interests. The appointee will have a regular faculty rotation in the Contextual Education program and demonstrate an ability to pursue a research and publication agenda that would equip the individual to participate in the Graduate Division of Religion in the Laney Graduate School of Emory University. In addition to teaching and research, faculty members of Candler School of Theology are committed to service, both within the school and in the larger church and community.

Applications for this position should include a letter of interest, curriculum vitae, an official transcript of the highest degree earned, writing sample and three confidential letters of recommendation. Candidates should apply online here.
 


SMU-Perkins School of Theology and Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University - Director of the Sacred Music Program

Perkins School of Theology and Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University seek a Director f the Sacred Music Program. This is a full-time, tenured position in church music at the rank of Associate or Full Professor (Position #00050995). Responsibilities include teaching in degree programs of Perkins School of Theology (particularly the Master of Sacred Music, Doctor of Pastoral Music, Doctor of Ministry programs), of the Music Division in Meadows School of the Arts (particularly as this relates to the choral program) and, as appropriate, the Graduate Program in Religious Studies; directing the Sacred Music Program, including student recruitment and maintenance of the collaborative relationship between the schools of Theology and Arts; participation in the life and work of Perkins School of Theology, the Meadows School of the Arts and other parts of the University.
 
Essential qualifications include holding a PhD, DMA or equivalent degree; demonstrated achievement as a scholar, practitioner and teacher in the field of church music; demonstrated achievement in choral conducting, hymnology and the practice of congregational song; competence in administrative tasks; demonstrated knowledge of and commitment to working across cultural diversity in church music; knowledge of and commitment to the life of a faith community; commitment to maintain and enrich the relationship between the Sacred Music Program and the church; commitment to the primary objectives of Perkins School of Theology and the Music Division of Meadows School of the Arts; commitment to the primary objectives of the MSM, DPM and D.Min. programs.  Full details available here.



Vanderbilt Divinity School - Assistant Professor in the History and Practice of Christian Worship and the Arts

Vanderbilt Divinity School seeks applications and nominations for the Luce Dean’s Fellow in the History and Practice of Christian Worship and the Arts beginning fall 2018. This is an assistant professor, tenure-track level position that may become an endowed chair upon successful completion of tenure. The appointment includes responsibilities for teaching and research in Christian worship and liturgical arts and administrative oversight of the Religion in the Arts and Contemporary Culture (RACC) program. It also entails advising in both the divinity degree programs (MDiv and MTS), which prepare students for ministry and public leadership, and the graduate department of religion (MA, PhD), which prepares students for teaching and research. Appointed faculty will join the Homiletics and Liturgics Area of the Graduate Department of Religion, teach the core MDiv requirements in worship and will also offer a range of courses relating Christian worship and the arts to practices of ministry and public leadership in today’s world.
 
Job Description:  Successful applicants will have completed a doctorate or its equivalent focused on the history, theology and practice of Christian worship and liturgical arts; an ability to teach a wide variety of students; interest in working with other University units such as the Blair School of Music, the department of history, art, or the history of art; and interest in facilitating programs for local clergy, laity, and public leaders. Applications from underrepresented candidates are especially welcome. The school has strong commitments to social justice and places a high value on diversity among its faculty and student body, as well as in research and teaching. Successful candidates will evidence commitment to these priorities. The search committee will begin reviewing applications November 1, 2017. Cover letter, curriculum vitae, and three recommendation letters should be submitted via Interfolio. Applicants will be able to establish a free Interfolio Dossier & Portfolio account.
 
 

Williams College- Chaplain to the College
 
The Chaplain to the College (the Chaplain) is the chief steward of the religious and spiritual lives of Williams College, and a primary guide to religious practice and spiritual exploration for students, faculty and staff. Reporting directly to the Vice President for Campus Life, the Chaplain will be an ordained, or otherwise credentialed, religious professional in one of the Protestant Christian traditions. As the director of the work of the Chaplains' Office, the Chaplain will also be a fully collaborative member of a dynamic team of chaplains (Catholic, Jewish and Muslim), sharing the work of the office in three particular dimensions: pastoral, programmatic, and institutional.
 
Pastorally, the Chaplain will provide pastoral care broadly and generously to the entire College community, offering counsel, support, and encouragement to individuals as well as comfort and wisdom to the institution as a whole. In the culture of a college which places high priority on the support of individual students, the Chaplain will be widely recognized on campus as a compassionate and highly accessible support for students as they weather the joys and the developmental, intellectual and spiritual challenges of young adulthood.
 
Programmatically, as the Protestant member of the team of chaplains, the Chaplain to the College will provide primary outreach to, and support for, students and groups who identify with any of the traditions or communities (denominational or nondenominational) associated with Protestant Christianity by leading or coordinating spiritual, liturgical and educational programming; providing pastoral care; building relationships between the various Protestant communities on and around the campus; and, with student leaders, cultivating an ecumenical sense of community in keeping with a culture of pluralism. In addition to their tradition-specific work, all of the chaplains are also actively involved in inter-religious and multi-faith activities, in the planning and leadership of dialogue and reflection among groups, and in collaborative ventures of humanitarian service and conscientious activism. And the Chaplain is a critically important core participant in those areas of campus life that focus on social justice, equity, and inclusion.
 
Institutionally, the Chaplain to the College will be visibly engaged in the whole life of the College, including its campus-wide celebrations, its gatherings in times of crisis, its issues and working groups, and the deliberations and discernments that shape the ongoing life of a highly diverse, intellectually vibrant and, occasionally, deeply challenging community. As an important member of the senior team of the VP for Campus Life, the Chaplain will be highly collaborative across the College, nurturing special relationships with the Center for Learning in Action, Integrative Wellbeing Services, the Office of the Dean of College, and the Davis Center. The Williams student body is remarkably diverse across multiple dimensions, including more than 30 religious traditions in most years.
 
Two aspects of the broad diversity of the Williams community have special bearing on the complexity of the Chaplain's work: the secular/pluralistic nature of the institution, and the intersectionality of students' religious identities with other evolving aspects of their whole selves. The Chaplain to the College is frequently called on to help build bridges between groups and to help to open spaces for new ways of thinking about and living the spiritual journey of young adulthood, within and beyond existing frameworks. And all of Williams' chaplains carry responsibility for being catalysts for social justice and supportive stewards of the rich potential for the spiritual and developmental well-being of all students.
The next Chaplain to the College will be compassionate and energetic, and a strong advocate and resource for inter-faith initiatives, particularly in support of those that are student-generated. The Chaplain will have a nuanced understanding of relevant textures of spiritual life on campus as essential to individual student identities and, to that end, will have substantial experience with diverse populations – within various Christian traditions, among the world's religions, and with students who do not identify themselves religiously. The next Chaplain will be particularly attuned to the experiences of marginalized students within specific faith traditions, and will insure that the Chaplains' Office supports and enhances the campus experience of all those with whom they work.
 
A strong candidate for the position will have at least 5-8 years of experience in ministry or as a religious professional – with a strong preference for campus experience – including senior-level roles with demonstrable administrative, programmatic and staff management expertise. A Master of Divinity degree (or equivalent) is preferred, with at least one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education. The Chaplain to the College supervises the administrative assistant, manages the office and its departmental budget, and has stewardship of Thompson Memorial Chapel and the Jewish Religious Center and their associated capital budgets. The work of chaplaincy on this campus frequently involves work outside of standard weekday office hours – at night and on weekends. The culture of the Chaplains' Office strongly supports chaplains in negotiating their work hours so as to accommodate personal boundaries – but the work of the office cannot be confined to a standard 9-5 weekday work schedule.
Williams College is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable community and strongly encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply.
 
Review of resumes will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Job Group 1-C.
 
Employment at Williams is contingent on the verification of background information submitted by the applicant, including the completion of a criminal record check, and education when applicable.
To apply for this position, please visit staff-careers.williams.edu. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us via phone at (413) 597-4247 or email at hr@williams.edu.
 
Williams College is a liberal arts institution located in western Massachusetts, with access to the culturally rich cities of Albany, Boston, and New York City. The college has built its reputation on outstanding teaching and scholarship and on the academic excellence of its students. Williams is committed to building and supporting a diverse population of approximately 2,000 students, and to fostering an inclusive faculty, staff and curriculum. Please visit the Williams College website (http://www.williams.edu).
 
Beyond meeting fully its legal obligations for non-discrimination, Williams College is committed to building a diverse and inclusive community where members from all backgrounds can live, learn and thrive. Feel free to Apply Here.
 
 
OTHER OPPORTUNITIES

The Center for Theological Inquiry

Resident Seminars on Religion & Violence
Fall Seminar - August 20 to December 14, 2018
Spring Seminar - January 14 to May 17, 2019

The Center invites research proposals on Religion & Violence from Theology & Religious Studies, Peace & Conflict Studies, the Humanities & Social Sciences. The relationship between religion and violence is complex and contested, raising a range of theological and interdisciplinary questions for the seminar. How are both terms defined, related, and deployed across disciplines? Are theological beliefs norms for nonviolence or implicated in violence? What resources do different religions offer for ending violent conflict? How is the violence in religious texts, histories, media, or practices to be interpreted? How can we identify and engage with religious factors in conflict situations? Can religions counteract gender-based and domestic violence? What role do local religious communities or the arts and religion play in resolving violent conflict? How is trust built and reconciliation achieved in interreligious conflicts? Are assumptions about religion and violence changing in the theory and practice of diplomacy, human rights, pacifism, or warfare? Applicants will welcome the opportunity to think together on such questions as members of our seminar in Princeton, NJ.

Applications close December 3, 2017. Apply here.


The Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE)

FTE offers the Fellowship for Doctoral Students of African Descent and the Fellowship for Latino/a, Asian and First Nations Doctoral Students. Each fellowship recipient receives an award up to $25,000. Qualified candidates must be:

Students of African, Latino/a, Asian, Pacific Islands or First Nations descent; enrolled full time in a ThD or PhD program in religious, theological or biblical studies; have completed coursework by the beginning of the awarded fellowship year; and in a position to write full-time during the fellowship year if applicant is at the dissertation stage. Applicants who are past coursework but not yet at candidacy (ABD) are eligible to apply.

For more information and to apply online visit FTE’s website. All online applications are due by February 1, 2018.


The Louisville Institute

The Louisville Institute which is funded by Lilly Endowment, Inc., and based at Louisville Presbyterian Seminary, offers several Grant Programs, Fellowship Programs as well as Collaborative Inquiry Team program which are outlined below.

The following grant programs support religious and theological scholarship among three strategic constituencies: pastors, academics, and researchers for the broader church.

The First Book Grant for Minority Scholars (FBM) offers grants up to $40,000 to assist junior, non-tenured religion scholars of color to complete a major research project on an issue in North American Christianity related to the priorities of the Louisville Institute. Grant periods are typically one academic year in length.  Deadline for application: 1/15/2018.  Apply here.

The Sabbatical Grant for Researchers (SGR) offers grants up to $40,000 to assist research and writing projects that will advance religious and theological scholarship in ways that also address practical issues concerning Christian faith and life, pastoral leadership, and/or religious institutions. Typically, applicants are fully employed in accredited academic institutions and eligible for up to a full academic year leave from teaching and administrative responsibilities. Deadline for application:  11/1/2017. Apply here.

The following three fellowship programs support the formation of ecclesiastically engaged academics for teaching and scholarship that serves the church and its ministries. Each fellowship awards stipends and links junior scholars into dynamic peer cohorts.
The Dissertation Fellowship (DF) programs offers up to twelve $22,000 grants to support the final year of PhD or ThD dissertation writing. Preference given to students engaged in research pertaining to North American Christianity, especially projects related to Institute mission priorities. This program is also open to outstanding students who may not intend to teach in theological education, but whose dissertation projects have the potential to strengthen the religious life of North American Christians and their institutions. Deadline for Application: 2/1/2018.  Apply here.  

The Doctoral Fellowship (DOC) program encourages current PhD/ThD students to consider theological education as their vocation. The Institute awards up to ten two-year Doctoral Fellowships of $2,000 per year. In addition, Fellows constitute a peer learning cohort that meets six times over a two year period. Deadline for application: 3/1/2018.  Apply here.  

The Postdoctoral Fellowship (PostDoc) programs provides up to six awards of $25,000 each year (plus housing, health benefits, and moving benefits) to support a two-year teaching internship in a theological school. During this residency, Postdoctoral Fellows are accompanied by an academic mentor and a pastoral mentor. Fellows also constitute a peer learning cohort that meets a total of six times over two years.  Deadline for Application:  12/1/2017. Apply here.  

Louisville Institute’s Collaborative Inquiry Team (CIT) program supports teams of four to eight pastors and professors who propose projects to strengthen the life of North American Christian congregations. Teams spend 18 to 36 months exploring together a living question currently confronting church and society. The grant amount is up to $45,000 for three years.  Deadline for Application is 4/1/2018.  Apply here.



CELEBRATIONS

Dr. Julian González and his wife, Viviana, welcomed their daughter Samara Lucia. Samara was born on May 24th and already spent five weeks traveling through Europe!

On July 27th, Dr. Gilberto Ruiz and his wife Joanne welcomed their second daughter, Ellie Jordan. Their oldest daughter, Briana, has already proven to be a super sibling. Congratulations!

Moving into a new house brings lots of new possibilities, and if it is your own, the experience is even better. We congratulate Dr. Matilde Moros and her family on their new house and wish them much happiness and blessed memories in the years to come.  

Two members of the HTI familia recently celebrated milestone birthdays and they celebrated ¡en grande! Congratulations to Dr. Edwin Aponte (60th) and Dr. Justo González (80th), and our best wishes for happiness and good health!

Two of the HTI student aides graduated in the summer, we are thankful for their contributions to HTI and wish them all the best in their new endeavors. They are:

Jasmin Elise Figueroa, MDiv-MACEF (2017-2018 HTI First-Year Doctoral Scholar), who is pursuing a PhD at Boston University

Stephen Wright, MDiv, who was called to serve as Associate Director of Congregational Care Ministries at New Covenant United Methodist Church, The Villages, FL

We welcome Suzette Aloyo, as HTI’s office assistant. Suzette comes from a career as a paralegal in corporations and 13 years in a prominent NY law firm working on trusts & estates, corporate and labor law, and most recently she served as administrative assistant and office manager at a couple of Princeton area organizations. Suzette looks forward to bringing to HTI her talents and skill set to further the objectives of the program.

And the HTI office is also blessed with the support of five Princeton Seminary students:

Leslie Enid Giboyeaux
Benjamin Jacuk
Deborah Kwak
Rudy E. Logan

Lauren Whitfield


FOR PRAYER

Rev. Stan Perea, former AETH Executive Director, passed away on July 29th. Under his leadership AETH created the Justo González Center of Hispanic Ministries and implemented the Certification of Bible Institutes Program. We keep his family and friends in prayer.  

On August 11, the sister of Rev. Joanne Rodríguez (HTI Director), Norma Ivette Sanchez, passed away unexpectedly. Please remember Norma’s family in your prayers, especially her daughter Jasmine and her granddaughter Sora
.

Our hearts are still heavy for all the lives impacted by the mass shooting in Las Vegas and the different natural disaster that have affected the southern part of the United States, California, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Hurricane Maria especially impacted the families of many members of the HTI community. In addition to our prayers, support is much needed, we invite you to keep in your minds and in your hearts our brothers and sisters that are still struggling, the need is enormous.


KEEP US POSTED

With the launching of HTI’s new website, it is easier for members of the HTI community, to share any news items to have considered for inclusion in Journeys. You may submit your contributions by visiting www.htiprogram.org. Journeys is an excellent venue to promote your scholarship.
 
 
 
 



 


 

 
HTI AT AAR
 
November 17th – November 21st, 2017 – Boston, MA
Lecture/Workshop Curriculum
(For events at the Society of Biblical Literature (SBL),  see separate listing, below)


 
Friday, November 17th, 2017
 
A17-105
Friday - 9:00 AM-3:00 PM
Hynes Convention Center-312 (Third Level)
 
Theological Education Workshop
Theme: Resisting Injustice in the Age of Trump
Miguel De La Torre, Iliff School of Theology, University of Denver, Presiding
Panelists:
Jacqueline Lewis, Middle Collegiate Church and The Middle Project
Joerg Rieger, Vanderbilt University
Roger S. Gottlieb, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Marie Alford-Harkey, Religious Institute, Bridgeport, CT
Jacqueline Hidalgo, Williams College
 
M17-103
Friday - 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Hilton Boston Back Bay-Lincoln (Third Level)
Catholicism, Colonialism, and Race in America
Theme: Collaboration
Panelists:
Herman Bennett, City University of New York
Matthew Cressler, College of Charleston
Jack Downey, La Salle University
Felipe Hinojosa, Texas A&M University
Kathleen Holscher, University of New Mexico
Anne Martinez, University of Groningen
Bryan Massingale, Fordham University
Maureen O’Connell, La Salle University
Michael Pasquier, Louisiana State University
Shannen Williams, University of Tennessee
 
M17-105
Friday - 10:30 AM-1:00 PM
Sheraton Boston-Republic A (Second Level)
International Society for Science and Religion
Theme: Attending to Symbiosis: Theology and the Connectedness of Nature
Panelists:
Daniel Castillo, Loyola University, Maryland
Andrew Davison, University of Cambridge
Adam Pryor, Bethany College
Katherine Sonderegger, Virginia Theological Seminary
Wesley J. Wildman, Boston University
 
Saturday, November 18th, 2017
 
A18-117
Saturday - 9:00 AM-11:30 AM
Hynes Convention Center-310 (Third Level)
Liberation Theologies Unit
Theme: Liberating Identities
Santiago H. Slabodsky, Hofstra University, Presiding
Nikia Robert, Claremont School of Theology
The Cross, Criminality, and the Carceral State: A Liberation Theology of Lockdown America
Katie Grimes, Villanova University
Blackness, Class, and Race
Samaneh Oladi, Virginia Commonwealth University
Women’s Sacred Activism: Between Modernity and Tradition
Alexander Abbasi, University of Johannesburg
Beyond Good Muslim, Bad Muslim: A Decolonial Critique of Postcolonial Muslim Ontology
Jorge Rodriguez, Union Theological Seminary
The Neoliberal Co-optation of “Identity Politics”: Geopolitical Situatedness as a Decolonial Alternative
Jeremy Posadas, Austin College
Beyond "Identity" vs. "Class": Strategic Classism Built from Insights of New Working Class Studies and Fraser's Critical Theory
Business Meeting:
Unregistered Participant
 
A18-121
Saturday - 9:00 AM-11:30 AM
Sheraton Boston-Constitution (Second Level)
 
Books under Discussion
Queer Studies in Religion Unit and SBL LBGTI/Queer Hermeneutics Unit
Theme: Author Meets Critics: The Relevance of Lee Edelman's Work for the Study of Religion, Theology, and Sacred Texts
Brandy Daniels, Vanderbilt University, Presiding
Panelists:
Kent Brintnall, University of North Carolina, Charlotte
Rhiannon Graybill, Rhodes College
Jacqueline Hidalgo, Williams College
Justin Crisp, Yale University
Erin Runions, Pomona College
Linn Tonstad, Yale University
Responding:
Lee Edelman, Tufts University
Business Meeting:
Thelathia Young, Bucknell University
 
A18-145
Saturday - 11:45 AM-12:45 PM
Hynes Convention Center-108 (Plaza Level)
 
Academic Labor and Contingent Faculty Committee
Theme: Contingent Faculty Luncheon: What Can Non-tenure-track Faculty Career Growth Look Like?
Kerry Danner, Georgetown University, Presiding
Edwin David Aponte, Louisville Institute, Louisville, KY, Presiding
 
A18-244
Saturday - 1:00 PM-3:30 PM
Marriott Copley Place-Grand G (Fourth Level)
 
Special Topics Forum
Theme: Varieties of Protest Experiences in the Age of Trump: Religious Studies and Direct Action in Charlottesville, St. Louis, and the NFL
Shreena Gandhi, Michigan State University, Presiding
Panelists:
Jalane D. Schmidt, University of Virginia
Willis Jenkins, University of Virginia
Janet Spittler, University of Virginia
Michelle Gonzalez Maldonado, University of Miami
Anthea Butler, University of Pennsylvania
Jorge Rodríguez, Union Theological Seminary

A18-306
Saturday - 4:00 PM-6:30 PM
Sheraton Boston-Back Bay B (Second Level)

Black Theology Unit
Theme: Michelle Alexander and Walter Fluker: The Mystical-Prophetic in Black—A Special Look at Mass Incarceration and the Black Lives Matter Movement
Unregistered Participant, Presiding
Larry Perry, University of Virginia
A Blues Enthused Mysticism: Howard Thurman, Mysticism, and Tragedy
Wendy Arce, University of San Francisco
Freedom in an Age of Repression: The Role of Black Theology and Black-Produced Media in Forging Freedom
Gregory Williams, Duke University
Jewish Election and the Blackness of God: Reading Barth on the Election of the Community in the Context of Mass Incarceration and #BlackLivesMatter
S. Kyle Johnson, Boston College
“Trapped in a History Which They Do Not Understand": Reading James Baldwin with Thomas Merton, toward a Theological-Spiritual Account of Mass Incarceration
Responding:
Michelle Alexander, Union Theological Seminary
Business Meeting:
Andrea C. White, Union Theological Seminary
Adam Clark, Xavier University
 
A18-315
Saturday - 4:00 PM-6:30 PM
Hynes Convention Center-311 (Third Level)

History of Christianity Unit
Theme: New Histories of Americano Protestantisms: Hegemons and Subalterns
Daniel Ramirez, Claremont Graduate University, Presiding
Jorge Rodriguez, Union Theological Seminary
Creating Puerto Rican Subalterns: The Protestant Missionary Project of the Late Nineteenth Century
Erika Helgen, Yale University
Migration, Drought, and the Pentecostalization of Catholic Anti-Protestantism in Brazil, 1911-1945
Lloyd Barba, Amherst College
Through the Lens of the Subaltern: Mexican-Pentecostal Narratives and Church Family Photographs
Justin Doran, University of Texas
Um País Laico, com Infraestrutura Apropriada: Toward a Post-Secular Political Economy in São Paulo’s Templo de Salomão
Responding:
Ana Maria Bidegain, Florida International University
 
A18-324
Saturday - 4:00 PM-6:30 PM
Hynes Convention Center-104 (Plaza Level)

Religion and Science Fiction Unit
Theme: Religion and Global Science Fiction
Theme: Global Science Fiction
Laura Ammon, Appalachian State University, Presiding
Michael Pittman, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Revisiting Andrei Tarkovsky’s Stalker: Revisioning an Encounter with the Divine
Erica Hurwitz Andrus, University of Vermont
From Handmaid to Gardener: Margaret Atwood Gets Religion
Chris Porter, Ridley College
The Ghost in Our Shell? An Exploration of Self and Identity within Eastern and Western Frames of Transhumanism and Artificial Intelligence
Ahmed Ragab, Harvard University
Muslim Futures: Science Fiction, Islam, and the Making of Ethnoreligious Futurity
Bradley Johnson, Rice University
The Invention of Hells: Black Mirror and Punishment as Spectacle
Responding:
Rudy V. Busto, University of California, Santa Barbara
Business Meeting:
Rudy V. Busto, University of California, Santa Barbara
Laura Ammon, Appalachian State University
 
A18-334
Saturday - 4:00 PM-6:30 PM
Marriott Copley Place-Arlington (Third Level)
 
Theme: Race, Coloniality, and Philosophy of Religion
Eleanor Craig, Harvard University, Presiding
Panelists:
Ellen T. Armour, Vanderbilt University
Unregistered Participant
Devin Singh, Dartmouth College
Unregistered Participant
Elaine Padilla, University of La Verne
An Yountae, Lebanon Valley College

A18-406
Saturday - 8:00 PM-10:00 PM

Sheraton Boston-Liberty B (Second Level)

Films
Theme: Hunger for God, Hunger for Bread: The Faith of Latin America’s Poor (CBS News)
John Phillip Santos, San Antonio, TX, Presiding

In 1986, Fr. Virgilio Elizondo, a native of San Antonio, Texas, undertook an powerful journey of witness through Nicaragua, Peru, and Brazil, encountering such powerful scenes as a village on the Honduran border of Nicaragua in the middle of the Contra War; the vibrant "pueblo jóven” of Villa El Salvador, outside of Lima; and the faith of street people in Sao Paolo. Along the way, Elizondo -- who is now widely regarded as the father of U.S. Hispanic/Latino theology -- engaged such luminaries as Gustavo Gutierrez, Leonardo Boff, Dom Helder Camara, Pedro Casaldaligla, and Enrique Dussel, and a host of others. Elizondo’s testimonial here is a remarkable, and little seen, glimpse of the flowering of liberation theology, which continues to be felt across the Americas today. John Phillip Santos, the producer of the film, will be present to lead a brief discussion after the viewing.

M18-414

HTI Reception at AAR/SBL
Saturday, November 18, 2017 - 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Location: Westin Copley Place-America North (Fourth Level)

For HTI Family and Friends. Join us for your annual HTI Reception and gathering. We hope to see you there!
 
Sunday, November 19th, 2017
 
A19-102
Sunday - 9:00 AM-11:30 AM
Hynes Convention Center-305 (Third Level)
 
Focus on Employment
Status of Women in the Profession Committee
Theme: Women and Vulnerability in the Academy
Monique Moultrie, Georgia State University, Presiding
Panelists:
Emily Askew, Lexington Theological Seminary
Teresa Delgado, Iona College
Aysha Hidayatullah, University of San Francisco
Siobhan Kelly, Harvard University
Unregistered Participant
Jeanine Viau, University of Central Florida
 
A19-108
Sunday - 9:00 AM-11:30 AM
Hynes Convention Center-311 (Third Level)

Bible in Racial, Ethnic, and Indigenous Communities Unit and Sacred Texts, Theory, and Theological Construction Unit
Theme: Present and Future of Biblical Studies, I: Celebrating 25 Years of Brill's Journal, Biblical Interpretation
Tat-siong Benny Liew, College of the Holy Cross, Presiding
Co-Sponsored by:
SBL Asian and Asian-American Hermeneutics Unit
SBL Bible and Cultural Studies Unit
SBL Contextual Biblical Interpretation Unit
SBL Feminist Hermeneutics of the Bible Unit
SBL Gender, Sexuality, and the Bible Unit
SBL Ideological Criticism Unit
SBL LGBTI/Queer Hermeneutics Unit
SBL Minoritized Criticism and Biblical Interpretation Unit
SBL Postcolonial Studies and Biblical Studies Unit
SBL Reading, Theory, and the Bible Unit
SBL Rhetoric and the New Testament Unit
SBL Slavery, Resistance, and Freedom Unit
Panelists:
Fiona Black, Mount Allison University
Steed Davidson, McCormick Theological Seminary
Jacqueline Hidalgo, Williams College
Davina C. Lopez, Eckerd College
Stephen Moore, Drew University
Jorunn Okland, University of Oslo
Responding:
Randall C. Bailey, Interdenominational Theological Center
 
A19-117
Sunday - 9:00 AM-11:30 AM
Marriott Copley Place-Boylston (First Level)

History of Christianity Unit
Theme: Late Ancient Ruminations: Thinking Today by Reading the Past
Peter Anthony Mena, University of San Diego, Presiding
Nathaniel Morehouse, John Carroll University
Nicaea's Unorthodox Benefactor: The Emperor Julian and the Rise of Nicaean Dominance
Tola Rodrick, Indiana University
Technologies of the Cell: Transforming Mud Brick into Virtue in Late Ancient Egypt
Tara Baldrick-Morrone, Florida State University
"A Familiar Art": Contemporary Reproductions of Abortion in Antiquity
Dan Salyers, Fuller Theological Seminary
Refugee Bishops in the Fourth Century
 
M19-105
Sunday - 10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Marriott Copley Place-Fairfield (Third Level)

Theology and Decoloniality Group
Theme: Decolonial Theological Encounters: An Invitation to Further Conversation
The meeting is convened by Michel Andraos, Lee Cormie, Néstor Medina, and Becca Whitla
 
A19-141
Sunday - 11:45 AM-12:45 PM
Hynes Convention Center-302 (Third Level)
 
Status of Racial and Ethnic Minorities in the Profession Committee and Status of Women in the Profession Committee
Theme: Status of Women in the Profession and Status of Racial and Ethnic Minorities in the Profession Committee Women's Mentoring Lunch
Andrea C. White, Union Theological Seminary, Presiding
Melissa M. Wilcox, University of California, Riverside, Presiding
Panelists:
Kecia Ali, Boston University
Rebecca Alpert, Temple University
Ellen T. Armour, Vanderbilt University
Loriliai Biernacki, University of Colorado
Unregistered Participant
Monica A. Coleman, Claremont School of Theology
Melanie L. Harris, Texas Christian University
Mary E. Hunt, Women's Alliance for Theology, Ethics, and Ritual, Silver Spring, MD
Jane Naomi Iwamura, University of the West
Jung Ha Kim, Georgia State University
Valerie Miles-Tribble, American Baptist Seminary of the West
Elaine Padilla, University of La Verne
Michelene Pesantubbee, University of Iowa
Michele Saracino, Manhattan College
Angella Son, Drew University
Nargis Virani, Graduate Theological Union
 
P19-116
Sunday - 12:30 PM-3:00 PM
Westin Copley Place-Defender (Seventh Level)

La Comunidad of Hispanic Scholars of Religion
Theme: Latinxs Ethical and Theological Readings of Scripture
Loida I. Martell, Lexington Theological Seminary, Presiding
Leticia Guardiola-Saenz, Seattle University
From the Pulpit to the Academy—Latinx Scriptural Hermeneutics
Maria T. Davila, Andover Newton Theological School
For a Time Such as This—Scripture, Theological Ethics, and Multi-faith Reflection
Harold Morales, Morgan State University
Beyond Bible—Scripture Among Diverse Latinx Communities
Efrain Agosto, New York Theological Seminary
Scripture and Liberating Ethics—Honoring Eldin Villafañe
Responding:
Eldin Villafañe, Gordon-Conwell Theological
Business Meeting:
Loida I. Martell, Lexington Theological Seminary
 
A19-237
Sunday - 1:00 PM-2:30 PM
Marriott Copley Place-Grand A (Fourth Level)

Professional Conduct Task Force
Theme: Professional Conduct Task Force Public Forum
Su Yon Pak, Union Theological Seminary, Presiding
Kecia Ali, Boston University, Presiding
Panelists:
David A. Sánchez, Loyola Marymount University
Megan Goodwin, Syracuse University
Barbara A. B. Patterson, Emory University
Melissa M. Wilcox, University of California, Riverside
Randall Styers, University of North Carolina
Emilie M. Townes, Vanderbilt University
Jack Fitzmier, American Academy of Religion
 
A19-264
Sunday - 3:00 PM-4:30 PM
Hynes Convention Center-104 (Plaza Level)

Latina/o Religion, Culture, and Society Unit and Pentecostal–Charismatic Movements Unit
Theme: Subverting Power: Mission, Politics, and Place within Global Pentecostalism
Erica Ramirez, Drew University, Presiding
Jonathan Calvillo, Boston University
The Persistence of Mexican Borderlands Protestantism in Southern California
Alex Mayfield, Boston University
“A Gloriously Free Work”: Pentecostal POWs and Spirit-Empowered Resistance
David Luckey, Southern Methodist University
Subverting Political Fallacies: The Voice of a Latin-American Pentecostal Immigrant Community in the U.S.
 
A19-323
Sunday - 5:00 PM-6:30 PM
Hynes Convention Center-310 (Third Level)
 
Religions in the Latina/o Americas Unit and Theology and Religious Reflection Unit
Theme: The Legacy of Virgilio Elizondo
Michelle Gonzalez Maldonado, University of Miami, Presiding
Panelists:
Benjamin Valentin, Yale University
Michael E. Lee, Fordham University
Chris Tirres, DePaul University
Unregistered Participant
Timothy Matovina, University of Notre Dame
Unregistered Participant
Nancy A. Pineda-Madrid, Boston College
 
A19-400
Sunday - 6:30 PM-8:00 PM
Hynes Convention Center-302 (Third Level)
 
Status of Racial and Ethnic Minorities in the Profession Committee
Reception hosted by Committee on the Status of Racial and Ethnic Minority in the Profession
Theme: CREM Reception
Nargis Virani, Graduate Theological Union, Presiding
Panelists:
David A. Sánchez, Loyola Marymount University
 
A19-407
Sunday - 7:00 PM-9:00 PM
Hynes Convention Center-312 (Third Level)
 
Latina/o Religion, Culture, and Society Unit; Liberation Theologies Unit; Religions in the Latina/o Americas Unit; SBL Latino/a and Latin American Biblical Interpretation Group; and La Comunidad of Hispanic Scholars of Religion
Theme: Puerto Rico and Maria: Histories and Vulnerabilities in the Eye of the Storm
Maria T. Davila, Andover Newton Theological School, Presiding
Panelists:
Teresa Delgado, Iona College
Jorge Rodriguez, Union Theological Seminary
Loida I. Martell, Lexington Theological Seminary
Jean-Pierre Ruiz, St. John's University, New York
Melissa Pagán, Mount St. Mary's University, Los Angeles
Luis Rivera Pagán, Princeton Theological Seminary
 
Monday, November 20th, 2017
 
A20-102
Monday - 9:00 AM-11:30 AM
Hynes Convention Center-102 (Plaza Level)
 
Status of LGBTIQ Persons in the Profession Committee and Status of Persons with Disabilities in the Profession Committee
Theme: Toilet Justice: Peeing and the Politics of Marginalized Bodies
Julia Watts Belser, Georgetown University, Presiding
Panelists:
Neomi De Anda, University of Dayton
Leo Guardado, University of Notre Dame
Preston Parsons, University of Cambridge
Judith Plaskow, Manhattan College
Santiago H. Slabodsky, Hofstra University
Max Strassfeld, University of Arizona
Max Thornton, Drew University
Shani Tzoref, University of Potsdam
 
A20-135
Monday - 9:00 AM-11:30 AM
Sheraton Boston-Beacon G (Third Level)
 
Religions in the Latina/o Americas Unit
Theme: Grassroots Religion: Ethnography, Resistance, and Sacred Presence
Daisy Vargas, University of California, Riverside, Presiding
Harold Morales, Morgan State University
El Cristo Guatemalteco de Baltimore: Theorizing "Presence" in Transnational Ways of Being-in-the-World
Rudy V. Busto, University of California, Santa Barbara
The Virgin of Guadalupe as Science Fiction
Laurel Marshall, Central American University
Actions Speak Louder Than Words: Christian Base Communities in the Construction of New Sacramental Theology
Matthew Casey, University of California, Davis
Andean Pastoral: An Indigenous Catholic Third Way in 1970s Peru
Petra Kuivala, University of Helsinki
Hidden Histories – The Catholic Experience in Cuban Revolutionary Reality
Responding:
Unregistered Participant
Business Meeting:
Chris Tirres, DePaul University
 
A20-216
Monday - 1:00 PM-3:30 PM
Hynes Convention Center-104 (Plaza Level)

Latina/o Religion, Culture, and Society Unit
Theme: Protest and Accomodation: Latinx Responses to the Protestant Reformations
Lauren Frances Guerra, Southern Methodist University, Presiding
Panelists:
Sammy Alfaro, Grand Canyon Theological Seminary
Matilde Moros, Virginia Commonwealth University
Responding:
Néstor Medina, University of Toronto
Business Meeting:
Unregistered Participant
Sammy Alfaro, Grand Canyon Theological Seminary
 
A20-239
Monday - 1:00 PM-3:30 PM
Hynes Convention Center-111 (Plaza Level)
 
Origen and the Roots of "Human Freedom" and "Human Dignity" in the West Seminar
Theme: Origen and the Roots of "Human Freedom" and "Human Dignity" in the West
Anders-Christian Jacobsen, Aarhus University, Presiding
Kristian Bunkenborg, Martin Luther University
Castration and Democratic Rights: Origen in Post-Apartheid South Africa
Giovanni Tortoriello, Martin Luther University
A "River of Gold" or a "Perverter of the Doctrine of Justification"? The Reception of Origen in Erasmus and Melanchthon
Karen Felter, University of Muenster
“The Middle Way of Truth”: The Role of Christ in Anne Conway’s Trinitarianism
Elisa Zocchi, University of Muenster
“It Is Precisely the World That Counts”: From Origen to Balthasar, Bodiliness and Freedom as Reflection of Divine Mystery
Peter Anthony Mena, University of San Diego
Mattering Bodies: Beauty, Animacy, and Visibility in Origen’s On First Principles
William Boyce, University of Virginia
“Origen I Have Already Banned”: Luther and the Paradox of Eccentric Freedom as Dangerous Embodiment
Responding:
Peter Martens, Saint Louis University
Michael Raubach, Aarhus University
Ellen Muehlberger, University of Michigan
Unregistered Participant
Business Meeting:
Anders-Christian Jacobsen, Aarhus University
 
P20-223a
Monday - 1:00 PM-3:30 PM
Marriott Copley Place-Vermont (Fifth Level)
 
Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion
Theme: FSRBook Series Session: Congress of Wo/men: Religion, Gender and Kyriarchal Power by E. Schüssler Fiorenza and Women, Religion, Revolution edited by X. Alvizo and G. Messina
Melanie Johnson-DeBaufre, Drew University, Presiding
Panelists:
Xochitl Alvizo, California State University, Northridge
Maria Pilar Aquino, University of San Diego
Namsoon Kang, Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University
Gina Messina, Ursuline College
Fulata Moyo, World Council of Churches and Harvard University
Nancy A. Pineda-Madrid, Boston College
Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza, Harvard University
 
A20-245
Monday - 1:30 PM-3:00 PM
Hynes Convention Center-303 (Third Level)
 
Student Lounge Roundtable
Theme: Publish or Perish for Graduate Students
Panelists:
Miguel De La Torre, Iliff School of Theology
 
A20-322
Monday - 4:00 PM-6:30 PM
Sheraton Boston-Fairfax B (Third Level)
 
Pentecostal–Charismatic Movements Unit
Theme: Gender, Prosperity and Migrations: New Trends in Pentecostal-Charismatic Scholarship
Unregistered Participant, Presiding
Dr. Leah Payne, Assistant Professor of Christian Studies at George Fox University and Portland Seminary, author of Gender and Pentecostal Revivalism: Making a Female Ministry in the Early Twentieth Century (Palgrave Macmillan, 2015).
Dr. Phillip Luke Sinitiere, Professor of History at College of Biblical Studies, author of Salvation with a Smile: Joel Osteen, Lakewood Church, and American Christianity (New York University Press, 2015).
Dr. Daniel Ramírez, Associate Professor of Religion, author of Migrating Faith: Pentecostalism in the United States and Mexico in the Twentieth Century (University of North Carolina Press, 2015).
Dr. Kate Bowler, Assistant Professor of the History of Christianity in North America at Duke Divinity School, will respond.
Panelists:
Leah Payne, George Fox University
Daniel Ramirez, Claremont Graduate University
Judith Casselberry, Bowdoin College
Business Meeting:
Unregistered Participant
Leah Payne, George Fox University
 
A20-341
Monday - 4:00 PM-6:30 PM
Sheraton Boston-Republic B (Second Level)
 
Theological Education Committee
Theme: Faith and Resistance in an Age of Trump
Miguel De La Torre, Iliff School of Theology, Presiding
Panelists:
Susan B. Thistlethwaite, Chicago Theological Seminary
Amir Hussain, Loyola Marymount University
Unregistered Participant
David P. Gushee, Mercer University
Kwok Pui Lan, Emory University
Santiago H. Slabodsky, Hofstra University
 
Tuesday, November 21st, 2017
 
A21-115
Tuesday - 9:00 AM-11:30 AM
Sheraton Boston-Back Bay B (Second Level)
 
Latina/o Religion, Culture, and Society Unit
Theme: Sanctuary Spaces and Liturgical Practices: Safety and Resilience in Latinx Communities
Unregistered Participant, Presiding
Leo Guardado, University of Notre Dame
Sanctuary Churches: Resisting State Violence
Jennifer Owens, Graduate Theological Union
Las Caminatas por la Paz as Epistemological Practice: How Popular Catholicism Makes Meaning of Suffering and Practices Healing
Responding:
Neomi De Anda, University of Dayton
 



 
HTI AT SBL
 
November 18th – November 21st, 2017 – Boston, MA
Lecture/Workshop Curriculum
(For events at the American Academy of Religion-AAR,  see separate listing, above)
 
Saturday, November 18th, 2017
 
S18-124
Ethics and Biblical Interpretation
11/18/2017
9:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Room: Liberty A (Second Level) - Sheraton Boston Hotel (SB)
 
Theme: The Book of Exodus: Emancipatory Potential and Moral Problematics
The Exodus traditions have long served as a resource for biblically-grounded theological discourses focused on social or political emancipation. Jewish readings focused on God's commitment to Israel as covenant people have been joined by a variety of Christian appropriations of Exodus traditions, notably within the discourses of Black liberation theology and feminist theology. Theological work with Exodus continues in constructive theology and reception history (for the latter. see, e.g., John Coffey's Exodus and Liberation: Deliverance Politics from John Calvin to Martin Luther King Jr. [Oxford, 2013]). This session invites analyses of the emancipatory potential and morally problematic dimensions of the biblical Exodus traditions for particular 21st-century contexts.
Amy Merrill Willis, Lynchburg College, Presiding
Pablo Andiñach, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Panelist
Kimberly Russaw, Claflin University, Panelist
Kenneth Ngwa, Drew University, Panelist
Angeline Song, Independent Scholar, New Zealand, Respondent
Ruben Rosario-Rodriguez, Saint Louis University, Respondent
 
S18-134
LGBTI/Queer Hermeneutics
11/18/2017
9:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Room: Constitution Ballroom (Second Level) - Sheraton Boston Hotel (SB)
 
Theme: Author Meets Critics: the Relevance of Lee Edelman's Work for the Study of Religion, Theology, and Sacred Texts
This is a joint session with the Queer Studies in Religion unit (AAR). It convenes a conversation among scholars of religion and the influential queer theorist Lee Edelman about the implications of Edelman's work for the fields of theology, religious studies, and biblical studies.
Brandy Daniels, Vanderbilt University, Presiding
Kent Brintnall, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Panelist
Rhiannon Graybill, Rhodes College, Panelist
Jacqueline Hidalgo, Williams College, Panelist
Justin Crisp, Yale University, Panelist
Erin Runions, Pomona College, Panelist
Linn Tonstad, Yale University, Panelist
Lee Edelman, Tufts University, Respondent
Joseph Marchal, Ball State University, Presiding
Business Meeting
 
S18-234
Online Teaching and Biblical Studies
11/18/2017
1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Room: Vineyard (Fourth Level) - Boston Marriott Copley Place (MCP)
 
Theme: Hosted by the Professional Development Committee and Wabash Center
As online and hybrid courses proliferate in higher education this panel will consider the special opportunities and challenges for teaching various aspects of biblical studies in an online or hybrid format.
Bruce Birch, Wesley Theological Seminary, Presiding
Paul Myhre, Wabash Center for Teaching and Learning, Presiding
Richard Ascough, Queen's University, Panelist
Eric Barreto, Princeton Theological Seminary, Panelist
Stephen Delamarter, George Fox University, Panelist
Ahida Pilarski, Saint Anselm College, Panelist
Ruth Anne Reese, Asbury Theological Seminary, Panelist
 
S18-324
LGBTI/Queer Hermeneutics
11/18/2017
4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Room: 210 (Second Level) - Hynes Convention Center (HCC)
 
Laurel Koepf Taylor, Eden Theological Seminary, Presiding
Jared Beverly, Chicago Theological Seminary
Qoheleth's Queer Negativity
Dong Sung Kim, Drew University
Queering the King's Wisdom: Queer Temporality and Solomon's (A)Sexuality
Teresa J. Hornsby, Drury University
Queerer Things: Lee Edelman’s No Future and the Queer Death of Eleven
James N. Hoke, Luther College
Homo Urbanus or Urban Homos? Philo, the Therapeuts, and Queer Space
Peter Anthony Mena, University of San Diego
Cruising the Desert: Queer Collectives and Christian Futurity
 
S18-328
Minoritized Criticism and Biblical Interpretation
11/18/2017
4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Room: Columbus I & II (First Level) - Boston Marriott Copley Place (MCP)
 
Theme: Social Activist Hermeneutics
Janette Ok, Azusa Pacific University, Presiding
Rodney Sadler, Union Presbyterian Seminary, Panelist
Valerie Bridgeman, Methodist Theological School in Ohio, Panelist
Elias Ortega-Aponte, Drew Theological School, Panelist  
 
M18-414
HTI Reception at AAR/SBL
Saturday, November 18, 2017 - 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Location: Westin Copley Place-America North (Fourth Level)
For HTI Family and Friends. Join us for your annual HTI Reception and gathering. We hope to see you there!
 
Sunday, November 19th, 2017
 
S19-101
Emory Studies in Early Christianity and Rhetoric of Religious Antiquity Editorial Boards
11/19/2017
7:00 AM to 8:30 AM
Room: 308 (Third Level) - Hynes Convention Center (HCC)
 
Vernon Robbins, Emory University, Member
David Gowler, Emory University, Member
Bart Bruehler, Indiana Wesleyan University, Member
Robert von Thaden, Mercyhurst College, Member
Richard Ascough, Queen's University, Member
Juan Hernandez, Bethel University (Minnesota), Member
Susan Hylen, Emory University, Member
Brigitte Kahl, Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York, Member
Mikeal Parsons, Baylor University, Member
Christopher Rowland, University of Oxford, Member
Russell Sisson, Union College, Member
Elaine Wainwright, University of Auckland, Member
Alicia Batten, Conrad Grebel University College/University of Waterloo, Member
L. Gregory Bloomquist, Université Saint-Paul - Saint Paul University, Member
Rosemary Canavan, University of Divinity, Member
Alexandra Gruca-Macaulay, Saint Paul University, Member
Roy Jeal, Booth University College, Member
Harry Maier, Vancouver School of Theology, Member
B. J. Oropeza, Azusa Pacific University, Member
Walter Wilson, Emory University, Member
Nicole Tilford, SBL Press, Member
 
S19-201
Bible Odyssey Editorial Board
11/19/2017
12:00 PM to 1:30 PM
Room: 308 (Third Level) - Hynes Convention Center (HCC)
 
Rhonda Burnette-Bletsch, Eastern University, Member
Elizabeth Shively, University of St. Andrews, Member
Eric Barreto, Princeton Theological Seminary, Member
Brennan Breed, Columbia Theological Seminary, Member
Shawna Dolansky, Carleton University, Member
Erin Darby, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Member
Paul Dilley, University of Iowa, Member
Mark Goodacre, Duke University, Member
Lynn Huber, Elon University, Member
Amy-Jill Levine, Vanderbilt University, Member
Carol Meyers, Duke University, Member
Mark Powell, Trinity Lutheran Seminary, Member
Sarah Shectman, Independent Scholar, Member
Heather McMurray, SBL Press, Member
Nicole Tilford, SBL Press, Member
 
S19-239
Reading, Theory, and the Bible
Joint Session With: Reading, Theory, and the Bible, Asian and Asian-American Hermeneutics, Bible and Cultural Studies, Contextual Biblical Interpretation, Feminist Hermeneutics of the Bible, Gender, Sexuality, and the Bible, Ideological Criticism, LGBTI/Queer Hermeneutics, Minoritized Criticism and Biblical Interpretation, Postcolonial Studies and Biblical Studies, Rhetoric and the New Testament, Slavery, Resistance, and Freedom
11/19/2017
1:00 PM to 3:30 PM
Room: 311 (Third Level) - Hynes Convention Center (HCC)
 
Theme: Present and Future of Biblical Studies, II: Celebrating 25 Years of Brill's Journal, Biblical Interpretation
This session is co-sponsored by the Bible in Racial, Ethnic, and Indigenous Communities unit (AAR) and Sacred Texts, Theory, and Theological Construction unit (AAR).
Lynn Huber, Elon University, Presiding
Roland Boer, Newcastle University , Panelist
Jacqueline Hidalgo, Williams College, Panelist
Yii-Jan Lin, Yale Divinity School, Panelist
Yvonne Sherwood, University of Kent at Canterbury, Panelist
Jay Twomey, University of Cincinnati, Panelist
Gerald West, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Panelist
J. Cheryl Exum, University of Sheffield, Respondent
 
S19-339
The Grant Application Process
11/19/2017
4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Room: Regis (Third Level) - Boston Marriott Copley Place (MCP)
 
Theme: Hosted by the Professional Development Committee
This session provides guidance regarding how to identify external funding for research and teaching and how to craft successful proposals. The panel includes scholars who have successfully applied for grants, as well as an executive from a prominent funding agency.
Greg Carey, Lancaster Theological Seminary, Presiding
Edwin Aponte, Louisville Institute, Panelist
Valerie Bridgeman, Methodist Theological School in Ohio, Panelist
Caroline T. Schroeder, University of the Pacific, Panelist
Robert Seesengood, Albright College, Panelist
 
S19-400
SBL Latino/a and Latin American Biblical Interpretation Group;AAR Latina/o Religion, Culture, and Society Unit;AAR Liberation Theologies Unit;AAR Religions in the Latina/o Americas Unit; La Comunidad
11/19/2017
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Room: 312 (Third Level) - Hynes Convention Center (HCC)
 
Theme: Puerto Rico and Maria: Histories and Vulnerabilities in the Eye of the Storm
MT Davila, Andover Newton Theological School, Presiding
Teresa Delgado, Iona College, Panelist
Jorge Rodriguez, Union Theological Seminary, Panelist
Loida I. Martell, Lexington Theological Seminary, Panelist
Jean-Pierre Ruiz, Saint John's University, Panelist
Melissa Pagán, Mount St. Mary's University, Los Angeles, Panelist
Luis Rivera Pagán, Princeton Theological Seminary, Panelist
 
Monday, November 20th, 2017
 
S20-133
New Testament Textual Criticism
11/20/2017
9:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Room: 304 (Third Level) - Hynes Convention Center (HCC)
 
Juan Hernandez, Bethel University (Minnesota), Presiding
Peter M. Head, Wycliffe Hall, University of Oxford
Punctuation and Paragraphs in P66: Insights into early interpretation of the Fourth Gospel
Peter Gurry, University of Cambridge
The Byzantine Text as the Initial Text in the CBGM
Elijah Hixson, University of Edinburg
Found: Remnants of a Lost Greek Page of Acts from Codex Bezae (30 min
Curt Niccum, Abilene Christian University
The Ethiopic Version of 1 and 2 Corinthians and Its Value for Text Criticism in Light of a New Witness
Michael Dormandy, University of Cambridge
How the Books Became the Bible: The Evidence for Canon Formation from Work Combinations in Manuscripts
 
P20-223a
Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion
11/20/2017
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Room: Vermont (Fifth Level) - Boston Marriott Copley Place (MCP)
 
As the Journal of Feminist Studies in Religion, the oldest feminist academic journal in religious studies, so also the new FSRBook Series is interreligious in its subjects, transdisciplinary in its methods, and intersectional in its political analyses. In light of these goals, the panel will discuss FSRBook’s first publications: Congress of Wo/men: Religion, Gender, and Kyriarchal Power by E. Schüssler Fiorenza and Women, Religion, Revolution edited by X. Alvizo and G. Messina.
Melanie Johnson-DeBaufre, Drew University, Presiding
Xochitl Alvizo, California State University, Northridge, Panelist
Maria Pilar Aquino, University of San Diego , Panelist
Namsoon Kang, Brite Divinity School, Panelist
Gina Messina, Ursuline College, Panelist
Nancy Pineda Madrid, Boston College, Panelist
Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza, Harvard University, Panelist
 
S20-250
Student Lounge Roundtable
11/20/2017
1:30 PM to 3:00 PM
Room: 303 (Third Level) - Hynes Convention Center (HCC)
 
Theme: Publish or Perish for Graduate Students
What makes an effective publication? How can you develop a competitive record of publishing? In this session, Dr. Miguel De La Torre discusses strategies for effective and competitive publishing strategies as a means to prepare graduate students for various job opportunities.
Miguel De La Torre, Iliff School of Theology, Panelist
 
S20-340
Racism, Pedagogy and Biblical Studies
11/20/2017
4:00 PM to 6:30 PM
Room: 201 (Second Level) - Hynes Convention Center (HCC)
 
Theme: Manifestations of Racism in the Biblical Studies Classroom
Sara Ronis, Saint Mary's University (San Antonio), Presiding
Bernadette Brooten, Brandeis University, Panelist
Lai Ling Elizabeth Ngan, Baylor University, Panelist
Eric Barreto, Princeton Theological Seminary, Panelist
J. Ross Wagner, Duke University, Panelist
Margaret Aymer, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Respondent
 
S20-326
Latino/a and Latin American Biblical Interpretation
11/20/2017
4:00 PM to 6:15 PM
Room: Liberty A (Second Level) - Sheraton Boston Hotel (SB)
 
Theme: Book Review: Francisco Lozada and Fernando Segovia, Latino/a Biblical Hermeneutics: Problematics, Objectives, Strategies
Ahida Pilarski, Saint Anselm College, Presiding
Gay Byron, Howard University, Panelist
Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza, Harvard University, Panelist
Tat-siong Benny Liew, College of the Holy Cross, Panelist
Gilberto Ruiz, Saint Anselm College, Panelist
Fernando Segovia, Vanderbilt University, Respondent
Francisco Lozada, Brite Divinity School (TCU), Panelist
 

 
 
 

 
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