2026 Summer Courses

The Rev. Hilary Bogert-Winkler, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Liturgy

The University of the South

Course Description: An intensive course exploring the theology of enculturation of the life of the church in its liturgical dimensions. The course includes the relationship between church and cultures, the nature of liturgy as a ritual event, and ways in which the liturgy may be incarnated in a culture so as to support all that is godly in it and all that is incompatible with the gospel. We will also examine degrees and methods for the enculturation of worship at the local level.

The Rev. Reed Carlson, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Old Testament / Hebrew

The University of the South

Course Description: This course focuses on reading and interpreting the lessons that appear in an upcoming year of the RCL. It emphasizes practicing and comparing various methods of biblical interpretation and also serves as a practical outfitter for ministers seeking to preach and teach Old and New Testament texts in congregational settings. Texts are studied in translation, but students who have already studied some Greek or Hebrew may choose to pursue a personalized parallel assessment and preparation track where they continue to develop their language skills.

The Rev. Zac Settle, Ph.D.

Visiting Instructor

The University of the South

Course Description: This course explores how students may accessibly preach complex theological concepts from the Christian tradition in the context of liturgical worship, including the pastoral offices, the use of the lectionary, and the celebration of major and minor feasts. The course resources different aspects of the Christian tradition year by year and may explore different aspects of theology, ancient or contemporary theologians, and different theological debates.

Course Description: Amid widespread calls for bold and innovative ministry in a changing society, this course explores the church’s own resources for renewal, with an emphasis on active faith and spiritual vitality. It engages theological frameworks such as theologies of the congregation, ministry, and vocation. Students critically examine a range of revitalization strategies—including church growth models, evangelism and discipleship programs, missional outreach, and community organizing— attending to their theological and practical implications. Throughout the course, students are invited to reflect on these themes in relation to their ministry contexts and ongoing spiritual formation.

Andrew Thompson, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Theological Ethics and Director of the Center for Religion and Environment

The University of the South

Course Description: This course will examine the spiritual roots of theological and ethical resistance to unjust political systems. We will consider liberation theologies, eco-political theologies, and the distinctive Episcopal ethic represented by Vida Dutton Scudder, William Stringfellow, and Verna Dozier.