The 2025 St. Luke's Lectures & Homecoming will take place Tuesday, Sept. 3 - Thursday, Oct. 2 in Sewanee. Join us for two days of reunion, learning, and rejuvenation. The St. Luke’s lecture series, to be given by Andrew Root, the Carrie Olson Baalson Professor of Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary, is the cornerstone of a two-day long homecoming event, which also includes a semi-formal cocktail reception and banquet dinner, continuing education workshops, communal worship, and other activities. This year we will also kick off our events with a celebration of 25 years of the Chapel of the Apostles.
VIEW THE CURRENT EVENT SCHEDULE
About the Lectures
On Wednesday, Oct. 1 Dr. Andrew Root, the Carrie Olson Baalson Professor of Youth and Family Ministry at Luther Seminary, will deliver a three-lecture series on Ministry in a Secular Age. The lecture series is free and open to the public. A Continuing Education Attestation will be available at the lectures for attendees interested in receiving continuing theological education hours.
Can't Attend in Person? Register to view the Lectures Livestream
Continuing Education Workshops
On the morning of Thursday, Oct. 2 the School of Theology will offer a choice of workshops for continuing education hours. Workshops will be offered in two time slots during the morning, making it possible for participants to select two different workshops from the following offerings:
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PANEL: Transition Ministry - There is No New Normal
The Rev. Canon Joe Woodfin, T’15 & The Rev. Marion Sprott, T’19
In this panel conversation, hear from diocesan transition officers as they discuss current trends, challenges, and opportunities in helping congregations and clergy discern their next call. Navigating the rapidly changing transition landscape can be difficult. Come with questions for these experts. -
The History and Spirituality of the Benedictine Rule
Hannah Matis, PhD
The Rule of St. Benedict is arguably the single most influential document for monastic life in the western church. We will look at some of the mysteries of its creation, its complex history in medieval church and society, and some aspects of Benedictine spirituality that can still enrich the life of the church today. -
Welcome Home: Mastering New Member Engagement for Vibrant Parish Growth at Any Size
The Rev. Nate Huddleston, T’16 & The Rev. Canon Cameron Nations, T’15
Join us for an interactive workshop where we will explore actionable techniques for engaging new members and building a thriving parish community. This session will equip you with creative ideas and best practices for making newcomers feel at home, deepening their connection to the parish, and cultivating a culture of inclusion and growth. Whether you’re at a small, medium, or large parish, you'll leave with a toolkit of strategies designed to enhance new member experiences and support sustainable parish development. -
Exploring AI in Church Ministry
The Rev. Mercedes Clements, C’ 96, T’21
Curious how artificial intelligence might support your church's mission without compromising its heart? This workshop will demonstrate practical examples of how AI can support ministry functions without undermining human connection. We'll also consider ethical concerns and theological questions raised by AI. Come ready to see demos, ask questions, and imagine what faithful experimentation might look like in your context.
Workshop attendance is free to those registered for the Homecoming Event, which includes a festive banquet and other organized activities. Those who do not wish to register for the Homecoming Event, may register for up to two workshops for a flat fee of $40. Advanced workshop registration is required.
Lodging
- Quality Inn (509 West Main Street, Monteagle, TN 37356). The School of Theology has reserved a block of 10 rooms for the nights of Oct. 1 and 2. The block room rate is $82.30 per night plus tax. Call 931.924.8880 by Sept. 26 and ask to book from the School of Theology’s room block.
- Rivendell Spiritual Center (254 Rivendell Lane, #3334, Sewanee, TN 37375). Rivendell has up to 15 bedrooms available for booking on Oct. 1 and 2. Contact Trish Mantooth at 931-308-6255 (cell); 931-598-5555 (Rivendell main number); or trish.rivendellspiritualcenter@gmail.com.
- SmokeHouse Lodge (844 West Main Street, Monteagle, TN 37356)The School of Theology has reserved a block of 20 rooms for the nights of Oct. 1 and 2. The block room rate is $71.99 per night plus tax. Call 800.489.2091 by Aug. 31 and ask to book from the School of Theology’s room block.
