In August, I embarked on a two year Masters of Religion program through Graceland University (referred to as Seminary). The program is delivered online, with a combination of live classes, asynchronous forums and discussion groups, in 8 week blocks. Twice a year, we have a ‘Focus Week’ at the Temple in Independence, Missouri, where we share classes in person. I was fortunate to receive a Field Scholarship from World Church, which covers tuition, along with support from the Australian Mission Centre.
I have elected to take the Theology track within the Masters of Religion program, as the history of Christian thought, both Old & New Testament, and contemporary interpretations of theology are of particular interest to me. Other options, for those considering this journey, include Spiritual Leadership and Peace and Justice as well as a new Masters program Peace and Social Transformation. The program is part time, and takes around 15-20 hours per week.
After working full time for the last 10 years, it feels luxurious to be working part time and enjoying a spaciousness around the study. I am finding deep pleasure in spending dedicated time with these ideas, exploring centuries-old writings, getting ‘underneath the hood’ of the Christian tradition. It has been delightful to have the time to allow the ideas to expand, to examine them from all angles, to take the time to understand other perspectives, and question my own. It is stimulating to see the evolution of thought over time, the expansion of thought from the mid-20th Century, and the exciting scholarship of the last 25 years.
Already, I have collected quotes, ideas, and material for ministry. It is hard not to be inspired by other theologians, and to feel the Spirit moving in their words, images, and questions.
My goal is to continue working part time (not full time), so that I have enough time for contemplation throughout this experience. It is a very different type of study to what I have done before, with both academic content and personal reflection. Theology can’t be done in a superficial way, it plumbs the depths of my worldview, my values structure, ethical frameworks… It underpins my sense of purpose, justice, love, care, compassion. It is deeply personal, and political. It is embedded so deeply, in many places I didn’t even realise it was there.
This opportunity to study is a gift, an opportunity to finally sit with my restless curiosity, my desire to connect with history, philosophy and theologians outside Community of Christ, to truly understand the interconnectedness of human experience within the Christian tradition.
“You have made us and drawn us toward yourself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you”. ~ St Augustine
I look forward to sharing more of my journey with you as I progress through Seminary, and hopefully, for many years to come.
Annie Falcke