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Dr. James Taneti discussed his new book in a Podcast

…faith community in southeast India. Taneti narrates the history of the Telugu Christians, the interactions between the latter and western missionaries during the era in the first half of the book. In the second half, he examines the appropriation of the Christian message among the Telugu Christians, the role of caste, gender, and local cultures in the process. https://newbooksnetwork.com/telugu-christians  …

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Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.)

…the two. The degree will enhance ministry competencies in areas such as proclamation, evangelism, education, interfaith relations, and community advocacy and engagement based on personal and vocational interests. Students will gain a deepened capacity for theological reflection on the practices of ministry, especially with respect to social justice and witness. Total tuition for this multi-year degree program is $10,000. Students…

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Physical Change Leads to New Thinking: Walter W. Moore

W.W. Moore In 1898, Walter W. Moore presided over the removal of the Seminary from Hampden Sydney, Virginia to Richmond expressly so that students would encounter the urban complexities that Moore believed modern ministers needed to engage. It was during this era that the seeds of a new way of thinking, and a new theological undergirding for that thinking, took…

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Media Contacts

The Communications Office is the point of entry for reporters seeking a faculty expert, commentary from a seminary spokesperson, assistance with our photo and video galleries, and all other media-related requests. AUTHORIZED SPOKESPERSONS President Jacqueline E. Lapsley and the media relations representative below are the only persons authorized to speak on behalf of Union Presbyterian Seminary. Barb Dodd Director of…

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Voelz book offers lessons in reaching people dealing with reproductive loss and adoption

…how do we make theological sense of the more private hardships and joys experienced by members of the community? If we are to be an effective community, serving as an extended family for one another, we cannot limit ourselves to talking about, celebrating, or even mourning the expected things. We need to be able to connect with people who are…

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President Blount statement on passing of Rev. Dr. Ophelia Garmon-Brown (MDiv 2008)

RICHMOND, VA (November 18, 2021) – Union Presbyterian Seminary President Brian K. Blount made the following statement on the passing of alumnus Rev. Dr. Ophelia Garmon-Brown. Brown co-founded the Charlotte Community Health Clinic, which serves poor and uninsured people. She also traveled as a medical missionary in places such as Uganda, South Africa, and Jamaica. In 2003, she was among…

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Union Seminary benefactor Josiah P. Rowe dies at 90

RICHMOND, Va. (November 8, 2018) – Josiah P. Rowe, a former newspaper publisher who championed Christian education teaching at Union Presbyterian Seminary, died Saturday. He was 90. “Josiah Rowe was a dear friend to the Union Seminary community and the Presbyterian Church,” said seminary president Brian K. Blount. “As chair of the board of the Presbyterian School of Christian Education…

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President Brian Blount statement on passing of Katherine Johnson

…knew of her abilities, but even more importantly, knew that her kindness, generosity, and humility were as mammoth as her talents. Most people will remember her legacy as the NASA human computer whose formulas plotted course and trajectory for some of the most famous early space flights, a recipient of both the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Medal…

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But I don’t know HOW to pray!

By Rev. Jordan B. Davis (M.Div.‘14) Congregational Corner I have the privilege of teaching and learning with an incredible group of teenager’s who are taking part in our confirmation class this year. Some have been coming to church almost weekly since they were infants, others have only been in worship one or two times. Some seem to be fairly confident…

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Union announces new trustees chair and members

…are good.” Roberson describes the work of the seminary as being “like a complex symphony, with variation on themes played every day. President Brian Blount is maestro, leading this place in such harmony. The result,” he said, “is melodic.” Roberson, a 1971 graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, comes to the chair position after a 35-year…

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Remembering Elizabeth Apperson Ramsey (1924-2016)

…the children, and the church.“ Ramsey earned a Bachelor of Science in education from the University of South Alabama as well as a Master of Education in elementary education from Virginia Commonwealth University. Prior to coming to PSCE, Ramsey taught in Henrico County Public Schools in Virginia. In 1961, she was named the assistant principal of Maybeury Elementary School. Ramsey…

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Trevor Jayaraj: Solidarity, Generosity and Gratitude

…the burden of responsibility need to be assumed by the privileged folks in putting their resources to work. On that note of hope, I record my profound gratitude to all the wonderful souls who have influenced my life and shaped my love for God and God’s people and continue to push me forward to commit myself for the common good….

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Union president to receive humanitarian award

…Tennessee Bank E. Ayn Welleford, Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Gerontology, Virginia Commonwealth University The Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities works with schools, businesses, and communities to achieve success by addressing prejudices, in all forms, to improve academic achievement, increase workplace productivity, and enhance local trust. A list of past honorees can be found on the center’s website.  …

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Ghana Travel Seminar: Love and anger are the key

…hesitation, Presbyter Solomon responded, “to love God and neighbor as yourself.” The community organizer in me asked if the city officials of Accra ever addressed the needs of their community. The answer was yes, politicians promise aid and infrastructure but those promises are never acted upon. I couldn’t help but ask a follow-up question: “Does that make you angry?” The…

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City grants Union Seminary request for deferment of Westwood Tract special exception

…deferment on the case. “Be assured, this action does not affect the seminary’s commitment to the development of the apartment community on the 15-acre portion of the Westwood Tract,” said President Brian K. Blount. “We will work with the neighborhood task force to organize a community meeting in advance of the BZA’s November hearing.” The Special Exception only affects what…

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“I Wanna Be Whole” Luke 17:1-19

…not want to be found. We must first realize we are ill and then have a desire to be healed. Jesus told them, “Go show yourselves unto the priests.” As they went, they were cleansed. Healing was completed in the physical sense. Their skin tones were returned, complexion restored, hair replaced, eyelashes in place, hands and feet like new. Their…

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Colleen Earp: Camping, conservation, and chickens

…has been able to be part of a community with people studying theology for numerous reasons. She is looking to bring ministry to people in a way that isn’t pulpit-orientated by continuing with camping ministry. “It’s been really good to be in community here and to see how many different ways so many people are excited about doing ministry,” Earp…

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Gems For The Journey: Victory In Stress – II Samuel 22:7

…minds and bodies, and most importantly our Christian testimony. The general conditions of our time are most stressful. Here are some “don’t’s” for Christians as we strive to cope with stress? Don’t go to pieces when trials come! On the other hand, don’t harden yourselves like the stoics of old. Some folks look for a scapegoat when hurt comes. Others…

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Student calls for action following Charlotte police shooting

…as the body of Christ, have much work ahead of us. I have received several calls and messages from families asking what Trinity will do to address this concern in our community and to combat this issue. For those that are asking what will UPSem do to address this concern in our community and combat this epidemic, my response is…

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