From the Dean
As I mentioned in my January email update, I’m thrilled that we’re relaunching “Seminary News,” a twice-yearly digital publication updating you on 草莓影视 Theological Seminary (NPTS). We have so much to share, so let’s get right to it!
Something at the top of our minds is a period of change for our School of Restorative Arts (SRA).
Since 2018, the SRA has offered a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry (MACM) with an emphasis on restorative arts to both free and incarcerated students, enabling them to study together as they prepare for ministries of restoration. The MACM has since evolved to the Master of Arts in Restorative Justice Ministries.
We currently offer this four-year degree at Stateville Correctional Center in Crest Hill, Illinois, and Logan Correctional Center in Lincoln, Illinois, in partnership with the Illinois Department of Corrections.
However, both these facilities are undergoing a period of change. The Stateville facility has experienced significant problems over the past few years, including when all residents had to relocate due to a lack of water supply. In March, Governor J.B. Pritzker announced a plan to demolish Stateville and renovate Logan, which has experienced similar issues.
Although the concrete plans for both these facilities are in flux, we do know for sure that Stateville will close sometime this year, and all our students will be transferred to a different facility in the interim.
Throughout this period of change, one thing remains: our commitment to our students and to restorative justice. We also view this as an inflection point for redesigning and reintroducing SRA. Our dedicated faculty and staff have designed ways to better partner with local churches, broaden our work and much more.
We know how impactful SRA is, and we’re committed to continuing our work. Stay tuned for more information.
I hope you’ll dive deeper into this “Seminary News” issue to learn more about all the wonderful things happening at NPTS. We’ve included outstanding student stories, announcements of new faculty, and much more.
If you’d like to hear more from me, I chat about highlights from the recent Alaskan Conference I attended and share reflections on our recent graduating seminary class聽.
In the meantime, I pray that you and those you love enjoy a restorative, fun-filled summer!
Many Blessings,
Rev. Dr. Dennis R. Edwards
Vice President for Church Relations and Dean of the Seminary