This has been eating at me for a while and I am not even sure if I can articulate the question, much less an answer, properly. The frustration may just stem from me being at a Divinity School instead of a true seminary, but I think that all of them suffer from similar issues. What is the point of studying about and writing countless papers about theology if the only responses that gain merit are those that speak in academic terms instead of what I will actually say to my congregation? Why do seminaries allow internships and field education during the summer and separating the academics from the application? Why are we not required to perform some form of long term service in the community during our three years in school?
I don't know the right answer. I have discussed these with other students. Some are sympathetic and some think I am off my rocker. Seminary should not be easy on either an academic or personal level. The challenges in both areas make you question your calling and drive you to ask and attempt an answer to the tough questions. But why should we separate the tough intellectual questions from the tough practical ones? My struggles with people outside the walls of the seminary help me wrestle with the countless pages of ancient and modern texts we read and vice versa. We are called as pastors to live in the world and show a glimpse of the Kingdom of God to everyone, so why do some students find it hard to get out in the community while in seminary? How does one go about convincing people that there is an amazing world out there that you can learn from and help at the same time. Plus, it gives a sanity break from the rigors of the world.
Just some rambling thoughts and questions I may never get the answers to.
1 comment:
Chaps, my brother is now in a seminary for his second career.
His diocese required him to chaplain for a large regional hospital full-time for a year before matriculating. The experience was emotionally and physically draining (hospital duty alone was 8-8-24-4-0 duty), and like submariners there was little he was ever permitted to share externally due to patient privacy laws.
Overall, he says the year really helped him know he has been on a proper path, and it gave him a few seminary credits to boot.
Although I cannot tell you what exactly is entailed, his seminary does require various forms of community service based upon the year of study.
Interesting blog you have, Future Chap. Good luck to you!
-Tough Cover ex-SSN
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