Message from the Dean
As a community of faithful scholars, Haggard Graduate School of Theology centers all teaching and learning on connections between the following:
The Christian Story – The disciplined exploration of the biblical, doctrinal, and ecclesiastical foundations of the Christian faith fascinates us. Our rich 108-year history finds roots in the Wesleyan movement – a heritage dedicated to evangelism, the passionate pursuit of holiness, and a special responsibility for poor, needy, and marginalized people.
The Church – All we do finds its roots in the Church. This university began when a small group of Quaker women and men gathered at the end of the 19th century to establish a school that would prepare missionaries and pastors. Today, we remain faithful to that founding vision. We see the Church as the central vehicle by which God has chosen to establish His Kingdom, therefore we remain dedicated to the task of preparing pastors and church leaders.
The World – Faith comes to people in particular places and times, and they follow Christ within the context of specific social and cultural settings. The Church ministers to an ever-changing, kaleidoscopic world. Daily, we welcome the presence of the Holy Spirit into our community, and daily seek to be God's presence in this world.
We strive to offer you a vibrant and faith-filled community in which to pursue disciplined learning with several goals in mind – deepening the intellectual foundations of your faith, exploring the eternal significance of human experience, and preparing yourself for ministry. Whether you are 22 or 72, we want to work with students who are "doing" ministry every week.
Welcome to our community.
Sincerely,
Russell Duke, Ph.D.
Acting Dean, School of Theology
