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Encounter

Encounter: A Journal of Theological Scholarship

Encounter: A Journal of Theological Scholarship

Christian Theological Seminary has published Encounter: A Journal of Theological Scholarship continuously since 1940. In each of three annual issues, the journal offers scholarly articles, sermons, and reviews of recently published monographs.

Encounter is a peer-reviewed journal to ensure that its contents meet the highest standards of scholarship and relevance. In particular, the journal publishes works in biblical studies, the history of Christianity, theology, and the arts of ministry, including counseling.

Beginning with Volume 83 (2023), Encounter ceased print publication and transitioned to open access. Because of a specially negotiated contract, the journal continues to be indexed in ATLA Religion Database, and to be available full-text in ATLA Serials.

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Imagining

the Future of Theological Education

Six conversations with leading thinkers about the impact of theological education on the church and the world.

Co-Hosts

DAVID MELLOTT
Rev. Dr. David M. Mellott began his tenure as Christian Theological Seminary’s seventh president in July, 2019. He previously served as Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dean, and Professor of Theological Formation at Lancaster Theological Seminary in Lancaster, PA. An ordained minister with the United Church of Christ, Mellott also serves CTS as Professor of Theological Formation.

DEB MULLEN
Rev. Dr. Deborah F. Mullen served Columbia Theological Seminary until her retirement in 2018 as Executive Vice President, Dean of Faculty, and Associate Professor of American Christianity and Black Church Studies. Mullen is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) with considerable leadership experience in both the church and the academy.

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Chapel – Rev. Sarah Zuniga

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

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A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

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“Bad Preaching CAN Be Fixed” – Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy – Legacy Preaching Series

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

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A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

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A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on October 6, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

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“A Mix of Fire and Scholarship” – Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy – Legacy Preaching Series

The African American Legacy Preaching Series of Christian Theological Seminary presents “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas.” Evangelist Vandalyn Kennedy is an educator, entrepreneur, and faith leader. Rev Kennedy graduated high school at the age of sixteen, went on to earn a Bachelor's degree, and then two Master's degrees— one in Education and another in Music/Music Education. Additionally, she obtained a Master of Divinity degree focused on Leadership and Preaching from Columbia University's Union Theological Seminary and completed the Black Theology and Leadership Institute Certificate program at Princeton Theological Seminary. Rev. Kennedy is a Preaching Exemplar in the Compelling Preaching Initiative at Christian Theological Seminary. Her influence and leadership have earned her recognition as one of the Church of God in Christ's 150 most influential women. She was a keynote speaker at the 2019 Hampton Ministers' Conference and was featured in The New York Times as a "Woman in the Pulpit" to watch. Her leadership and gifts have had a profound impact on the world. With a passion for youth, Evangelist Vandalyn served as an Educator and Administrator in the New York City Department of Education for over 18 years and was the first Youth Pastor at her childhood church. Her advocacy work in the non-profit sector has spanned over three decades. She currently serves as the Chairlady of the International Youth Department of the six-million-member the Church of God in Christ. As a faith leader, Evangelist Vandalyn Kennedy travels nationally and internationally, speaking to thousands as an itinerant minister. She is an ordained minister, fluent in Spanish, and has ministered in countries including Panama, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, Spain, Israel, and Paris.

The African American Legacy Preaching Series of Christian Theological Seminary presents “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas.”

Evangelist Vandalyn Kennedy is an educator, entrepreneur, and faith leader. Rev Kennedy graduated high school at the age of sixteen, went on to earn a Bachelor's degree, and then two Master's degrees— one in Education and another in Music/Music Education. Additionally, she obtained a Master of Divinity degree focused on Leadership and Preaching from Columbia University's Union Theological Seminary and completed the Black Theology and Leadership Institute Certificate program at Princeton Theological Seminary. Rev. Kennedy is a Preaching Exemplar in the Compelling Preaching Initiative at Christian Theological Seminary. Her influence and leadership have earned her recognition as one of the Church of God in Christ's 150 most influential women. She was a keynote speaker at the 2019 Hampton Ministers' Conference and was featured in The New York Times as a "Woman in the Pulpit" to watch. Her leadership and gifts have had a profound impact on the world. With a passion for youth, Evangelist Vandalyn served as an Educator and Administrator in the New York City Department of Education for over 18 years and was the first Youth Pastor at her childhood church. Her advocacy work in the non-profit sector has spanned over three decades. She currently serves as the Chairlady of the International Youth Department of the six-million-member the Church of God in Christ. As a faith leader, Evangelist Vandalyn Kennedy travels nationally and internationally, speaking to thousands as an itinerant minister. She is an ordained minister, fluent in Spanish, and has ministered in countries including Panama, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, Spain, Israel, and Paris.

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3LmpsdDV1UjcyWHFF

A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiers on October 6, 2025 and will be listed as “Private” until that date. After October 6, the video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Vandalyn Kennedy hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiers on October 6, 2025 and will be listed as “Private” until that date. After October 6, the video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/jlt5uR72XqE

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3LmFhMHRqUFpzQk0w

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A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on September 15, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F0Gv09-oJCM

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A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on September 15, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F0Gv09-oJCM

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A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on September 15, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F0Gv09-oJCM

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3LlY5bGZLY2Vld1ZN

“A Triple Funeral” - Rev. DeForest Blake “Buster” Soaries, Jr. - Legacy Preaching Series

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on September 15, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F0Gv09-oJCM

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on September 15, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F0Gv09-oJCM

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3Ljg5MEdvbXRrbjlv

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A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on September 15, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F0Gv09-oJCM

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on September 15, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F0Gv09-oJCM

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3Ljh1c3pLM0U1Ql9R

“Preaching In A Unruly Place” - Rev. DeForest Blake “Buster” Soaries, Jr. - Legacy Preaching Series

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Chapel – Dean Francisco Lozada, Jr., PhD

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CTS Indy Live Stream

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CTS Indy Live Stream

The African American Legacy Preaching Series of Christian Theological Seminary presents "A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas." The African American Legacy Preaching Series of Christian Theological Seminary presents “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas.” With over 30 years of ministry experience as the third Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, Dr. DeForest Soaries has a deep understanding of the importance of spiritual growth, educational excellence, economic empowerment, and faith-based community development. In 2005, he launched the dfree® Financial Freedom Movement, which has helped countless people become financially self-sufficient. Dr. Soaries has authored 12 books, including the bestsellers “Say Yes to No Debt” and “Say Yes When Life Says No”. He also hosts a weekly radio show on SiriusXM Urban View called “For Your Soul.” Dr. Soaries earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Fordham University, a Master of Divinity Degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from United Theological Seminary. His contributions to the field of financial education have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including induction into The Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers at Morehouse College. Dr. Soaries resides in Monmouth Junction, NJ with his wife, Donna, and twin sons. He continues to inspire and spiritually empower individuals and organizations to take control of their finances and achieve lasting financial freedom.

The African American Legacy Preaching Series of Christian Theological Seminary presents "A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas."

The African American Legacy Preaching Series of Christian Theological Seminary presents “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas.” With over 30 years of ministry experience as the third Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, Dr. DeForest Soaries has a deep understanding of the importance of spiritual growth, educational excellence, economic empowerment, and faith-based community development. In 2005, he launched the dfree® Financial Freedom Movement, which has helped countless people become financially self-sufficient. Dr. Soaries has authored 12 books, including the bestsellers “Say Yes to No Debt” and “Say Yes When Life Says No”. He also hosts a weekly radio show on SiriusXM Urban View called “For Your Soul.” Dr. Soaries earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Fordham University, a Master of Divinity Degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from United Theological Seminary. His contributions to the field of financial education have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including induction into The Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers at Morehouse College. Dr. Soaries resides in Monmouth Junction, NJ with his wife, Donna, and twin sons. He continues to inspire and spiritually empower individuals and organizations to take control of their finances and achieve lasting financial freedom.

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3LkYwR3YwOS1vSkNN

A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premieres on September 15, 2025 and will be listed as "Private" until that date. After September 15, the video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F0Gv09-oJCM

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. DeForest Blake ‘Buster’ Soaries, Jr. hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premieres on September 15, 2025 and will be listed as "Private" until that date. After September 15, the video can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/F0Gv09-oJCM

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3LkROOTRGOXg3WUJ3

“Preacher, Leader, Activist” - Rev. DeForest Blake “Buster” Soaries, Jr. - Legacy Preaching Series

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Tisha Dixon-Williams hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on August 25, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/YhQTaFpKOwY

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Tisha Dixon-Williams hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on August 25, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/YhQTaFpKOwY

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3LnNFR2Vyak9WN0Zz

‘Honoring Authenticity’ – Rev. Tisha Dixon-Williams – Legacy Preaching Series

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Tisha Dixon-Williams hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on August 25, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/YhQTaFpKOwY

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Tisha Dixon-Williams hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on August 25, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/YhQTaFpKOwY

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3LlRQYURxVGJqY1pN

‘A Theatre Kid’ – Rev. Tisha Dixon-Williams – Legacy Preaching Series

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Tisha Dixon-Williams hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series. The full video premiered on August 25, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/YhQTaFpKOwY

A short clip from “A Conversation with Rev. Tisha Dixon-Williams hosted by Dr. Frank A. Thomas” for the African American Legacy Preaching Series.

The full video premiered on August 25, 2025 and can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/YhQTaFpKOwY

YouTube Video VVU5cGhSQzc3MGFDazhvY0xNSVp4N3V3LlA1MGU0NzJTLWs4

‘Diagonal Preaching’ – Rev. Tisha Dixon-Williams – Legacy Preaching Series

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