THE MAGAZINE
The Issue of Power

Authors Kyle Strobel and Jamin Goggin make a startling claim in their book, The Way of the Dragon or the Way of the Lamb: “On the surface, things look grand and magnificent, but the path to success and influence is often paved with dark powers.” In a feature in the Autumn issue, Patricia Paddey outlines concerns about the abuse of power in Christian leadership, citing how the authors argue that many churches prioritize worldly power and influence over Christ-like humility, leading to scandals and abuse.

Paddey highlights insights from experts Randall Rauser, Angela Reed, and David Wang, who emphasize the importance of addressing power dynamics in seminaries and the Church by calling for more robust spiritual formation, accountability, and education about the risks of power abuse in ministry. Solutions include integrating discussions about authority, character formation, and governance into seminary curricula; creating a culture of humility and Christ-centered leadership; and preparing boards and institutions to handle power abuse allegations responsibly.

• Pioneering Change. As executive director of the Hispanic Theological Initiative, the Rev. Dr. Joanne Rodriguez is dedicated to empowering Latino Ph.D. students to overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Central to her work is the belief that integrating intellect, spirituality, and love can address scarcity and foster success. Read her inspiring vision here or tune in to her podcast (Episode 73) here.
• Untapped Opportunity. The Rev. Dr. Kathryn A. Kleinhans, dean of Trinity Lutheran Seminary at Capital University, explains how three embedded seminaries are addressing enrollment challenges by fostering interdisciplinary connections to attract faith-driven non-profits, encourage leadership diversity, and enhance graduate engagement. Read the article here.
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Creating a Pathway for underserved students in theological education

In St. Louis, Missouri, the team at Eden Theological Seminary has created a collaborative network of institutions to offer students a wide range of courses and ways to access theological education. It's part of the school's Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative grant, and the Rev. Dr. Deborah Krause, president of the seminary, and the Rev. Dr. Mary Schaller Blaufuss, vice president of institutional advancement and project director, talk about how the school has shifted to prepare students for the Church. Listen to Episode 80 of the Good Governance podcast here. Other recent episodes include:

• Creating a network for theological education. Eden Theological Seminary has created a collaborative network of institutions to offer students a wide range of courses and ways to access theological education. It's part of the school's Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative grant, and the Rev. Dr. Deborah Krause, president of the seminary, and the Rev. Dr. Mary Schaller Blaufuss, vice president of institutional advancement and project director, discuss how the school has shifted to prepare students for the Church. Listen to Episode 80 of the Good Governance podcast here.
• How leaders can address change: A congregational leader and strategist, the Rev. Dr. Tod Bolsinger has studied, experienced, and led change. His new book series offers an insightful guide for leaders walking through change. He explains how leaders of theological schools and boards can be successful in Episode 79 of the Good Governance podcast. 
• AI's potential for theological schools: The Rev. Tay Moss understands the power of AI and how it can help institutions (he created an AI-driven site to help people understand the Anglican church). He offers wisdom and guidance for schools and institutions looking to use AI, including expectations and limitations. Listen to Episode 78 here.