The Siloam Project

BSK Theological Seminary’s Pathways for Tomorrow initiative, the Siloam Project, is a three-phase initiative designed to help theological schools across the United States and Canada as they prioritize and respond to the most pressing challenges they face when preparing pastoral leaders for Christian congregations both now and into the future.

Project director Dr. Anthony Everett shares insights into the initiative’s objectives and key learnings.

Briefly describe the project.

The Siloam Project at BSK Theological Seminaries offers a congregation-centered approach to theological education. I envision it as “standing at a busy intersection where wisdom about effective, practical ministry flows from many directions.” At its core, the project thrives on relationships—connecting lay leaders, ministers, students, and faculty—to support congregations in thinking both practically and theologically. Through this collaborative model, we are transforming learning in innovative ways, embodying the vision of a seminary that meets you where you are.

When theology is integrated into congregational life, members naturally begin to think theologically—sometimes without even realizing it. Rather than relying on a quick internet search for answers, they engage in deeper reflection, critically exploring Jesus’ message and how it can be meaningfully shared within their local context.

What have you learned so far?

The Siloam Project has opened our staff and faculty’s eyes to new opportunities for growth and process improvement within the seminary. Over the past two years, we’ve experienced the fastest student population growth since our inception. At the same time, the Siloam Project is helping us critically assess how we manage change and adapt to the evolving needs of local congregations in a post-COVID-19 era.

Online training, podcasts, webinars, and resources like those offered through our Flourish Center are becoming essential components of theological education for our constituents. But beyond the shift to digital learning, we’ve recognized a fundamental change in leadership models within congregations. Traditionally, churches sought ministry leaders through job postings, interviews, and external hires. However, with a growing shortage of candidates and financial constraints, many congregations are now identifying and equipping leaders from within their own communities—a movement we call homegrown ministers.

In response, we’ve reshaped our approach to theological education. We now offer a series of nine-hour graduate certificates designed to equip bi-vocational leaders with theological training that is both accessible and sustainable. One example is our Institute for Black Church Studies, which offers a specialized certificate, alongside other certificate programs tailored to congregational needs. We are actively developing additional offerings based on ongoing conversations with churches, ensuring that our education remains relevant and responsive to their unique contexts.

What has surprised you along the way?

My journey has taken me from the corporate world to ministry and, eventually, into the academy. Even after spending significant time in theological education, I continue to be amazed by what BSK—a small seminary—can accomplish. Our success is a testament to strong leadership. Under President Cassady and the Board of Trustees, we have a clear strategic vision, and the Siloam Project’s key performance indicators are directly aligned with that plan.

Our size is not a limitation; rather, it enables us to remain deeply mission-driven and agile. While larger institutions may struggle with alignment across multiple initiatives, at BSK, this cohesion is second nature. That’s what has stood out to me most in this venture—the ability of our seminary to remain focused and impactful.

Looking ahead, we are excited about the multiplication of knowledge developed within and shared by our Learning Churches—our partner congregations engaged in this work. We’re also optimistic about the continued growth of ecumenism within our student body. Additionally, we are committed to expanding accessible, bite-sized theological education to equip leaders in a shifting ministry landscape. As more congregations embrace bi-vocational and homegrown leadership, we are dedicated to providing the tools and training they need to thrive. That’s the heart of what we hope to achieve through this project.

What have been a few of your successes?

Engaging with different congregations through our Learning Churches creates valuable opportunities for congregants to connect with our faculty and with leaders across various theological disciplines. These interactions make theology practical and deeply relevant, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-life ministry. By fostering these connections, we ensure that theological education is not just theoretical but directly applicable to the needs and experiences of local communities.

What are you learning that could help other schools?

A portion of the Grant Pathways funding supported the creation of a professional-grade audio and video studio, significantly expanding how we share ideas with churches and their leaders. This investment has allowed us to produce podcasts, interviews, and discussions that foster deeper engagement with congregations.

One of our most impactful achievements has been the success of our podcast studio, developed in collaboration with both local and national organizations, to enhance congregational and community learning. Additionally, our commitment to serving both Black and white churches has allowed us to break down racial divides in theological education—an effort that is well worth sharing.

A major milestone in this journey was being honored with the 2024 McCall Racial Justice Trailblazer Award, granted by the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF) Pan African Koinonia Steering Committee. This award recognizes individuals and ministries that navigate unjust and unequal spaces, implementing proactive solutions that lead to greater equity, opportunity, and impact. At a time when DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) efforts face challenges, we are committed to leading the charge, not just by addressing these issues, but by actively shaping policies, practices, and relationships that promote justice.

This commitment is reflected in our ongoing partnerships, including deepening connections between students and their congregations through the National Baptist Convention of America International and Simmons College of Kentucky, a historically Black institution. We are also actively working to develop new relationships that will broaden our impact.

Another significant moment was our 2024 graduation gathering, where several students met in person for the first time. The event was particularly meaningful as we honored a beloved student who passed during the winter break. This communal experience, which celebrated our diverse and united student body, profoundly influenced how both students and partner organizations view their role in theological education.

At our core, we are dedicated to cultivating homegrown leaders, equipping individuals within their own churches and ministries. Through our partnerships with the National Baptist Convention of America International and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, we are expanding our reach, ensuring that theology is accessible, relevant, and embedded in the heart of congregational life.

BSK Theological Seminary prepares men and women sensing God’s leadership for life and ministry in faithful witness to Jesus Christ in the church and the world. To this end, BSK provides advanced theological studies for those called of God to ministry—full-time or part-time, ordained or laity; and resources churches for discerning and equipping in mission and ministry. Visit website.