Ministry in a Secular Age

It seems uncontestable that Protestantism is in crisis. Both denominations and congregations feel the poignant pressure of the secular to do something or perish. We sense that the forces of a secular age are everywhere. However, the challenges we face in this kind of secular age (inside late modernity) are such that if we are not careful, our best intentions could make things worse. Too often our Protestant denominations and congregations are confused or misguided about what it means to be living inside a secular age. Therefore, it is very important to understand what we mean by “secular” and to recognize the ways that the secular impacts our sense of a good life, both personally and institutionally. Particularly, we must explore how our imagination for transcendence, revelation, and divine action becomes eclipsed by a more immanent frame of reflection.

This interactive seminar directed by Andrew (Andy) Root will provide a deep exploration of the philosophies, social theories, and theologies that examine what it means to live in a secular age. Our weekly rhythm will include morning classroom time, afternoon break time for rest and reflection, group meals, and a public evening lecture. Participants will receive several volumes from Andrew Root’s Ministry in a Secular Age series, which will provide the conceptual framework for our time together. Through readings, teachings, and group discussions, participants will examine a theological vision of ministry that addresses the challenges and possibilities of the secular age. We will shift from seeing the secular as a loss of institutional prestige or vitality and instead recognize how our imaginations become caught in immanence, disenchantment, and enclosed views of the self and world.

This seminar will be offered at no cost to selected participants. Space is limited. All meals and lodging will be provided. Course readings will be sent to participants in advance of the seminar week. Participants are responsible for the cost of travel to and from the seminar.

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Applications for this seminar are due on March 15, 2025. Participants will be notified of their selection by April 11, 2025.

Applicants must fill out an application form and provide:

1. A 300-word essay about why you are interested in participating in the seminar

2. Your résumé/CV

3. Contact information for one reference

Schedule Overview

Sunday, August 3

Afternoon/evening – Arrive in Grand Rapids

6:00 p.m. – Informal dinner for participants who have arrived

Monday, August 4 – Thursday, August 7

8:30 a.m. – Breakfast

9:00 a.m. – Classroom time

12:00 p.m. – Lunch

1:00 p.m. – Rest, reflection, and conversation

4:00 p.m. – Group discussion, sharing, Q&A

5:30 p.m. – Dinner

[7:00 p.m. Aug 4 – Public lecture]

Friday, August 8

8:30 a.m. – Breakfast

9:00 a.m. – Classroom time

12:00 p.m. – Lunch

1:00 p.m. – Seminar ends