Thanksgiving with Theological Horizons 2024
a collection of Scripture, poetry & prayers
“O Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; Let us shout joyfully to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come into God’s presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to God with songs of praise!
For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods.” Psalm 95:1-3
O Lord, that lends me life, lend me a heart replete with thankfulness.
William Shakespeare (1564-1616)
Do not let the empty cup be your first teacher of the blessings you had when it was full…
Seek, as a plain duty, to cultivate a buoyant, joyous sense of the crowded kindnesses of God
in your daily life. Alexander Maclaren (1826-1910)
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6-7
For the infinite variety of your creative expression, we praise you, O God.
You have made even the necessary act of eating a nurturing comfort and a perpetual delight.
Douglas Kaine McKelvey (contemporary)
"Give thanks to the Lord for he is good, God’s love endures forever." Psalm 118:29
Thou that hast given so much to me,
Give one thing more, a grateful heart….
Not thankful, when it pleaseth me;
As if thy blessings had spare days:
But such a heart, whose pulse may be Thy praise.
George Herbert (1593-1633)
"I will give thanks to you, LORD, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.” Psalm 9:1
One of the oldest anthems of the church is ‘Alleluia’. It means simply ‘All hail to the One who is.’ It is the arch-hymn of praise, the ultimate expression of thanksgiving, the pinnacle of triumph, the acme of human joy. Alleluia says ‘God is good — and we know it.’ Life itself is an exercise in learning to sing ‘alleluia’ here in order to recognize the face of God hidden in the recesses of time. ‘Alleluia’ in life means dealing with moments that don’t feel like ‘alleluia moments’ at all. Alleluia is not a substitute for reality. It is simply the awareness of another whole kind of reality—beyond the immediate, beyond the delusional, beyond the instant perception of things. In the Hebrew Scriptures, ‘Alleluia’ is an injunction to praise, a call to the people to summon up praise in themselves. It is a challenge to see in life more than is seeable in any single moment…and to trust the One who is. Adapted from Joan Chittister & Rowan Williams (contemporary)
"And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body;
and be thankful." Colossians 3:15
A PRAYER BEFORE FEASTING
Leader:
To gather joyfully is indeed a serious affair,
for feasting & all enjoyments gratefully taken are, at their heart, acts of resistance.
All:
In celebrating this feast we declare that evil & death, suffering & loss, sorrow & tears, will not have the final word.
But the joy of fellowship, and the welcome & comfort of friends new & old,
& the celebration of these blessings of food & drink & conversation & laughter are the true evidence
of things eternal, and are the first fruits of that great glad joy that is to come and that will be unending.
So let our feast this day be joined to those whose sure victories are secured by Christ,
Let it be to us now a delight, and a glad foretaste of his eternal kingdom.
Bless us, O Lord, in this feast.
Bless us, O Lord, as we linger over our cups, and over this table laden with good things,
As we relish the delights of varied texture and flavor, of aromas and savory spices,
of dishes prepared as acts of love and blessing, of sweet delights made sweeter by the communion of saints.
May this shared meal and our pleasures in it stir our imaginations,
focus our vision on the kingdom of heaven that is to come,
on the kingdom that is promised, on the kingdom that is already, indeed among us.
The resurrection of all good things has already joyfully begun.
May this feast be an echo of that great Supper of the Lamb, the great celebration that awaits the children of God.
Where two or more of us are gathered, O Lord, there you have promised to be. And here we are. And so, here are You. Take joy, O King, in this, our feast.
In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, take seat, take feast, take delight! Amen.
(from Every Moment Holy by Douglas Kaine McKelvey)
As you gather this Thanksgiving, please pray for Theological Horizons – as we support believers and seekers by providing a welcoming community for engaging faith, thought and life.
We are grateful for YOU!
On Joy & Grief | Perkins Fellow, Lanie Moore, ‘25
“Joy keeps my heart light, but grief keeps my heart soft. ”
This semester, I am volunteering once again at the Haven, a low-barrier day shelter for unhoused individuals near the Downtown Mall.
Like most of the buildings around the Mall, the Haven has history. Located in a centuries-old church building, the day shelter sits beneath a soaring sanctuary, with stained glass windows that pour technicolor light onto pews lined with boxes of supplies for the guests downstairs. First Christian Church used to fill that room every Sunday, lifting their voices in worship to El Roi, the God who sees; Jehovah Rafa, the God who heals; Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides. Two hundred years later, that same God is just as present in the shelter below as He was in the sanctuary above.
In my last blog post, I talked about the grief I experience each week when I drive home from the Haven. I am haunted by the raw brokenness of humanity, laid bare in a church basement. I lament, and lament, and I know that my Father grieves alongside me. El Roi sees the suffering of His children, burdened by mental, physical, and economic illnesses far too heavy for them to carry alone. Because God didn’t design our bodies to handle the weight of constant grief, I also embrace joy. I can breathe deeply and be at peace knowing that God gives us strength to hold our grief and our joy together, side-by-side.
Likewise, my joy is not superior to my grief. Joy is not a final destination to be reached after embarking on a journey to overcome grief. These two states of being are equally valuable and equally necessary as we embrace peacemaking in the Now and Not Yet. Joy keeps my heart light, but grief keeps my heart soft. Every time, I will choose a heart softened by grief, lament, and prayer rather than a heart hardened by fear, avoidance, and lack of exposure.
So, I keep showing up. I keep answering calls at the front desk, folding towels in the back, cracking jokes with the shift managers. I embrace the heartbreak and despair when brokenness breaks the skin. I know that God is exercising my heart, keeping it from atrophy, or worse, rigor mortis.
Expose me, O Lord, and soften my heart. Pour into me as light from the stained glass windows upstairs. Amen.
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Be a part of the TH story today and make a gift to our ministry —
so that together we can reach more seekers and believers across the globe!
All are welcome, always.
Reflections on Vocation | Lauren Metters ‘25
My mother likes to tell a story about my first few days of nursery school. As she tells it, early into the year, my teacher called her aside at pick-up and expressed her surprise that I could count to fourteen. After all, most children my age stopped at ten. My mother laughed, explaining that our house had fourteen steps up to the second floor. I had learned to count the steps.
Today, I can count differently. One God, two natures of Christ, Three Persons in the Trinity, four marks of the Catholic Church, five precepts of the Church, six liturgical seasons, and seven Sacraments, eight Beatitudes, nine days in a Novena, ten Mosaic Commandments, eleven canonized Saints from the United States, twelve Apostles, thirteen Pauline epistles, fourteen Stations of the Cross.
As a Catholic, my faith centers around Sacramental life. My life is marked by Sacraments and ritual participation. I think it has led me, though, to narrowly define vocation. There are two vocations which are Sacramentalized: Marriage and Holy Orders. While we may be called to serve God in other aspects of our lives, I’ve experienced considerable challenges as an unmarried lay person, who, on account of my queerness, is likely to remain unmarried and lay. I also know that, as people continue to delay marriage (and, for that matter, ordination) until later in life, the number of unmarried and lay adults in the Church will continue to grow, even if most will eventually phase out of the demographic. I am convinced that empowering discipleship and commitment among those without a Sacramentalized vocation is a foremost challenge of the modern Church.
Whether justified, or on account of my own grief at not being able to receive either of the vocational Catholic Sacraments, it is difficult for me to engage in broader questions of vocation. All others seem subordinate and secondary to me. As such, I would like to offer the phrase “creative purpose.” What are the interactions, decisions, and contributions for which I was created? Perhaps easier to identify as a series of powerful or illuminative moments, discernment of creative purpose is no less lofty an endeavor, even if at times more accessible. As I engage my peers in the Horizon Fellowship, I offer this: perhaps these are some of the moments for which we have been created.
Fellow Arpan Sathiabalan | The Small Things
Community Development. The refrain rang out clearly, unmistakably, worryingly. My mind was awhirl with new perspectives, conscious of the magnitude of the task ahead of us and all-too-aware of how small I am in the face of it.
Attending the Christian Community Development Association Conference in Portland as a Perkins Fellow was a powerful experience. It was incredibly inspiring to see the work Christians around the world were doing, to see that people took their call to serve seriously and were making a real impact in their communities. I felt warmly welcomed into this community, loved by strangers with tender hearts who had so much wisdom to offer. Hearing about stories of injustice and redemption built a raging fire in my heart. “How could I stand by and do nothing?”
Yet, my impetuous passion was tempered by knowledge of my limitations. I lack the knowledge, resources, and know-how to solve many of the problems I see around me. This is something that I expect many of you to have wrestled with, the consciousness of wrongdoing but the difficulty in knowing how to promote justice. In this wrestling, I’ve come to learn that our heart posture is more important than our ability.
A curious moment at the airport as we left Portland cemented this lesson. After passing through security, an elderly gentleman was asking for help in reaching his flight. As I began to try to help, a middle-aged man who had already tried his hand at being helpful warned me that he didn’t know his flight information and was drunk. Taking stock of these facts, I decided I would walk with him to the flight display board. On the way there, he unexpectedly fell against my shoulder and sagged onto the ground unceremoniously! Quite an adventure for 7:30 a.m.! A security guard came over and we practically dragged him over to a nearby bench where he waited for the airport to find a wheelchair and someone to help him.
I didn’t solve all of this man’s problems, but I helped him the best I could. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus says that ‘“whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”’ I am unable to solve every problem I see around me. All I can do is be faithful to my small part and trust that God will use it, so that inch by inch the Kingdom of God advances here on Earth.
Arpan is second from the left. Priscilla Perkins (daughter of John & Vera Mae) is centered.
Reflections on Suffering | Elisabeth Doty ‘25
As an American, the last few days have been riddled with anxiety about the future. Amidst the commiserations and grieving of recent days, I’ve heard many tell me that I should be grateful and feel safe that I go to school in a state like Virginia, where I still have legal and medical protections as a queer and trans person.
And yet, instead of instilling confidence or relief, their words ring hollow. Such protections do not exist in places around the country, including my home state of Missouri, where politicians, using the mantle of a distorted Christianity, have demonized my community and many others in pursuit of political gain. Why do I still suffer when the burden of suffering is unequally and unfairly distributed?
When we are the direct objects of suffering, understanding it is difficult, but relatively straight forward. During my transition process, the question of why God made me trans mattered significantly less than the fact that my transition and coming out process was not easy and caused me pain. In the darkest times, when the world seemed too dark and scary and intolerant to handle the fullness of my authenticity, the biggest question to my suffering is why it felt like I did it alone.
When those we know and love suffer, understanding the suffering makes less sense. When a parent watches their child endure a painful mental or physical illness or when we watch a close friend endure the worst of unhealthy relationships, it is natural to wish that we suffer for them or in their place even when we can’t.
When those we don’t know suffer, comprehension of their suffering or the reason behind it is near impossible. We could buy into the just world theory: that people get the suffering they deserve. And if we reject that theory, getting to know how exactly one feels is near impossible at a distance.
The question remains, why do I still suffer when the burden of suffering is unequally and unfairly distributed? But, in response to this question, God has offered us answers. In the depths of my transition, I took heart in a poem my mother gave me as a child.
When we ask God, “Why, when I have needed you most, have you not been there for me?"
“The Lord replied, "The times when you have seen only one set of footprints, my child, is when I carried you."”
When we attempt to find inevitable insufficient explanations for the pain of the suffering of those we know and love, may we remember that God sent His beloved son Jesus to suffer with us and for us.
When the suffering of our world, our nation, and our communities feel too much to bear, may we remember that God does not demand us to understand the pain or numb it if we fail to.
When my communities– queer and trans people, women, Missourians, Americans– are suffering, I do not need to ‘take heart’ that I am insulated from the worst of it by nature of my various privileges. Because my liberation is wrapped up in the liberation of all people, rather than avoiding that pain, I ‘take heart’ in the community I share it with.
As we continue to examine vocation in the Horizons Fellowship, this week has reminded me of God’s call in response to suffering: that we may suffer well and suffer together. That, after all, is the meaning of empathy.
Praying together for our election
(from the Transforming Center)
PREPARATION
During this election season, we encourage you to find a time to pray with friends and family, people from your church or small group, and maybe even your neighbors. We have prepared this short liturgy to guide you. Set aside 15 minutes for this time of prayer. Sit in a circle (if praying with others) and light a candle.
ELECTION LITURGY
Light A Candle
Song
Heaven Help Us
written by Kirk Bolen (TC15)
Heaven help us, God come near us
Do what only you can do
Heaven help us, Father hear us
We’re crying out to you
Falling on our knees, we lift our eyes
to where our help comes from
Calling on your name, Lord, hear our cries
pour out your perfect love
Scripture Reading Philippians 4:5-7 (NRSV)
5 Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Silence (3 to 5 minutes)
Surrendering Our Fears
Take turns saying out loud the fears and concerns you are holding at this moment. After you name these, hold them quietly in God’s presence reminding yourself that God is bigger than any fear, any burden, any obstacle, any division, any disunity, any hatred, and any lie. If it helps, sit with your hands open on your lap as a symbol of holding these concerns in God’s presence. Whatever you are experiencing, God can handle it. You can also write your fears/burdens on a piece of paper and then throw the paper into the trash as one of you reads the scriptures below.
2 Timothy 1:7 (NRSV)
For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.1 Peter 5:7 (NRSV)
Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.
Prayer for Civic Engagement1
If praying as a group, consider alternating who reads the “one” lines as a way to have more voices represented, keeping in mind diversity of gender, ethnicity and/or age.
One: O God of justice and peace, in this season of Ordinary time, we pause to reflect on the extraordinary call You place upon our lives to be faithful witnesses in all we do.
All: As we approach the time of decision in our nation, we ask for Your guidance and wisdom. Help us discern what is right and just.
One: Help us engage with a spirit of love and humility.
All: May our participation in the civic process be a reflection of our commitment to Your Kingdom, where righteousness and equity dwell.
One: We remember the sacrifices of those who came before us, who fought for the rights and freedoms we now hold. May their courage inspire us to be vigilant and proactive in ensuring that these rights are protected for all.
All: Let our voting be an act of faithfulness, not only to our beliefs but also to the future generations who will inherit the decisions we make today. Strengthen our resolve to work for a society that mirrors Your compassion, justice and peace.
One: As we prepare our hearts and minds to engage in this civic duty, remind us that our actions are a testament to the faith we profess. May we be instruments of Your peace in our communities, advocating for justice and mercy with every step we take.
All: Guide our nation, O Lord, and help us be Your hands and feet in this world, committed to building a future that honors You and uplifts all of Your children. Amen.
Silence
(Ask God for Wisdom. What action/s do you need to take before voting? Are there any conversations you need to have? Is there any research you need to do? Ponder how your vote will impact your neighbors and our shared future.)
Poem
(A moment of reflection on democracy)
“Democracy”
Langston HughesDemocracy will not come
Today, this year
Nor ever
Through compromise and fear.I have as much right
As the other fellow has
To stand
On my two feet
And own the land.I tire so of hearing people say,
Let things take their course.
Tomorrow is another day.
I do not need my freedom when I’m dead.
I cannot live on tomorrow’s bread.Freedom
Is a strong seed
Planted
In a great need.I live here, too.
I want freedom
Just as you.
Blessing
(To be read together in unison.)
God, You are Mighty and Merciful. We are grateful for
the right to vote, and we will not take it for granted.
Empower us to prepare our hearts to vote in a way that reflects
Your justice, peace and compassion.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Encourage One Another
It is a strength for all of us to know that we are praying together across the country and around the world.
Leave a comment below with the state or country you will be praying in. Please note your comment may not show up right away. Please refrain from making political statements.
Use the share buttons below to encourage others to join us in praying about our election.
1 Adapted from Sacred Votes: A Guide to Election Participation, Justice and Social Transformation. https://www.umcjustice.org/documents/336. 30-35.
Blessed are the peacemakers
We at Theological Horizons take seriously Jesus’s final prayer in John 17, that the Christian believers all would be one, alongside the Beatitudes where Jesus says, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they are the children of God.” Our Fellows programs, Scoper Lecture, Vintage Lunch and Deeper Dialogues all seek to offer hospitable spaces (often around food!) where ALL are welcome, no matter what stripe of Christian (or seeker) they are.
As we enter into an election season fraught with a polarization that flattens and distorts the stories of those on the other side (our enemies Jesus calls us specifically to love), we are paying attention to the groups, both Christian and secular, that are seeking to build bridges across deep difference. Don’t see one you know and admire? Email christy@theologicalhorizons.org.
Christian Organizations:
The Colossian Forum: The ongoing work of The Colossian Forum is designed to promote the health and sustainability of the Church in the face of intensifying polarization and division. We do so by equipping Christians to recognize conflict’s inherent opportunities to actively pursue deeper relationships with neighbors and with God.
Telos Foundation To form communities of American peacemakers across lines of difference, and equip them to help reconcile seemingly intractable conflicts at home and abroad. (While the staff are mostly Christian, Telos works with people of any faith or no faith).
Global Christian Forum: The Global Christian Forum (GCF) is a unique gathering of global Christian churches and organisations bringing together all the major streams of world Christianity. The GCF is an open space where all Christians can meet to nurture unity by fostering mutual respect and understanding as well as by addressing common challenges together.
Sojourners: Congregations from Polarization to Unity (CPU) new initiative. Sojourners recently welcomed Rev. Dr. Andrea (Andi) Saccoccio to lead their new program, Congregations from Polarization to Unity (CPU), which aims to help congregations overcome the cultural and political polarization that has seeped into and divided our churches. CPU will provide ecumenical resources and experiences to congregants and faith leaders that will help them build bridges of understanding and common action, as they work towards addressing polarization.
Faith & Blue: Faith & Blue was launched to facilitate safer, stronger, more just and unified communities by directly enabling local partnerships among law enforcement professionals, residents, businesses and community groups through the connections of local faith-based organizations. The initiative aims to re-calibrate police-community relations through solutions-focused, in-person, socially distanced and/or virtual activities that are organized jointly by faith-based or other community groups and law enforcement agencies.
Charlottesville Clergy Collective: The Charlottesville Clergy Collective is a group of faith and allied community leaders who gather regularly to discuss and address the challenge of racial justice and equity in the Charlottesville-Albemarle Region of Central Virginia. Our mission is to establish, develop, and promote racial, economic, and other justice and equity issues within the faith leadership and wider community of the Charlottesville-Albemarle Region through fellowship, collaborative partnership, relationship-building, and public witness.
The And Campaign. Led by Justin Giboney, an Atlanta-based attorney and former political operative, and Rev. Chris Butler, a Chicago pastor and experienced community organizer, the AND Campaign encourages Christians to develop a political perspective shaped by Scripture and their Christian orthodoxy rather than the messages of either the Republicans or Democrats. In today's politics, they recognize a flaw with the dichotomy often presented and advocate for an "AND" approach rather than either or, with "Compassion (&) Conviction" as their motto. They emphasize the need to neither avoid nor idolize politics but rather to treat it as an aspect of discipleship under the Lordship of Christ.
The After Party. This book, free video course, and associated resources recognize the brokenness of the approach to politics in much of the American church and, in response, seek to guide Christians "towards a better Christian politics" by encouraging the Church to "radically recenter on Jesus." Developed by David and Nancy French, Russell Moore, and Curtis Chang, all of whom bring experience with not only the devastation to relationships brought on by unhealthy political approaches in Christian spaces but also with working to inculcate a more faithful approach, the After Party focuses on grounding Christian political engagement first and foremost in the "how" of Christlike love of neighbor, even enemies, and the fruits of the Spirit rather than prioritizing the "what," i.e. specific policies or candidates using whatever means necessary.
Kaitlyn Scheiss is an author, speaker, and Duke Divinity School doctoral student who works to equip Christians to develop an approach to politics shaped by robust spiritual formation that builds a foundation of confidence and hope in Christ rather than candidates, parties, or even policies. She emphasizes the need for Christ to guide our political engagement by both keeping our eternal perspective of His ultimate victory, which counters the temptation to view any candidate as a savior, and by clarifying the priority of loving our neighbor and seeking flourishing in our communities as the goals of politics. She also, especially in her most recent book, The Ballot and the Bible, empowers Christians to develop a more thoughtful approach to applying the Bible in politics, in contrast to the frequent proof-texting by both sides.
The Holy Post Podcast, hosted by Phil Vischer (the creator of VeggieTales), Skye Jethani, and Kaitlyn Scheiss, covers news, both political and specifically related to the American evangelical church. They intentionally offer an alternative to the culture war approach by prioritizing humility, intellectual openness, and grace towards those with whom they disagree. In addition to their news segment, they do a guest interview each week, often with people who recently published books, to deepen the conversation on Biblical, theological, political, and cultural matters with leaders in their respective fields.
Secular or Interfaith Organizations:
Essential Partners: We give people the means to strengthen relationships, deepen belonging, and renew hope in their communities. Founded in 1989, Essential Partners helps people build relationships across differences to address their communities’ most pressing challenges. Our proven approach helps people live, work, worship, and learn better together. Through richer, healthier, more inclusive dialogue, people strengthen relationships while gaining new insight into themselves and each other as well as the problems they face together.
Braver Angels: Americans on opposite sides of the political spectrum don’t only disagree on issues — they increasingly dislike one another. This growing partisan animosity is the crisis of our time and threatens our nation. Braver Angels exists to address this challenge.
Bridge Alliance’s comprehensive list of Bridge-Building Organizations working to foster unity and understanding among diverse groups, transcending political and social differences.
Dignity Dialogues has another list of bridge-building organizations. DD exists to encourage people of varying ideologies, races, religions, generations, and gender identities to explore the roots of their differences and biases. Learn to engage peacefully in difficult conversations and to mend fences. Whether you are among the politically polarized, the marginalized, or the mainstream, we urge you to join hands and hearts with others who share your humanity, although perhaps not your persuasion.
Interfaith America: Faith is a bridge. Interfaith America inspires, equips, and connects leaders and institutions to unlock the potential of America’s religious diversity.
The One America Movement partners with faith communities across religious, political, and racial divides to confront toxic polarization in our society.
Faith & Work Forum Highlights | Emilia Gore with Ava Flory
We loved launching this year’s Faith & Work series on September 20 with TH superstar Emilia Gore (UVA ‘15 and current TH board member), expertly interviewed by 4th year Ava Flory! Under the streaming sunlight of a gorgeous September afternoon, we welcomed both students and community members of all ages to hear Emilia’s insights, which inspire and encourage people at any stage of their lives or careers. Please enjoy an overview of the thoughtful perspectives that Emilia shared below, including some “nuggets” of wisdom to encourage you in your everyday!
Although pressure and stress from many directions often burden students in their career planning and job search process, Emilia offered a voice of calm, grounded in finding rest and security above all in the Lord.
She invited students to pause and intentionally cultivate times of stillness before the Lord even in what sometimes feels like a whirlwind with the internship/job search. She shared from experience about how these spaces often open the heart and mind to recognize what “lights you up” and encouraged students to heed those internal pulls in discerning their vocational steps. Listen to her guidance, which encourages not just students but also people at any stage of life or career!
Throughout the conversation, Emilia spoke of vocation as a space where God works in astonishing, sometimes surprising ways for purposes often beyond what we ever imagined. She shared about various transitions in her career, sometimes by choice and other times by external circumstances like the pandemic, and how they provided opportunities to deepen her faith and receive God’s direction for her next steps. Hear Emilia’s approach to discerning with the Lord when to seek a new role or next step vocationally.
Emilia’s work across sectors enriched her perspective on vocation and especially equipped her to offer poignant insights to students considering a wide range of career paths. As she spoke about her journey through the worlds of business, nonprofit, and government, she reflected on both distinctions and similarities. Listen to her eye-opening, perhaps surprising comments.
Despite seemingly stark differences across sectors, Emilia acknowledged that they all share stress of deadlines, priorities, and professional relationships. Amidst this daily professional challenge, she pointed to the wealth of the Christian tradition for remaining grounded in the ultimate truth and purpose as believers. Hear Emilia’s testimony of finding support from the saints.
Emilia also sought to demystify the sometimes intimidating prospect of networking, framing it as building connections that you never know how God might use. Hear her fresh view of this prominent aspect of professional life. We appreciated how her story illuminates how God writes our stories both through His sovereign leading and His empowering Spirit.
Thank you to Emilia for sharing your hopeful, experienced perspective on this topic with our community, and to Ava for skillfully directing the conversation!
Meet our Horizons Fellows | Vocational Discernment through Relational Discipleship
Not pictured are: Nykera Wallop, Sophia Hanway & Maddie Mislock.
We’re thrilled to welcome another cohort of Horizons Fellows as they wrestle with concepts of calling through constraints and commitments, reflecting Theological Horizons’ desire to discover Christ at the intersection of faith, thought, and life. Pulling 4th years from a variety of denominational, theological and ethnic backgrounds, a prominent goal of the Horizons Fellows is for students to experience the unity of Christ (John 17) alongside the plurality of expressions among those committed to following Jesus.
Anna Deatherage (Mentor: Jaclyn Cline) Anna is studying History and minoring in Spanish and looking forward to seeing how they can intersect in a career. In her free time she enjoys hanging out with friends, camping, running, and reading.
Annelise Wolfe (Mentor: Emili Hays) Annelise is studying Marketing and Information Technology in the McIntire School of Commerce with a minor in Studio Art. In her free time she loves to paint, songwrite, and grab coffee with friends.
Ava Flory (Mentor: Danielle Hill) Ava is studying business in the McIntire School of Commerce and minoring in Studio Art. She is interested in how business and art can be combined to uplift and enhance communities, and is exploring what that might look like in practice. In her free time she enjoys painting, being outdoors, exploring new places, and meeting new people.
Ben Benson (Mentor: Greg Gelburd) Ben is studying cognitive science. Outside of class he enjoys playing music, meditating, and playing basketball.
Elisabeth Doty (Mentor: Kristin Sancken) Elisabeth is an Environmental Science and Public Policy major from St. Louis, MO. Outside of class, she enjoys volunteering, playing frisbee, and reading in the library.
Ellie Joye (Mentor: Holly Slon) Ellie is studying Public Policy and Leadership and minoring in Religious Studies with hopes of going to law school. Ellie loves to be outside, read, and travel.
Lauren Metters (Mentor: Laura Brown) Lauren is from Massachusetts, and is double majoring in History and Religious Studies and minoring in Middle Eastern Studies. She is currently working on a thesis on how Catholic Mariology interprets Jewish resources. Outside of class, she enjoys travel, book buying, and Grit coffee.
Maddie Mislock (Mentor: Jane Grizzle) Maddie is studying English, Religious Studies, and Health & Wellbeing. She loves all things outdoors—especially climbing, hiking, snowboarding, caving, and, most recently, fly fishing—as well as line dancing and swing dancing.
Nykera Wallup (Mentor: Kristen Bell) Nykera Wallop is studying Sociology with a minor in Global Studies in Education. She loves to read, sleep, and spend time with family and friends. She wants to pursue a masters in Public Health and hopefully can work as a Public Health educator.
Sophia Hanway (Mentor: Sarah Davis) Sophia is studying Environmental Science and Global Sustainability. While she hasn’t settled on a career path yet, she’s interested in studying human-environment interactions and has a deep love of all things natural science. Outside of class she enjoys reading, cooking, running, and spending time outside.
Walker Hill (Mentor: Mary Brissett) Walker is from Richmond studying Psychology and Spanish. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family/friends, playing pickleball, cooking, and spending time outside. She is not sure what her next steps will be, but she is looking forward to exploring all the possibilities that come with studying people and language!
Walker Wright (Mentor: Ben Webb) Walker is studying psychology and pre-health. He hopes to go to medical school and become a psychiatrist. When he is not studying, he enjoys weight lifting, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.
Meet our Perkins Fellows | Vocational Discernment through Community Engagement
If you have come to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up with mine, then let us walk together.
— Aboriginal activist Lilla Watson
Perkins Fellows explore vocation through weekly community engagement. Named after the great Christian community development leader John M. & Vera Mae Perkins, this program builds bridges between the University and the community through mutually-beneficial partnerships. Perkins Fellows are placed with a community partner to connect their learning through service and theological reflection. Fellows receive mentoring and training in cross-cultural engagement and community development, with an eye towards vocational discernment in these fields of work.
We are thrilled to welcome our 24-25 cohort of 11 Perkins Fellows this year. They’ll be serving at various non-profits in the city, attending the annual Christian Community Development Conference in Portland, OR and, this fall, unpacking the book: Dear White Peacemakers: Dismantling Racism with Grit & Grace by Osheta Moore. You can learn more about our opening orientation, the Perkins Plunge, here. Read on to get to know our wonderful group.
PERKINS FELLOWS -24-25
Eujine Kim: Eujine is a third-year prelaw student double-majoring in Spanish and Global Security & Justice and minoring in Data Science. Eujine hopes to specialize in federal prosecution while also learning more about sports and property law. She believes service is extremely important because the little details are the foundation of a community. Serving at the International Rescue Committee, she hopes to serve the Charlottesville community as a student and a listener.
Zac Toimil: Zac is a third year student from New York City majoring in Public Policy & Leadership. He is a member of Chi Alpha. He likes to read, write, listen to music, and hang out with friends in his free time. He’ll be serving with Habitat for Humanity, to better serve the Charlottesville community and live out being the hands and feet of Jesus beyond UVA’s Grounds.
Arpan Sathiabalan: Arpan is a fourth-year McIntire student concentrating in accounting and finance. He is the treasurer of Chi Alpha and loves to play sports, classical piano, and read in his free time. Arpan is passionate about mentoring the next generation and will be serving as a tutor for Abundant Life.
Megnot Abebe: Megnot is a fourth-year student majoring in Global Development Studies and Commerce, originally from Addis Abeba, Ethiopia. She is passionate about exploring the intersection of community development, business, and faith, seeking ways to integrate these areas to make a meaningful impact. Megnot continues to serve with Abundant Life Ministries, where she enjoys outdoor activities, connecting with the AL staff, and embracing the art of slowing down. When not in class or at work, Megnot can often be found outside, engrossed in a book or deep in conversation with a friend.
Sara Holt: Sara is a third-year student from Central Virginia majoring in Nursing with a potential double major in Religious Studies. She is looking forward to broadening her perspective of the greater Charlottesville community outside the University of Virginia and better learning how to serve in a way that reflects Jesus, at least in one way, through volunteering at Bread and Roses. Outside of classes, Sara enjoys filling her schedule with babysitting, weightlifting or running, and spending time with friends (especially if it involves going to a coffee shop).
Christine Cheung: Christine is a third-year at UVA and majoring in Economics and Computer Science. She enjoys studying and experiencing the overlap of public, social, and faith efforts with “numbers” work, especially when you get some cool-looking graphs out of it. Through serving at Kindness Cafe, Christine hopes to connect with the broader Charlottesville community and spread love by embodying the compassion and humility of Christ—and with the help of some good coffee, of course. She loves to play her guitar, journal with fountain pens, and go swimming when she finds those special pockets of time.
Lanie Moore: Lanie is graduating this December with degrees in Environmental Science and Global Environments and Sustainability. For her, Perkins Fellows has served as a space for reflection, openness, learning, and unlearning. Having completed her thesis on the topic of environmental justice in Richmond, her hometown, Lanie is interested in obtaining a master’s degree in Urban Planning and pursuing a career in community development. She spends her time working at Kindness Cafe, co-leading a small group Bible study of third-year women, and volunteering at the Haven, a low-barrier day shelter for unhoused individuals. She also enjoys hiking, paddleboarding, and taking long naps.
Eden Abebe: Eden is a third-year student majoring in Global Development Studies and double minoring in Religious Studies and Data Analytics. Passionate about advocacy, civil rights, and education policy, Eden seeks to bridge gaps in communities where inequities persist. She serves as a counselor on the University Judiciary Committee, mentoring students through the trial process and co-leads a second-year Bible study group. She loves to dance, listens to podcasts, and try new foods. Eden is ecstatic to make an impact through community development and service alongside Abundant Life Ministries this year.
Grace Jackson: Grace is a fourth year student studying Global Development Studies. She loves to spend time at Abundant Life and learn from the kids and staff alike. She seeks to glean wisdom from peacemakers who have come before her, engage in hard conversations, and advocate for justice with humility and grace. She is committed to MLK’s Beloved Community, seeking the biblical vision of shalom both personally and systemically. Grace also loves to engage with the world through pottery, poetry, food, and nature.
Kaya Lynch: Kaya is a fourth-year studying Speech Communication Disorders. She’s currently volunteering with Kindness Cafe, and loves working with everyone there! Her desire is to help facilitate a more equal world, and to learn more about life by following in the footsteps of those who came before. She is excited to carry the skills and knowledge from Perkins Fellows to her future career!
Fionette King: Fionette is a third-year student studying Global Development Studies. She enjoys serving the Charlottesville community and is currently volunteering at the Music Resource Center. Perkins Fellows has inspired her to be a more careful listener, taking action towards social justice issues. Outside of class, Fionette enjoys dancing, reading, and spending time with friends. Fionette hopes to represent Christ well in her community while forming meaningful connections.
Perkins Fellows 24-25 out at Buck’s Bend for our monthly gathering.
SOTC DC Recap: Reaping Wonder in the Everyday
Earlier this month, Theological Horizons ventured up to the Washington, D.C. and NoVa region! Karen encouraged long-time and new friends alike to incorporate ancient practices of rest and wonder into their spiritual lives in the hectic modern world.
First, she shared some highlights from her book Wake Up to Wonder at D.C.’s National Presbyterian Church. Check out the recording here!
Later, friends of Theological Horizons gathered for a lovely afternoon in Falls Church. The Lord blessed us with radiant sunlight and clear skies, as Theological Horizons friends of all ages and backgrounds chatted, laughed, and ate together. Even amidst the often intense environment of a city like D.C., Karen shared simple practices from saints across the centuries to find rest in the presence of God.
For example, Karen presented Martin Luther’s enthusiasm for singing as a vital means of praising God and strengthening the community of believers. In the spirit of promoting practices of wonder, she then led the group in a hymn! Luther’s fervent advocacy of singing as an activity for all people, not just a “talented” few, reminds us that the Lord invites all of us, whatever our strengths and regardless of our struggles, into wonder in our everyday activities through ordinary practices like raising our voices to Him.
In this transitional time from summer to fall, this day in D.C. exemplifies the encouraging accessibility of wonder even in what often feels like a whirlwind of work, school, family, and other continual responsibilities. Amidst the full days, God provides refreshing ways to reap wonder through practices as simple as walking, singing, and pondering. The words of Brother Lawrence provide an apt conclusion to catalyze this everyday wonder: “Lift up your heart to Him during your meals and in company; the least little remembrance will always be the most pleasing to Him. One need not cry out very loudly; He is nearer to us than we think.”
If reflecting on these saints of the past with people seeking to embrace their wisdom today interests you, please join friends at the Bishop’s Garden in D.C. this Sunday, September 29 from 1:30-3:30 PM for a wonder-filled fall gathering!
Below, please enjoy some photos that captured the joy of our afternoon in Falls Church.
Interested in joining a SOTC gathering in NYC, DC/No Va, Charlottesville, Richmond or Atlanta? Or, perhaps you’re interested in starting one in your home? Click below to learn more.
Thanks to Vintage Lunch Sponsors, Mark & Terry Metcalf!
This fall, we’re asking our community to consider sponsoring a Vintage Lunch. Each lunch is catered by a local Charlottesville eatery and helps feed 20-30 students who come hungry for food and community and spiritual nourishment.
Mark Metcalf is a UVa professor in the school of Commerce and he and his wife Terry are sponsoring a Vintage Lunch this September. Learn more about their partnership with us below:
Why did you choose to sponsor a Vintage lunch? How are you connected with Theological Horizons?
Like many other churches in C'ville, our congregation - Christ Episcopal - has an active UVA student ministry. But Terry & I also realize that campus ministries like Theological Horizons provide unique opportunities for fellowship and spiritual growth. So we're happy to help support organizations like Theological Horizons as we are able. And since food and fellowship are perfect partners, when told about the opportunity to sponsor a Vintage Lunch, we didn't give it a second thought!
What blessing, quote, or advice would you like to share with a UVa student?
"Be a student, not a disciple.". Anna Shields, my MA advisor.
Horizons Fellows Retreat | Taking off our Masks
Our new cohort of Horizons Fellows had a beautiful 24 hrs at our friends’ - the Mastersons- lovely 40 acre farm just outside of Charlottesville. After a warm welcome, I gathered the Fellows for a delicious dinner (thanks, Milan Indian!) where we unpacked our summer reading book A Sacred Voice is Calling: Personal Calling and Social Conscience by John Neafsey. I’ve read quite a number of books on vocation and calling and this one has risen to the top due to its ecumenical appeal as well as its connection of calling to include concepts such as suffering & service.
After dinner, we resettled by the fire pit for s’mores and the beginning of sharing personal faith journeys. This comprised the rest of our time together as we carefully listened and held one another’s stories. There was a lot of pain and hurt but also resilience and hope. At TH, we believe the sharing of stories is a deeply sacred act and one of the most powerful ways to connect with one another. The foundation of trust and intimacy laid during our annual retreat is one that lasts for the rest of our year together.
I was so grateful 11 out of our 12 could be present and I’m just sad I forgot to get a group photo! Enjoy these images of our gorgeous spot and a river plunge after lunch.
These words by Ross Gay in The Book of Delights gets a little at the mystery of sharing our stories with one other, the sorrows that can birth joy in the sharing:
Among the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard anyone say came from my student Bethany, talking about her pedagogical aspirations or ethos, how she wanted to be as a teacher, and what she wanted her classrooms to be, she said: ‘What if we joined our wildernesses together?’ Sit with that for a minute. That the body, the life, might carry a wilderness, an unexplored territory, and that yours and mine might somewhere, somehow, meet. Might, even, join.
And what if the wilderness — perhaps the densest wild in there — thickets, bogs, swamps, uncrossable ravines and rivers (have I made the metaphor clear?) — is our sorrow? Or, to use Smith’s term, the ‘intolerable.’ It astonishes me sometimes — no, often — how every person I get to know — everyone, regardless of everything, by which I mean everything — lives with some profound personal sorrow. Brother addicted. Mother murdered. Dad died in surgery. Rejected by their family. Cancer came back. Evicted. Fetus not okay. Everyone, regardless, always, of everything. Not to mention the existential sorrow we all might be afflicted with, which is that we, and what we love, will soon be annihilated. Which sounds more dramatic than it might. Let me just say dead. Is this, sorrow, of which our impending being no more might be the foundation, the great wilderness?
Is sorrow the true wild?
And if it is — and if we join them — your wild to mine — what’s that?
For joining, too, is a kind of annihilation.
What if we joined our sorrows, I’m saying.
I’m saying: What if that is joy?”
Memories: Sunset with the Saints in NYC
Amidst the reflective and reorienting season of late summer, friends of Theological Horizons gathered in New York City to pause and ponder the glory of God under the glowing sunset and Manhattan skyline. As many prepared for the new beginnings that fall brings, this time offered a space to remember and celebrate the Lord’s many gifts, especially community and creation.
While we gathered at the peak of golden hour, Karen shared Howard Thurman’s stirring reflections on how He experienced the Lord’s beauty in the rising and setting of the sun. Even as the colors faded from the sky, the bright lights of the city’s skyscrapers contrasted with the stillness of Central Park. Evoking images of Central Park during the daylight, Karen then educated us about a word coined by medieval saint Hildegard von Bingen: viriditas. This word refers to the green of plants and trees as the color of God’s love. We relished this beautiful description of our Creator’s gift to us in the lush plant life that fills the earth, while we also enjoyed the fruits of that creation in refreshing herbs, figs, nuts, and more.
Karen concluded by sharing Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s gratitude for the Lord’s steadfastness in even the apparently mundane rhythms of one day ending and the next beginning. Bonhoeffer’s words offer a poignant reminder that God’s glory manifests not only in the memorable moments but also in the regular rhythms of our lives.
This verse weaves together many of the themes from that lovely evening: “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him” (Psalm 34:8 NIV). As we establish and engage in our rhythms for fall, let the awareness of God’s grace and beauty that surrounds us in every season encourage you in the everyday.
Please also enjoy these photos! I hope that they give you a glimpse into the enchanting evening that I (Fiona Balfe, Leadership Associate), Karen, and many other cherished friends shared.
Faith & Election resources
In our polarized political climate, we know these months leading up to our presidential election will be tense and fraught for many. Here at TH, we seek to be a space where listening can occur, bridges built and a sense of hope fostered.
Below are some events & resources to help. We will continually update these over the fall and feel free to send us recommendations.
UPCOMING Events
Sept 15th, 11:30-1pm: Non partisan Voter Registration. Common Grounds, 480 Rugby Rd, Charlottesville, VA. 22903.
RESOURCES
Soong-Chan Rah, Can US Evangelicals Lay Down Power, not seek more of it? Sojo.net. Sept/Oct 2024.
The Colossian Forum: The ongoing work of The Colossian Forum is designed to promote the health and sustainability of the Church in the face of intensifying polarization and division. We do so by equipping Christians to recognize conflict’s inherent opportunities to actively pursue deeper relationships with neighbors and with God.
Sojourners: Congregations from Polarization to Unity (CPU) new initiative. Sojourners recently welcomed Rev. Dr. Andrea (Andi) Saccoccio to lead their new program, Congregations from Polarization to Unity (CPU), which aims to help congregations overcome the cultural and political polarization that has seeped into and divided our churches. CPU will provide ecumenical resources and experiences to congregants and faith leaders that will help them build bridges of understanding and common action, as they work towards addressing polarization.
The And Campaign. Led by Justin Giboney, an Atlanta-based attorney and former political operative, and Rev. Chris Butler, a Chicago pastor and experienced community organizer, the AND Campaign encourages Christians to develop a political perspective shaped by Scripture and their Christian orthodoxy rather than the messages of either the Republicans or Democrats. In today's politics, they recognize a flaw with the dichotomy often presented and advocate for an "AND" approach rather than either or, with "Compassion (&) Conviction" as their motto. They emphasize the need to neither avoid nor idolize politics but rather to treat it as an aspect of discipleship under the Lordship of Christ.
The After Party. This book, free video course, and associated resources recognize the brokenness of the approach to politics in much of the American church and, in response, seek to guide Christians "towards a better Christian politics" by encouraging the Church to "radically recenter on Jesus." Developed by David and Nancy French, Russell Moore, and Curtis Chang, all of whom bring experience with not only the devastation to relationships brought on by unhealthy political approaches in Christian spaces but also with working to inculcate a more faithful approach, the After Party focuses on grounding Christian political engagement first and foremost in the "how" of Christlike love of neighbor, even enemies, and the fruits of the Spirit rather than prioritizing the "what," i.e. specific policies or candidates using whatever means necessary.
Kaitlyn Scheiss is an author, speaker, and Duke Divinity School doctoral student who works to equip Christians to develop an approach to politics shaped by robust spiritual formation that builds a foundation of confidence and hope in Christ rather than candidates, parties, or even policies. She emphasizes the need for Christ to guide our political engagement by both keeping our eternal perspective of His ultimate victory, which counters the temptation to view any candidate as a savior, and by clarifying the priority of loving our neighbor and seeking flourishing in our communities as the goals of politics. She also, especially in her most recent book, The Ballot and the Bible, empowers Christians to develop a more thoughtful approach to applying the Bible in politics, in contrast to the frequent proof-texting by both sides.
The Holy Post Podcast, hosted by Phil Vischer (the creator of VeggieTales), Skye Jethani, and Kaitlyn Scheiss, covers news, both political and specifically related to the American evangelical church. They intentionally offer an alternative to the culture war approach by prioritizing humility, intellectual openness, and grace towards those with whom they disagree. In addition to their news segment, they do a guest interview each week, often with people who recently published books, to deepen the conversation on Biblical, theological, political, and cultural matters with leaders in their respective fields.
Secular OR INTERFAITH Organizations:
Essential Partners: We give people the means to strengthen relationships, deepen belonging, and renew hope in their communities. Founded in 1989, Essential Partners helps people build relationships across differences to address their communities’ most pressing challenges. Our proven approach helps people live, work, worship, and learn better together. Through richer, healthier, more inclusive dialogue, people strengthen relationships while gaining new insight into themselves and each other as well as the problems they face together.
Braver Angels: Americans on opposite sides of the political spectrum don’t only disagree on issues — they increasingly dislike one another. This growing partisan animosity is the crisis of our time and threatens our nation. Braver Angels exists to address this challenge.
Bridge Alliance’s comprehensive list of Bridge-Building Organizations working to foster unity and understanding among diverse groups, transcending political and social differences.
Dignity Dialogues has another list of bridge-building organizations. DD exists to encourage people of varying ideologies, races, religions, generations, and gender identities to explore the roots of their differences and biases. Learn to engage peacefully in difficult conversations and to mend fences. Whether you are among the politically polarized, the marginalized, or the mainstream, we urge you to join hands and hearts with others who share your humanity, although perhaps not your persuasion.
Interfaith America: Faith is a bridge. Interfaith America inspires, equips, and connects leaders and institutions to unlock the potential of America’s religious diversity.
The One America Movement partners with faith communities across religious, political, and racial divides to confront toxic polarization in our society.
A Taste of Theological Horizons: Crunchy Romaine Salad
At the Bonhoeffer House, we love the satisfying crunch and rich flavors of this salad as a classic of our times together. Enjoy recreating it for yourself and remembering your own meals with us…or building new traditions around shared meals in your own community.
Crunchy Romaine Salad
1 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
1 pkg Ramen noodles, uncooked, broken up,
4 Tbs unsalted butter
1 bunch broccoli, coarsely chopped
1 head romaine lettuce, washed,
broken into pieces
4 green onions, chopped
1 cup sweet and sour dressing
Brown walnuts and noodles in butter & cool on paper towels. Combine noodles & walnuts with broccoli, romaine, & onions.
Sweet and Sour Dressing
1 cup vegetable oil
1 cup sugar
½ cup wine vinegar
3 tsp soy sauce
salt and pepper to taste
Blend all ingredients thoroughly and pour over the salad for a flavorful finish. Toss and enjoy!
Lattes on the Lawn Highlights!
Last week, we officially jumped into the school year with two wonderful days of extending a warm Wahoo Welcome to students and their families at Lattes on the Lawn. We loved sharing refreshing drinks and delightful conversations with all who stopped by, from first years settling into Grounds to fourth year “Lawnies” (students who live on the Lawn)!
As we reflect on the event, we praise God for the opportunity to meet over 55 students and many of their families. The unexpected connections we discovered chatting with new friends alongside the joyful updates we shared in reuniting with returning friends, filled us with invigorating anticipation of building and broadening our community this year.
The range of locations, experiences, and interests in the backgrounds of these students reminded us of God’s hand in bringing a diverse group together to reflect on and aspire towards shared flourishing at Theological Horizons. Realizing the range of ways people found us, from the coffee piquing their interest as they walked by to receiving an outreach email earlier in the summer, highlighted God’s hand in working through many different ways to bring people to our community. We respond with humble gratitude and eager anticipation for the year ahead.
Please enjoy this photo gallery capturing this time of smiles and specialty drinks, such as the popular dirty chai (a combination of chai and coffee)!
Perkins Plunge 2024 Recap!
Our Perkins Fellows gathered on August 26th to share their personal stories as well as listen to the individual stories of our community partners and the collective story of our city. Founded eight years ago, the Perkins Fellows program fills a unique void at UVA: to try to live out Jesus’ call to love our Charlottesville neighbors as ourselves. We are inspired and motivated by the vision of John & Vera Mae Perkins who’ve distilled their work in Christian community development down to the 3 R’s:
Relocation - To move to be near the people you are serving. Bryan Stevenson’s talk about Proximity fits in well here, as does the theological concept of the Incarnation.
Reconciliation - To reconcile people to God and neighbor as the Greatest Commandment teaches us.
Redistribution - To love people by tending to their physical needs through practicing justice & mercy.
Since I love alliteration, I developed our own set of practices centered on LOVE for Perkins Fellows called the 3 L’s:
Listen & Learn the stories and histories of our city collectively and our neighbors individually. This involves a lot of question asking; Jesus & his disciples were always asking questions!
Laugh - We don’t take ourselves too seriously. Humility is key.
Lean In for the Long Haul- We hope to help the UVA community to continue to lean into our Cville neighbors and the work of justice, even when uncomfortable or inconvenient
We started the day with visiting Bread & Roses - an urban garden and food justice initiative of Trinity Episcopal Church, the first Black Episcopal Church in the area founded in 1919. We then enjoyed iced lattes at the Kindness Cafe while we heard from Founder Katie Kishore about their work employing adults with cognitive disabilities through a coffee shop. Next stop was the Haven, a low-barrier day shelter for anyone with housing instability where we unpacked some myths around those struggling with finding a home.
We then spent some time at the Heather Heyer Memorial, named after the young woman tragically killed by a white supremacist on Aug 12, 2017. I talked with the Fellows about the importance of asking the question that Civil Rights activist Ruby Sales asks: “Where does it hurt?” Any doctor or concerned parent will always ask this first. Knowing & seeing peoples’ pain is essential. John Perkins talks about learning peoples’ FELT NEEDS. But, we also have to see their strength and beauty as the evolution of asset-based community development has tried to balance out with overly need-focused community development. We are not all just pain and problems! I ended our time at the Heather Heyer Memorial, reading a selection from their summer reading, Welcoming Justice beautifully written by Charles Marsh illuminating the life and last days of Heather Heyer.
After a hearty lunch at Otto’s Turkish Street Food, we joined Ike Anderson for a tour of the Music Resource Center, a place that offers affordable, high-quality music education and community for youth in Charlottesville and the surrounding area. We ended our long day sitting with the program staff of Abundant Life Ministries, long-time friends and partners who for 28 years have been loving on the Prospect neighborhood through all sorts of creative youth and family support.
I’m so honored to walk alongside these faithful community partners and inspiring students who are teaching us so much about what it means to love our neighbors while strengthening ties between the University and our surrounding community.
Meet our new Leadership Associate!
Hi! I’m Fiona Balfe, and I am delighted to be serving as the Leadership Associate for the 2024-25 school year. In May, I graduated from Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL (a suburb of the dazzling city of Chicago) with a double major in Biblical & Theological Studies and Environmental Science and a minor in German. I loved learning alongside other Christians from a wide range of places, experiences, and theologies, and my years there ignited a passion for learning and intellectual life as a path to glorifying God. At Wheaton, my studies with brilliant professors and peers opened my eyes to how learning deepens our understanding of and wonder towards the intricacies of God’s creation and the creativity and complexity of the human communities within it.
Outside of class, I loved singing in Women’s Chorale and growing in my experience with the riches of choral music, both sacred and secular, from all different time periods. The proximity to Chicago also allowed me and my friends to attend some astonishing live shows, such as the national tours of the Broadway musicals Anastasia and Les Mis. I love music, especially choral and musical theater, and am always down for a conversation about those topics, perhaps even including breaking out into song!
As I completed my time at Wheaton, Theological Horizons offered an incredible next step with its value on the integration of faith and learning to the glory of God. Theological Horizons’ emphasis on the wisdom found in the breadth of the Christian tradition, faith integrated with all of life, and thoughtful dialogue about profound topics sparked my interest as soon as I learned about this community. Working here is an honor and a joy, as I engage with both the everyday details and overarching concepts in my work and witness how they work together to sustain all the work that we do here. I especially love the opportunity to apply my spreadsheet knowledge from my Environmental Science degree to some of my organizational responsibilities! :)
As I look to the future, I aspire to continue exploring and encouraging others in seeking and serving God through intellectual life and the practices and embodiment that flow from it. Towards that goal, I will be pursuing my M.Div. at Duke Divinity School starting next fall! I hope to both work towards ordination, probably in the Anglican church, and prepare to apply for a Ph.D. in theology. Some of my research interests (AKA topics I love to chat about) include theologies of creation care/ environmental stewardship, the Protestant Reformation, embodiment and faith, and public/political theology. This year, I am excited for the ways the Lord will continue to guide and form me through this community and certainly anticipate many riveting conversations. I praise God for the blessing of working with the lovely people at Theological Horizons and look forward to meeting more of you soon!