Creating the Future in Theological Education

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.”

This quote is attributed both to Abraham Lincoln and Peter Drucker. It is a challenge that many theological institutions are taking to heart. The course of theological education is uncertain due to the culture, the economy, and the evolving needs of churches. Contextual changes call for internal changes, and every internal change has implications.

Acadia Divinity College (ADC) recently developed a Futuring Lab on the possible futures of theological education and the church. This was developed with a Pathways Grant from the Association of Theological Schools funded by the Lilly Endowment.

One of the tools developed was a Theo-Futures Wheel and Activity Guide. In one section of this worksheet, participants are asked to consider the implications or possible effects of any specific change. These are clustered in four areas:

Human/Relational: Emotional, mental, physical, and social implications for individuals or communities.
Ecclesial/Strategic: Changes in church or organizational practices, mission, programs, values, and/or traditions.
Practical: Logistical changes, operational adjustments, shifted resources, affected day-to-day activities.
Theological: Theological and ethical considerations such as understanding of God, humanity, salvation, etc.

As seminaries and other theological institutions consider changes to prepare leaders for seeking God, shaping the church, and serving humanity and all creation, all four of these areas demand careful and prayerful consideration. If done well, the future becomes a place of hope and fulfillment rather simply a status of survival.

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