The Varieties of Episcopal Theological Education

The Varieties of Episcopal Theological Education examines important changes in the formation of future Episcopal priests and deacons. Highlighting shifts in theological education since the early 2000s, Robert Flanagan carefully analyzes newly collected data to reveal that more and more ordinands complete their training at diocesan schools or through local formation programs. Gone are the days when large residential seminaries with denominational identities served as the ideal training ground for new priests and deacons. Looking at student enrollment, program types, average class sizes, and program mission statements, Flanagan reveals what has taken that ideal's place: a diversity of programs maximizing adaptability in order to meet the evolving needs of the Episcopal Church. This book is required reading for all those interested in posing questions about the coherence and ethos of ordained leadership in the twenty-first century.

"This study contributes in useful ways to ongoing conversations, in both the academy and in the church, about the state of theological education in the Episcopal Church. The qualitative analysis of diocesan school data in this study in particular sets the stage for further research and provides an intriguing look at the state of the field." -The Rev. Dr. Robyn M. Neville, Ph.D., Director of the Center for Spiritual Formation at St. Gregory's Episcopal Church, Boca Raton, Florida

About the Author
The Rev. Robert D. Flanagan, D.Min., is Dean's Advisor for Partnerships at Virginia Theological Seminary and Chaplain at the General Theological Seminary. He is also the author of the Courage to Thrive book series and editor of While Mortals Sleep: Reading Phillips Brooks Through Twenty-First-Century Eyes.