University of Dubuque Theological Seminary to Host National CLP Conference
Apr 4, 2011 | University of Dubuque Theological Seminary
The University of Dubuque Theological Seminary will host a National Conference for Commissioned Lay Pastors (CLP) and CLP Candidates in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). The 2011 National CLP Conference, June 9-11, 2011, will feature Dr. Thomas Gillespie, Emeritus President and Professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary as the keynote speaker.
The conference will provide an opportunity for CLPs from around the country to share ideas and visit with others who are serving in this unique calling. Basic CLP classes will be offered for those candidates who have not yet been commissioned, while advanced CLP classes will be available as continuing education for those who have completed the foundational requirements of the Presbyterian Church. Opportunities for fellowship and relaxation will also be provided, including an evening cruise on the Mississippi River.
Keynote speaker Dr. Thomas Gillespie is emeritus president and professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary (Princeton, NJ). Retired from Princeton after 21 years, Dr. Gillespie oversaw the development of several significant academic endeavors at the seminary, including the Center for Barth Studies. A graduate of Pepperdine University and Princeton Seminary, he received a Ph.D. in New Testament from Claremont Graduate School in 1971 and was invited to become Princeton Seminary's fifth president in 1983. A New Testament scholar and ordained Presbyterian minister, Dr. Gillespie is author of numerous articles and reviews. In 1994, Eerdmans Press published his book, The First Theologians: A Study in Early Christian Prophecy . Active in retirement, Dr. Gillespie has taught internationally for the China Graduate School of Theology in Hong Kong offering a course on Galatians.
The University of Dubuque Theological Seminary has been on the cutting edge of Commissioned Lay Pastor education. Over the past ten years, the seminary has had over 3,000 registrants in its CLP distance learning program. According to University of Dubuque President Jeffrey Bullock, "Our church is in a time of incredible transition. As we explore new models for providing pastoral leadership, Commissioned Lay Pastors will play an increasingly important role. Our seminary is committed to providing quality preparation for these leaders. This conference is another way we can support their ministry."
The registration fee for the conference is $200, which includes tuition for one class, admission to the keynote addresses, and two group meals. Registration information and a registration form for the conference are available on the UDTS website at http://udts.dbq.edu. You may register by contacting Ms. Dana Weitz by phone at 563-589-3691 or email at dweitz@dbq.edu. Pastors and other church leaders may also attend. CEUs are available upon request. The registration deadline is May 16, 2011.
The University of Dubuque Theological Seminary is an ecumenical seminary of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), located in Dubuque, Iowa.
