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The Center for Theology was established in 1991 at Lenoir-Rhyne College as a reaffirmation, on the 100th Anniversary of the College, of the intention of its founders to establish a Christian college. The Center serves the College not only by the influence it has on the faith and life of the campus but also by its impact on the Church. Indeed, the college has established the Center as an ecumenical resource "to foster clarity in understanding and passion in proclaiming the Gospel, centered upon the evangelical dogma of justification by grace alone through faith alone, according to the classic, orthodox theology of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church, and thus to assist in shaping the future of the Church in faithfulness to the Word of God."

The concept of such a "center" took shape in the Religion Department of the College late in 1990. In April of 1991, Dr. Michael C. D. McDaniel (at that time serving as Bishop of the North Carolina Lutheran Synod) accepted the College's appointment as "Theologian in Residence," to devote half-time to teaching in the College and the remainder as Founding Director of the proposed endeavor. The Center became a reality with formal dedication and inaugural lectures on November 22, 1991.

The Charter Fellows of the Center are the members of the Religion and Philosophy Department of the College, Professor Rufus L. Moretz, Chairman.

Varied Activities of the Center for Theology

  • A Weekly Preaching Seminar, each Tuesday at 1:00 pm in the Russell House for area clergy who study the appointed lessons for the coming Sunday, and discuss problems of preaching.

  • A Monthly Colloquium for all interested clergy and laity, each first Thursday during the academic year in the Cromer Center. Original papers on controversial topics are mailed in advance, and an ecumenical group averaging 55 persons come to a 4:00 pm session for an hour-and-a-half of spirited discussion.

  • Theology Club for students, meeting in varying locales, including the homes of professors, dormitories, and classroom buildings.

  • Forums and Special Courses are also offered from time to time throughout the year, and the public is welcome to attend any and all of the Center's events. Evening courses are offered during each semester in addition to the regular daytime college courses. For details, contact the Center for Theology by phone, fax, e-mail, or post.

  • Annual Aquinas/Luther Conference. Each fall there is an Aquinas/Luther Conference. The three day annual conference features addresses and discussions by a number of widely-known Catholic and Protestant theologians.

J. Larry Yoder
Director

Michael C. D. McDaniel
Founder