Moravian University School of Theology to host Doctor of Ministry Symposium: Research Projects in Context

Moravian University School of Theology is proud to announce the 2026 Doctor of Ministry (DMin) Symposium, scheduled for March 26, 2026. This daylong virtual event will run from 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. and features the final research presentations from the program’s 2026 graduating class.

The symposium, titled “Research Projects in Context,” serves as a public showcase for ministry leaders who are moving toward May graduation for the most advanced professional degree available in their field. These students, including pastors, chaplains, and other faith-based leaders, will share how they are applying advanced theological research to solve specific challenges within their unique ministry settings.

“Our DMin program is about more than just a degree. It’s about transformation,” says Rev. Dr. Lindsey Scott, Director of Strategic Programs, Lifelong Learning, and the Doctor of Ministry Program. “Seeing these graduates apply high-level research to solve real-world problems in their specific contexts is inspiring. They are not just scholars, but practitioners making a tangible difference in the world.”

Unlike a traditional PhD, the DMin degree combines library research with hands-on ministry. DMin students spend three to four years learning how to apply high-level leadership tools directly to the challenges they face in the field.

“At Moravian University, we believe that faith belongs in the world,” says Dr. Christian Rice, Dean of the School of Theology. “This special symposium showcases the fruitful labor of leaders who have successfully integrated deep theological reflection with the practical needs of their congregations and communities. We are incredibly proud of the scholarship and spirit these graduates bring to the table.”

The event is open to the public, and guests are invited to attend the sessions virtually. Registration is available now on Zoom. 

Because the program is designed to be accessible, guests may come and go as their schedules allow. All presentations will be recorded for future engagement and review.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Doctor of Ministry (DMin) Symposium
March 26, 2026

8:45 a.m. Greetings and Devotions

9 a.m. Rev. Melissa Johnson
Beyond Survival: Finding Purpose in Partnerships Utilizing Congregational Resources to Catalyze Emerging Ministries

10 a.m. Rev. Barbara Rowlett
Harmony Without Uniformity: A Prophetic Call to the Black Missionary Baptist Church

11 a.m. The Rev. Michael Angel Molina
From Every People and Tribe: A Report on the Lived Experiences of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Clergy in the Episcopal Placement System with Suggestions for Institutional Change

Noon Rev. Stephen Hoard
Susanna Wesley’s Educational Approach Reconsidered: “Conquer” or “Break” A Child’s Will

1 p.m. Rev. Robert Stippich
Leading the Way: Understanding and Navigating Church Revitalization

2 p.m. Rev. Cam Richesson
From Exile to Embrace: Identifying Factors of Trust and Inclusion for LGBTQ Christians in Church Communities

3 p.m. Rev. Lyzette Rios Sanchez
A Cry in the City! Hispanic Spirituality, Healthy Lutheran Congregations and the Lutheran Hispanic Ministry in North Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

4 p.m. Dr. Mark Koscinski
From Heritage to Horizon: Revitalizing the PNCC Mission through Enculturated Evangelization

5 p.m. Closing and Zoom Celebration