Forum for Theological Exploration

We’re excited to welcome the Congregational and Collegiate Cohort to FTE’s Discernment Labs in just over a week!

Over the next 18 months, these leaders will learn, experiment, and grow alongside peers as they explore new ways to support young adults in discerning meaning, purpose and God’s call.

Through shared learning, mentorship and FTE’s DISCERN Together Framework, they’ll have space to reflect, try new approaches and strengthen how they accompany young adults on their vocational journeys.

We’re excited to welcome the Organizational and Denominational Cohort to FTE’s Discernment Labs in just over a week!

Over the next 18 months, professional and lay leaders serving in established young adult ministries across traditional and non-traditional worshiping communities will learn alongside peers, reflect on their practices, and experiment with new approaches to vocational discernment.

Through FTE’s DISCERN Together Framework, participants will explore six disciplines of discernment while building a community of practice focused on strengthening how they support young adults as they discern meaning, purpose, and God’s call in their lives.

How do we discern where our passions, gifts, and calling intersect?

In 8 days, enrollment opens for FTE’s Discerning Purpose, Passion, and Call course. This self-led experience invites young adults to explore vocational discernment and reflect on the unique ways they are called to lead and serve

Applications open September 8. We look forward to welcoming the next group of learners on this journey. Link below.

https://brnw.ch/21x5kww

Cultivating leaders for the church and academy starts long before a title or role.

It begins in the questions you ask, the community you grow in, and the steps you take toward understanding your calling.

The Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) creates space for that kind of formation through mentorship, connection, and opportunities to keep learning.

Learn more at the link below.

https://brnw.ch/21x5iVD

Women’s Equality Day is a time to recognize the voices, leadership and impact of women shaping the future.

Today, we’re celebrating FTE alum who are advancing women through their work, scholarship and ministry, creating space, challenging systems and leading with purpose.

As a new academic year begins, a good book can offer perspective, encouragement, and a place to return to between classes, meetings, and busy seasons.

FTE’s Goodreads account is filled with book recommendations selected by FTE faculty, leadership, and staff. Visit our Favorite Books section to explore titles that speak to faith, leadership, vocation, justice, scholarship, and spiritual formation.

Find your next meaningful read and follow along on Goodreads. Link below.

https://brnw.ch/21x59at

What is the “Sound of the Genuine”?

Howard Thurman described it as the Spirit/God within us that helps us recognize what is true and meaningful in our lives. It can be difficult to hear it beneath the noise of expectations, fear, ambition and other people’s definitions of who we should be.

Discernment begins when we make space to listen. As we pay attention to what is stirring within, trusted community can help us recognize the gifts, questions and convictions we may not yet be able to name for ourselves.

Meet Jorge Rodriguez, former FTE Doctoral Fellow!

Jorge earned his Ph.D. in Modern Religious History from Union Theological Seminary, where he was part of the Hispanic Theological Initiative and held an FTE Doctoral Fellowship supporting underrepresented and underserved students. He's since gone on to earn an Executive Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Harvard University. He recently stepped into a new role as Executive Director of the Hispanic Scholars Program, marking an exciting next chapter of faithful leadership.

FTE is proud to have been a part of Jorge's journey.

Find more info about our Doctoral Fellowship here: https://brnw.ch/21x53of