 This Week At United
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Monday, May 6
1:00 PM - Executive Team Hatch Room 5:00 PM - Chippewa Middle School Concert Bigelow Chapel, Context Cafe
Tuesday, May 7
9:00 AM - Story Telling for Preachers
Strobel Room
11:35 AM - Chapel
Bigelow Chapel
12:00 PM - Students for Reproductive Justice
Hatch Room
12:00 PM - UU Student Group
Small Dining Room
2:30 PM - Pastors' Consultation Group - Institute
Campbell Room
9:30 AM - Human Resources
Bigelow Chapel
10:30 AM - ASLC
Small Dining Room
3:00 PM -Lilly Grant planning
Hatch Room
4:00 PM - Chaplains' Consultation Group - Institute
Campbell Room
Thursday, May 9
8:00 AM - Early Bird Breakfast
Strobel Room
10:00 AM - Technology Oversight Committee
Hatch Room
11:35 AM - Chapel
Bigelow Chapel
12:00 PM - Community Celebration for Bob Albers
Context Cafe
6:30 PM - Richard Kooyer Memorial Service
Bigelow Chapel
1:30 PM - Human Resources
Bigelow Chapel
5:00 PM - Anhorn/Penrod Rehearsal
Bigelow Chapel
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Chapel Schedule
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Tuesday, May 7
Kevin Geurink and Jayne Helgevold
Thursday, May 9
Bob Albers
Tuesday, May 14
UTS Memorial Service for Rich Kooyer
Thursday, May 16
FAREWELL TO GRADUATES
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Job Opportunities
| Click here to go to the Job Opportunities web page.
The page includes links to resources and related career opportunity websites. Recently posted:
- Children and Family Ministry Coordinator (part-time) Bethel UMC, Mound MN
- Seminary Intern The Federated Church, Columbus, Nebraska
- Youth Minister
(part-time) St. Luke's Lutheran Church, Bloomington MN
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Monday Morning Archives
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by 5:00 PM on Thursdays. Please put "Monday Morning Announcement" in the subject line.
(PDF files)
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Monday Morning
| Monday Morning is published weekly by the dean's office during fall, winter, spring and summer terms. Submit articles to Deb Olsen by 5:00 PM on Thursdays. Please put "Monday Morning Announcement" in the subject line.
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About us
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United Theological Seminary
of the Twin Cities
3000 Fifth Street NW
New Brighton, MN 55112
Phone: 651.633.4311
Fax: 651.633.4315
Toll free: 800.937.1316
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NEWS FROM THE
PRESIDENT'S OFFICE
Sharon Tan appointed
Dean of the Seminary
I am pleased to announce that the board of trustees approved the recommendation to appoint Sharon Tan dean of the seminary beginning July 2013. Sharon has ably served as Associate Dean for the past two years, and looks forward to helping to lead us as we "ride the wave" into United's future.
~ Dr. B
Announcing the candidates for the 2013 Graduating Class
The Board of Trustees, The Faculty and the Graduating Class of United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities announce
The 51st Annual Commencement Exercises
Sunday, May 19, 3:00 PM
at Plymouth Congregational Church
1900 Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis.
Commencement Speaker: Karen Smith Sellers, Conference Minister, Minnesota Conference of the United Church of Christ.
The exercises are open to the public.
Candidates for the degree Doctor of Divinity honoris causa
Karen Smith Sellers
Noah S. Smith
Candidate for the Certificate in Theological and Religious Studies
Jeff Alden Pope
Candidate for the Diploma in Advanced Theological Studies
Si Thu Tun
Candidates for the degree Master of Arts with a concentration in Religion and Theology
Brian Braskich
Richard Kooyer, awarded posthumously
Candidate for the degree Master of Arts in Religious Leadership
William Taylor Currie
Candidates for the degree Master of Divinity
Robert Theodore Bledsoe
Justin Charles Buchs-Hammonds
Heather Elizabeth Giffen
Cheryl Kay Johnson
David Gerald Kraemer
Anna Marie Larson
Timothy John Miller
Asafa Vaonirina Rakotojoelinandrasana
Christine Spiritwolf
Julie Joette Wright
Master of Divinity with a dual concentration in Justice and Peace Studies and Pastoral Care and Counseling: Cecilia Faith Baxter
Master of Divinity with a dual concentration in Pastoral Care and Counseling and Leadership Toward Racial Justice: Kelley Wilmot HughesMaster of Divinity with a concentration in Pastoral Care and Counseling: Déadra Marie Moore
Charles David Owens
Mary E. Shaffer
Candidate for the Certificate of Ministry Renewal and Professional Development
Bescye P. Burnett
Candidate for the Certificate of Specialized Studies in Ministry
Nancy Carole Lewis Peebles
Candidates for the degree Doctor of Ministry
Patricia T. Greeves Timothy Weston Tennant-Jayne Rebecca Mary Mackenzie Voelkel
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NEWS FROM THE DEAN
Pastoral Care and Pastoral Theology Appointment
I am delighted to report that on the unanimous and enthusiastic recommendation of the search committee, the Academic Council voted - also unanimously and enthusiastically - to recommend that Trina Armstrong be appointed Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care and Pastoral Theology at United beginning July 1.  With the authorization of the Academic Affairs Committee of the Board, the President has extended the offer, and Trina has accepted.
Trina Armstrong is completing her Ph.D. degree from Claremont School of Theology, and has an M.A. in Psychology, Marriage and Family Therapy from California Southern University, and M.A. in Practical Theology, Spiritual Care and Counseling from Claremont School of Theology, the M.Div. degree from Fuller Theological Seminary, and a B.A. from Golden Gate University. Her thesis title is Behind the Veil of the Village: a Womanist Pastoral Theological Analysis of Single African American Mothers, Cultural Trauma, Relational Trauma, and Relationship Education Programs. She has been serving as Community Educator at VITAS Innovative Hospice Care in Covina, CA while working on her dissertation, and also recently served as Teaching Associate for Spiritual Formation and Vocational Discernment at Claremont School of Theology. She is an ordained Itinerant Elder with the African American Methodist Episcopal Church, and has been serving as Associate pastor at First AME Church in Pasadena. We eagerly anticipate her arrival at United.
I would like to recognize, and express appreciation to, the members of the search committee, who worked long and hard, and with great care and thoughtfulness, to bring us to this moment. Those persons are Heather Giffen, Malachi Mattox, Eleazar Fernandez, Barbara Holmes, Barbara Anne Keely, and Carolyn Pressler. Christie Neuger played an invaluable role as consultant to the committee. I would also like to recognize and express my gratitude to Deb Olsen for her excellent work in staffing the committee and coordinating the interviews.
I would like to thank all the other members of the community who helped in the process of interviewing, and providing hospitality for, the two candidates who came to campus. Your participation in the process was extremely important and helpful.
 Martha Postlethwaite Promoted to Professor of Spiritual Formation
Please join me in celebrating the richly-deserved promotion of our Seminary Chaplain, Martha Postlethwaite, to Professor of Spiritual Formation.
Her contributions to the life and well-being of this community are innumerable and vital, as exemplified by her grace-full pastoral presence and actions.
Congratulations, Martha!
~ Sue Ebbers
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SEMINARY NEWS
Early Bird Breakfast
May 9, 8:00 - 9:00 AM in the Strobel Room
Please join us for an 'Early Bird Breakfast' with Rev. M. Alexandra George '99 as our guest speaker. Alexandra George, is a chaplain at Mercy Hospital in Coon Rapids, and she is a trained facilitator in Health Care Directives and a Faith Ambassador for Graceful Journey, a project of the Minnesota Council of Churches and Honoring Choices. She will provide practical tips on how to introduce end-of life care conversations with individuals and families. This information can be useful personally, with family members, and in your congregational, or professional setting.
A light breakfast will be served. Cost: Free.
Please register online.
In Memory of Richard Kooyer 
The United community is very sad to share news of the sudden death of student Richard Kooyer. Rich was a well-loved, active member of United's student body and his absence is deeply felt. Rich's family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers during this time of loss and grief.
A Memorial Service for Richard Kooyer will be held in the Bigelow Chapel at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities on Thursday, May 9, at 6:30 PM. The Kooyer Family invites you to join them as they remember and celebrate Richard's life.
UTS Memorial Service for Richard Kooyer
May 14, 11:35 AM
An Invitation for Song and Story
Song: Students, alumni, staff, and faculty who wish to participate in the choir for the memorial service on Tuesday, May 14, are invited to attend any of the following rehearsals:
- Tuesday, May 7 at 12:50 and 5:20 PM
- Thursday, May 9 at 12:50 PM
- Tuesday, May 14 at 10:30 AM
We are offering rehearsals at all of these times in the hopes that everyone can find a time that works for them. The music isn't difficult, so come to as many or few as your schedule allows.
Story: During the service, we will read from a collection of stories, thoughts, poems, and tributes compiled by the UTS community as we remember our dear friend, student, colleague, and mentor, Rich. If you have something you'd like to share, please email it to Laura Thompson at lthompson001@unitedseminary.edu or Cathy Pino at cpino001@unitedseminary.edu.
Thank you!
Honoring Rich - Milestones and Memories Paver
Student colleagues of Rich Kooyer invite current students, alumni, staff and faculty to join them in honoring Rich and sending condolences to his family. They plan to purchase a "Milestones and Memories" paver in his memory. Sensitive to the possibility that Rich's family might ask for memorials toward another fund to which you might also want to contribute, please chip in a gift of a size that feels right to you for this paver (suggested donation: $10 - $50). Write a check to "UTS," with memo "paver for Rich" and place it in Clare Gromoll's student box #113. There is an envelope labeled "Rich" in Clare's mailbox. Place your gift in that envelope, where you will also find condolence cards you might wish to sign for Rich's wife, Hiroko, for his mother, and for his brothers. The paver will weave together words from several hearts in tribute to Rich. If you feel inspired to attach to your contribution a few words or phrase in memory of Rich, Clare will do her best to weave your words into the 150 characters that fit on the stone. Feel free to e-mail messages to include with the cards to Clare at cgromoll@unitedseminary.edu and/or to let her know that you are sending a check (mention the amount in your e-mail to her, please) made out to UTS to her at: 2282 26th Ave. NW, New Brighton, MN 55112. If possible, please contribute by Tues, May 7.
Spring Banquet
Friday, May 17 - 6:00 PM Library Court
The United Community is cordially invited to the annual Spring Banquet on Friday, May 17. Spring Banquet is a time to celebrate and honor the 2013 graduates.
Please register online or contact Deb Olsen by May 15.
Tickets: Graduates + one guest are free, Adults = $15.00, Children 2-10 = $10.00, Children <2 = Free.
Preregistration and menu choice must be made in advance.
FROM THE LIBRARY TO THOSE HOPING TO GRADUATE: THE END IS COMING (Congratulations!!) ALL GRADUATES' LIBRARY MATERIALS ARE DUE BY 5:00 PM, FRIDAY, MAY 10 We respectfully remind you that DIPLOMAS will be handed only to those who have returned all library materials borrowed from UTS and from other Consortium and Minitex Libraries. Please keep your ID cards so that you can continue using the library as alum borrowers. We will automatically change your status from student to alum, and after Commencement you will be welcome to check out materials on a 6-week basis.  Also, check with the Development Office about the ATLAS for Alums program that provides access to full-text journals in religion and theology. Students who are not graduating:
all library materials are due by 5:00 PM Friday, May 17, unless extended loans are approved by one of the librarians. After May 17 each unreturned item will be assumed lost and billed to your seminary account at the rate of $35.00 per item (of which $5.00 per item is a non-refundable processing fee). As with the IRS, please file your request for extended loans BEFORE the due date. Thanks for your cooperation with this annual ritual. Welcome Meredythe Jones Rossi The seminary is pleased to announce Meredythe Jones Rossi, former manager of the Cokesbury bookstore, will be serving as the Event Coordinator for the "Out in Gospel" June event and will be the Interim Communications Coordinator during Kayla Larson's maternity leave. Meredythe's professional expertise includes graphic design, marketing consulting, event planning, and owning a business with her spouse. Please welcome Meredythe back to United!
Recognition for Bob Albers
Thursday, May 9
Please join us in the Context Cafe after 11:35 AM chapel for a celebration in honor of Bob Albers, Distinguished Visiting Professor of Pastoral Care. Those gathered will have an opportunity to share memories, thanks, and blessings on his retirement. There will be an open mic and dessert. Please note that Bob will be leading chapel on May 9. If you are unable to attend and wish to add a memory or blessing to a book for Bob, please contact Deb Olsen.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
What is Reproductive Justice?
Who are Students for Reproductive Justice?
How do faith communities play a role in the Reproductive Justice movement?
What's going on in the Reproductive Justice movement?
If you have ever contemplated these questions or have an interest in them now, come to an informal informational meeting
Tuesday, May 7 in the Hatch Room beginning at 12:00 Noon.
We will buy your lunch!
Grounded in religious faith and conviction, Students for Reproductive Justice work for reproductive health, justice, and freedom for all people. This isn't just a middle age white woman concern anymore!
Kelli Clement, Executive Director of Minnesota's Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and UTS graduate will be our guest to lead us in conversation and be available to answer our questions.
All are Welcome! Hope to see you there!
Approved changes in requirements to four concentrations
At their April meeting, the Academic Council voted to approve changes in the curricular requirements four concentrations and to electives. The changes are effective immediately. Students are encouraged to read through the note about electives, found at the end of this news article. Did you miss the article? Check it out in the April 29, 2013 archived issue.
Are you planning to graduate in 2014?
If you are planning to graduate in 2014, you need to complete the Petition to Graduate form and give it to Susan Hastings by May 31, 2013. Prospective MA grads also need to complete the MA Thesis Registration form (due May 31, 2013) and the MA Thesis Proposal and Preliminary Bibliography form (due June 30, 2013). Included with these forms is information about United specific guidelines, and instructions for setting up your document in MS Word.
If you have Word 2003 please download and save these forms.
If you have Word 2010 these are the ones you need.
If you have questions about any of the forms, please contact Susan at 651.255.6120 or shastings@unitedseminary.edu.
Sunday, May 19 at 3:00 PM
Plymouth Congregational Church, Minneapolis
Click here for commencement weekend information.
- Please register online for Spring Banquet by May 15. Graduates + 1 guest are free. Adults = $15, Children 2-10 = $10, Children<2 - Free. Register, select a menu item and pay online or at the door. Contact Deb Olsen with questions.
- Graduates should plan to meet with Martha Postlethwaite for an exit interview. A schedule is posted on her office door.
- MA and MDiv graduates are required to complete the Graduating Student Questionnaire. Contact Deb Olsen if you didn't receive the email message with log-in information.
- Save the date for the Farewell to Seniors Chapel service - 11:35 AM on Thursday, May 16.
Seeking volunteers for Commencement
Interested in participating at commencement by flying one of the liturgical kites, carrying the seminary's banner, or serving as an usher? Volunteering for the 2013 commencement service is a chance for undergrads to "pay it forward." Kite training provided! The service is a day filled with excitement for the graduates and our guests. Please consider helping out. Contact Deb Olsen to volunteer.
Approved changes in requirements to four concentrations
At their April meeting, the Academic Council voted to approve changes in the curricular requirements four concentrations and to electives. The changes are effective immediately. Students are encouraged to read through the note about electives, found at the end of this news article. Missed the article? Check it out in the archives: April 29, 2013 issue.
Applying for Financial Aid for 2013/14
FAFSAs for the 2013/14 academic year are now available at www.fafsa.gov.
If you plan to apply for need based aid and/or a federal Direct Unsubsidized Stafford student loan and you will be enrolled at least half time in a Masters Degree program (Doctor of Ministry students can apply for student loans) at UTS you must complete the FAFSA. The UTS school code is G02386. Need based aid from UTS is awarded on a first come first served basis. There is no guarantee that funds will be available if you wait too long to complete the FAFSA. If you have any questions contact Michelle Turnau at mturnau@unitedseminary.edu or 651.255.6117.
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The Legacy of Penumbra Theatre:
The Power of Art and Social Change
In the Bigelow Chapel
April 8 through June 25
We are honored to have Sarah Bellamy speak at Spring Convocation and lead a workshop in the Summer Institute this year. Bellamy is the Associate Artistic Director for Penumbra Theatre. She is passionate about the ability of art to provide educational outreach to the community, increasing awareness around social issues and celebrating difference.
To complement Bellamy's time with us, we will be displaying this exhibit curated by the Archie Givens, Sr. Collection of African American Literature, exploring the on-going work and prestigious history of Penumbra's contribution to the theatre arts, social justice, and wider Twin Cities community.
A Public Witness:
Rediscovering United's Permanent Collection
In the Classroom Gallery
Showcasing new gifts to United's Permanent Collection, this exhibit features works by a variety of artists working in a diversity of styles and themes addressing societal, religious and spiritual concerns. This exhibit is an excellent reminder of the many ways United's arts collection and programming inspire, encourage, and support our students, staff and faculty as they pursue their vocational ministries and engage the wider Twin Cities community in a vital cultural dialogue.
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INSTITUTE FOR THE SUPPORT OF PASTORAL MINISTRIES
Pastoral Care and Counseling with Couples
Monday, May 6, 9:00 - 3:30 PMWORKSHOP HAS BEEN CANCELED
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EVENTS OF INTEREST
Cherokee Park United Church - St. Paul, MN
For many thinkers, teachers and creators around the world, colonialism and post-colonialism have been useful lenses to better understand history and to enact lasting justice. Come learn more about this - and ask important questions - at Cherokee Park's panel discussion and Sunday service.
Panel Discussion
Friday, May 3
Dinner created by chefs Okogyeamon Perkins and Maria McNamara begins at 6:00 PM
Moderated discussion begins at 6:45 PM (free will donation)
Panel members Roxanne Gould, Jim Bear Jacobs, Leon Rodrigues, and Chris Smith will share their understanding of the legacy of colonialism on indigenous communities around the globe. Whether you are new to the concerns of colonialism or an advanced thinker, join us and bring your questions about the impact of colonialism for our panel members to address.
Sermon by Okogyeamon Perkins
Sunday, May 5
Sunday service at Cherokee Park United starts at 10:15 AM
Professor Gould's work both here and in many communities abroad reflects her commitment to social justice and decolonization that will bring about healing in indigenous communities. Please join us for our weekly fellowship hour following the service.
Simpson Center for Servant Ministries presents
Bridges Out of Poverty Level 2, Jodi Pfarr - Speaker
Tuesday, June 18, 8:30 - 4:00 PM
River Hills United Methodist Church, Burnsville MN
Session provides 6.5 CE hours from MN Board of Social Work Early bird and student registration: $50.00 per session. For more information and to register, visit Simpson Center for Servant Ministries
Sophia Center Summer Institute 2013
The Mystery of Nature and Soul
July 18 - 21
Holy Names University, 3500 Mountain Blvd. Oakland CA 94619
United Theological Seminary's president Barbara A. Holmes will facilitate an interactive dialogue, A 21st Century Look at Cosmology & the Politics in a Post-Obama Era. Visit www.hnu.edu/sophia to learn more and to register.
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