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Rev. Adam Hamilton, senior pastor
at the United Methodist Church of
the Resurrection in Leawood, KS,
teaches a course on the SMU
campus as part of the Perkins
Theological School for the Laity
(March 2019).
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Mission Statement
The Office of External Programs (OEP) of Perkins School of
Theology at Southern Methodist University offers creative learning
and research opportunities from the southwestern region to the
global community and the Church universal, so that participants
will be refreshed and equipped for their lifelong spiritual journey.
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Overview
At Perkins School of Theology, the gifts and fruits and labor of theological study and teaching are available not only to those enrolled in regular courses but also to others throughout the church and wider community.
Public Programs
Each year more than 1,500 persons benefit from Perkins’ public programs such as Perkins Fall Convocation, which offers lectures and workshops to practicing church professionals; Perkins Summit for Faith and Learning (formerly Perkins Theological School for the Laity), which brings together seminary professors who are leaders in their fields with committed laity to study Bible and theology; and Perkins School of Youth Ministry, which brings comprehensive training to youth leaders. Numerous additional events are frequently available to the general public as well.
Centers
Perkins houses several centers for theological research and education in service to the church, including the Center for Preaching Excellence, the Center for Religious Leadership, and Bridwell Library's Center for Methodist Studies. In response to Perkins' geographical and cultural setting in the southwestern United States, the Hispanic/Latin@ Ministries Program, the Center for the Study of Latino/a Christianity and Religions, and the Curso de Estudio provide educational services for Hispanic ministries.
Certification Programs
Perkins also offers a variety of programs for church staff and leadership, including certification programs in Spiritual Direction, Christian Education, and Youth Ministry, and the Course of Study School for United Methodist local pastors.