What to Expect
- The Princeton Lectures on Youth, Church, and Culture, published annually, are designed to foster original scholarship pertaining to youth and the contemporary church. Lecturers include scholars who are not directly involved in the practice or study of youth ministry, but who can bring the fruits of their respective disciplines to bear on ministry with the young. Past lecturers have included Sharon Daloz-Parks, Kenda Creasy Dean, James W. Fowler, Douglas John Hall, Martin E. Marty, Jürgen Moltmann, Rodger Nishioka, Evelyn Parker, Stephanie Paulsell, Harold J. Recinos, Christian Smith, Miroslav Volf, and William Willimon. Past lectures are available on our web site.
- Extended seminars are three-session courses meeting for 75 minutes each day. Led by theologians-in-residence, they provide in-depth study relating theological disciplines to youth ministry. Forum participants enroll in one extended seminar.
- Electives are one-session courses that meet for 90 minutes. These courses focus on specialized subjects in practical theology. More than simple “how-to” workshops, electives offer significant theological reflection on ministry, as well as practical applications. Participants may select five electives.
- The Soul-Tending Track is a spirituality practicum that adds a retreat component to the forum. If you are craving time and space to reflect on life and ministry, this track is for you. A practicum rather than a typical class, Soul-Tending takes the place of two electives and also includes a personal exercise for your free afternoon or evening.
- City Dives at the Nashville Forum provide hands-on urban ministry experiences. City Dives are small-group-based and each provides an in-depth look at a vital urban ministry setting, as well as opportunities for service, discussion, and reflection.
- Small Groups are breakout groups of six to ten people that encourage participants to make connections between what they are hearing in lectures and classes and the ministry in which they are engaged at home. Led by the pastoral staff of the forum, small groups foster community and provoke lively and meaningful conversation. Small group participation is optional, but strongly encouraged for those seeking in-depth, personalized discussion or opportunities to connect with other participants.
- Evensong is a brief worship service to mark the close of the day and to compose the mind and renew the spirit for the coming day.
- Forum Pastors are available to participants for prayer and conversation.
- Theologians-in-Residence lead extended seminars at the forum and are also available for casual conversation at meals or around the coffeepot. Many serve as faculty at a seminary, and their fields include biblical studies, Christian education, pastoral care, and theology.
- Faculty members lead the elective courses at the forum. Forum faculty includes scholars, pastors, youth directors, and representatives of agencies that serve youth.