This Cohort explores an ancient and often repeated creed that addresses bigotry, slavery and sexism.
Section 1- The First Creed
Dr. Patterson walks us through the technical process of reconstructing an early baptismal creed (possibly the earliest Christian creed) embedded in Paul’s letter to the Galatians.
Section 2- Race, Class, and Gender in the Forgotten Creed
Dr. Patterson explores race, class, and gender in the creed, Paul, and beyond.
Section 3- Children of God
Dr. Patterson considers the implications of the first and last lines of the creed: that the followers of Jesus might all be “sons of God” in solidarity with the entire human race.
Facilitated by Rev. Dr. Phiwa Langeni
Content Created by Dr. Stephen Patterson
Stephen J. Patterson is the Atkinson Professor of Religion at Willamette University in Oregon, and formerly Professor of New Testament at Eden Seminary from 1988-2010. He is the author of several books, including The Forgotten Creed (2018), which won the 2021 Grawemeyer Award in Religion, and is now the subject of this video series. Dr. Patterson is married to Sen. Deb Patterson, a minister in the United Church of Christ, a graduate of Eden Seminary, and a member of Eden’s Board of Trustees.
Dates: to be announced soon!
All Cohort meetings will be online
Ministry Cohorts
Ministry Cohorts allow you to sample many theological themes, offering peer learning with your ministry context in mind. Scholars and experts have chosen a specific lens on a particular topic and share their expertise through digital content you watch on your schedule. Four monthly online meetings are interspersed, where you and other Cohort participants gather for facilitated discussion with an experienced leader.
Cohorts support lifelong learning and are for anyone- authorized clergy, chaplains, Christian educators, lay leaders and anyone interested in the topic. UCC members will recognize the Marks for Ministry woven throughout the cohorts, though anyone from any denomination, or no denomination, is welcome to attend.
Completion of this Ministry Cohort provides 9 contact hours of continuing education, subject to approval by the participant's credentialing body.
