“The food that most of us eat creates distance from our tables, distance from our farmers, and distance from our fields. This is as much a crisis of the spirit as it is a crisis of practical insight and public resolve. This is why future faith leaders have a vital role to play. This distance cannot just be bridged it must be transfigured. And this ‘transfiguration of distance,’ according to John O’Donohue, sits at the very center of the spiritual life.”
Caleb Pusey (MDiv ’13)
“Gifts and challenges associated with food systems are related to religious beliefs and communities of faith. Religious leaders today need knowledge and skills for participating in and leading conversations about food, food systems, and justice. Students who are conversant about food and faith can work with congregations to raise awareness and find solutions for broken and unjust food systems. The call to this work is at the center of the Gospel.”
Jill Crainshaw, Blackburn Professor of Worship and Liturgical Theology
“My journey as believer, minister, and scholar has led me to the conviction that the paramount challenge for the Church and for the human species is stewardship of Creation. Issues related to food touch on almost every other issue related to that stewardship. My theological education did not adequately prepare me to lead in this area. Now that I’m one of those charged with educating religious leaders, I want to equip them with what they need.”
Mark Jensen, Teaching Professor of Pastoral Care and Pastoral Theology
“In the Spirituality of Food course, I found myself in the midst of countless systemic injustices, corrupted markets, and human and animal rights abuses. It was a reminder that this world is indeed a broken and messy place; though wracked with death and pain, this Earth and its inhabitants are invited daily to participate in new life with one another and with their Creator. Transitioning from classroom discussions this Spring to working in a church community garden all Summer, I’ve been able to experience the beauty, struggles, and interconnectedness of life found in a successful harvest.”
Baylee Smith (MDiv ’13)
“In the Spirituality of Food course, I saw that I could help restore God’s kingdom on Earth simply in the kinds of food I ate. However, I found positive, God-honoring food choices expensive, complicated, and sometimes deceptive. In response, my brother and I are developing a web-company called ourcluster.com that makes buying organic, grass-fed beef more affordable, simple, and transparent. The connections I made in my Spirituality of Food Faith proved absolutely invaluable. Although I’m preparing for a life of church ministry, I have found a concrete, self-sustaining way of making a difference for God’s kingdom by giving fuel, in my own small way, to a world that is more just, sustainable, and relational.”
Skyler Daniel (MDiv ’13)
