In this insightful episode of the Forum Podcast from Calvin Theological Seminary, current ThM student Leah Jolly talks with Dr. Madison Pierce, Associate Professor of New Testament at Western Theological Seminary, whose scholarship centers on Hebrews, the Catholic Epistles, and Scripture’s use of Scripture. Dr. Pierce shares how her early love for teaching and Scripture led her from small group Bible studies to advanced research on divine speech and the Trinity in Hebrews. Along with Leah and Dr. Pierce, you'll explore how careful reading of Scripture—especially the “muted voices” of the New Testament—can deepen your faith and address common assumptions about law, grace, and the nature of God’s ongoing revelation. Join them for a conversation that blends personal story, theological insight, and a passion for helping the church read the Bible more faithfully. In this episode: How Dr. Pierce’s vocation as a teacher began in her teens What drew her to the Book of Hebrews—and why we shouldn’t be afraid of it The beauty of Scripture as a conversation among the Father, Son, and Spirit Why lifelong learning matters for pastors and teachers Insights from her books Muted Voices of the New Testament and Reading the Later New Testament as Christian Scripture

In this episode of the Forum Podcast from Calvin Theological Seminary, current ThM student Leah Jolly sits down with Dr. Karin Maag, longtime editor of the Calvin Theological Journal (CTJ), to discuss the journal’s 60-year legacy of advancing Reformed scholarship and mentoring new voices in theology. Founded in 1966, CTJ continues to offer a unique blend of biblical, theological, and historical research—serving scholars, pastors, and students around the world. Dr. Maag shares insights into her decade as editor, her vision for the journal’s future, and why thoughtful, charitable scholarship still matters in an increasingly digital and fast-paced world. In this conversation: -The story behind the Calvin Theological Journal and its enduring mission -How CTJ bridges scholarship and the church through sermons and research -Why Calvin Seminary continues to publish a print journal in a digital age -Encouragement for emerging writers and theologians -A behind-the-scenes look at editing, mentoring, and shaping academic writing

In this powerful episode of the Forum Podcast from Calvin Theological Seminary, current ThM student Leah Jolly sits down with Shawn England, a current MTS student and graduate of the Calvin Prison Initiative (CPI). Once serving a 35-year prison sentence, Shawn encountered Christ behind bars—and through the Calvin Prison Initiative, he discovered not only an education but a calling. Today, he’s studying theology at Calvin Seminary and working to extend the same life-changing opportunities to others in Michigan’s prison system. Join this inspiring conversation as Shawn shares: -How God’s providence opened the door for the Calvin Prison Initiative -His personal transformation from incarceration to ministry -The role of education in true rehabilitation and human formation -Why the Church’s presence in prisons matters now more than ever -His hopes for the next generation of CPI students and theological educators

In this inspiring episode of the Forum Podcast from Calvin Theological Seminary, we sit down with Dr. Charles Oh, 2025 Doctor of Ministry graduate, whose groundbreaking research explores the spiritual vitality of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) living and working in religiously restrictive countries. Drawing from years of missionary experience in the Philippines and interviews conducted in the Middle East, Dr. Oh shares moving stories of faith, perseverance, and community among Filipino workers who worship quietly yet powerfully in places where religious expression is limited. Join hosts Rev. Jeff Sajdak and Dr. Geoff Vandermolen as they discuss: -What inspired Dr. Oh’s research on “forgotten” overseas workers -The surprising realities of faith life in restrictive nations -How churches can remember and support those they send -The deeper spiritual lessons of resilience, prayer, and calling

In this Lifelong Learning episode, Dr. Aaron Einfeld, Director of Lifelong Learning at Calvin Theological Seminary, speaks with leadership coach and church consultant Tom Clegg, Clegg Consulting Group, about the transformative role of coaching in Christian ministry. Together, they explore how coaching — unlike traditional mentoring or teaching — equips leaders to grow through intentional reflection, deep listening, and Spirit-led discovery. Tom shares wisdom from decades of experience walking alongside pastors and organizational leaders, illustrating how coaching uncovers barriers, reframes identity, and cultivates sustainable leadership. This conversation is a practical and theological invitation to slow down, listen well, and lead with authenticity. 🔹 Learn more about Calvin Seminary's coaching-based Empower program🔹 Discover how coaching fosters resilience in anxious ministry environments🔹 Hear stories of real leaders transformed through gospel-centered coaching

Dr. Mary Vanden Berg, Emerita of Systematic Theology, talks with Dr. Aaron Einfeld, Director of Lifelong Learning at Calvin Theological Seminary, about the often-avoided realities of death, suffering, and grief—and why Christian formation must include them. From lament psalms to funeral liturgies, from the daily prayer of “into your hands I commit my spirit” to the spiritual weight of complicated grief, they explore how honest engagement with mortality can deepen hope in Christ and reshape how we live. A sobering yet hopeful episode for pastors, students, and anyone facing the painful edges of life. Topics include: Medicalized suffering The role of lament Spiritual formation How the church can better walk with people in pain Whether you’re a pastor, caregiver, or curious listener, this conversation invites you into a richer theology of life, death, and what it means to hope in Christ.

In this stirring episode, Dr. Constantine R. Campbell—New Testament scholar, jazz musician, and author—returns to the Forum Podcast with Dr. Aaron Einfeld, Director of Lifelong Learning at Calvin Theological Seminary, to explore how personal crisis, ministry burnout, and spiritual deconstruction can become doorways to deeper grace and renewed faith. Drawing from his own story of vocational collapse, emotional healing, and the long road back to the pulpit, Dr. Campbell offers a vulnerable and wise reflection on the state of the American church. Along the way, he considers: Why the church must embrace humility or face collapse What it means to be spiritually reconstructed after burnout How jazz offers a surprising model for freedom within formation Why churches must become safe places for doubt and honesty What early church history teaches us about empire and renewal A moving, timely conversation for anyone disillusioned, burned out, or yearning for a faith that still breathes.

Dr. Constantine R. Campbell, Professor and Research Director at the Australian University College, joins Dr. Aaron Einfeld, Director of Lifelong Learning at Calvin Theological Seminary, for a profound Lifelong Learning conversation on theology, jazz, and the crisis within American evangelicalism. A professional jazz saxophonist and New Testament scholar, Dr. Campbell speaks candidly about reconciling his faith and artistry, critiques the political entanglements of modern evangelicalism, and shares a moving personal account of grace following divorce. This episode features: The theological value of artistic creation Why internalized knowledge matters—for musicians and theologians The communal nature of both jazz and theology How tribalism harms the church’s mission Reflections from his book Jesus vs. Evangelicals A rich, challenging, and hopeful conversation for those yearning for depth in faith and freedom in expression.

In this compelling episode of The Forum Podcast, host Dr. Aaron Einfeld, Director of Lifelong Learning at Calvin Theological Seminary, sits down with licensed therapist Kurt Visker to explore the nature of anxiety, the role of counseling, and how individuals can build resilience in challenging seasons of life. Kurt shares insights from years of clinical experience, including how counseling helps people move from fear to confidence, and why facing discomfort is essential to growth. Together, they discuss what resilience really means, how it develops over time, and how it applies to everyday struggles—from parenting and performance anxiety to grief and vocational identity. Special attention is given to the unique pressures pastors face and the need for authenticity and self-awareness in ministry leadership. Whether you're navigating personal hardship, wrestling with anxiety, or supporting others in their journey, this episode offers grounded wisdom and practical tools for emotional and spiritual health.

Change is hard—even when we want it. In this Forum Podcast episode, Alida van Dijk, Executive Director of Community Counselling Centre of London Ontario and therapist, joins Aaron Einfeld, Director of Lifelong Learning at Calvin Theological Seminary, to explore why personal and organizational change is often slow, complex, and emotionally charged. Drawing from her work at Community Counselling London and her experience in Calvin Theological Seminary’s Adaptive Leadership cohort, Alida shares insights on: - The “immunity to change” framework by Keegan & Lahey - How competing commitments and fear hold us back - What therapy teaches us about human resistance to change - Why church and nonprofit leaders must start with personal transformation - How to move from awareness to action with small, persistent steps For leaders, therapists, pastors, and changemakers, this is an honest, encouraging, and practical conversation about doing the hard work of leading change—from the inside out.

What happens after seminary? And how do ministry leaders keep growing in the midst of challenge, change, and burnout? In this episode, Calvin Theological Seminary’s Dr. Aaron Einfeld, Director of Lifelong Learning at Calvin Theological Seminary, and Wendy Fisher, Associate Director of Lifelong Learning, join Leah Jolly, ThM Student, to share how the Lifelong Learning program equips pastors and Christian leaders for long-term spiritual and vocational health. With practical insights from adaptive leadership training, formation-based retreats, and their own upcoming podcast season, they unpack what it really means to be a lifelong learner in ministry.   🌱 Topics include: Supporting ministry leaders beyond graduation Preventing burnout and navigating anxiety Replenishing the soul of the leader Embracing change as a path to spiritual growth Building a culture of learning in the local church   Whether you're in full-time ministry or just starting seminary, this episode will help you reflect, recalibrate, and reconnect with your calling.

In this episode of the Forum Podcast, Dr. Dorothy Jenkins discusses her dissertation exploring the ministry journeys of Black women in pastoral ministry. Drawing from interviews with women pastors, Dr. Jenkins identifies faith, support, and opportunity as essential factors for breaking through barriers in ministry. She shares with Doctor of Ministry's program director, Jeff Sajdak: Her personal call to ministry and educational journey Challenges faced by Black women preachers, including marginalization and lack of opportunities The importance of mentorship, community, and prophetic affirmation Her prophetic word to the church: “Show grace and unify – it’s not about us, it’s about God.” Encouragement to women considering seminary or doctoral studies to “do it and grow deeper in God’s Word and work.” ➡️ Listen and be inspired by these powerful stories of resilience, calling, and faith.

In this episode of the Forum Podcast, Dr. Cory Willson, Professor of Missiology, World Christianity, and Public Theology at Calvin Theological Seminary, shares his powerful journey of faith – from growing up in a small evangelical church in California to becoming a leading academic voice. He opens up about how losing his place on the college soccer team led him into a season of darkness that deepened his faith and ministry calling. Dr. Willson reflects on his mentors, including Richard Mouw and Doug McConnell, who shaped his theological and missiological vision. He unpacks the heart behind his book Work and Worship, exploring how the work we do throughout the week deeply connects with Sunday worship and discipleship. Cory also discusses the importance of lament in the Christian life and how churches can better integrate it into worship. He shares about his work with the Institute for Mission, Church, and Culture, equipping believers to live out their priestly calling in the world. Finally, he offers a glimpse into his upcoming book that will focus on discipleship in daily life. If you’ve ever wondered how your faith, work, and worship integrate, this conversation will both encourage and challenge you.

When's the last time you checked your smartphone? Does the mere mention of your phone make you reach for your pocket? If your use of your smartphone borders on addiction, you're not alone. Calvin Seminary held what we called a "Smartphone Retreat", a week-long series of exercises and practices designed to help us answer the questions “how much and how well do we use our smartphones?” and “what are the positive and negative effects they have on us?” Jeff Sajdak, Dean of Students, and Aaron Einfeld, Director of Lifelong Learning, planned and facilitated the week. Our then Educational Technologist, Nathan Bierma, talked to them about why they started the smartphone retreat, based off a TedTalk by Manoush Zomorodi and her book "Bored and Brilliant", and what they learned.

How can the church speak into a time of bitter partisan divisions? How can we be a redeeming presence in politics? How can the insights of John Calvin guide us even today? Dr. Matthew Tuininga, Professor of Moral Theology and the History of Christianity at Calvin Seminary, asked these questions in his new book, Calvin's Political Theology and the Public Engagement of the Church: Christ's Two Kingdoms (Law and Christianity). Tuininga spoke with Kevin den Dulk, the then director of the Henry Institute for the Study of Christianity and Politics at Calvin University. Let us listen in to that conversation.

It is estimated that 50 million people around the world suffer from dementia. Individuals with dementia lose the sense of who they are, as their cognitive and behavioral functioning diminishes. Their loved ones who care for them are faced with a slow and agonizing decline which takes a physical, emotional, and financial toll on them. How can we show the love of Christ in the midst of this loss? How can we view life and death in a way that might go against North American culture? Mary Vanden Berg, Professor Emerita of Systematic Theology at Calvin Seminary, addressed these questions at our first Loving Your Neighbor Today Conference.

Dr. Jennifer Powell McNutt is a renowned church historian, theologian, and professor at Wheaton College, specializing in the history of Christianity from the Reformation through the Enlightenment. In this episode of The Forum Podcast, she joins host Leah Jolly, MDiv student at Calvin Seminary, to discuss the legacy of Mary Magdalene and how historical misconceptions have shaped our understanding of her role in the church. Dr. McNutt unpacks why reclaiming the true biblical narrative of Mary matters, especially for women in the church today. They also explore broader themes of church history, biblical interpretation, and what the past can teach us about faith in the modern world. Don’t miss this deep and thought-provoking discussion on Scripture, theology, and the role of women in the church.

The Museum of African American History and Culture and the Holocaust Museum are devoted to telling stories that risk being forgotten or overlooked or even ignored. They also deal with stories of trauma, loss, and profound grief. Dr. Danjuma Gibson took a class to Washington, D.C., to see these museums and wrestle with questions about oppression and suffering in a class entitled Pastoral Theology at the margins. Gibson is Professor of Pastoral Theology, Care and Counseling at Calvin Seminary. He sat down with Geoff Vandermolen, Director of Vocational Formation and Co-Director of the Doctorate of Ministry program at Calvin Seminary. Together, they reflect on these experiences and their impact on those who participated.

In this episode, Leah Jolly, MDiv and ThM student at Calvin Seminary, sits down with Dr. Karin Maag to discuss Maag's reception of the honorary doctorate from Theological University of Utrecht. Maag is the director of the Center for Calvin Studies and adjunct professor of History of Christianity and she also serves as co-director of the Master of Theology program. This honorary doctorate recognizes her contributions to the field of Calvin and Reformation studies, especially through her work in the center for Calvin's Studies. In this interview, we learn more about her life, her entrance into the field of Calvin studies, and the ways her career has led to this honorary doctorate.

Dr. Amy Peeler, a biblical scholar and ordained priest, joins The Forum Podcast for a fascinating conversation on theology, Scripture, and how we talk about God. As a professor at Wheaton College, Dr. Peeler has spent years studying the book of Hebrews, exploring its themes of inheritance, sonship, and divine language. In this episode, led by Dr. Danny Daley, Associate Professor in New Testament at Calvin Seminary, she discusses how the New Testament dramatically shifts the language of God’s fatherhood and what that means for believers today. They also dive into her book, Women and the Gender of God, which examines how Scripture portrays both the fatherhood of God and the role of women in the biblical narrative. Through careful exegesis and theological reflection, Dr. Peeler challenges misconceptions and invites listeners to think more deeply about the ways we speak about God. Whether you’re interested in biblical studies, theology, or the role of women in church history, this episode offers thought-provoking insights into the richness of the biblical text.