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The Pursuit of Justice
JCSTS joins the call for a moral revival to eradicate structural racism.
George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. Art by Nikkolas Smith
Advancing communities of faith, justice, and compassion through innovation in theological education.
Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary (JCSTS) is pleased to announce the commemoration of its 155th anniversary.
JCSTS originated in 1867 in Charlotte, North Carolina as the Freedmen's Institute of North Carolina. It was established by Presbyterians who believed that education was an essential antidote to the poisonous effect of slavery. Over time, the institute became a university that included a theological seminary and eventually JCSTS relocated to Atlanta.
Today, the school serves as a leader in bold innovation having gone 100% digital in 2015.
The education offering serves Learning Partners in faith and justice curriculum at various levels. JCSTS is propelling growth with tools, affirmation, and confidence to influence circles and communities across the globe. JCSTS is the only Black seminary in
the Presbyterian Church (USA).
NEW! The 1550 Partners Fund is the 155th year-long commemoration and fundraising effort in partnership with its Board of Trustees and prominent alumni, leading philanthropists, and program sponsors. This anniversary year offers a path where a single gift can create a significant impact.
Join the 1550 Partners Fund
Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary is one of the nine theological schools of the Presbyterian Church (USA), and the only one that is historically African American.
JCSTS' model focuses on 5 core competencies. Individual courses are designed to meet one or more of these competencies. Built into each course are learning activities and assessment tools that a student can complete on her/his own time frame for up to one year from the start date.
Featured Courses
Discover how to be the change. Enroll now.
Exhale
Trusted Space for Safe Conversations in Ongoing Pandemic Times
Join JCSTS and our partners for the next event slated for May 2022. Please stay tuned for more information.
Melva W. Costen Institute for Worship Leadership
Identify your agogic moment and make something happen. Dr. Melva W. Costen Institute for Worship Leadership Music, Media, and Sacred Arts; Classes for Leadership Development Black Church USA Intensive Launched December 2020.
Good Trouble:
Race To Democracy Colloquy
This colloquy is designed to prepare participants to activate voters in their communities in this critical, mid-term election year.
The Reverend Paul Timothy Roberts Sr.
Under Paul’s leadership, JCSTS is reinventing itself and has gained prominence in the national conversation about justice, faith, and new models of theological education.
Paul preaches and teaches nationally, and has written for numerous publications. He serves on the boards of the Presbyterian Foundation, Montreat Conference Center, Macedonian Ministry Inc, and NEXT Church. For podcasts, Youtube videos, and messages click below.
"The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education."
- DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. -
Justice Foundations
The Justice Foundations Series (JFS) provides an initial overview of key concepts to explore the intersections between social justice, faith-based action, and congregational life. This material is designed for self-directed, individual Learning Partners (traditionally called students), and adult education, bible study or youth group meetings and retreats.
Drum Major For Justice
The Drum Major for Justice Certificate in Public Theology is built on a faith and justice foundation. Explore the history of the Black Church, the development of Black Liberation Theology, and the evolution of BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color) -Led liberation movements of today.
Contact Us
Johnson C. Smith
Theological Seminary
1328 Peachtree Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
(404) 228-7743
