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.  

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. 

Reparations

The current landscape of economic inequity across racial groups remains unabated in U.S. culture. However, there does appear to be political will at various state and national levels for reparations planning, and history shows a robust truth and reconciliation planning process can lead to sustained change.

Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary (JCSTS) is pleased to announce the commemoration of its 155th anniversary.

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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.

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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.

The State of Music In the Black Church

21st Century Perspectives:

A Virtual Symposium

A three-day conversation intended to establish The Costen Institute Branded Perspective on the value of Traditional Music in Black Church Worship. We will assess the current state of Black Church Music priorities that have fueled the drift from that value system, as well as provide informational resources to the gathered community in matters of Worship Leadership and Preparation. 

Lead Change

Lead Change is a 10-month Certificate Program in Community Faith Formation that addresses the unique challenges of ministry leadership in our time. Become a leader in the Decolonizing the Church movement by developing skills and practices that effectively counter systemic oppression and white supremacy. 

Good Trouble Colloquy Series 

The Honorable John Lewis was a United States Congressman, leader, and icon for more than five decades. As such, he encouraged people of good will to “speak up, speak out, get in good trouble, and help redeem the soul of America.” In honor of Rev. John Lewis, JCSTS' Good Trouble Colloquy series equips ordinary persons to exercise their faith in the public sphere. 

Exhale

Trusted Space for Safe Conversations in Ongoing Pandemic Times

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Join JCSTS and our partners for the next event slated for January 2023. Please stay tuned for more information.

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.

"Education is a by-product of RELATIONSHIPS."

- ITIHARI TOURE, EDUCATIONAL CONSULTANT & FORMER JCSTS STAFFER -