Iliff School of Theology

"We Advocate Freedom!" Teach-In Series | Session 5 (Part I)
2024-11-07 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Denver) | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Join us for an impactful session of the “We Advocate Freedom!” Teach-In Series, hosted by Iliff President, Dr. Lee H. Butler, Jr., as we welcome Dr. Rami Nashashibi for a compelling discussion on Freedom is a Constant Struggle: Ferguson, Palestine, and the Foundations of a Movement by renowned activist and scholar, Angela Davis. This is part one of a two part conversation. Save the date for December 4 at 6pm when Presiedent Butler will discuss the same book with Rabbi Joe Black.
Angela Davis’s Freedom is a Constant Struggle challenges us to examine connections between global movements for justice and the shared struggles for freedom and human rights. This text initiates a generative dialogue for understanding systemic oppression, resistance, and solidarity across borders.
Our guest, Dr. Rami Nashashibi, brings a wealth of insight to this discussion. Dr. Nashashibi is a MacArthur Fellow and the founder of the Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN), an organization dedicated to healing and justice on Chicago’s South Side and Atlanta’s west end. Known for his bridge-building efforts across racial, religious, and socioeconomic lines, Dr. Nashashibi has made a profound impact on community organizing and social transformation. He also brings an artistic perspective as a musician and advocate for initiatives like Cariol’s Law, a police accountability measure in Buffalo, NY. Together, we’ll explore themes of resilience, solidarity, and collective action, as Dr. Nashashibi and President Butler examine the pressing questions raised in Davis’s work. This teach-in will be a hybrid event, with options to join in person at Iliff or remotely via Zoom.
Session 5: (Part 1) Book Discussion: Angela Davis, Freedom is a Constant Struggle: Ferguson, Palestine, and the Foundations of a Movement
November 7, 2024 6:00 pm MST – Refreshments & Registration at Iliff / Zoom room opens 6:30-8:00 pm MST – Teach-in Facilitator: Lee Butler Guest Speaker: Rami Nashashibi
In-person at Iliff and on Zoom
Can’t attend in person? Register to join on Zoom!
Don’t miss this chance to engage in a conversation that transcends boundaries and addresses the foundations of movement-building and justice in today’s world. Reserve your spot now for an evening of reflection, discussion, and inspiration.

Pulpit+ Exchange: What Just Happened? Religion and the 2024 Election
2024-11-11 17:00 - 19:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
November 2024 // “What Just Happened? Religion and the 2024 Election”
with
Rev. Dr. Amanda Henderson
Director of the Institute for Religion, Politics and Culture
Iliff School of Theology

About the Evening’s Lecture
Join us for a meaningful gathering as we unpack the results of the 2024 election together. This event offers space to reflect on the role religion plays in shaping public opinion and the ways it has influenced this election season. We’ll discuss what these outcomes mean for our communities and explore constructive paths forward, considering the future of civic engagement, faith’s influence on social and political change, and how we can respond thoughtfully and proactively. Whether you’re looking to share insights or simply listen, this session will help us navigate the questions that lie ahead.
Register HERE.
Livestream Link

About Pulpit+ Exchange
Iliff’s Pulpit+ Exchange Series (supported by the Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative from Lilly Endowment Inc.) provides space for a diverse array of ordained clergy and lay leaders to gather for a meal and grapple with challenging issues. One of the main goals of the Pulpit+ Exchange is to build congregations of people who will authentically study, worship, walk, and act together across differences to create a just and equitable world.
About the Evening’s Agenda
Join other clergy and lay leaders for a light meal from 5:00 pm to 5:30 pm (MST). The lecture will begin at 5:30 pm. An opportunity to ask Dr. Henderson questions and engage in discussions with colleagues will follow.
In person & online
Light meal: 5:00 – 5:30 PM (MST)
Lecture: 5:30 PM
Q&A and discussions with Dr. Henderson & colleagues to follow
The Evening’s Lecturer
Rev. Dr. Amanda Henderson
Director of the Institute for Religion, Politics and Culture

Rev. Dr. Amanda Henderson is the Director of the Institute for Religion, Politics, and Culture at the Iliff School of Theology, where she leads research exploring the relationship between religion and politics. With a focus on informing public leaders, the Institute works for transformative action rooted in deep understanding. Amanda has a Ph.D. in religion, politics, and rhetoric from the University of Denver, served for seven years as the Executive Director of The Interfaith Alliance of Colorado, and is ordained clergy in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She is the author of “Holy Chaos, Creating Connections in Divisive Times” and hosts the Complexified podcast. Amanda lives in Littleton, Colorado, is a parent to three young adults, enjoys adventures with her husband, and finds joy running trails and growing things: dogs, chickens, gardens, and creative projects of all kinds.

November Renewal | Looking into The Future: The Future of The United Methodist Church
2024-11-13 12:00 - 13:30 | CO
What does the future look like for organized religion? This question has weighed on the minds of people around the world for years, and for many of us at Iliff, it has narrowed specifically to the future of The United Methodist Church. Even while we celebrate the incredible steps forward made at this year’s General Conference and the installation of a new Bishop in the Mountain Sky Conference (MSC), we wonder what tomorrow will hold for our congregations.
For our November Renewal session, we are diving into this question as we consider the recent changes and hope for a continued movement across the denomination toward justice and equity. Our incredible panelists, including the newly installed Bishop Kristin Stoneking, will consider the changes they have seen in The UMC and the changes they hope to see in the future, both as ministers and lay members of the denomination. Join us for a unique discussion of the future of The United Methodist Church!
To register, CLICK HERE.
Panelists
Bishop Kristin Stoneking
Episcopal Leader of The Mountain Sky Conference
Early in her career, Bishop Stoneking was campus minister at the University of California, Davis. There, she founded the Multifaith Living Community, building six townhouses to create a community where faith formation for students could be real and relevant as part of an intentional, justice-focused residential setting. The pluralistic environment supported students’ faith articulations, sense of vocation and purpose, and capacity to stand in solidarity with one another and others experiencing injustice. Bishop Stoneking also served as the national executive director of the US branch of the historic Fellowship of Reconciliation (FOR), an anti-racist, justice and peace organization with consultative status at the United Nations. Part of a worldwide communion, FOR is the oldest interfaith peace and justice organization in the United States. Most recently, her dedication to establishing and expanding communities that offer a sense of belonging inspired her work as a District Superintendent and Director of Innovative Ministries and Congregational Vitality for the California-Nevada Annual Conference. Bishop Stoneking is a graduate of Rice University (BA.), Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary (MDiv) and the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California (PhD). As a former Fellow of the Pluralism Project at Harvard University, she now serves as an advisor. Bishop Stoneking has served on the faculties of both Pacific School of Religion (Associate Professor of United Methodist Studies and Leadership) and Claremont School of Theology (Adjunct Professor in United Methodist Studies.)
Gayla Jo Slauson
MSC Co-Lay Leader
Gayla Jo Slauson currently serves as one of three elected Mountain Sky Conference Co-lay Leaders; she finishes eight-years and will be term-limited in that role in 2026. She filled the Head of Delegation role as an elected General Conference lay delegate for Mountain Sky Conference in April,2024, and serves on the Western Jurisdiction Committee on Episcopacy. In August of this year, she participated as a delegate in the World Methodist Council held in Sweden. A retired emeriti management professor from Colorado Mesa University, she is also a Certified Lay Speaker who enjoys filling-in for pastors. Gayla and her husband, Michael, are actively involved at Crossroads United Methodist Church in Grand Junction, Colorado. They have experienced tough times in recent years: losing a daughter and son-in-law in a car accident, dealing with cancer, and facing the recent loss of Gayla’s mother. Reading, writing, and painting have become helpful activities for Gayla. Life is precious; they are learning to live it one day at a time.
Rev. Lynn Miller Jackson
Superintendent for the Montana West District
Rev. Lynn Miller Jackson has been in ministry with the Mountain Sky Conference of The United Methodist Church since 2014. She earned her Master of Divinity from the Candler School of Theology with concentrations in Peace, Justice and Conflict Transformation, Christian Education, and Women, Theology and Ministry. She has led churches in Colorado and Utah and currently serves as the Montana West District Superintendent, including Salmon, ID, and Lander, WY. Since coming to the MSC, Lynn has continuously served with conference-level teams – Leadership Development, Board of Ordained Ministry, Co-Chair of the Residency in Ministry Team, Racial Justice Movement and Ministry, and various task forces. She is a Fellow of the Engle Institute of Preaching at Princeton University and was twice nominated for the Denver Urban Spectrum African Americans Who Make A Difference. In 2024, she was elected as a Western Jurisdictional delegate and to the Wespath Board of Directors. She enjoys purposeful travel, historic architecture, fly fishing, and life-long learning.
Moderator
Rev. Annie Arnoldy
Superintendent of Vitality and Director of Connectional Ministry
Rev. Annie Arnoldy is a graduate of Iliff School of Theology (M.Div 2004) and serves as the Director of Connectional Ministry and Superintendent of Vitality for the Mountain Sky Conference of The UMC. Her roles include nurturing emerging faith communities, connecting the 315 churches in the Mountain Sky Conference, and seeking to carry out the mission and vision of the conference.

"We Advocate Freedom!" Teach-In Series | Session 6 (Part II)
2024-12-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Don’t miss the final session of the “We Advocate Freedom!” Teach-In Series, hosted by Iliff President Dr. Lee H. Butler, Jr., as we welcome Rabbi Joe Black for an insightful interview on Freedom is a Constant Struggle: Ferguson, Palestine, and the Foundations of a Movement by Angela Davis. This book bridges global struggles for justice, drawing us into an essential dialogue on freedom, solidarity, and resilience.
Our guest, Rabbi Joe Black, brings a unique perspective to this powerful conversation. As the Senior Rabbi of Temple Emanuel and a long-time leader in both religious and civic communities, Rabbi Black has dedicated his life to building inclusive and compassionate communities. With a background that spans community chaplaincy, leadership in multi-faith initiatives, and national recognition as a musician, author, and educator, Rabbi Black combines profound spiritual insight with a commitment to justice and social action. His voice will add depth and nuance to our exploration of the intersections of faith, activism, and communal responsibility.
In this interview-style session, Dr. Butler and Rabbi Black will discuss the themes raised by Davis, examining how collective movements confront and transcend systemic oppression.
This hybrid teach-in will be hosted both in person at Iliff and via Zoom. Join us for an evening of meaningful dialogue as we close out this series with reflection, inspiration, and a shared commitment to justice.
Session 6: (Part 2) Book Discussion: Angela Davis, Freedom is a Constant Struggle: Ferguson, Palestine, and the Foundations of a Movement
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
6:00 pm MST – Meal provided to attendees
6:15 pm – Zoom room opens for remote participants
6:30-8:00 pm – Teach-in interview
Reserve your spot today and be part of this profound conversation, rooted in the pursuit of freedom across boundaries and beliefs.
If you would like to participate remotely, register for the Zoom now.

Colorado Gives Day 2024
2024-12-10 | CO
Save the Date! Details on how you can give soon!

Holiday Hymn Sing
2024-12-13 19:00 - 20:30 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Join us for a heartwarming evening of hymns, accompanied by the majestic sound of the Iliff Chapel organ. Gather with friends and family to experience the spirit of the season.
This free event is open to all ages.Bring your loved ones and let the music fill your heart with joy.

RSVP Here

Special Performers

Robert Klimek
Dr. Robert Klimek, originally from Chicago, Los Angeles and now Colorado, is a noted vocal and instrumental performer, composer, and clinician. He is an Emeritus faculty member and the founding Director of Music and the Performing Arts at the Colorado School of Mines. His recent concerts in Ireland, Jamaica, Peru, Vietnam and Vatican City, Rome have been cited to be, “warm and uplifting,” and “forward looking.”
He was a featured artist on a Grammy nominated Spanish Sacred Music album and the silver nominee for the National Christian Booksellers Gold Medallion Award,
Currently he is a co-director of the ‘Eslalares Mariachi,’ (Colorado’s 1st All-State Mariachi Band) and a faculty member for the Nuestras Raíces: Música Mariachi at Rocky Ridge Music in Estes Park.

Stephen Waechter, Classical Guitarist
Stephen Waechter, classical guitarist, has concertized throughout the United States since 1973. His performances have been noted for their musical expressivity and technical virtuosity. The Newy York Times described him as playing with “uncommon sensitivity”. The Lincoln Journal wrote “…his special strength is a vivid musical sense of phrasing, expression and musical idiom.” The Huntsville Times (AL) reported “He was spellbinding in his interpretations…”
Making music is Steve’s greatest pleasure, and sharing that pleasure is the purpose of his public performances. By freely offering his heart and soul to his audience, his performances have a special sense of intimacy and connection. In the late 1980’s, he learned, in a profound manner, that “playing to express rather than playing to impress” was one of his deepest life purposes. In recent years, he has composed several works for solo guitar with have been warmly received by the concert public. He continues to collaborate with chamber musicians and ensembles.

ADA Accessibility
The Iliff School of Theology is an ADA accessible campus and is committed to providing physical accessibility to everyone. The building has:

Accessible main entrance which includes a ramp and ADA accessible doors
Elevators on every floor
ADA accessible restrooms in each section of the school: Skaggs Hall, Iliff Hall, and the Library (first floor of the Main Library and upper Bacon Education Center)

Parking
Iliff parking is operated by the University of Denver (DU) parking services. All DU parking lots have accessible parking so Iliff parking is also accessible. We have designated ADA spaces and there is a ramp that leads from the parking lot to the main entrance of the Iliff School of Theology.

Contact for Reasonable Accommodations
If you need other reasonable accommodations for events at the Iliff School of Theology, please contact our Event Sales & Hospitality Manager, Michael McMillan (events@iliff.edu). In your email, please specify the event, exact location of the event, date of the event, and the accommodation request(s). We will need advance notice, up to two weeks before the event.

January Renewal: Looking into The Future
2025-01-15 12:00 - 13:30 | CO
January Renewal Session:
The Future of the Iliff School
of Theology

Wednesday, Jan. 1512:00 to 1:30 pm MST via Zoom
So much change is happening around us–in our churches, our communities, and our nation. But what about here at Iliff? As the needs of the local church change, as the ways our communities work together and organize change, and as the realities of our government change, what is Iliff doing to lead into a different future?
Join us for our January Renewal session to hear from Pres. Lee Butler about the future of the Iliff School of Theology, in 2025 and beyond. Learn about new projects and initiatives and how our institution is moving to support the changing needs of our students, alumni/ae, and community.

Register Now!

Presenter

Rev. Dr. Lee Butler, Jr., President and CEO of the Iliff School of Theology
Dr. Butler came to Iliff School of Theology in 2023 from Phillips Theological Seminary where he served as the Vice-President of Academic Affairs and Academic Dean, and the William Tabbernee Professor of the History of Religions and Africana Pastoral Theology since July 1, 2020. He is the first African American tenured full professor and the first person of color to hold the office of VPAA and Academic Dean and serve as Acting President at Phillips. As VPAA, his responsibilities included oversight and supervision of the Associate Dean, Registrar, Recruitment, Admissions and Financial Aid, Director of Theological Field Education, Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program, Director of Black Church Traditions Program, Dean of the Chapel, Faculty, and Dean of the Library. Before Phillips, he was the Distinguished Service Professor of Theology and Psychology at Chicago Theological Seminary (CTS). He joined the CTS faculty as assistant professor of theology and psychology in 1996. Prior to his joining the faculty of Chicago Seminary, he was assistant professor of pastoral theology at Lancaster Theological Seminary from 1992-1996. An ordained minister of the American Baptist Churches in the USA since 1988, his professional development includes experience in pastoral ministry, chaplaincy, pastoral counseling, denominational and seminary administration.

Sacred Earth, Sacred Action
2025-02-08 13:00 - 19:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Saturday, February 8th, 1:00-7:00 PM MST

Sacred Earth, Sacred Action (SESA), brings together environmental scientists, theologians, poets, and faith leaders to inspire meaningful change within communities of faith and activism in the Rocky Mountains and beyond.
In person and live-streamed.

Learn More and Register!

Everding Lecture | "Impediments to Peace in a Wounded Land" with Dr. Randy Woodley
2025-02-11 19:00 - 20:30 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Weather Update: The Everding Lecture will continue in person as planned.
If you prefer to attend online, you can receive a link to the livestream by registering here. If you have already registered, check your email for the link to the livestream.
If you have trouble accessing the link, please email communications@iliff.edu for assistance.

Join Iliff School of Theology for the Winter 2025 Everding Lectureship featuring Rev. Dr. Randy Woodley, Distinguished Professor of Faith and Culture Emeritus at George Fox University/Portland Seminary and the former Director of Intercultural and Indigenous studies.
Event Details

Tuesday, February 11, 2025
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM MDT
Iliff School of Theology Shattuck Hall

REGISTER
Speaker Biography
Rev. Dr. Randy Woodley has a deep passion for creativity and Indigenous spirituality, justice, and earth empowerment. His diverse background and experiences have uniquely equipped him to bring about positive change in his communities for over three decades. He is, an award-winning author and a tribally recognized Cherokee descendant (United Keetoowah Band), who weaves Indigenous wisdom, ecological sustainability, and spirituality into positive change. He is respected by Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities worldwide and has been featured in The New York Times, Politifact, Time Magazine, and The Huffington Post.
Dr. Woodley is Distinguished Professor of Faith and Culture Emeritus at George Fox University/Portland Seminary and the former Director of Intercultural and Indigenous studies. He is the author of a dozen books and over 30 chapters. His book, Becoming Rooted: One Hundred Days of Reconnecting with Sacred Earth (2022) is critically acclaimed, and Indigenous Theology and the Western Worldview (2022) was voted a Top Ten Book of the Year by the Academy of Parish Clergy. He served for four years on the Oregon Dept. of Education, Native American/Alaska Native Advisory Board.
Randy and his wife and co-sustainer Edith (Eastern Shoshone), have four children and six grandchildren. Together, Randy and Edith have founded and co-sustain Eloheh Indigenous Center for Earth Justice and Eloheh Farm & Seeds, a non-profit teaching Farm that seeks to foster equity and justice between Indigenous peoples, the land and the wider society www.eloheh.org Through their organization, the Woodleys have tirelessly worked to educate and raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by Indigenous communities and others. Their approach is deeply rooted in their expansive experience and creativity, using teaching, activism, storytelling, art, and music to bridge cultural gaps and foster understanding.
The Woodley’s have co-authored a book Journey to Eloheh: How Indigenous Values Lead Us to Harmony and Well-Being. They received the Ecumenist of the Year Award for 2021 by Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon, (an inter-faith agency), the first time given to a couple. The Woodley’s also served on the Greater Portland Oregon Native American Climate Advisory Board together.
Randy and Edith’s commitment to activism, teaching, and creativity extends beyond their work. They actively engage in various creative pursuits, such as music, dance, and storytelling, which serve as powerful tools to convey their messages of hope, justice, and healing. Their creativity not only allows them to express their own experiences and perspectives but also to inspire and empower others to embrace their own creative potential as a means of transformation. They are also Indigenous cultural consultants at www.Sho-Kee.com
Books:

Journey to Eloheh: How Indigenous Values Lead Us to Harmony and Wellbeing, by Edith and Randy Woodley
Mission and the Cultural Other: A Closer Look
Indigenous Theology and the Western Worldview: A Decolonial Approach to Christian Doctrine
Becoming Rooted: One Hundred Days of Reconnecting with Sacred Earth
Decolonizing Evangelicalism: An 11:59PM Conversation
The Harmony Tree: A Story of Healing and Community
The Harmony Tree 2: Spared by Fire
The Harmony Tree Prequel: Different is Good
Shalom and the Community of Creation: An Indigenous Vision
Living in Color: Embracing God’s Passion for Ethnic Diversity
When Going to Church is Sin
Mixed Blood-Not Mixed Up

Installation of Dean Kelsey
2025-02-13 18:00 - 19:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Join the President, trustees, faculty, staff and students of Iliff School of Theology in the formal installation of the Rev. Dr. Cathie Kelsey as the Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the Faculty.

Thursday, February 13, 2025

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Celebrate With Us!

Please RSVP by Feb 5, 2025

RSVP

Pulpit+ Exchange: Finding Hope
2025-02-17 17:00 - 19:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
February 2025 // “Finding Hope”
with
Dr. April MackAssistant Professor of Religion and Social Justice and the Director of the Master of Social Justice and Ethics Program, Iliff School of Theology
About the Evening’s Lecture
In this lecture, Dr. Mack will discuss historical and contemporary markers in the complex experience of African-American life in America and grapple with strategies for collective flourishing and social justice.
This engaging event invites participants to reflect on how these realities shape our shared experiences and explore ways to foster hope, resilience, and meaningful change in their communities. Rooted in her interdisciplinary expertise, Dr. Mack offers insights and practical tools for addressing structural inequalities and envisioning a more just and equitable future. Whether you are a scholar, activist, or someone seeking fresh perspectives, this lecture will inspire thoughtful dialogue and personal growth.
About Dr. April Mack
April Mack is the Assistant Professor of Religion and Social Justice and the Director of the Master of Social Justice and Ethics Program at Iliff School of Theology.
Dr. Mack describes herself as a Black feminist decolonial scholar and theo-ethicist concerned with ethics related to complex social issues, structural inequality, and wholistic justice and flourishing for Black Americans. Her research focuses on the development of postcolonial womanist theo-ethical discourse within Womanist Ethics. Dr. Mack’s other research interests include African Americans and Public Policy, Christian Social Ethics, and religious violence.Her signature course on religious violence is called God, Religion, and Violence.
Register Here
Livestream Link
About Pulpit+ Exchange
Iliff’s Pulpit+ Exchange Series (supported by the Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative from Lilly Endowment Inc.) provides space for a diverse array of ordained clergy and lay leaders to gather for a meal and grapple with challenging issues. One of the main goals of the Pulpit+ Exchange is to build congregations of people who will authentically study, worship, walk, and act together across differences to create a just and equitable world.
About the Evening’s Agenda
In person & onlineLight meal: 5:00 – 5:45 PM (MST)Lecture: 5:45 PMQ&A and discussions with Dr. Mack & colleagues to follow

February Renewal: Looking into the Future
2025-02-19 12:00 - 13:30 | CO
February Renewal Session | Embracing the Future: Crisis, Loss, and the Path Forward with Meredith Wilson Parfet
Wednesday, Feb. 19th
12 Noon to 1:30 pm MST
Register Here
Registration Fee: $5 | Free for all students and Iliff faculty and staff
An additional donation is welcome.
If the registration fee is a barrier to your attendance at the event, please reach out to alumni@iliff.edu.
Session Description
As we look to the future, the inevitability of uncertainty invites us to confront not only external crises but also the deeply personal challenges of loss and mortality. In this session, Meredith Parfet—hospice chaplain, crisis management expert, founder of Ravenyard Group, Iliff Graduate and BOT Vice-Chair—guides us through the profound intersections of death, grief, and organizational resilience.Drawing on a rich tapestry of experience in crisis response and end-of-life care, Meredith will explore how understanding mortality offers transformative insights for navigating organizational and personal crises. Attendees will leave with practical tools for embracing uncertainty and fostering a culture of courage, compassion, and preparedness.Join us for a thought-provoking dialogue on how the lessons of grief can illuminate the path forward in an unpredictable world.
Series Description
We are always considering the future. As individuals, as members of groups, as citizens, we are often asking, What will tomorrow bring? How will our world, our country, our institutions look in the coming years? And how can we shape that future to make it better? In the midst of so many uncertainties, this Renewal season will focus on the question of what is coming next and how we can work for a better future. We will discuss topics ranging from artificial intelligence to religious institutions to politics and government. What can we expect as we watch these spaces change over the weeks, months and years, and what can we do? Join us for the 2024-2025 Renewal season as we learn about what tomorrow may hold and what we can do to enact justice today.
Meredith Wilson Parfet
Meredith’s day job is CEO of Ravenyard Group, a boutique crisis management firm. And in what might be described as the weirdest side hustle ever, she works a few shifts a month as a humanist hospice chaplain. She’s also an investor, entrepreneur, board member, and philanthropist. All while perpetually wrestling with the spiritual and the material. She completed her Master of Arts in Pastoral and Spiritual care at Iliff in 2021 and serves as the Vice Chairperson of the Iliff Board of Trustees. A fifth generation Colorado native, in her free time you can find Meredith driving her pickup on rural, mountain roads headed with her family to go fishing, hiking, or skiing.

Pulpit+ Exchange: What's a Theologian For?
2025-03-10 17:00 - 19:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
March 2024 // “What’s a Theologian For?”
with
Dr. Daniel Black
Professor of African American Studies
at Clark Atlanta University
About the Evening’s Lecture
What is the role of a theologian in today’s world? Join us for an unforgettable evening with Dr. Daniel Black—award-winning novelist, professor, activist, mentor, and public speaker—as he explores this provocative question and offers his unique perspective on the intersections of theology, culture, and the human experience.
Dr. Black’s literary works, including Perfect Peace, The Coming, and Don’t Cry for Me, have garnered critical acclaim for their poetic brilliance and unflinching exploration of identity, resilience, and community. His most recent work, Black on Black, is a passionate collection of essays described as “a tour de force” by renowned scholar Dr. Eddie Glaude. Whether through his novels, essays, or public speaking, Dr. Black invites audiences into deep reflection on love, justice, and the possibility of transformation in our collective lives.
About Dr. Daniel Black:
Dr. Daniel Black is a celebrated author and scholar whose body of work has been heralded as both visionary and deeply rooted in the traditions of African American storytelling. His novels, including Perfect Peace (hailed as an American literary classic by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Alice Walker) and The Coming (praised as “brilliant” and “powerful” by National Book Award winner Charles Johnson), delve into themes of human dignity, identity, and the enduring spirit of community.
In addition to his prolific writing career, Dr. Black is a professor of African American Studies at Clark Atlanta University and the founder of the Ndugu-Nzinga Rites of Passage Nation, a mentoring society for people of African descent. His thought leadership extends beyond academia, with diversity consulting work for companies like Google, AT&T, and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative.
Born in Kansas City, Kansas, and raised in Blackwell, Arkansas, Dr. Black’s academic journey took him to Clark College (now Clark Atlanta University), where he earned the prestigious Oxford Modern British Studies fellowship, and Temple University, where he studied under Black Arts Movement poet laureate Sonia Sanchez
Register HERE.
Livestream Link
About Pulpit+ Exchange
Iliff’s Pulpit+ Exchange Series (supported by the Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative from Lilly Endowment Inc.) provides space for a diverse array of ordained clergy and lay leaders to gather for a meal and grapple with challenging issues. One of the main goals of the Pulpit+ Exchange is to build congregations of people who will authentically study, worship, walk, and act together across differences to create a just and equitable world.
About the Evening’s Agenda
In person & online
Light meal: 5:00 – 5:45 PM (MST)
Lecture: 5:45 PM
Q&A and discussions with Dr. Black & colleagues to follow

March Renewal: Looking into The Future
2025-03-19 12:00 - 13:30 | CO
March Renewal Session: The Future of Loving our Immigrant Neighbors with Mekela GoehringWed. March 19 at 12:00 pm MT via Zoom
Register Now
As the world around us shifts and new policies attack the most vulnerable members of our communities, how can we love and support our immigrant and migrant neighbors? What steps can we take to protect the rights of our community while pushing for a safer future?
Join us for our March Renewal Session as Mekela Goehring, Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network, shares about her work and the ways you can support immigrant populations in your community.
About the Speaker: Mekela Goehring, Esq., Executive Director, Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network
Mekela Goehring has served as RMIAN’s Executive Director since 2005. She began working at RMIAN in 2003 as the organization’s first detention staff attorney, representing detained clients before the Executive Office for Immigration Review, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and the Board of Immigration Appeals. She is a frequent speaker on issues involving immigration law and policy, and works with numerous committees and groups to expand access to justice for individuals in immigration proceedings in Colorado and beyond. Mekela has served as an adjunct professor for externships at the University of Colorado Law School.
Prior to working at RMIAN, Mekela clerked for Judge Casebolt at the Colorado Court of Appeals. Mekela’s passion for working for social justice through the legal system began during fellowships at Community Legal Services in Yuma, Arizona, and Colorado Legal Services in Denver, Colorado. Mekela graduated summa cum laude from the University of Colorado at Boulder and earned her J.D. from the University of Colorado Law School. She was admitted to the Colorado bar in 2002. Mekela has been a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association since 2003.
In 2013, the American Immigration Lawyers Association awarded Mekela the Arthur C. Helton Human Rights Award for her outstanding service in advancing the cause of human rights. In 2018, the University of Colorado Law School awarded Mekela the Dean’s Choice—Dean Edward C. King Making a Difference Award. In her free time, Mekela enjoys spending time with her husband, two children, and all their animals in the Colorado outdoors.
About Renewal
The Renewal Conference is Iliff’s annual community gathering to share our work, hear timely messages from a variety of experts, and spend time in fellowship.
This year, our Renewal sessions focus on Looking to the Future.We are always considering the future. As individuals, as members of groups, as citizens, we are often asking, What will tomorrow bring? How will our world, our country, our institutions look in the coming years? And how can we shape that future to make it better?
In the midst of so many uncertainties, this Renewal season will focus on the question of what is coming next and how we can work for a better future. We will discuss topics ranging from artificial intelligence to religious institutions to politics and government. What can we expect as we watch these spaces change over the weeks, months and years, and what can we do? Join us for the 2024-2025 Renewal season as we learn about what tomorrow may hold and what we can do to enact justice today.

Pulpit+ Exchange "Religion in Diaspora: Africa-Inspired Religious Traditions in Cuba" with Dr. Shanti Zaid
2025-03-31 17:00 - 19:00 | CO
March 31, 2025
5:00 pm-7:00 pm
Shattuck Hall and Online
Register Here

About the Event
Join us for a conversation on “Religion in Diaspora: Africa-Inspired Religious Traditions in Cuba.” Dr. Shanti explores religion produced in diaspora and offers an overview of two Africa-inspired religious traditions of Cuba, how they developed as part of a larger African Diaspora, and some dynamic attributes of their practice that support Cuban communities of African descent.
About the Speaker
Dr. Shanti Zaid works at Denver’s Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, producing public historical programming on the Black experience in the Rocky Mountain West. He has a background in university teaching and international research on African Diaspora religions, and earned doctorate degrees in African American & African Studies and Cultural Anthropology from Michigan State University.

About Pulpit+ Exchange
Iliff’s Pulpit+ Exchange Series (supported by the Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative from Lilly Endowment Inc.) provides space for a diverse array of ordained clergy and lay leaders to gather for a meal and grapple with challenging issues. One of the main goals of the Pulpit+ Exchange is to build congregations of people who will authentically study, worship, walk, and act together across differences to create a just and equitable world.
About the Evening’s Agenda
In-person & online
Light meal: 5:00 – 5:45 PM (MST)
Lecture: 5:45 PM
Q&A and discussions with Dr. Black & colleagues to follow
Unable to attend in person?
Register to receive the event live stream link.

Solimar Otero: 2024-2025 Vincent G. Harding Scholar Lecturer
2025-04-08 17:00 - 18:30 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
“Defiant Presences: The Inspired Seascapes of Afro-Cuban Divinities, Saints, and Ancestors”With Solimar Otero
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 – 5:00 to 6:30 p.m.Iliff School of Theology | Shattuck Hall
Register Here
We are pleased to announce Solimar Otero as the 2024-2025 Vincent G. Harding Scholar Lecturer.
The sea serves as an epistemological orientation for understanding Afro-Cuban religious traditions that access divinities and the dead to reinforce group solidarity and produce healing.
This lecture will explore how spirit mediums and entities create historical, cultural, and ritual intersections that elucidate an ongoing worlding that carries potent political strategies for sustenance through an enactment of the waters, especially the ocean. In particular, this presentation looks at synergies between bodily acts like the singing of the song “Mamá Francisca,” the drawing of Palo signatures for kalunga (the sea of the dead), and altar creation in honor of Yemayá.
The result is a complex and fluid understanding of spiritual practices and relationships that resist flattening and slip through taxonomic rendering. Further, by continually accessing afterlives that are porous and action-oriented, communities create spatial and temporal conduits between the living and the dead that are full of a radical social purpose.
About the Speaker
Solimar Otero is the Director of the Latino Studies Program, and Professor of Folklore and Gender Studies at Indiana University, Bloomington. She is also the editor of the Journal of Folklore Research. Her research centers on how gender and race shape Afro-Caribbean spirituality and Yoruba traditional religion in folklore, performance, literature, and ethnography.
Otero is a Folklore Fellow of the American Folklore Society, and an elected member of the American Antiquarian Society. She has also received a Ruth Landes Memorial Research Fund grant, a fellowship at the Harvard Divinity School’s Women’s Studies in Religion Program, and a Fulbright award.
She is the author of Archives of Conjure: Stories of the Dead in Afrolatinx Cultures (Columbia University Press 2020), which won the 2021 Albert J. Raboteau Prize for the Best Book in Africana Religions. She is also the author of Afro-Cuban Diasporas in the Atlantic World, (University of Rochester Press, 2010); co-editor of Yemoja: Gender, Sexuality, and Creativity in Latina/o and Afro-Atlantic Diasporas (SUNY Press 2013); Theorizing Folklore from the Margins: Critical and Ethical Approaches (Indiana University Press, 2021); Eshu Elegba’s Crossroads: Transcultural Creativity in the Works of Femi Euba (Routledge 2025); and Emerging Perspectives in the Study of Folklore and Performance (Indiana University Press 2025).

April Renewal: Looking into The Future
2025-04-23 12:00 - 13:30 | CO
April Renewal Session: The Future of EcoJusticeApril 23 at 12:00 pm MT via Zoom
Register here
Amidst all the change happening in our nation, we are also seeing less care being taken when it comes to our world. Policy changes and priority shifts are threatening an Earth already facing a climate crisis. What can we hope for as the world seems to move closer and closer to a point of no return? What can we do to further environmental justice in the face of so many unjust forces?
Join our final session of the 2024-2025 Looking to the Future Renewal season on April 23rd, when we will hear from Dr. Amy Erickson and Dr. Heidi Steltzer about how they think the landscape of ecojustice will change and what we can do to fight for the future of the planet.
Presenters
Dr. Amy Erickson, Professor of Hebrew Bible, Iliff School of TheologyAmy Erickson is Professor of Hebrew Bible at the Iliff School of Theology and Assistant Director of the DU/Iliff Joint Doctoral Program in the Study of Religion. She teaches courses and lectures widely on creation, nature, place, and ecologies in the Bible and is the author of Jonah: Introduction and Commentary (Illuminations; Eerdmans, 2021). She is currently working on a book on the ecology of the Priestly narrative.
Dr. Heidi Steltzer, Founder of the Center for Earth TheologyDr. Heidi Steltzer is an environmental scientist, theologian and mystic. She was a lead author on the High Mountains chapter of a 2019 IPCC Special Report on the Oceans and Cryosphere in a Changing Climate and testified before the U.S. Congress on the climate crisis in 2020. In 2023, Heidi began a masters degree at the Iliff School of Theology to explore how the Earth guides us into relationship with one another and with All.

Academy of Religious Leadership Annual Conference
2025-04-24 - 2025-04-26 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Join the Academy of Religious Leadership as we explore the timely topic of Leadership as Justice.

Dates: April 24-26, 2025

The 2025 ARL Annual Meeting is a hybrid event with both in-person and online options. See below for registration details. The theme of our 2025 annual meeting will be “Leadership as Justice.”
Exploring leadership as justice invites a reconsideration of the what, who, why, when, where, and how of justice for leaders and religious communities alike. What does justice look, sound, smell, taste, and feel like for leaders and communities? What new forms and structures might/does just leadership take within communities? Who determines what justice is or should be, and for whom? Why is—or is not—justice a core concern for some leaders and not others, and thus some communities and not others?
The ARL Annual Meeting invites scholars and practitioners into thoughtful conversation about the (r)evolutionary vocation of leadership. Our methods: discussing provocative, original papers/presentations, networking, and imagining an emerging future in the theological education, formation, and ongoing development of religious leaders in a fast-paced, challenging world.
It will be held in Denver, CO, April 24-26, 2025. The conference begins Thursday evening and ends Saturday at Noon. Schedule forthcoming.

Location: Iliff School of Theology, 2323 E. Iliff Ave, Denver, CO 80210, USA & Online
Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Denver/Cherry Creek, 600 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO 80246, 303-754-9800
Hotel reservation link for Iliff School of Theology: https://www.hilton.com/en/book/reservation/deeplink/?ctyhocn=DENCKGI&corporateCode=3370007
Housing alternatives that might be closer to Iliff: Airbnb and Vrbo
Meals: Meals are included with registration fee, except for Friday lunch. (Note any dietary restrictions here.)
Parking: Please park in the west lot (to the left when you drive in) in front of Iliff. The parking kiosk is as you walk into Iliff’s main doors. It is $2.00/hour or $10 for the day. You enter your license plate # and can get a receipt texted to you.
Preliminary Agenda: Please view/download the agenda here. (PDF)

Registration for the 2025 Conference

Pricing by membership status

ARL Member $195

Non-Member $245

Student Member $100

Student Non-Member $125

Online Only $85

April Pulpit+ Exchange "Grieving the Loss of the World We Knew or Imagined" with Rev. Dr. Jamie Eaddy
2025-04-28 17:00 - 19:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
April Pulpit+ Exchange
“Grieving the Loss of the World We Knew or Imagined” with Rev. Dr. Jamie Eaddy
April 28, 2025
Register Now

About the Event
In a time of deep uncertainty, political upheaval, and global crisis, many are grieving not just personal losses but the world they once knew or thought possible. Grief is more than a fleeting emotion; it is an ongoing process of navigating loss, change, and transition. Led by Rev. Dr. Jamie Eaddy, a thanatologist and grief doula, this program explores the collective sorrow of a shifting world and invites participants to engage grief as a pathway to transformation, resilience, and prophetic action.

About the Speaker
Rev. Dr. Jamie Eaddy is a public theologian, thanatologist, play, grief counselor, and administrator with over 20 years of experience in transformative education, ministry, and community service. As a thanatologist and grief doula, Dr. Eaddy is dedicated to guiding individuals and communities through life’s most challenging transitions, including grief, trauma, and loss.

About Pulpit+ Exchange
Iliff’s Pulpit+ Exchange Series (supported by the Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative from Lilly Endowment Inc.) provides space for a diverse array of ordained clergy and lay leaders to gather for a meal and grapple with challenging issues. One of the main goals of the Pulpit+ Exchange is to build congregations of people who will authentically study, worship, walk, and act together across differences to create a just and equitable world.
About the Evening’s Agenda
In-person & online
Light meal: 5:00 – 5:45 PM (MST)
Lecture: 5:45 PM
Q&A and discussions with Dr. Black & colleagues to follow
Unable to attend in person?
Register to receive the event live stream link.

The First 100 Days: A Reflection
2025-04-29 19:00 - 20:30 | CO
April 29th, from 7:00 – 8:30 pm
Iliff School of Theology, Shattuck Hall
Register Now
Don’t miss the opportunity to engage in a thought-provoking panel discussion reflecting on the first 100 days of the current administration, co-sponsored by the Institute for Religion, Politics & Culture and the Colorado Council of Churches. Join us on Tuesday, April 29th, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Iliff School of Theology, Shattuck Hall, for a deep dive into the political and social shifts we’ve experienced so far.
Moderated by Institute Director Amanda Henderson, this insightful conversation will feature a distinguished panel of experts, including Caran Ware Joseph, Miguel De La Torre, and more. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with light refreshments provided, allowing you to mingle and connect before the discussion begins.
This is a unique opportunity to reflect on the emotional and political landscape of the past few months, with experts offering valuable perspectives on the administration’s actions and decisions. Attendees will gain crucial insights into what has transpired, how it impacts communities of faith and society, and what possible paths of action might lie ahead.
This event promises to be a rich, reflective space for dialogue, and we encourage you to register early to secure your spot. Whether you’re passionate about politics, religion, or simply want to stay informed, this event is one you won’t want to miss!

Challenges in Real World Leadership: Domestic Violence
2025-04-30 17:30 - 19:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Challenges in Real World Leadership: Domestic Violence
April 30th, 2025 | Iliff School of Theology, Shattuck Hall
Dinner served at 5:00 PM | Event 5:30–7:00 PM
Register Now
Join us as we bring the complex and often painful realities of real-world leadership into the heart of our community. This interactive seminar invites both faith leaders and community members into a thoughtful conversation about the role faith communities play in addressing intimate partner violence (IPV).
Participants will explore the foundations of domestic violence awareness, key theological concepts, and immediate steps to support survivors. This event is open to all.

2025-05-01 18:00 - 19:30 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
LGBTQ Denver
A Celebration of Denver’s 2SLGBTQIA+ History with author Phil Nash
Thursday, May 1st
6:00 pm MT at the Iliff School of Theology

Register now
Join Iliff School of Theology for an insightful and engaging event exploring the rich tapestry of LGBTQ history right here in Denver! We are honored to host author Phil Nash, whose acclaimed work, “ LGBTQ Denver’”, offers a vital look at the individuals, movements, and milestones that have shaped our city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
This special event will feature:

A compelling presentation by Phil Nash, bringing to life the stories and experiences documented in his book, illuminating the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of LGBTQ+ Denverites.
An open and engaging discussion following the presentation, bringing together Iliff students, faculty, allies, and community supporters. This will be a crucial opportunity to connect with the past, understand the present, and consider the future of LGBTQ+ inclusion and justice in our city and beyond.

As a theological school committed to justice, equity, and advocating freedom, Iliff recognizes the profound importance of understanding the histories of marginalized communities. This event offers a unique chance to learn directly from a leading voice on LGBTQ+ Denver history and to engage in meaningful dialogue about its relevance to our present and future.
Whether you are a student, an ally, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, or simply interested in learning more about Denver’s diverse history, we warmly invite you to attend.
Event Details:

Date: May 1, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm
Location: IIliff School of Theology, Shattuck Hall
Featuring: Author Phil Nash, LGBTQ Denver
Followed by: Discussion with students, allies, and supporters

This is a free event and open to the public. Iliff students will receive a signed, free copy of the book.
Join us as we explore our local history and strengthen our commitment to a more inclusive and just Denver. Space is limited, reserve your spot today!
Reserve Your Space Now

About LGBTQ Denver by Phil Nash, Foreword by Dr. Tom Noel
Denver is the Mile High City, the Queen City of the Plains, and the Gateway to the West. Today, the city attracts thousands of new residents each year, including the LGBTQ people from the rural West and digital nomads from around the nations seeking a welcoming community where they can thrive. In LGBTQ Denver Nash showcases how the city evolved from its pre-1970s history of rebuking gay people to a magnet for LGBTQ residents and the capital of the first state to elect and reelect the nation’s first openly gay governor.
About Phil Nash
A Michigan native, Phil Nash made Denver his home in 1976 and launched a career in LGBTQ activism, journalism, and organizational leadership. He helped found, and was the first staff member of the Gay Community Center of Colorado (today known as The Center on Colfax). He later became editor of Out Front, Colorado’s leading LGBTQ publication in the early 1980s. He also wrote for The Advocate, Westword, and other local and national news outlets. He helped found and served as first board chair of the Colorado AIDS Project. As an out gay professional, Nash later worked in a series of senior communications roles in civic and philanthropic organizations, including as an advisor to Denver Mayor Federico Peña. In LGBTQ Denver, Nash documents more than five decades of Denver’s LGBTQ history, much of which he witnessed firsthand, reported, and photographed. “I wrote LGBTQ Denver as yet another way to help build a stronger community,” says Nash, “especially at a time when darker forces in our society want to turn back the clock and erase the evidence of our existence.”

Threads of Freedom: A Celebration of Music, History, and Heroes
2025-05-19 17:30 - 20:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Register Today!
Event Details:
Join us for our annual Vincent G. Harding Day at Iliff, where we celebrate the life and work of Vincent G. and Rosemarie Freeney Harding and their commitment to education, justice, and peace toward building a multiethnic, multiracial, multigenerational, and multi-faith democracy.
We invite you for an evening celebration, where we’ll kick things off with hors d’oeuvres and an African-American quilt display. Join us for a performance by the Spirituals Project, followed by our keynote speaker, Dr. Cheryl LaRoche, historian, and underground railroad scholar, who will share more about her work on Paul Quinn, an African Methodist Episcopal Bishop who guided enslaved people to freedom through the underground railroad.
About the Speaker:
Historical Archaeologist Dr. Cheryl Janifer LaRoche began her career as an archaeological conservator, preserving the grave goods from the African Burial Ground archaeological site in New York City. Dr. LaRoche’s expertise includes archaeology, African American history, and material culture. Her work on the Underground Railroad, free Black communities, and the AME Church is unparalleled – this work is what brought William Paul Quinn to her attention. She has contributed to numerous scholarly works, museums, documentaries, and archaeological projects and is a dynamic and compelling speaker. Most recently she has been working as an ethnohistorian, collecting family stories from the descendants of the those who were once held in slavery on National Park Service sites. She has worked for numerous cultural and historical institutions, including the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, where she was the project historian for the “Cultural Expressions” inaugural exhibition. She is an associate research professor in Historic Preservation in the School of Architecture at the University of Maryland, College Park. She is grateful for the numerous awards she has received across her career. Dr. LaRoche is the author of Free Black Communities and the Underground Railroad: the Geography of Resistance. Her latest book, Apostle of Liberation: AME Bishop Paul Quinn and the Underground Railroad was published by Rowman & Littlefield earlier this year.
About the Spirituals Project:
In 1998, The Spirituals Project was founded by Arthur C. Jones to preserve and revitalize the music and teachings of the sacred folk songs called “spirituals,” created and first sung by African Americans in slavery. The Spirituals Project is a past recipient of the Denver Mayor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts. The Project has presented a wide variety of high-profile musical and educational programs over the years, including a national conference on spirituals in 2013 featuring poet Nikki Giovanni as keynote speaker, and a historic concert in 2009 at Denver’s Ellie Caulkins Opera House in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s 80th birthday, featuring the renowned mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves as a guest artist. In September 2018, The Spirituals Project Choir performed with renowned opera soprano Kathleen Battle as she presented her concert, “Underground Railroad: A Spiritual Journey” at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, Denver.
With the official transition of The Spirituals Project to the University of Denver, the multi-ethnic Spirituals Project Choir will present concerts in a variety of venues and will continue to present educational programs regionally and nationally.
Register Today!
Support this work through the “There is a River Freedom Endowment”:
Dr. Vincent and Rosemarie Harding’s scholarly activities have not only enriched our academic landscape but also championed the cause for freedom and made significant contributions to the wider community. The “There is a River Freedom Endowment” supports teaching, research, and public programs that align with their legacy. Please donate today by selecting “There is a River Freedom Fund” from the Fund dropdown menu.

Commencement 2025
2025-06-06 10:00 - 12:00 | St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 9203 S. University Blvd., Highlands Ranch, CO, CO, 80126, United States
Join us for Commencement 2025!
Friday, June 6, 2025 | 10:00 AM MT
St. Andrew United Methodist Church9203 S University Blvd.Highlands Ranch 80126

WATCH THE LIVESTREAM

Event Details:
Join Iliff School of Theology as we celebrate the 120th graduating class with Commencement speaker, Keith David. Commencement will be held at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch. The program will begin at 10:00 AM and last until approximately 12:00 PM.

About Keith David:
Keith David, born and raised in New York City, is a classically trained graduate of the New York High School of the Performing Arts and The Juilliard School. His work has earned him Screen Actors Guild and Tony Award nominations, an NAACP Image Award, and three Emmy Awards. A frequent collaborator with documentarian Ken Burns, David has won three Emmys for his voice-over performances in Jackie Robinson, A Necessary War, and Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson.
David has also enthralled viewers with his vocal talents in animated works such as The Princess and the Frog, Rick and Morty, Gargoyles, and the Prime Video hit series, Hazbin Hotel. David recently appeared in Cord Jefferson’s Oscar-winning film, American Fiction, Jordan Peele’s Nope, and is also known for his prolific work in films such as 21 Bridges, Crash, There’s Something About Mary, and many more.
On the small screen, David recently finished Duster, a new series from JJ Abrams, and The Gray House, produced by Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman; completed five seasons starring as Bishop James Greenleaf in Greenleaf on the OWN Network; and has been featured on series such as Blackish and Community. True to his reputation as a star of stage and screen, David starred as Floyd Barton in Seven Guitars, was nominated for a Tony for his role as Chimney Man in Jelly’s Last Jam, and has toured with Too Marvelous for Words, playing the legendary Nat King Cole.
About the Iliff School of Theology:
Iliff is a theological graduate school founded in 1893 that nurtures passion, cultivates compassion, and encourages social and ecological justice around the world.
At Iliff, we honor spiritual traditions that recognize the inherent dignity of all people. The diverse identities of our students, faculty and staff enrich the classroom and broaden the scope of our scholarship. Students from a range of religious, spiritual, and secular backgrounds thrive at Iliff, working across lines of difference to advocate freedom.
Learn more about Iliff’s purpose, vision, and commitment.

RSVP NOW!

Commencement Countdown

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For media inquiries, please contact Director of Marketing and PR, Daryl Schreiber, at dschreiber@iliff.edu or 303-765-3113.

A Day at Iliff - A Pre-Conference Retreat for Your Spirit
2025-06-10 13:30 - 19:00 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Tuesday, June 10, 2025
1:30 PM – Evening Dinner Keynote
Iliff School of Theology, Denver, CO
Join Iliff and the Mountain Sky Conference of The UMC for an afternoon of transformation, learning, connection, and inspiration at “Day at Iliff,” a special pre-conference gathering hosted by the Compelling Preaching Initiative in partnership with Iliff School of Theology, ahead of the 2025 Mountain Sky Annual Conference. In this dynamic gathering, preaching and pastoral leaders will explore the intersections of creativity, care, and communication through three rich workshop experiences—all designed to inspire more compelling and life-giving proclamation.
WORKSHOP SESSIONS
1:30 PM – “Fostering Creativity in Preaching”
Rev. Dr. Lee Butler
This session will discuss creativity as a playful approach to biblical interpretation. Focusing on biblical narratives as the foundation for considering human transformation, the sermonic communications of God’s love will be grounded in psychological theories to help engage the text as a living Divine and human document.
3:15 p.m. – “Resilient Leadership – Lessons from Grief, Crisis, and Connection”
Meredith Parfet, MA Pastoral and Spiritual Care, MBA
This workshop challenges ministers and leaders to rethink how we approach crisis—not as a disruption to manage, but as a transformative opportunity. We will explore how grief manifests in many forms and offers practical frameworks for holding necessary but often stigmatized conversations, particularly around death and loss. Grounded in real self care practices from the Iliff Death Care Collective, this session empowers faith leaders to guide their communities with greater compassion and clarity, even in difficult times.
5:00 PM – “Storytelling in New Social Spaces” (Keynote & Dinner)
Rev. Dr. Amanda Henderson
We all know that stories are the key to reaching people and catalyzing personal and social transformation. But how do we reach people in a media context of soundbites and doom scrolling? In this interactive, multi-media session, we will explore the power of storytelling utilizing multiple media platforms and take away tips for both tech-savvy and tech-wary storytellers.
Dinner will be provided during this final session—come hungry for both food and insight!
Click here to register.

The Institute on Theology and Disability
2025-06-16 - 2025-06-18 | CO
Save the Date!
Institute on Theology and Disability
June 16-18, 2025
Iliff School of Theology
REGISTER HERE
The Institute on Theology and Disability (ITD) is an accessible and inclusive three-day fully hybrid gathering of leading scholars, writers, faith leaders, disabled advocates, lay leaders, and others committed to advancing inclusive ministries and faith supports. Each year ITD fosters diverse and authentic interfaith conversations at the intersection of theology and disability. Practically, this looks like collectively engaging in plenary sessions, workshops, and networking; offering a PhD seminar for current doctoral students; and providing a community day to connect more deeply with organizations within the host city. The Institute celebrates, explores, and investigates the ways that:

Disability impacts all major theological disciplines and the many dimensions of religious life and faith community practices.
Theology and practice mutually inform and support one another.
Diverse perspectives enrich and inform theological formation and religious practice.

We are excited that this year’s Institute on Theology and Disability will be held at Iliff School of Theology June 16-18, 2025.
We are looking forward to a dynamic group of plenary speakers this year, including Miriam Spies, Robert Monson, Isaac Soon, Louise Gosbell, Josh Hanan, emerging scholar Callie Micale, and an interfaith panel.
Our program includes various afternoon workshops as well, including presentations by several Iliff students. Check out the schedule here: http://bit.ly/ITDSchedule25.

Summer Courses for Audit
2025-06-30 - 2025-08-01 | CO
Non-Degree Courses for Audit: Graduate Theological Education for Lifelong Learners
*Please note that registration has closed. Stay tuned for Fall audit courses!
Iliff School of Theology has offered graduate-level education for more than 125 years through a range of degree programs. Now, through course auditing, Iliff is bringing its unique approach to theological education to a broader community.
Explore Iliff’s world-class teaching outside of a traditional degree program. Auditing a course allows you to view lectures, participate in discussions, and access course materials, all while focusing on personal growth and intellectual curiosity. Audited courses do not contribute towards Iliff degree requirements or transfer academic credit.
2025 Summer Courses:

Blue Minister, Red Culture, Purple Congregation – with Rev. Dr. Eric C. Smith
Pastoral Responses to Moral Injury in Times of Crisis – with Rev. Dr. Jeff Zust
Congregational Renewal: A Wesleyan Approach to Church Revitalization – with Rev. Stephanie Moffitt

What to Expect:

June 30-August 1, 2025
9 hours of student work per week
Online asynchronous, optional weekly synchronous sessions
$332 per course

Registration has closed.

Iliff Death Care Collective - Summer Course
2025-07-06 - 2025-08-24 | CO
Foundations of Death Care
End-of-Life Doula Class
Summer 2025 – Now open to register!
Explore our unique approach to building skills and connections for end-of-life care:
Grounded in Justice and Intercultural Competency
Our approach, informed by Iliff School of Theology’s longstanding commitment to justice, means that intercultural competencies are at the center of our approach. We honor the unique and diverse experiences of our participants and clients.
Practice Foundational Somatic Training for Real Self-Care
Embodied awareness matters in end-of-life work. We emphasize the importance of somatic awareness and Polyvagal Theory as crucial for a sustainable end-of-life doula practice, both in helping those we serve and for ourselves.
Focus on Interpersonal Communication
End-of-life care includes not just the dying, but their communities of care and all those who love them. We focus on healthy communication patterns as well as understanding non-verbal cues, as well as family systems dynamics.
Connect with a Diverse Community
This course will connect you with leading scholars, practitioners, spiritual leaders, and thinkers from various backgrounds and perspectives in end-of-life care. Join us to change the narrative around end-of-life care.
Details

New course material opens every Sunday for 8 weeks starting July 6.
Weekly live Zoom sessions on Thursdays 5:30-7:30 (starting July 10) OR Sundays 4:00-6:00 (starting July 13) – choose the day that works best for you.
Small group limited to 15 students per cohort.

Total Course Investment
$1600-$2600 for online course; based on sliding scale, see details.

REGISTER NOW

Meet Your Instructor

Dr. Beverly Wallace will be joining us this summer in teaching “The Foundation of Death Care” in Iliff’s Death Care Collective. An ordained Lutheran clergywoman, Dr. Wallace, a recent board member of the Society for Pastoral Theology and former Associate Professor of Pastoral/Spiritual Care is one the premier experts in African American Grief. Her dissertation entitled, “Religions and Spirituality as Resources for African American Family in End-of-Life Care” has led her down the path of research, teaching, and the praxis of End-of-Life Care.

Dr. Wallace was introduced to the world of Death Doulas by two colleagues: one a former attorney and Director for Disability Services now a Death Doula herself and the other, the founder of “Quality of Life now “Care Doula Education” who was also the Vice President of the National End-of-Life Doula Alliance. For more than seven years, Dr. Wallace functioned herself as an end-of-life doula. She is currently, the Director of Lifelong Learning at Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary of Lenoir-Rhyne University.

REGISTER NOW

Annual Book Sale
2025-08-18 - 2025-08-20 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
Annual Book Sale – August 18–20, 2025Hosted by the Iliff Disability Coalition, the Student Senate, and the Ira J. Taylor Library
Mark your calendars and join us for the Annual Book Sale, taking place from Monday, August 18, through Wednesday, August 20, 2025, in the Iliff School of Theology Library. The sale will run daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and everyone is welcome to stop by, browse, and find a new favorite book!
This beloved event is more than just a great opportunity to stock up on new reading material at affordable prices — it’s also a meaningful way to support student-led advocacy. All proceeds from the sale will go directly to benefit the Disability Coalition ISO, funding initiatives that promote accessibility, inclusion, and equity within the Iliff community and beyond.
Whether you’re a student, alum, faculty member, or part of a local faith or civic community, the Book Sale is a chance to come together in support of an important cause. In years past, the sale has become a vibrant space for community connection, resource sharing, and collective support, reinforcing Iliff’s commitment to justice and hospitality.
We invite you to stop by, pick up a few books, and help make a difference!
Dates: August 18–20, 2025Time: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM dailyLocation: Ira J. Taylor Library, Iliff School of Theology
? For more information or to donate books in advance, please contact library@iliff.edu.

Foundational Singing Training
2025-08-22 - 2025-08-24 | Iliff School of Theology, 2323 East Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO, 80210, United States
The School of Uncovering the Voice
Foundational Singing Training
Taught by Shayndel Adler
Aug. 22, 2025: “Exercises for Natural Breathing”
Aug. 23-24, 2025: “Musical Sound & Sounds of Speech: Two Distinct Worlds”
Location: Iliff School of Theology, 2323 E. Iliff Ave., Denver, CO 80210
Time: 10:00am-4:30pm each day (with a break for lunch)
This class is open to everyone; no prior singing experience necessary. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced singer, you will benefit from this work!
In this engaging group class you will be gently invited to move with joy and confidence in discovering and opening your authentic singing voice. UTV is at times playful, sacred, healing and profound. Connect with pure musical tones and the universal sound stream while balancing your physical, emotional and social well-being.
Uncovering the Voice (UTV) is an artistic, pedagogical, therapeutic impulse first developed by Mrs. Valborg Svardstrom with guidance from Rudolf Steiner.
For more information and registration, please visit https://www.werbecksinging.org/
