GTU in the News
Press Clippings
Here are some recent media stories about the Graduate Theological Union, our member schools, and our faculty and alumni/ae. For more information or a media packet, contact the GTU Communications Office at 510/649-2422.
February 9, 2008
KCBS
James Donahue with the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, says Catholic-Jewish relations may be strained after the Pope allowed revision to a Good Friday prayer.
December 6, 2007
San Jose Mercury News
How much faith is too much faith for presidential candidates?
In an article which addresses the religious affliations of current and past presidential candidates, GTU President Jim Donahue comments on Mitt Romney's task of de-mystifying Mormonism in order to sway some conservative voters.
December 5, 2007
KCBS
GTU President Jim Donahue addresses the beliefs of Mormonism and how the public views Mormonism will affect Mitt Romney's presidential campaign.
November 6, 2007
San Francisco Chronicle
Studying Islam for a more peaceful world
GTU President Jim Donahue and Center for Islamic Studies Director Munir Jiwa address the importance of understanding Islam as a living world religion in a broad, interfaith context.
KQED
Morning Drive-Time Reporter Stephanie Martin interviewed Munir Jiwa, director of the Center for Islamic Studies, about the opening of the Center for Islamic Studies and its importance to our local, national, and world communities.
September 2, 2007
Contra Costa Times
Healing 'Reigning Woman' icon coming to San Francisco
China Galland, professor-in-residence at CARE and author of "Longing for Darkness: Tara and the Black Madonna" is quoted in this article about the recently revived icon, "Reigning Woman" to display in San Francisco as part of its ongoing tour.
July 26, 2007
San Jose Mercury News
Doug Adams, taught religion and fine arts
The life of Doug Adams (1945-2007), professor in religion and the arts at the Pacific School of Religion (PSR) and treasurer to the board of the Center for the Arts, Religion and Education (CARE) is remembered by friends and co-workers.
July 14, 2007
Inside Bay Area
Papal proclamations dismay East Bay religious leaders
GTU President James A. Donahue is quoted in an article about Pope Benedict's assertion that Roman Catholicism is the "'one true church.'"
July 10, 2007
KQED
GTU President James A. Donahue speaks on Forum, a KQED (88.5 FM) show hosted by Michael Krasny. He joins the award-winning journalist and blogger Lisa Stone and Don Hanlon-Johnson of the California Institute of Integral Studies to discuss civility in politics, culture, media, on the Web, and blogosphere.
June 29, 2007
Star-Telegram
The Shia you don't hear about
Anthony Mansueto (Ph.D '85) writes an article about His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV.
June 19, 2007
KGO
GTU President James A. Donahue is interviewed by ABC7 News (KGO TV) on the subject of Pope Benedict's "Ten Commandments of Driving".
June 9, 2007
Dallas Morning News
Cemetery Struggle is a Labor of ‘Love’
China Galland, a professor with the Center for the Arts, Religion, and Education (CARE), a GTU affiliate, is featured on her latest work, Love Cemetery, which tells the story of a black burial ground in East Texas.
Contra Costa Times
Cathedral Goes Up Despite Criticism
The article on the construction of the new Catholic cathedral in Oakland includes quotes from GTU Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs Arthur Holder and Mia Mochizuki, Thomas E. Bertelson, Jr. Chair of Art History and Religion at the GTU and JSTB.
June 1, 2007
San Francisco Chronicle
Mission Accomplished for Pastor
GTU Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs Arthur Holder is quoted in an article about the Rev. Bill Beatty of the College Avenue Presbyterian Church in Oakland, who is retiring after leading the congregation for thirty-four years.
May 16, 2007
Contra Costa Times
East Bay Remembers Two Sides of Leader
GTU President James A. Donahue is quoted in an article about the late Rev. Jerry Falwell.
May 4, 2007
Contra Costa Times
Truck Driver’s History Raises Many Questions
GTU President James A. Donahue is quoted in an article about the driver of a truck that crashed on Interstate 880, destroying an overpass ramp.
April 16, 2007
San Jose Mercury News
New Look for Baptism
GTU Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs Arthur Holder is cited in an article about baptism.
March 17,2007
Contra Costa Times
Seminary Hires Director to Lead Studies of Islam
GTU Dean Arthur Holder is quoted in an article about the GTU’s new Center for Islamic Studies and its selection of Munir Jiwa as its director.
March 8, 2007
Bradenton Herald [originally Contra Costa Times]
Pastors Go High-Tech with Sermons
Stewart Heller, lecturer at the Center for the Arts, Religion, and Education (CARE), a GTU affiliate, and Doug Adams, director of the center, are quoted in an article about technology and the church.
March 2, 2007
Bay Area Business Woman
Women Bring Jewish Music to Bay Area
Eleanor Shapiro, a GTU doctoral student in Jewish studies, is featured as the director of the Bay Area’s Jewish Music Festival.
February 16, 2007
Fordham Online
Religion and Art: Allies or Adversaries?
Margaret Miles (Ph.D.’77), former GTU dean, participates in a Fordham University symposium entitled “Wrestling with the Angel: Religion and Art.”
February 9, 2007
KCBS
GTU President James A. Donahue is interviewed on KCBS (740 AM) about the controversy surrounding Israeli excavations around the Temple Mount and the Al-Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem.
February 5, 2007
News@Princeton
Investigating Clues to a Life, Biehl Discovers Larger Reality
Princeton University anthropologist Joao Biehl (Ph.D. ’96) is featured for his award-winning work in medical anthropology, social studies of science and technology, and globalization and development.
January 16, 2007
InsideBayArea.com
Buddhist Center Actualized 40 Years after Contemplation
Richard Payne, dean of the Institute of Buddhist Studies, a GTU affiliate, is quoted in an article about its new Buddhist learning center in Berkeley.
January 2, 2007
Pioneer Press (registration required)
Nighttime Visitors
GTU visiting scholar Kelly Bulkeley is quoted in an article about dreams.
December 20, 2006
Worldwide Faith News
Dr. Anton C. Vrame Appointed Director of the Department of Religious Education
Dr. Anton Vrame, director of the Patriarch Athenagoras Orthodox Institute (PAOI), a GTU affiliate, is named the new director of the department of religious education with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.
December 20, 2006
San Francisco Chronicle
An Unexpected Pair: God and Rocky
Ted Baehr, an adjunct lecturer in electronic Christian media with the Center for the Arts, Religion, and Education (CARE), a GTU affiliate, is quoted.
December 7, 2006
BBC Radio
GTU President James A. Donahue is interviewed on BBC Radio’s World News Tonight about the discovery of St. Paul’s remains in the basilica of the Vatican.
December 6, 2006
Religion News Service
Awards Given, Founder Honored at New Way Media Fest
David Randolph, a lecturer with the Center for the Arts, Religion, and Education (CARE), a GTU affiliate, is featured in a story about the New Way Media Fest.
December 4, 2006
PRWeb Press Release Newswire
Christianity and Islam – What Religious Differences Mean in Everyday Life
GTU President James A. Donahue is cited as the featured speaker at the Catholics@Work breakfast meeting in Danville, Calif.
November 29, 2006
Baltimore Sun (registration required)
Scholars Say Pontiff’s Trip Can Make Amends
GTU President James A. Donahue is quoted in an article about Pope Benedict’s visit to Turkey.
November 29, 2006
KCBS Radio
GTU President James A. Donahue is interviewed on KCBS (740 AM) about Pope Benedict’s visit with the Ecumenical Patriarch in Turkey.
November 23, 2006
Inland News
Finding the Strength the Forgive
CDSP and GTU core doctoral faculty member Bill Countryman is quoted about forgiveness.
November 14, 2006
Media Newswire
IMLS Board Member Receives National Humanities Medal
Former GTU board member Kevin Starr, a member of the National Museum and Library Services Board, is cited as receiving a National Humanities Medal from President George W. Bush.
November 14, 2006
KCBS Radio
GTU Dean Arthur Holder is interviewed on KCBS Radio about the recent statement at the US Catholic Bishops Conference on ministry to gays and lesbians.
November 13, 2006
Contra Costa Times
Houses of Worship Scramble to Make Room for the Masses
GTU Dean Arthur Holder is quoted in an article about the demographic explosion affecting religious institutions in the Bay Area.
November 9, 2006
Lavender Magazine
California, Dream On
A column on gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender issues cites a lecture by a GTU professor on American evangelism.
November 7, 2006
Carleton College News
Former Carleton Professors Honored with Establishment of Ian G. Barbour Chair
Robert Russell, director of the Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences (CTNS), a GTU affiliate, is featured in an article about the new CTNS chair.
November 7, 2006
Newhouse News Service
Scholars Offer Data on Religion’s Role in American Life
Researchers from the Patriarch Athenogoras Orthodox Institute, a GTU affiliate, are cited for their findings on clergy.
Atlantic Free Press
Andrew Bard Schmookler Profile Page
Andrew Bard Schmookler (Ph.D. ’77), author, speaker, and radio talk-show host, is profiled.
November 3, 2006
Catholic News Service
Celibacy Dialogue Brings Buddhist, Catholic Monks Together
GTU adjunct faculty member Heng Sure is quoted in an article about celibacy.
November 1, 2006
Lexington Herald-Leader
Lecture Invitation is a Major Moment for Ashley Judd
Actress Ashley Judd cites former GTU professor Carol Lee Flinders’ book At the Root of This Longing: Reconciling a Spiritual Hunger and a Feminist Thirst as one her biggest inspirations.
October 28, 2006
Contra Costa Times
Religious Activities
The GTU’s 2006 Distinguished Faculty Lecture is cited.
October 27, 2006
The Berkeley Daily Planet
Boalt Vigil Decries Yoo’s Defense of Torture
Taigen Dan Leighton, GTU adjunct faculty member, is quoted.
October 26, 2006
J., The Jewish News Weekly
Rabbis Here, Rabbis There, Rabbis Everywhere at Netivot Shalom
GTU professor emeritus David Winston is quoted.
October 25, 2006
Inside Bay Area
Three Oaklanders Receive BRIDGE Scholarships
GTU employee Fredonia Thompson is featured in an article about an education scholarship program.
October 24, 2006
Religion News Service
Jesus Rode a Donkey: Why Republicans Don’t Have the Corner on Christ
A review of a book on what it means to be a Christian and a Democrat by Linda Seger (Th.D. ’76).
October 16, 2006
Argus
Class Helps BusyBodies Fit Buddha Into Lives
A short feature on Buddhist minister Shoyo Taniguchi mentions her studies at the Institute of Buddhist Studies and at the GTU.
October 11, 2006
San Francisco Bay Guardian
A lecture on Asian American lesbian and gay families in the church is cited as taking place at PSR.
September 30, 2006
Hokubei Mainichi
New Film Shows Struggle of Asian American Lesbian and Gay Christians
PSR professor Jeffrey Kuan is quoted.
September 22, 2006
El Cerrito Journal
Rabbi's Quest Opens a New World of Faith
Rabbi Dean Kertesz, a former student at the GTU’s Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies, is profiled.
San Francisco Chronicle
Danger Doesn't Deter Jews from Moving to Israel
Deena Aranoff, professor of Jewish studies at the GTU’s Richard S. Dinner for Jewish Studies, is quoted in an article about the relationship Jews have with Israel.
August 18, 2006
Contra Costa Times
Islam Center Aims to Build Briges
GTU board chair John Weiser and GTU President James A. Donahue are quoted in an article featuring a conference on religion and democracy co-sponsored by the GTU. The article also mentions the GTU’s plans to create a center for Islamic studies.
August 8, 2006
San Francisco Chronicle
Lebanon Violence Stifles Dialogue Between Jews and Muslims in U.S.
GTU board member Stephen Pearce, rabbi of San Francisco’s Temple Emanu-El, is quoted on Jewish-Muslim relations in light of the 2006 violence in Lebanon and Israel.
Sunday May 28, 2006
San Jose Mercury News (registration required)
Defiant Female Priest Says Mass
GTU Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs Arthur Holder is quoted on a movement that ordains women as Catholic priests.
Friday May 26, 2006
San Francisco Business Times
Ethics Experts Debate Their Role and Purpose
Ted Peters, professor of systematic theology and former trustee at the GTU and director of the Institute for Theology and Ethics at PLTS, is one of three experts discussing the role of the bioethicist.
Sunday May 7, 2006
The Argus
Episcopalians Elect Bishop from Alabama
GTU Dean and Vice President for Academic Affairs Arthur Holder comments on the election of the Rt. Rev. Mark Andrus to the episcopacy in the diocese of California.
Wednesday April 26, 2006
Contra Costa Times
Reliving an Unforgettable Day
President James A. Donahue comments on United 93, a film about the 9/11 flight hijacked by terrorists that crashed in Pennsylvania.
Friday April 21, 2006
National Catholic Reporter
"Gospel" Sheds More Light on Early Church Than on Judas
JSTB professor Sandra Schneiders is quoted in an article about the release of the "Gospel of Judas" text.
Sunday April 9, 2006
KRON 4 Weekend Morning News
Jewish-Christian Relations
Arthur Holder, GTU dean and vice president for academic affairs, and Naomi Seidman, Koret Professor of Jewish Culture and director of the GTU’s Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies, appear live on the KRON 4 Weekend Morning News television program to speak about Jewish-Christian dialogue during the Passover and Easter season.
Sunday April 9, 2006
KPFA Sunday Salon
The Death Penalty
Author and professor Judith Kay (Ph.D. '88) talks about the death penalty live on Sunday Salon, a program of KPFA (94.1 FM) radio.
Wednesday April 5, 2006
KCBS
Immigration and Public Policy
President James A. Donahue interviewed on the radio about immigration and the Catholic Church.
Thursday March 30, 2006
Christianpost.com
Former "Seminary in Exile" Dean Dies at Age 73
The late Robert Harry Smith, PLTS professor and GTU core doctoral faculty member, is remembered in an obituary.
Tuesday March 28, 2006
San Francisco Chronicle
Maverick Priest Braves Indifference, Poverty to Reach Young Sex Workers
Rev. Mario DiCicco, president of FST, is quoted in an AP article about a Catholic priest who ministers to street people in San Francisco. “He’s in the margins, and that’s where we should be,” DiCicco says
Thursday March 23, 2006
Contra Costa Times
Stop Gay Adoptions, Agency Told
President James A. Donahue comments on Cardinal William Levada’s new role as the Vatican’s chief steward of church doctrine.
Saturday March 11, 2006
Santa Cruz Sentinel
Stations of the Cross for Today
The Rev. Eliza Linley, adjunct faculty member at the Center for Arts, Religion, and Education (“CARE,” a GTU affiliate) and a CDSP graduate, is featured in an article about her liturgical art. "If the church can't speak to the world outside, it's not doing its job," she says.
Friday March 10, 2006
KQED
Religion and Public Policy
President James A. Donahue appears on the Forum show on KQED 88.5 FM (a National Public Radio affiliate). Donahue joins Mark Jordan of Emory University and George Wesolek of the Archdiocese of San Francisco to discuss religion, politics, and public policy with host Dave Iverson.
Monday March 6, 2006
San Jose Mercury News
Episcopal Election to Set Tone for Church
Arthur Holder, GTU dean and vice president for academic affairs and a professor of Christian spirituality, is quoted in an article on the Episcopal Diocese of California’s search process for a new bishop.
Thursday March 2, 2006
Bay Area Reporter
Vatican Policy on Gay Priests Discussed
Bernard Schlager, national programming director at PSR’s Center of Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry, is quoted in an article on the Vatican policy on homosexual clergy.
Sunday February 26, 2006
San Francisco Chronicle
Liberal Christians Look to Conservatives
Stewart Heller, lecturer at the Center for the Arts, Religion, and Education (CARE), a GTU affiliate, is featured in an article about progressive Christians and mass media evangelism. “If you look at it,” he says, “it’s the liberal mainline churches whose congregations are shrinking and the conservative evangelical ones that are growing.” Ted Baehr, another CARE lecturer, is also quoted.
Thursday February 23, 2006
Contra Costa Times
Pontiff Promotes Levada to Cardinal
President James A. Donahue comments on the news of former San Francisco archbishop William Levada’s elevation to cardinal on February 22. “It means American issues will receive appropriate attention,” he says. “Issues of authority, the tension between democracy and participation on one hand and the hierarchical authority on the other.”
Wednesday February 8, 2006
Berkeleyan
John Lie: Thinking Globally, Researching Competitively
An article on UC Berkeley’s dean of International and Area Studies notes that until now the university’s “secular scholars” had “largely overlooked” the study of religion, ceding it “to such institutions as the Graduate Theological Union.”
Sunday January 29, 2006
San Francisco Chronicle
Barbarians at the Gate, or Just Pragmatic?
David Biale, Jewish history professor at the University of California at Davis and the former director of the GTU’s Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies, writes an opinion piece on Middle East politics in the “Insight” section of the San Francisco Chronicle.
Friday January 20, 2006
Forward
Six Million Little Pieces?
Naomi Seidman, director of the GTU’s Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies, is cited in an article about memoir and Holocaust survivor and Nobel Prize winner Elie Wiesel.
Friday January 13, 2006
CBS5.com
In Perspective: Executing the Elderly
GTU President James A. Donahue appears on the Channel 5 KPIX Evening News show to discuss the ethics of the death penalty after death row inmate Clarence Ray Allen is denied clemency. "The issue of vulnerability and condition is a legitimate one for society to ask and to answer," he says. “Is there something about his situation, his medical or mental situation, that puts him in a different category?"
Monday January 9, 2006
KCBS.com
Former Archbishop in SF for Questioning About Clergy Sex Abuse
GTU President James A. Donahue is interviewed on KCBS radio about former San Francisco archbishop William Levada’s appearance in San Francisco for questioning on clergy sex abuse. "He does still care," Donahue says. "He wants to see these issues resolved and I think it's a very important move and it's a responsible move."
Sunday January 8, 2006
New York Times
Can Religion Help the Democrats?
GTU President James A. Donahue responds to an op-ed piece on religion and politics. He writes that the nation needs a "larger discussion about identifying the criteria by which religious claims are mediated as they move from an individual's perspective to the greater good. Unless we can get past these self-serving assertions, religion's moral ballast is hollow at best."
Sunday January 1, 2006
California
A Man of the Campus
GTU trustee Karl Pister, a longtime educator and civil engineer, is profiled in the University of California’s alumni magazine as the 2006 Alumnus of the Year. "I have always believed that the development of people is more important than developing things," he says. "I take more pride in my students than in the research papers we produced."
Sunday December 25, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Embracing Ecumenism
GTU President James A. Donahue, GTU trustee Rita Semel, and GTU alum Amir Kia M.A. '05 contribute articles to the "Open Forum" section of the San Francisco Chronicle on the importance of interfaith dialogue during the holidays.
Friday December 23, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Nazareth Village Re-Creates Life as Jesus Knew It; Replica Designed to Improve Understanding of Scriptures
Stephen Pfann, M.A. ’82 and president of the University of the Holy Land in Jerusalem, and his wife Claire, M.A. ’85 and a teacher at the same university, are quoted in an article about Nazareth Village, an authentic replica of a first-century farm in the Holy Land at the time of Jesus. “Being here brings more meaning out of the Bible," Stephen Pfann says. “We hope that people will emerge with a certain amount of culture shock and with an enhanced understanding of the Scriptures.”
Wednesday December 21, 2005
Discovery News
Farmer Named Roger 1st Father Christmas?
Arthur Holder, GTU’s dean and vice president for academic affairs, is quoted in an article about the origin of the term “Christmas.”
Friday December 16, 2005
New York Times
Scandal for Cloning Embryos: 'A Tragic Turn' for Science
2005 GTU Alum of the Year Laurie Zoloth (M.A., Ph.D. '93) is quoted in an article about an embryo cloning scandal in South Korea. "We depend entirely on the truthfulness of the scientific community," she says. "We must believe that what they are showing us and what they say has been demonstrated is worthy of our concern and attention."
Tuesday December 13, 2005
Science and Theology News
Luther meets Darwin: Duane Larson of Wartburg Theological Seminary brings Lutherans into the Science-and-Religion Dialogue
Duane Larson (Ph.D.'93), president of Wartburg Theological Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa, is featured on his interest in the dialogue between theology and science. "In my first years in the ministry, I became mindful first hand of how important it is to engage critical questions of informed believers," he comments.
Sunday December 11, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
'Narnia' Tries to Appeal to the Religious and Secular
David Randolph, a professor with the Center for the Arts, Religion, and Culture (a GTU affiliate) is quoted in an article about the Disney film The Chronicles of Narnia. “This is a historic moment when one of the greatest theologians of the 20th century meets one of the greatest entertainers of the 20th century – Disney,” he says.
Sunday December 4, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Flew the Co-op: The Quiet Rebirth of a Co-op on UC Berkeley's South Side
GTU doctoral student Lauren MacKinnon is quoted on her experience as house manager of the former UC Berkeley anarchy theme co-op. Under her leadership, the co-op has transitioned into a quiet community for graduate students only. "I have these grandiose visions of creating my own society," she says hopefully.
Saturday December 3, 2005
Fresno Bee
Does God Care What Kind of Coffee I Drink?
Audrey M. Hindes (M.A. ’05) discusses the promises and challenges of fair trade foods. “What does it mean to love God and love your neighbors?” she asks. “It means treating others with dignity and respect, rather than exploiting them.”
Wednesday November 30, 2005
Vital Theology
Peters: Science Doesn’t Invoke God: Divine Actions Remain Invisible to Science
PLTS professor Ted Peters is featured in this article about the differences between scientific creationism, intelligent design, and evolutionary theory. Assessing these theories, Peters comments, “When we look for purpose or design in nature, theologically, I think we need to look at the vision of the new creation and then work backwards.”
Saturday November 26, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
The Jefferson Award: John Kelly -- aid center, prison volunteer
John Kelly (M.A.'74) is featured as a recipient of a Jefferson Award for his community service in the Bay Area. Kelly, the former executive director of the nonprofit aid center, Samaritan House, comments, "I see so many people who have ability, and I want to see those abilities blossom."
Monday November 14, 2005
Argus
Minister Fights Mental Illness through Faith
GTU Dean Arthur Holder is quoted on the role of religious communities in a holistic approach to treating mental illness. “The religious community is one of the few groups in contemporary society where a person belongs regardless of where they work or what they do,” he says. “It is a place where people are appreciated just for being themselves.”
Saturday November 12, 2005
San Ramon Valley Times
Topic of Talk is Interfaith Cooperation
GTU President James Donahue’s upcoming talk on interfaith dialogue at the Danville Congregational Church is announced and Alan Kelchner (Ph.D. ’03) is quoted on religious diversity at the GTU. “Diversity is here to stay,” he says. “The Graduate Theological Union is a terrific resource for helping us understand and embrace our differences.”
Monday November 7, 2005
Science and Theology News
Amazing Light: Charles Townes Targeted for Praise
Robert Russell, director of the GTU's Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences, is quoted on the contribution of former GTU trustee and Nobel Prize winner Charles Townes to the dialogue between religion and science. For Townes, Russell comments, "scientific discoveries have been akin to revelation, and faith has necessarily guided his scientific methodology.”
Wednesday November 2, 2005
The Daily Californian (Berkeley)
Faces of Berkeley: Macintosh Monk’ Spreads Digital Dharma
Heng Sure (Ph.D. '03) is featured on his use of technology to communicate his spiritual teachings. "I'm a Macintosh monk," he says, "Podcasting my lectures makes them available to people who might not otherwise have access to the Dharma."
Wednesday November 2, 2005
Argus
Alito Record on Religion a Concern
GTU President James A. Donahue is quoted on the role of faith in the Supreme Court confirmation hearing of Samuel Alito. “When one makes a decision, one doesn’t want to bring their own prejudices and biases,” he says. “There needs to be a particular screening of one’s own beliefs as they pertain to interpreting the law.”
Monday October 31, 2005
Argus
Some Schools Take Fright Out of Night
JSTB professor William O'Neill is quoted on the relationship between Halloween and the Christian All Saints' Day, and the importance of these holidays for children. "I think anything that celebrates children is a good thing," he comments. "The church's primary concern is always the safety of the children."
Wednesday October 19, 2005
Idaho Mountain Express
Dreams May Ease Passing
GTU visiting scholar Kelly Bulkeley, co-author of Dreaming Beyond Death: A Guide to Pre-Death Dreams and Visions along with his mother, the Rev. Patricia Bulkeley, is profiled.
Friday October 14, 2005
J. the Jewish News Weekly of Northern California
City of God? Organized Religion Thriving in “Bezerkeley”
PSR president William McKinney is quoted on the openness of Berkeley to diverse lifestyles, ideologies, and ways of defining organized religion. "One of the things I’ve found out about Berkeley is that everything is out of the closet," says McKinney. "The things people might hold back in a Midwestern town, whatever it is, lifestyle or ideology, Berkeley gives you permission to flaunt it."
Monday October 3, 2005
Sacramento Bee
Some Find Middle Ground in Science-Theology Clash
Robert Russell, founder and director of the GTU's Center for Theology and Natural Sciences, is quoted in an article on the evolution debate. "There are such huge, huge issues out there, that to get sidetracked (on this topic) ... to me, it's just tragic, frustrating, hopeless," he says. Charles Townes, former GTU trustee and Nobel Prize-winning scientist, is also quoted.
Saturday October 1, 2005
Religious Studies News—AAR Edition
Judith Berling to Receive Ray L. Hart Service Award
GTU professor Judith Berling, the recipient of the American Academy of Religion’s 2005 Ray L. Hart Service Award, is interviewed on her work with the AAR and her academic career. The award is given to persons whose dedication and service have made significant contributions to the AAR’s mission of fostering excellence in the field of religion.
Sunday September 25, 2005
Vital Theology
Katrina Highlights the Plight of Impoverished
GTU Alum of the Year Laurie Zoloth Ph.D.'93, an ethicist and religion professor at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, is featured in the magazine's issue on Hurricane Katrina. "We live in a world in which we need a theology of interruption," she says. The magazine also features reflections by GTU president and professor of ethics James A. Donahue, SFTS president and professor of theology Philip W. Butin, and FST professor of theology Richard Gula.
Monday September 19, 2005
Catholic Voice
Public Policy Breakfast Addresses Issues of the Common Good
JSTB professor of social ethics Bill O’Neill is quoted on issues of the common good at the annual Catholic Charities Public Policy Breakfast Forum in Orinda.
Tuesday September 13, 2005
Berkeley Daily Planet
Patsy Krebs’ Show at GTU Explores the Boundaries
Art critic Peter Selz reviews Patsy Krebs: A Decade, on display at the GTU's Flora Lamson Hewlett Library. Selz, the founding director of the Berkeley Art Museum and a former curator of New York’s Museum of Modern Art, calls the the show "one of the most beautiful exhibitions to be seen hereabouts in a long time."
Thursday September 8, 2005
Sacramento Bee (registration required)
Donors Give Their All in Unparalleled Crisis
On the subject of American giving to Hurricane Katrina victims, GTU president James A. Donahue says that "there is an 'every person' quality to this disaster. These stories touch our own pain, our own potential helplessness."
Tuesday September 6, 2005
SfGate.com
Kabbalah Scholar Daniel Matt Takes the Mysticism Back to the Aramaic
Former GTU professor Daniel Matt is featured in David Miller's "Finding My Religion" column on SFGate.com. Matt, a Kabbalah scholar, answers Miller's questions about Kabbalah and its popular buzz today.
Wednesday August 31, 2005
The Oakland Tribune (registration required)
Christian Schools Sue UC over Bias against Religious Courses
Robert John Russell, GTU professor of theology and science, argues that creationism is a theological debate rather than scientific instruction. "It seems absurd that a student who had poor biology would meet the same standards as a student with 'good' biology...This has nothing to do with First Amendment rights."
Monday August 29, 2005
The Daily Californian
Following Faith: Finding Faith in an Unlikely Place
PSR president Bill Mckinney, professor of American religion, and Jonathan Callard, GTU communications assistant, are quoted in this article about student religious life on the UC Berkeley campus.
Monday August 22, 2005
Los Angeles Daily News
Dreaming in Blue and Red
Kelly Bulkeley, Visiting Scholar at the GTU, talks about his dream research on liberals and conservatives.
Monday August 22, 2005
AScribe Newswire
Sophia Center at Holy Names University Celebrates 10th Anniversary
Sophia Center at Holy Names University (Oakland), which has shared education arrangements with the GTU, celebrates its 10th anniversary.
Friday August 19, 2005
Forward
Asch's Diamonds
Naomi Seidman, director of the GTU's Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies, is quoted in an article on Yiddish novelist and playwright Sholem Asch.
Friday August 5, 2005
The Mail Tribune
Jefferson Center Seeks Higher Understanding On Religion
Naomi Seidman, director of the GTU's Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies, and Jay Emerson Johnson, Ph.D'98 and director of PSR's Lesbian and Gay Studies program, are quoted in this article about the Jefferson Center for Religion and Philosophy's inaugural Summer Institute.
Thursday August 4, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Of God and the Case for Unintelligent Design
Lisa Fullam, assistant professor of moral theology at the Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley, writes an op-ed on evolutionary theory.
Friday July 29, 2005
National Catholic Reporter
It's all about practice, dialogue: Buddhists, Christians find their differences enhance their faith
Taigen Dan Leighton, a faculty member at the GTU-affiliated Institute of Buddhist Studies, is included in this article about the complementary relationship between Christianity and Buddhism.
Thursday July 28, 2005
The Sun-Reporter
27th Pastoral Anniversary at Ingleside Presbyterian
SFTS Associate Professor Charles Marks is listed as taking part in the celebration of the church pastor's 27th anniversary.
Monday July 25, 2005
Fox News
Iraqis Optimistic on Constitution Deadline
Abbas Kadhim, a GTU lecturer in Islamic studies, warns against pressuring Iraq's executive committee to draft a constitution by the August 15 deadline.
Saturday July 9, 2005
San Jose Mercury News
Religious themes becoming more popular in marketing
GTU President James Donahue is quoted on the growing use of religious ideas and symbols in commerce and marketing.
Tuesday June 28, 2005
Argus
Holy Redeemer welcomes mom as pastor
GTU doctoral student Moses Penumaka has started a new outreach program to the growing South Asian Christian community at Holy Redeemer Lutheran Church in Newark, California. Paul J. Bodin, former seminary pastor at PLTS, served the congregation as interim pastor.
Friday June 24, 2005
J. the Jewish News Weekly of Northern California
Up close and personal
On June 29, GTU President James Donahue will participate in a tour of Jewish cultural programs in Warsaw and Krakow, Poland. Led by Tad Taube of San Francisco's Taube Foundation for Jewish Life and Culture, participants will also include Stephen Pearce, senior rabbi at Congregation Emanu-El and member of the GTU Board of Trustees.
Saturday June 18, 2005
Contra Costa Times
Film tells a different story: Albany woman captures life in rural Morocco
Adjunct GTU professor Yassir Chadly and his wife Khadijah Chadly comment on her new film about women in rural Morocco.
Friday June 17, 2005
J. the Jewish News Weekly of Northern California
Hasta Levada: Archbishop says farewell to S.F. Jewish community
GTU Board of Trustee member Rabbi Stephen Pearce offers comments at an interfaith farewell event for San Francisco Archbishop William Levada, who will be assuming a high post in the Vatican. GTU President James Donahue and Board of Trustee member Rita Semel also attended the event.
Monday June 13, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Finding my religion: Muslim teacher Abbas Kadhim on the role of Islam in shaping Iraq's future
Abbas Kadhim, a GTU lecturer in Islamic studies and a native of Iraq, is interviewed about his background and the role of Islam in shaping the future of that country.
Friday June 10, 2005
The Tidings
Buddhist, Christian leaders reflect on future of interreligious dialogue
Former GTU professor Rosemary Radford Ruether and Institute of Buddhist Studies professor Taigen Dan Leighton, panelists at the June 5 International Meeting of the Society for Buddhist-Christian Studies, are quoted on the future of interreligious relations under Pope Benedict.
Wednesday June 8, 2005
Palm Beach Post
Couples leaving embryos in 'storage limbo'
Karen Lebacqz, professor emerita of theological ethics at PSR, is quoted on the ethics of using unwanted embryos for medical research.
Wednesday June 8, 2005
Catholic News Service
Canadian archbishop says women's ordination ritual will not be valid
Victoria Rue (Ph.D. '94) is quoted on her decision to become ordained through the Roman Catholic Womenpriests Program. The first of its kind in North America, the July 25 ceremony will take place on the St. Lawrence River between Canada and the United States.
Saturday May 28, 2005
Philadelphia Enquirer
Bright Hope investigating pastor's background
GTU President James Donahue comments on the case of Cean R. James, a Philadelphia minister who allegedly falsified his academic credentials before being appointed pastor of Bright Hope Baptist Church in Philadelphia.
Saturday May 21, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Jesuits call editor's ouster a blow to independence
JSTB President Joseph Daoust is quoted on the resignation of Thomas Reese from his position as editor of the Jesuit magazine America, and the pressure from the Vatican agency that led to his decision.
Monday May 16, 2005
FoxNews.com
Tough Challenge Trying to Win Over Arab World
Abbas Kadhim, a GTU lecturer in Islamic studies, is quoted on the inability of the U.S. government to cover up its anti-Arab and anti-Muslim policies.
Saturday May 14, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
For Levada, an honor and a challenge: KEY VATICAN POST
GTU President James Donahue is quoted on the tension between the American church and the Vatican, and the multicultural sensitivity Bill Levada brings to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Former GTU faculty member James Bretzke is also quoted on Levada's moderate position.
Thursday May 5, 2005
Contra Costa Times
Goal of prayer links faithful, despite their varying practices
GTU Dean Arthur Holder is quoted on the nature of prayer: "The prayer that will be answered is the one that doesn't expect to be answered."
Thursday April 28, 2005
Science and Theology News
Religion and science in a creative interaction
CTNS director Robert Russell is featured on a talk he gave at the March Goshen College Conference on Religion and Science on the "mutually creative" relationship between religion and science.
Wednesday April 20, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Seminarians in Berkeley put studies on hold to watch history -- and wonder about their future under a new pontiff
JSTB students Michel Rwasha and Katy Hennessey, and DSPT students Raphael Mary, Sadoc Glau, Peter Chong, and Ed Hopfner reflect on the election of Joseph Ratzinger as pope.
Wednesday April 20, 2005
Contra Costa Times
New leader unlikely to act on U.S. hopes
GTU President James Donahue and JSTB Dean Jack Treloar are quoted on their anticipations for the papacy under Joseph Ratzinger.
Friday April 8, 2005
J. the Jewish News Weekly of Northern California
The female face of God: A window to the soul -- the Shechinah
Former GTU professor Daniel Matt is quoted on the need to balance masculine and feminine depictions of the divine.
Monday April 4, 2005
Contra Costa Times
Of trials facing next pope, some are new, some not
JSTB's Thomas Buckley is quoted on the desire of many cardinals to elect a pope who will have strong administrative skills.
Monday April 4, 2005
Contra Costa Times
Buffet-style faith dilutes pope's sway
GTU President James Donahue comments on the tension between American Catholics and the established doctrines of the Church.
Monday April 4, 2005
Christian Science Monitor
A strong pope, a broad impact
GTU President James Donahue is quoted on the unease of some parts of the Catholic population about the pope's conservative viewpoints.
Sunday April 3, 2005
commondreams.org
A Young Woman's Challenge to the Pope (and the Rest of Us)
Article recalling a 1993 encounter between the pope and Mev Puelo, who was preparing for doctoral studies at the GTU at the time. She urged the pope to consider those at the margins of society.
Sunday April 3, 2005
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Trailblazing pope will be hard to emulate, many say
JSTB's T. Howland Sanks is quoted on concerns about the centralization of the papacy, shortage of priests, and global poverty under John Paul II, and the issues facing his successor.
Saturday April 2, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Pope has touched people of other faiths, Bay Area clergy agree John Paul 'broke new ground'
GTU President James Donahue is quoted on the death of John Paul II, calling him “a moral and spiritual hero for Catholics and non-Catholics alike.” Stephen Pearce, GTU Board of Trustee member and senior rabbi of Temple Emanu-El in San Francisco, is also quoted on the positive impact of the pope.
Saturday April 2, 2005
Alameda Times-Star
John Paul II, while beloved, has built mixed legacy
GTU President James Donahue is quoted on the global outreach of John Paul II, making the Vatican “a player in the world stage on political, social and cultural issues.”
Saturday April 2, 2005
Kansas City Star
Pontiff transformed his church and the world
Dorothy Donnelly, an adjunct professor at the GTU, is quoted on the pope’s efforts to block women’s involvement in ministry.
Saturday April 2, 2005
Daily Review
Theologians look back on pope's mixed legacy
GTU President James Donahue, GTU doctoral student Patricia Shannon, and former GTU faculty member James Bretzke reflect on the positive and negative legacy of Pope John Paul II. A similar story appeared in the Oakland Tribune.
Friday April 1, 2005
Science and Theology News
Science-and-religion ‘trilogue’ is theologian’s goal
Interview with GTU alum Heup Young Kim (Ph.D. '92) on his interest in a “trilogue” that would include East Asian religions in the conversation with Christian theology and the natural sciences.
Tuesday March 29, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Bishop rips governor over parole reversal
Feature on Governor Schwarzenegger's denial of parole to convicted murderer James Tramel, who earned a degree from CDSP and was ordained as an Episcopal deacon while in prison.
Sunday March 27, 2005
The Press Enterprise
Churches reach out with religious theater
PSR's Doug Adams is quoted on the impact and purpose of religious theater.
Sunday March 27, 2005
San Jose Mercury-News
Blending Faith and Culture
Fumitaka Matsuoka, director of PSR's PANA Institute, is quoted on the growing number of Asian-American evangelicals in California.
Friday March 25, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Bringing religion to the masses
PSR president William McKinney is quoted on the Easter Sunday services of Bay Area mega-churches, many of which are held in sports arenas.
Friday March 11, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Oakland: Images of 'Soft Rubies' help author treasure her biracial roots
Feature on GTU alum Janet Stickmon (M.A. '99) and her recently published memoir, Crushing Soft Rubies in which she reflects on her bi-racial identity and spiritual journey.
Friday March 11, 2005
Mercury News
An engineer who built more than bridges
PSR president William McKinney is quoted on the life of engineer and PSR chairman Tom Henderson, who died last February.
Thursday March 10, 2005
Oakland Tribune
UC physicist awarded top religion prize
CTNS director Robert John Russell is quoted on UC physicist Charles Townes, the winner of this year's Templeton Prize for his work in bringing religion and science together. Townes will donate some of the winnings to PSR and CTNS. Related stories appeared in the Alameda Times Star, Argus, San Francisco Chronicle, San Ramon Valley Times, and Tri-Valley Herald.
Wednesday March 9, 2005
Newport News Times
Oregon Shores welcomes first executive director in 34-year history
GTU alum Frank Fromherz (Ph.D. ’90) is featured in this article about his new position as the first executive director of Oregon Shores Conservation Coalition.
Friday February 25, 2005
Contra Costa Times
East Bay Catholics offer prayers for the pope
GTU President James Donahue is quoted on the pope's health condition.
Tuesday February 15, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Same-sex marriage in the 'burbs
GTU doctoral student Erica Martin and her partner Melissa Stoddard are featured on their experience of being turned down for a marriage license at the clerk-recorder's office in Martinez, California. SKSM student Denis Paul is also quoted.
Tuesday February 15, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Finding my Religion: Steve Georgiou on his faith and mentor, minimalist poet Robert Lax
Interview with Steve Georgiou (Ph.D. '04) on his spiritual life in the Eastern Orthodox Church and his mentor, minimalist poet Robert Lax.
Tuesday February 8, 2005
The Religion Wire
California Seminary Honors Christian Television Pioneer
PSR's Doug Adams is quoted on a new faculty chair and endowment in Electronic Christian Media created by the GTU's Center for Arts, Religion and Education (CARE).
Saturday January 29, 2005
San Ramon Valley Times
First openly gay bishop reflects on struggles
PSR's three-day Earl Lectures on "Sex and the City of God" featured Gene Robinson, the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church.
Friday January 28, 2005
San Francisco Chronicle
Gay Anglican bishop gets fervid reception, Robinson has been on roller coaster ride since election
Gene Robinson, the first openly gay bishop in the Episcopal Church, spoke at a fundraiser for the Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion in Ministry at PSR.
Friday January 28, 2005
National Catholic Reporter
The Word From Rome
CDSP’s Louis Weil, speaking at a January 20 event at Rome’s ecumenical Centro Pro Unione, commented on the consecration of Gene Robinson.
Thursday January 27, 2005
Bay Area Reporter
Gay bishop visits bay area
PSR's 104th annual Earl Lectures featured openly gay Episcopal bishop Gene Robinson. PSR professor Mary Tolbert is quoted on Robinson's graceful handling of his controversial consecration.
Monday January 24, 2005
The Star (Malaysia)
Help for the psychotic
Frank Chooi (Ph.D. ’85) is featured on his work as a mental health clinical specialist for a California state government program that prepares prisoners for release.
Thursday January 13, 2005
Bay Area Reporter
Gay Lutheran group to honor mayor
Jeff Johnson, an openly gay Lutheran pastor ordained in 1990, graduated from PLTS. His church, First United Lutheran in San Francisco, was expelled from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America following his ordination.
Friday January 7, 2005
J. the Jewish News Weekly of Northern California
All Talmud, all the time: Berkeley seminary offers interfaith beit midrash
Feature article on the winter beit midrash course sponsored by CJS. Visiting Talmud scholar Benay Lappe and CJS director Naomi Seidman comment on the unique course, which offers traditional Jewish study in an interfaith environment.
Saturday December 25, 2004
Contra Costa Times
At your service: churches change times for holidays
CDSP's Lizette Larson-Miller is quoted on the challenges of structuring and scheduling Christmas church services.
Monday December 20, 2004
The Christian Post
National Ministries Announces Prophetic Justice Institute
National Ministries, an organization of American Baptist Churches USA, has established the J. Alfred Smith Sr. Prophetic Justice Institute in honor of J. Alfred Smith, Sr., ABSW professor and senior pastor of Allen Temple Baptist Church in Oakland.
Friday December 10, 2004
Contra Costa Times
Scenic wonder: Everyday transformed to brilliant
Feature article on the GTU’s art exhibit, "Transfigurations," architectural drawings and portraits by bay area artist A.G. Rizzoli, on display at the GTU library from October 27, 2004 to February 2, 2005.
Tuesday December 7, 2004
Contra Costa Times
Company, not gifts, key to Hanukkah
CJS director Naomi Seidman is quoted on the uses of Hannukkah's commercialism.
Monday December 6, 2004
Contra Costa Times
Is it Hannukah, Chanuko or Xanuka or Khanukka?
CJS director Naomi Seidman is quoted on the difficulty of spelling "Chanukah" in English and transliterating the Hebrew sounds.
Tuesday November 30, 2004
New York Times
Who’s an Exemplary Evangelical?
GTU’s Kelly Bulkeley questions the role of Evangelicalism in a pluralistic democracy in this letter to the editor.
Friday November 19, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Multifaith group puts own spin on values
ABSW's George Cummings is quoted on the moral issues discussed at an ecumenical Washington meeting, including health care, housing, and education.
Sunday November 7, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Christian strategy: Go beyond 2004 election's hot button issues
GTU President Jim Donahue is quoted on the need to reframe and broaden the national conversation on morality and politics.
Monday November 1, 2004
Colloquy: The Newsletters of The Association of Theological Schools
New faculty explore differences of vocation, career
Jennifer Lord (Ph.D. '03), assistant professor of worship and preaching at Lancaster Theological Seminary, participated in an October panel on being an assistant professor in a seminary setting. Commenting on the difference between her Ph.D. program and being a part of a faculty, she says, "It's no longer all about me; now it's that collective vocation."
Friday October 29, 2004
Berkeley Voice
Diverse Balinese art comes alive
Feature article on GTU’s art exhibit, “Objects and Representations of Balinese Religion and Culture: An exhibition from the collection of Clare and Joe Fischer” on display at the GTU library from October 15 to January 15.
Wednesday October 27, 2004
San Francisco Bay Guardian
The pimps are coming: Opponents of Berkeley’s prostitution measure use alarmist rhetoric
GTU doctoral student Avaren Ipsen is quoted on the deficiencies in the arguments against decriminalizing prostitution.
Tuesday October 26, 2004
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
What's the meaning of politics in dreams?
GTU's Kelly Bulkeley is featured in this article about his current research on the connection between politics and dreams.
Monday October 25, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Religious left tries to regain ground lost to conservatives
PSR president William McKinney is quoted on the silence of the religious left.
Friday October 15, 2004
Vital Theology
"New Science" Quantum Mechanics Creates Space for God
Robert Russell, director of the Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences, is featured in this article about the hopeful relationship between quantum mechanics and theology that may help heal the split between liberal and conservative theologies.
Sunday October 3, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Shining a light on Kabbalah
Former GTU professor Daniel Matt is featured in an interview about his current project, a twelve-volume translation of and commentary on the Zohar, the thirteenth-century text of Jewish mysticism. "You never know where the Zohar is going to lead you next," Matt says, "And that's part of its appeal."
September 22, 2006
El Cerrito Journal
Rabbi's Quest Opens a New World of Faith
Rabbi Dean Kertesz, a former student at the GTU’s Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies, is profiled.
Monday September 20, 2004
Contra Costa Times
Faith factor: Election may rest on how voters define their Christian duty
GTU President Jim Donahue comments that the possession of strong religious convictions fosters confidence in leaders.
Wednesday September 15, 2004
Contra Costa Times
Poor conduct no stranger in sports
GTU President Jim Donahue is quoted on the recent eruption of violence at Oakland Coliseum baseball game, commenting that while it could be taken as evidence for an uncivil society, the incident might simply be "people getting out of control."
Wednesday September 15, 2004
Vital Theology
Presidential Candidates Need to Clarify Religion's Influence
GTU President Jim Donahue is quoted on the need for public figures to differentiate their public and private roles.
Friday August 20, 2004
Sacramento Bee
Spectrum of the Unexpected
GTU doctoral student Lee Gilmore is quoted on the religious and ritualistic aspects of Nevada's annual Burning Man Festival, the subject of her dissertation.
Wednesday August 18, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Bay Area activism to infuse N.Y.
Incoming GTU student Victoria Welle is quoted on her decision to defer her admission to the GTU to attend protests of the GOP convention in New York this August.
Friday August 13, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
The battle over same-sex marriage
PSR's Mary Ann Tolbert expresses regret about the recent California Supreme Court decision striking down San Francisco's bid to legalize gay marriage, commenting that the Bible does not provide the grounds for this limited definition of marriage.
Sunday July 4, 2004
Contra Costa Times
Stem Cells Face Microscopic Scrutiny
UCC minister Alan Kelchner (Ph.D. '03) is featured, commenting on both his support of stem-cell research and the necessity of exercising restraint. PLTS Interim President Ted Peters is also quoted on the distinction between stem-cell and abortion debates.
Tuesday June 1, 2004
Contra Costa Times
Center aims to offer religious voice for gays
PSR's Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry is featured with focus on its longtime tradition of support for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender concerns in religion. Mary Tolbert, director of the center, and PSR President William McKinney are quoted.
Monday May 31, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Bay Area bishops decline comment: questions on sex issues, politicians and sacraments
GTU President James Donahue comments that equating a political leader's Catholic identity with his or her position on a single issue is a limited understanding of Catholicism.
Monday May 17, 2004
Greater Good
Living Peacefully in a Time of Turmoil
GTU President James Donahue addresses how we can find meaning and purpose in an age marked by anxiety and despair. "We need to look at the many stories of hope that surround us if we can only develop the eyes to see them," he writes.
Thursday May 13, 2004
San Diego Union-Tribune
Sell or celebrate: Vatican exhibition, which opens here Saturday, raises questions about virtue of religious art
Ronald Nakasone, a Buddhist cleric and professor-in-residence for the GTU's Center for the Arts, Religion, and Education, is quoted on the contested value of religious artwork.
Friday May 7, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Abuse photos undermine Bush's religious rhetoric, Church leaders object to casting God on U.S. side
GTU's Rosemary Radford Ruether comments on the horrendous and contradictory nature of the torture of Iraqi prisoners, especially in light of the claim by the president and many of his supporters that members of the administration are "messianic agents chosen by God," in Ruether's words.
Monday April 26, 2004
Religion News Service
International Theologians, Religious Leaders, and Peace Activists Gather for Sabeel Ecumenical Liberation Theology Center Conference in Jerusalem
GTU's Rosemary Radford Ruether attended a conference in Jerusalem on "Challenging Christian Zionism: Theology, Politics, and the Palestine-Israel Conflict" April 14-18, where she criticized Christian Zionism as a dangerous theology that should be rejected. Similar stories appeared in the Worldwide Faith News and Ekklesia.
Sunday April 25, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
The burden of immortality: Slowing the aging process gives birth to ethical, sociological questions
GTU President James Donahue asks whether increased longevity, the possible consequence of proposed anti-aging drugs, will "change the way people view their lives" and affect our sense of purpose.
Tuesday April 20, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Committed to marriage for the masses: Polyamorists say they relate honestly to multiple partners
SKSM President Rebecca Parker comments that the practice of polyamory advocated by some Unitarian Universalists challenges the beliefs of many Christians, and may threaten the validity of gay and lesbian monogamous relationships.
Monday April 19, 2004
PRNewswire
New President & CEO Named at Laguna Honda Foundation; Susan Cook Hoganson Takes Helm In Mid-June
GTU trustee Susan Cook Hoganson has been selected as the president and chief executive officer of the Laguna Honda Foundation, an organization that will oversee a dramatic revitalization of the Laguna Honda Hospital and Rehabilitation Center, a unique long-term elderly care facility in San Francisco.
Wednesday April 14, 2004
Insight on the News
Analysis: Future Teachers Are People of Faith
PLTS professor Ted Peters is quoted on his reactions to a recent UCLA survey on the spiritual growth of college students.
Monday April 12, 2004
The Catholic Voice
GTU schools issue statement opposing the death penalty
A description of the statement issued on Good Friday by over fifty members of Jesuit School of Theology at Berkeley, Dominican School of Philosophy and Theology, and Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, calling for an end to the death penalty.
Sunday April 11, 2004
Contra Costa Sunday Times
Jesus Christ as Pop Icon
GTU President Jim Donahue and Dean Arthur Holder are quoted in a front page story on the increased visibility of Jesus as a popular culture figure.
Saturday April 10, 2004
Kansas City Star
Simple and Special Symbols hold multiple meanings for different religions and beliefs
JSTB's Alejandro Garcia-Rivera comments on the history and religious significance of such symbols as the butterfly, phoenix, and the fish.
Friday April 9, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Death penalty misses the message of Good Friday
In an op-ed piece, JSTB professors Thomas Scirghi and Lisa Fullam and FST professor Richard Gula take the Good Friday memory of Jesus' execution to urge Californians to reject the death penalty.
Monday March 29, 2004
Catholic Voice
Four Oakland women plan outreach to prostitutes
JSTB student Amy Fitzgerald is currently developing an outreach program to prostitutes at Oakland’s St. Andrew-St. Joseph Parish.
Friday March 26, 2004
Chicago Tribune
A medieval music mystery
GTU professor Joshua Holo is quoted on the life of Obadiah the Proselyte, a medieval Jewish convert recently discovered by a University of California professor as the compiler of a mysterious Jewish musical prayer book.
Wednesday March 24, 2004
Presbyterian Church USA News
Sharing the 'core narrative': Official wants Christians, Jews to talk more about faith, not religion
Reverend Jay Rock (Ph.D. '86), a pastor in northern California, is writing a guide for Presbyterians to use in connection with a project that encourages Jews and Christians to study together, recognizing their commonalities. "I just think we'd get further if we talked from the beginning point of what is dear to us," Rock says.
Thursday March 18, 2004
CNN.com
Methodist church tries lesbian minister
PSR's Mary Ann Tolbert is quoted in support of Karen Dammann, a 1992 PSR graduate and United Methodist Minister from Ellensburg, WA, on trial by the United Methodist Church for practicing homosexuality.
Thursday March 18, 2004
New York Times
Methodists Put Minister on Trial for Declaring Herself a Lesbian
PSR's Mary Ann Tolbert is quoted in response to the trial of Karen Dammann, a 1992 PSR graduate and an openly-gay United Methodist minister: "It's a big deal at any point when a church puts one of its ministers on trial," Tolbert said.
Monday March 15, 2004
Chicago Tribune
Heiress sponsors scholar translating ancient Jewish text
Former GTU professor Daniel Matt is featured in an article about his current project funded by wealthy patron Margot Pritzker, a translation of the medieval Jewish mystical text, the Zohar. A related story appeared in the Charleston Post and Courier.
Saturday March 13, 2004
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Rabbi, author to visit
Rabbi Lawrence Kushner, visiting professor of Jewish spirituality at the GTU, will be the scholar-in-residence this weekend at Temple Sinai in Squirrel Hill, Pennsylvania.
Tuesday March 9, 2004
TechNewsWorld
Technology and Religion: An Interview with the Episcopal Church's Tom Ferguson
Tom Ferguson (Ph.D. '02), associate director for ecumenical and interfaith relations at the Episcopal Church, is interviewed extensively about the relationship between technology and religion, highlighting both its promise and potential challenges.
Monday March 8, 2004
Christian Science Monitor
China opens door to Christianity--of a patriotic sort
Gao Ying (MA '91), minister and vice president of the Beijing Christian Council, spoke at an event unveiling blueprints for new churches in Beijing, a sign of the rapid growth of Christianity in China. Related stories appeared in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, Seattle Times, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Chicago Tribune, the San Francisco Chronicle, and the Providence Journal.
Friday March 5, 2004
Berkeley Voice and Contra Costa TImes
'Passion of the Christ' stirs passionate debate
GTU President James Donahue, Dean Arthur Holder, and GTU faculty members Naomi Seidman, Michael Morris, and Margaret Miles are quoted at length on their opinions of Gibson's film, perspectives they will share at a March 8 GTU forum on "'The Passion of the Christ': A Jewish-Christian Conversation."
Friday March 5, 2004
Our Lady of the Lake University News
Religious studies professor to receive honorary doctorate from Notre Dame
Sister Anita de Luna MCDP (GTU Ph.D. '00), assistant professor of religious studies at Our Lady of the Lake University, will receive an honorary doctorate from the University of Notre Dame.
Monday March 1, 2004
Artweek
Junko Chodos at the Graduate Theological Union
Front page story in the March issue on artist Junko Chodos' exhibit, "Requiem for an Executed Bird," which was on display at the Flora Lamson Hewlett Library from October 2003 until February 2004.
Saturday February 28, 2004
Contra Costa Times
11,000 priest abuse victims estimated
GTU President Donahue is quoted in response to recent studies released on the Roman Catholic sex-abuse crisis and his concern about church leadership.
Thursday February 26, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Interfaith "Passion" review: 2 no votes, 1 yes
Rabbi Stephen Pearce, a GTU Trustee, is quoted on his opinion that Mel Gibson's film is anti-Semitic and focuses too exclusively on violence and death.
Wednesday February 25, 2004
San Francisco Chronicle
Marriage's lineage a bit convoluted
PSR's Mary Ann Tolbert is quoted on her opinion that the concept of marriage has never been fixed, an idea that has implications for both opponents and proponents of same-sex marriages.
Sunday February 22, 2004
Alameda Times- Star (ANG papers)
Passionate about 'The Passion'
GTU Dean Arthur Holder and CJS Director Naomi Seidman are quoted in this story on Mel Gibson's film.
Saturday February 21, 2004
Dallas Morning News
The purpose of the Passion
In this story on responses to the Mel Gibson film, GTU Professor Sandra Schneiders is quoted questioning the sacrificial nature of Jesus' death. View story (registration necessary)
Thursday February 19, 2004
Associated Baptist Press
"The Passion" offers bloody, powerful vision of Jesus' death
ABSW President Keith Russell is quoted on the "the importance of the historical setting of the written story of Jesus for comprehending its critical stance toward the Jews."
Monday February 16, 2004
Contra Costa Times
Movie hype ignites passions among Christians and Jews
DSPT's Michael Morris is quoted on the power of the film to bring new perspective on the Crucifixion, and his belief that the film's excessive violence will shift the focus away from anti-Semitic concerns.
Friday February 13, 2004
East Bay Express
Outing the Bible: The new queer theologians don't need your approval
Features interviews with GTU graduate Jay Johnson, of Pacific School of Religion's Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies in Religion and Ministry, as well as other PSR and SKSM students.
Thursday February 12, 2004
PRNewswire
Lesbian and Gay Couples in San Francisco Are Granted Marriage Licenses
Sarah Connor, who moved to the Bay Area in 1992 to pursue studies at the GTU, is quoted on her joy at receiving a same-sex marriage license with her partner in San Francisco.
Saturday January 24, 2004
Contra Costa Times
NASA project spurs talk of sharing God
Ted Peters, president of Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary, is quoted in support of the idea that the major religious traditions practiced on Earth could account for life on other planets.
Saturday January 24, 2004
Tampa Tribune
Alien Revelations: How would creationists deal with a discovery of extraterrestrial life?
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary President Ted Peters is quoted on his idea that the discovery of extraterrestrial life would be compatible with major religious traditions.
Saturday January 3, 2004
San Jose Mercury News
Passionate debate over new Mel Gibson film
DSPT's Michael Morris is quoted on his perception that the controversy over the Mel Gibson film is fueled more by anit-Catholic than by anti-Jewish concerns.
Saturday December 27, 2003
San Francisco Chronicle
Jesus' real life becomes topic for holiday season: Novels, film rousing believers and critics
JSTB's Jerome Baggett is quoted in this piece about pop culture's fascination with the life of Jesus, as evidenced by books such as The Da Vinci Code and the film The Passion of the Christ.
Thursday December 25, 2003
San Francisco Chronicle
Ethics -- antidote to scandal
The rash of business scandals in recent years prompts GTU president Jim Donahue to reflect on whether ethics can be taught. He proposes a set of questions that can form the basis of an ethical orientation in today's world.
Thursday December 25, 2003
Contra Costa Times
Year of Jesus' birth remains undefined
CDSP's Bill Countryman and JSTB's Jean-Francois Racine are quoted in this story about the different Gospel accounts and interpretations of when Jesus was born.
Wednesday December 24, 2003
Contra Costa Times, Modesto Bee, and San Jose Mercury News
Christmas pageants get spruced up
GTU Dean Arthur Holder and PSR President Bill McKinney are quoted.
Saturday December 20, 2003
Sacramento Bee
East (Europe) meets West at capital Yiddish Club
Naomi Seidman, director of the GTU's Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies, is quoted on the sacredness of Yiddish to Jewish people.
Thursday December 4, 2003
Catholic Herald
Marymount Professor Discusses Ethics in the Classroom
Review of a book by Michael Boylan and GTU President James A. Donahue. Ethics Across the Curriculum: A Practice Based Approach describes practical methods for professors to encourage students to act ethically.
Sunday November 23, 2003
Los Angeles Times
Jesus With a Genius Grant
Nancey Murphy (Th.D. ’87) is featured in an article on liberal and conservative theology at the evangelical Fuller Theological Seminary, where she is professor of Christian Philosophy.
Sunday November 23, 2003
Alameda Times-Star
Author tracks lives of spiritual seekers and their children
UC Berkeley alum and SF Chronicle reporter Don Lattin discusses the GTU in a book on contemporary spirituality, Following Our Bliss: How the Spiritual Ideals of the Sixties Shape Our Lives Today.
Monday November 17, 2003
Catholic Voice
De Staebler’s art inspires praise or criticism
Dr. Doug Adams is quoted at length on incompleteness in the work of sculptor Stephen De Staebler, who created the GTU Hewlett Library's "Winged Figure" (1993).
Friday November 7, 2003
Jewish Bulletin
Berkeley Kabbalah scholar plunges into heart of key mystical text
Former GTU professor Daniel C. Matt featured about his work on a new 12 volume translation of the Zohar, the centerpiece of Jewish Kabbalah.
Sunday October 19, 2003
San Francisco Chronicle Magazine
The Immoral Majority: Finding sexual ethics in the godless masses
Ordained Methodist minister and president of Starr King School of Ministry, Rebecca Ann Parker was quoted at length on the subject of sexual ethics. She discussed coming of age in the midst of the sexual revolution and the society's current attitude toward sexuality and spirituality.
Sunday October 12, 2003
San Francisco Sunday Chronicle
Living Saint: Mother Teresa's fast track to canonization
GTU President Donahue comments on the spirituality of Mother Theresa and the Pope as representing a form of mystical piety that is "in tension" with other Christians who "see the church as an agent of social transformation."
Sunday August 3, 2003
Oakland Tribune
Same-sex unions become flashpoints in Episcopal, Catholic church
Dean Arthur Holder is quoted at length in this story on the current debate in the Episcopal church about same-sex unions. "It's a good thing the church is addressing these issues, which are issues of real concern for people all over the world and people of different points of view," he said. "I think it's a matter of discernment. What is the holy spirit leading God's people to do and to teach at this time?"
Monday July 21, 2003
Contra Costa Times
Leaderless society? When our faith in institutions' luminaries fades, our paths toward new ones may be unorthodox
GTU President Donahue offers his list of the top leaders in contemporary society, along with other comments.
Sunday July 6, 2003
Tri-Valley Herald, Fremont Argus
Dreamtime: Solving Problems in our Sleep
Story quotes GTU faculty member Kelly Bulkeley.
Saturday July 5, 2003
Contra Costa Times
Seeking insight into uncertainty
GTU president James Donahue shares thoughts on the Catholic church scandals and moral uncertainty and decay in America.
Monday May 5, 2003
Catholic Voice
Berkeley theologian honored for Christian service
GTU/DSPT faculty member John Hilary Martin received the 2003 Alemany Award for Christian Service, given by Dominican School of Philosophy & Theology (a GTU member school). Father Martin has spent much of his career exploring the connections that exist among world religions, particularly Catholicism and indigenous spiritual traditions. His recent books The Reality of Myth and People From the Dawn include discussions and lessons from an indigenous tribe in Australia's Northern Territory, where Father Martin has visited for many years. Beginning this spring, he will be dividing his time between Berkeley and a cluster of Catholic seminaries named Yarra in Melbourne. Visit the GTU Bookstore for Father Martin's books, and his faculty page at DSPT's site.
Sunday May 4, 2003
San Francisco Sunday Chronicle
Our government could use a new prayer
GTU/PSR Professor Rosemary Radford Ruether is quoted on how Sept. 11, 2001 "gave the Bush administration the new global enemy it needed to justify its global imperial strategy." "Terrorism" became the new incarnation of evil. The war against Iraq, Ruether writes, is depicted as "one more episode in an apocalyptic drama of good against evil, the angels of Light against the forces of Darkness, America as God's chosen people against God's enemies."
Wednesday April 30, 2003
Artweek
Madeline de Joly at the GTU
Essay on an art exhibit at the GTU's Hewlett Library.
Monday April 21, 2003
Oakland Tribune and Alameda Times Star
Scholar questions patriarchal interpretations
Column on the GTU's March 14 & 15 Islamic studies conference, focusing on one of the keynote speakers, Amina Wadud.
Friday April 11, 2003
Berkeley Voice & Contra Costa Times
Conference covers religions and African-American gays
Covers the "Souls a'Fire" conference sponsored by PSR's Center for Lesbian and Gay Studies.
Saturday March 29, 2003
Oakland Tribune, Alameda Times Star, San Ramon Valley Herald
Bay Area’s black Sufi Muslims hit radar with new film
Feature story on "Oceans of Mercy: Sufi Muslims in the San Francisco Bay Area," a documentary by Dr. Ibrahim Farajajé, dean of the faculty at SKSM, and David Dezern, GTU doctoral student.
Tuesday March 25, 2003
San Francisco Chronicle
Fighting war with words: Web site looks for a better way
Story on the message and tone of the peace demonstrations quotes Father Louis Vitale, who teaches at FST. There "is a need to stop business as usual when we're involved in something that's just really immoral and unjust. We would say to people, 'Don't drive. Don't even go to work. Stay home and think through what do we need to change in order to be a society that lives without wars."
Saturday March 22, 2003
San Francisco Chronicle
War in Babylon has evangelicals seeing Earth's final days
The article notes that "some religion scholars are troubled by the president's use of religious language in justifying the war against Hussein. ‘There is enormous arrogance and presumption in his use of religious claims,’ said James Donahue, the president of the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley. ' "God is on our side" -- it's too simplistic in its labeling of good and evil. It personifies evil in one person and makes it one bad person versus the rest of the world.’"
Friday March 21, 2003
Contra Costa Times
Religious leaders seek to address differences: East Bay leaders say they will try to educate people about Islam and foster compassion for all, regardless of views on war
Donahue comments on the need to maintain tolerance and compassion, as the war on Iraq intensifies. "The fear of difference can lead us to do some disastrous things sometimes. The worst that we can do is demonize those differences."
Sunday March 16, 2003
San Francisco Sunday Chronicle
U.S. Muslims struggle with faith and public image
Story on the GTU's March 14 & 15 Islamic studies conference includes quotations from keynote speakers John Esposito and Hamid Algar, as well as GTU President Donahue.
Saturday March 15, 2003
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
John Templeton: Spiritually rich, and passing it on
President Donahue comments on the influence of the Templeton grants (which fund some of the work of GTU affiliate CTNS).
Saturday March 15, 2003
San Jose Mercury News
Clash of Faiths: Bush’s plans for war with Iraq alienate religious leaders
Donahue comments that Bush’s consistent use of religious language "is a little bit presumptuous. My problem is that Bush has a privatized religious faith. He listens to his inner heart, but he doesn’t have a public theology at work."
Wednesday March 12, 2003
Contra Costa Times
War jitters put the skids on leisure
Story about how the potential war is affecting local residents includes comment from GTU President James Donahue.
Saturday March 8, 2003
Oakland Tribune
Faith and the Language of War: President’s religious beliefs are reflected in his speeches
Story includes President Donahue’s comments that Bush’s recent speeches have featured a "moral absolutism" that’s "frightening. My concern is that there seems to be a presumption that God is on our side, that we’re on the side of the angels and that the other people are on the side of the devil. It’s too simplistic, and it’s very, very dangerous. It’s based on the presumption that this one way is the only way to truth—that we’ve got a market on wisdom and truth and God’s providence, and if you don’t follow that then you’re just wrong." Donahue also comments "The role of the leader is not just to reflect their own beliefs. The religious identity of the country is very diverse, so he’s got to be careful to not identify with one particular group."
Saturday March 8, 2003
Contra Costa Times
Bush uses faith-based language to sooth US
Story features comments from GTU President Donahue. "My concern is that there is a presumption that God is on our side, and how could we possibly be wrong if we're on the side of angels ...the complexities are much more significant than the public rhetoric, specifically the Bush rhetoric, is portraying. It's insulting to thinking people that good and evil can be portrayed as so reductionist and so simplistic."
Saturday March 1, 2003
Dallas Morning News
Visions and Divine Visitations
This story on the religious history of dreams quotes Kelly Bulkeley, who teaches at the GTU. He comments "People have always been a little suspicious of dreams, [in part] because dreams give people a kind of experiential sense of powers greater than themselves."
Saturday February 22, 2003
West County Times
East Bay community reflects, acts on war fears
In-depth story on the responses of diverse East Bay faith communities to the threat of war includes comments from GTU President James Donahue.
Tuesday February 18, 2003
Oakland Tribune, Fremont Argus, Hayward Daily Review, Alameda Times-Star, and Tri-Valley Herald
Tongue-in-cheek science panel rebuffs creationists
Story quotes Dr. Ted Peters, PLTS professor who is also affiliated with CTNS. Peters comments: "It’s definitely possible and actually advisable that a Christian both revere what the Bible says and affirm the science of evolutionary biology. For us, we want to take seriously the science of evolution and show how at minimum it is compatible with a Christian understanding of God’s creation."
Monday December 30, 2002
Oakland Tribune, San Mateo County Times, Alameda Times-Star, Fremont Argus, Tri-Valley Herald
Prayer and pageantry: Miss California aspirant wants to be a pastor
Profile of Miss San Francisco, Nicole Lamarche, who is a PSR M.Div. student.
Monday December 16, 2002
Catholic Voice
Another look at another gulf war: War, peace and the prospects for moral discernment
An essay by JSTB Professor Jerome Baggett, condensed from a lecture delivered at a conference.
Saturday November 23, 2002
The Deseret News (Salt Lake City, UT)
Group mulls alternatives to Iraq war
Story on religious protests against the proposed war discusses the GTU’s Presidents’ letter.
Monday November 11, 2002
America
Church, state and the faith-based initiative: A historical perspective
Essay by JSTB professor Thomas Buckley.
Saturday November 9, 2002
San Francisco Chronicle, Fremont Argus, Alameda Times Star, Tri-Valley Herald, Oakland Tribune, San Jose Mercury News, The Herald-Sun (Durham, N.C.) and The News and Observer (Raleigh, NC)
Obituary for Charles McCoy
Obituary for Dr. McCoy, who was professor at PSR/GTU for 33 years and was founder of the GTU's Center for Ethics and Social Policy.
Monday October 21, 2002
Catholic Voice
Local voices grow stronger against war
Covers the increasing protests against the Bush administration’s plans for war, focusing on those from local parishes, Bishop Cummins, and from the GTU. Quotes the JSTB faculty’s statement, Ruether’s letter of protest, and the presidents’ joint letter.
Saturday October 12, 2002
Oakland Tribune, San Mateo County Times, Alameda Times-Star, Fremont Argus, Hayward Daily Review, Tri-Valley Herald
Religious leaders urge options to war: Berkeley theology schools speak out
"For the leaders of nine religious schools at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, now is a time for speaking out about national politics . . ."
Saturday October 12, 2002
San Francisco Chronicle
Clerics question whether pre-emptive Iraq strike would be 'just war'
Don Lattin discusses the range of views among religious leaders about the proposed war on Iraq.
Monday October 7, 2002
The Catholic Voice
Churches continue to argue against war on Iraq
Story discusses the GTU Presidents’ statement against the war, and the JSTB faculty’s letter of protest.
Monday September 30, 2002
Oakland Tribune, Alameda Times-Star, Fremont Argus, Hayward Daily Review, Tri-Valley Herald
Unlocking the Inner Artist: Gallery owner turns personal pain into spiritual healing
Profile about a PSR graduate, Rev. Alan Laird, and his Oakland "Expressions" Gallery
Sunday September 29, 2002
San Francisco Chronicle
Aria Studies: Celebrating St. Francis
FST Professor Michael Guinan’s essay on St. Francis and the Messiaen opera about his life.
Saturday September 21, 2002
Alameda Times-Star and Tri-Valley Herald
Congregations of Baptists grows as others dwindle
Dr. Keith Russell, ABSW President, comments on the increased congregations of local Baptist churches.
Sunday September 8, 2002
San Jose Mercury News
Bay Area found itself inextricably tied to the Sept. 11 attacks
In a story on the effects of the 9/11 attacks, President Donahue comments "Sept. 11 was a huge wake-up call to the existence of multiple world religions in this country. I think people's ignorance of Islam was profound; now their interest in understanding Islam has become intensified."
Sunday August 25, 2002
Boston Sunday Globe
Abuse crisis tests church doctrine on scandal
President Donahue offers a perspective from the theological community in a story about how the Catholic church is being forced to rethink its position on "scandal," and the priority it has attached to preventing its secrets from being made public.
Sunday August 4, 2002
Oakland Tribune
Wading between right and wrong
GTU President Donahue comments on the current ethical crisis in terms of the dominance of individualism and the need to develop community and consensus groups. Story also ran in Tri-Valley Herald, Hayward Sunday Review, San Mateo County Times, and Fremont Argus.
Monday July 29, 2002
San Francisco Chronicle
Internal conflict for progressive American Jews
GTU alum Laurie Zoloth is quoted at length about patriotism and progressive thinking.
Saturday July 27, 2002
Santa Cruz Sentinel
Can we protect God from politics?
Column by Rebecca Irelan, pastor of Grace UMC and doctoral candidate at the GTU.
Tuesday July 23, 2002
San Francisco Chronicle
Singing for their supper
GTU doctoral student J.D. Benson reports on an S.F. street retreat developed as a religious witness of clergy and lay people.
Sunday June 30, 2002
San Francisco Sunday Chronicle
Activist catholic priests
Franciscan School of Theology hosted a "going-away party" for two activist priests facing federal prison terms for civil disobedience. Column by Stephanie Salter.
Sunday June 30, 2002
San Francisco Sunday Chronicle
Veterans join debate over pledge
GTU President Donahue comments on the controversy about the "one nation under God" phrase in the Pledge of Allegiance. "The issue here is: In what way does this notion of God serve to guide human activity? Does it give preference to one group over another? Does it infringe upon rights?"
Sunday June 30, 2002
San Francisco Sunday Chronicle
Simon downplays religious TV role
Pacific Lutheran Theological Seminary Professor Stephen Ellingson is quoted in a story about the gubernatorial candidate Bill Simon’s appearance on a fundamentalist Christian cable network.
Saturday June 8, 2002
Oakland Tribune
Catholics still giving to charity
President Donahue comments on giving patterns in the wake of the child/priest scandals.
Friday June 7, 2002
San Diego Union-Tribune
Sex, Lies, and Leadership: U.S. Catholic officials prepare to confront scandal
Donahue comments on the challenge facing the bishops, and how their credibility is at stake.
Tuesday May 14, 2002
San Francisco Chronicle
Bay Area Priests Fear Crackdown on Gay Seminarians
Story includes several comments from Jesuit School of Theology president Joseph Daoust.
Monday May 6, 2002
Catholic Voice
Forum Explores Complexities of Stem Cell Research
GTU doctoral student Gaymon Bennett discussed the public policy aspects of the issue.
Sunday April 28, 2002
San Francisco Sunday Chronicle
The Connection Between Christian Suffering, Abuse
Don Lattin interviews Starr King School for the Ministry President Rebecca Parker about her new book, Proverbs of Ashes: Violence, Redemptive Suffering, and the Search for What Saves Us, co-authored with Rita Nakashima Brock.
Sunday April 28, 2002
The Living Church
New GTU Dean Arthur Holder
Interview with the GTU’s new dean, discussing the consortium’s "common mission with many traditions."
Thursday April 25, 2002
BBC News Worldwide
The Crisis in the Catholic Church: BBC Interview with James Donahue
Donahue’s comments suggested that the Church is in an ecclesiastical crisis, that the level of outrage about the abuse issues and how they were h