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Diversity
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. (Galatians 3:28 ESV)
Seminary in a Diverse World – Gender and Culture
Diversity is not just a twenty-first-century buzzword. It is an acknowledgment that our culture is of two genders, many national origins, multiple languages, and various races, colors, religions, and cultures. Marginalization of both female and minority voices within in our society, both in the civil and religious spheres, has a long history in our nation, and ameliorating such marginalization is one primary task of education in general and Christian education in particular.
Part of the church’s mission is to proclaim the gospel to the peoples of the earth. Hence Phoenix Seminary acknowledges the importance of a biblical theology of “every tribe and language and people and nation.” This means reaching people-groups within our immediate culture and in the varied cultures of the world. Crossing ethnic, gender, economic, social, and racial boundaries to accomplish quality theological education for ministry is an intentional act of Phoenix Seminary.
To this end Phoenix Seminary actively subscribes to a policy of equal education and employment opportunity for all people regardless of race, national origin, sex, age, marital status, or disability. This policy is informed by Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Our subscription to this policy in no way compromises our freedom to engage in our educational mission in accordance with the religious and ecclesiastical purposes of this institution. Yet we clearly desire to serve Christ-honoring students of all backgrounds in an ever-expanding and diverse student body, one whose diversity enriches us theologically, spiritually, and pastorally.
Denominational Distinctives & Theological Diversity
We are an inter/multidenominational seminary serving primarily, though not exclusively, the evangelical community. This means that in many respects we are an inter-denominational seminary in that students from many backgrounds and faith groups are on campus for study and personal preparation for ministry. Diversity of denominations/faith groups means diversity of opinions on many theological and doctrinal matters. It is one of the strengths of an inter/multidenominational seminary that we can debate, respect, and even enjoy the type of theological diversity that can exist under the authority of the inspired Scriptures. Should any student feel that one’s denominational distinctives are being treated dismissively in an unfair way by faculty or other students, the Dean of Students is ready to help generate conversations with the appropriate parties to create a respectful and supportive environment of theological learning for all students.