An unusual and perhaps historic gathering of evangelical worship theologians took place at Calvin College and Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan from September 20-22. The event was hosted by the Calvin Institute for Christian Worship in conjunction with the Brehm Center for Worship, Theology, and the Arts at Fuller Theological Seminary in California. There were 26 scholars representing 21 institutions:
Wheaton College
Calvin Theol. Seminary
Southwestern Bapt. Seminary
Indiana Wesleyan University
Covenant Theol. Seminary
St. Louis University
Erskine Theol. Seminary
Institute for Worship Studies
Ouachita Baptist University
London School of Theology
Fuller Theol. Seminary
Biola University
Southeastern Bapt. Seminary
Gordon-Conwell Seminary
Dallas Theol. Seminary
Asbury Theol. Seminary
Judson College
North Park Theol. Seminary
Liberty University
Wildwood Chapel
Worship Resources Intl.
The participants enjoyed a wonderful unity in diversity based on a common love for the Lord and his Church, a common passion for worship, and a common desire to see deeper biblical reflection on worship issues as the best remedy for the worship ills and wars of our day. Each attender contributed a paper for discussion during the consultation, and there was also ample time to share experiences, frustrations and dreams. Further such gatherings are foreseen, perhaps regionally, and other resources such as books and a journal may also result.
Some photos from the event may be seen HERE.
