Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and the Diocese of Pittsburgh will launch an Anglican/Episcopal Studies Track in the fall semester.
The new track breaks down traditional segregation of future priests, deacons, and lay ministers in favor of training them within the same context and course of studies.
“The partnership that generated the new Anglican/Episcopal track displays the seminary’s commitment to engage meaningfully with denominational partners,” said the Rev. David Esterline, seminary president of the school. “The presence of Anglican/Episcopal students has always enriched the learning environment at PTS. By pairing focused attention to Anglican/Episcopal worship, spiritual formation, and tradition with the seminary’s professional degree programs, this new track formalizes a course of study for those seeking to serve within the Anglican/Episcopal tradition.”
The program is open to students pursuing a Master of Divinity or Master of Arts in Pastoral Studies who desire a deeper knowledge in specific fields such as church history, doctrine, liturgy, and practical theology.
Students seeking ordination will be trained in anti-racism and church discipline procedures, take part in spiritual formation, and be placed in a year-long field study program, typically with an Episcopal church. Episcopal students will participate in the diocese’s Love+Teach+Heal Leadership Academy, which brings clergy and lay leaders together for deeper theological conversations.
“In this setting, ministers can be shaped in the ethos of Anglican tradition and practice while enjoying all the advantages of a rich ecumenical environment,” said the Rt. Rev. Dorsey W.M. McConnell, Bishop of Pittsburgh and a board member of the seminary. “This is holy work, and I am very excited for the Diocese of Pittsburgh to be at the forefront of an initiative that, I hope, will grow to benefit many parts of the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion.”
Adapted from the Diocese of Pittsburgh
Matthew Townsend is a Halifax-based freelance journalist and volunteer advocate for survivors of sexual misconduct in Anglican settings. He served as editor of the Anglican Journal from 2019 to 2021 and communications missioner for the Anglican Diocese of Quebec from 2019 to 2022. He and his wife recently entered catechism class in the Orthodox Church in America.
