Effective July 1, 2025, Rev. Dr. Casey Sigmon will be tenured and promoted to the title of Associate Professor of Preaching and Worship. ��In granting tenure, the seminary recognizes the value of Rev. Dr. Sigmon’s teaching, scholarly contributions, and service to��the Saint Paul community.

In 2016, Dr. Sigmon joined����as a Visiting Instructor in 2016 as part of the Vanderbilt program in Theology and Practice. She launched her teaching at Saint Paul with a course entitled, “Preaching in the Digital Age” based on her dissertation research. Her recent scholarship includes the upcoming��Engaging the Gadfly: How to Move from Reactionary to Reflective Hybrid, Online, and In-Person Preaching in the Digital Age��(2025) and a chapter on designing worship from a process perspective in��Preaching the Uncontrolling Love of God��(2024). Dr. Sigmon’s teaching continues to inspire innovation and creativity, equipping students to lead transformative worship with theological depth and cultural awareness.

An ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), she is a dynamic preacher and worship leader who is deeply concerned for the wellbeing of pastors and preachers. Through the generosity of the����Compelling Preaching Initiative, Dr. Sigmon serves as the Director of the��, the first and only sacred space for weary��preachers to restore their creativity and reignite their imagination through rest and play.

We congratulate Dr. Sigmon on this well-earned attainment and are blessed by her continuing support of the mission of �ԹϺ����� to form people for innovative, creative ministry. ��

Bishop Hayes is a retired Bishop in the United Methodist Church who served the Oklahoma Conference and was instrumental in the expansion of �ԹϺ����� to Oklahoma City. Bishop Hayes has been serving as Bishop-in-Residence since his retirement in 2017. This fall marks the completion of the termed appointment to the position.

In 2015, Bishop Hayes received the �ԹϺ����� President’s Award for his work in cultivating the dream of a United Methodist seminary in Oklahoma City and making Saint Paul at Oklahoma City University a reality.

�ԹϺ����� continues to celebrate Bishop Hayes for his numerous contributions to the academic and spiritual development of our institution. We are profoundly grateful for his service to and with us.

“All of us at Saint Paul appreciate the contributions Bishop Hayes has made to Saint Paul and to our students through his tenure as our Bishop-in-Residence.�� His presence has enhanced our efforts to promote theological education,” said Saint Paul President Rev. Neil Blair.

For more information on �ԹϺ����� faculty, courses, and admissions, call 913-253-5000 or email admiss@spst.edu.

After teaching appointments at Saint Olaf College and Augustana College, Dr. Brandt joined the Saint Paul faculty in 1989 as Assistant Professor of Historical Theology, earning promotions to Associate Professor in 2002 and to Professor in 2012.�� From 2005 through 2018, he also held an appointment as Director of Contextual Education.

Dr. Brandt’s research has focused primarily on Schleiermacher’s Christian ethics.�� His more recent publications include a chapter in Schleiermacher and Sustainability (Louisville: Westminster John Knox Press, 2018), which considered Schleiermacher’s ethics and their applicability to issues of sustainability and climate change.�� During his tenure as Director of Contextual Education, Dr. Brandt published a number of articles related to Practical Theology and its implications for Contextual Education. He also helped establish Saint Paul’s immersion program in Guatemala, taking groups of students there eight times.

Dr. Brandt was ordained in a predecessor body of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) in 1984 and has served the church by teaching and preaching since that time.�� His service to the ELCA included six years on the Board of the Division for Church and Society.�� During his final year on the Board in 2007, Dr. Brandt held the post of acting chair.�� The Board formulated the ELCA’s Social Statement during these six years, a statement that resulted in full inclusion for the LGBT community in the life of the church.

Dr. Knight came to Saint Paul in 1993 as Assistant Professor of Evangelism, attaining promotion to Associate Professor in 1999 and Professor in 2003.�� In recognition of the breadth of his teaching responsibilities, his title changed to Professor of Wesleyan Studies in 2004 and, in 2017, to Professor of Wesleyan Studies and Evangelism.�� Prior to joining the Saint Paul faculty, Dr. Knight taught at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology while pursuing his doctoral studies as well as at the Appalachian Local Pastors School and the Beulah Heights Bible College.

Dr. Knight’s research and publication in the realm of evangelism and Wesleyan studies produced an impressive body of work.�� Thirteen books, including a Wesleyan devotional guide, appeared under his name from 1992 until 2018.�� A prolific author, Dr. Knight’s essays and chapters have appeared in at least ten other books, some of which feature multiple entries under his pen.�� Sixteen published journal articles appear under his name along with an extensive listing of editorials and video lectures.

In the classroom, Dr. Knight has taught an extensive array of courses in the realms of Wesleyan Studies, Evangelism, Theology, Church and Society, and Worship, along with a variety of interdisciplinary courses.�� His teaching has encompassed not only Saint Paul students pursuing graduate degrees, but numerous classes for the Course of Study School program as well.

His numerous professional affiliations include election as president of the Wesleyan Theological Society in 2002-2003; editor of the Journal of the Academy for Evangelism in Theological Education from 1997 until 2003; and membership in the American Academy of Religion as well as in the Society for Pentecostal Studies.�� Dr. Knight’s editorial board appointments include Kingswood Books, Beacon Hill Press, and Wipf and Stock’s Wesleyan and Methodist Explorations series.�� An ordained elder in the United Methodist Church, he is a Retired Member in Full Connection with the Missouri Annual Conference.

Retirement plans for both Dr. Knight and Dr. Brandt are developing.�� Dr. Brandt will continue some teaching at Saint Paul but intends to make more time for writing, travel, and time with his grandchildren.�� Dr. Knight plans to spend more time writing while continuing to teach.

As pandemic restrictions permit, Saint Paul will plan to celebrate the careers and contributions of these two remarkable faculty members.�� Details will be shared as they develop.

We are also pleased to welcome our newest faculty members as they share the insights they’ve gained from years of experience in faith communities and in the world.

Dr. Joshua Bartholomew, Assistant Professor of Ethics, Church and Society, is teaching Introduction to Ethics this fall. He most recently served as Adjunct Professor of Religious and Theological Studies at Iliff School of Theology and as Research Project Coordinator for the Institute for the Study of the Black Christian Experience. He looks forward to helping students acquire the language and analytical tools they will need to formulate “ethical models of social engagement, and to critique and to discuss contemporary social issues.”

Rabbi Michael Zedek returns to Saint Paul as Rabbi-in-Residence, having previously worked as an Adjunct Professor in Bible and Midrash. He is currently the Senior Advisor for the Central Conference of American Rabbis and is a former Senior Rabbi at Temple B’nai Jehudah in Kansas City. Rabbi Zedek is teaching the fall course in Judaism, and his hope is that students will acquire “an understanding of and appreciation for my tradition and how it may enhance an understanding of their own commitment of faith and fate.”

Dr. Joshua Bartholomew

Assistant Professor of Ethics, Church and Society��

Dr. Joshua Bartholomew has done extensive work on economics and movements for racial justice. He is an experienced community organizer who has authored several papers on economic justice, youth empowerment, and violence prevention in communities. Doing this work has given him a deep understanding of how to work with people and contribute ideas in practical ways across social and political boundaries.��

“Ultimately,” he explains, “my experience as a community organizer has enabled me to form, to communicate, and to apply my academic ideas in more accessible ways both inside and outside of the classroom.”

Dr. Bartholomew sees an important role for the Christian minister in guiding people to an understanding of the Gospel as both a noun and a verb. The Gospel is not only something we hear, he says, but a lifestyle that involves social action for positive change. It is also a movement of the people for economic and racial justice.��

Ministers who preach the God of social justice are called to collaborate with faith and community leaders from all backgrounds. As a Christian minister, he agrees with Malcolm X who said, “I’m for truth, no matter who tells it. I’m for justice, no matter who it is for or against. I’m a human being, first and foremost, and as such I’m for whoever and whatever benefits humanity as a whole.”

Dr. Bartholomew is excited about building fruitful relationships with colleagues and students. He looks forward to learning from his environment and contributing his own knowledge in ways that add value to the Saint Paul community.

Rabbi Michael Zedek

Rabbi-in-Residence��

Rabbi Michael Zedek insists “there is no one-size-fits-all” when describing effective faith leadership.

In his new role as Rabbi-in-Residence, he will teach courses in Judaism and interreligious dialogue and collaboration. He emphasizes the Jewish roots of the Christian message when reflecting on the deep connection between the two faiths. “Depending on one’s preferred metaphor, we are in a relationship of mother/daughter or siblings,” he points out. “That translates as an awareness of both shared and distinct DNA.”��

Rabbi Zedek hopes to enrich his own faith journey while doing similarly for others at Saint Paul. He calls for a willingness to share our own struggles and vulnerability, pointing to a statement attributed to Rabbi Leo Baeck, the leader of the German Jewish community during World War II: “More important than any sermon the Rabbi gives is the sermon the Rabbi is.”��

As a nationally recognized leader, writer, teacher, and speaker, Rabbi Zedek possesses a breadth of wisdom and experience that will benefit the Saint Paul learning community. He returns to the Kansas City Metro Area after serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati and Senior Rabbi at Emanuel Congregation in Chicago. Rabbi Zedek has traveled the world extensively alongside his beloved wife Karen and has taught at Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico for more than 20 years.��

He also stresses the importance of cooperation between people of diverse faith backgrounds. “I am convinced in a world where there is, alas, no shortage of crisis and trauma that people who care about religious tradition can, should and must work together. After all, we are family!”

At Saint Paul, we are thankful for Dr. Bartholomew, Rabbi Zedek, and all of our dedicated faculty who provide enriching experiences for our students both in and out of the classroom.

If you would like more information on our academic programs, we invite you to schedule a campus visit where you can meet our faculty and students. You may also call us at 913-253-5000. To apply for admission, we encourage you to complete our online application or call 913-253-5084.

With mixed emotions, I write to report that Dr Jeanne Hoeft, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean, has announced her decision to retire from her administrative duties at the conclusion of the 2021 – 2022 academic year. Her absence from the Dean’s Office will be keenly felt by all of us.

During her time as our academic vice president, Dr. Hoeft has compiled a remarkable list of accomplishments. Her leadership proved decisive in guiding Saint Paul through its reaffirmation efforts with the Association of Theological Schools and the Higher Learning Commission, the two accrediting agencies most important to Saint Paul’s work. Moreover, her efforts with our faculty resulted in an academic evaluation and assessment model that stresses ongoing improvement in all our degree programs.

Dr. Hoeft joined our faculty in 2001, with a focus on pastoral theology and pastoral care that continues to offer a critical component in the education of our students. After having served in a variety of faculty leadership roles, Dr. Hoeft assumed her current duties as Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean in 2016. Although she will relinquish this position at the end of the Spring 2022 semester, she will return to the classroom in the Fall 2022.

A search committee led by Dr. Jim Brandt is already working to recruit Dr. Hoeft’s successor. A position announcement for the search will soon appear in a variety of publications and on our website. Our goal is to name our new dean in March 2022.

Please join me in thanking Dr. Hoeft for her exemplary record of service and accomplishment as our Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean over these last five years.

Dr. Bartholomew brings a breadth of knowledge and experience, most recently serving as Adjunct Professor of Religious and Theological Studies at Iliff School of Theology and Research Project Coordinator for Institute for the Study of the Black Christian Experience. He is an experienced community organizer who has authored several papers on economic justice, youth empowerment, and violence prevention in communities. ��

In his new role of Assistant Professor, Dr. Bartholomew will hold a full-time faculty position teaching courses in Ethics and Church and Society. He will also serve as an advisor to seminary students, participate in faculty committees, and continue to publish. “The faculty is excited to welcome Dr. Bartholomew who brings with him the passion and perspective of a new scholar.�� His work on economics and movements for racial justice will be a gift to students and a significant contribution to Saint Paul’s mission,” says Dr. Jeanne Hoeft, Saint Paul Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean.

For more information on �ԹϺ����� faculty, courses, and admissions, call 913-253-5000 or email admiss@spst.edu.

Most recently serving as Associate Director for the Office of Mission, Service and Justice at the Missouri Annual Conference and lecturing at Central Methodist University, Dr. Endicott brings to the Course of Study (COS) School a background in education with an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Administration as well as being an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church.

In his new role of Regional Director of Course of Study, he will work closely with the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry to direct the Regional COS School at Saint Paul. In addition to managing the school, he will recruit students and teachers, plan course schedules, and continue to facilitate a program of excellence for our COS students.

Dr. Endicott will jump in with both feet as the Saint Paul Course of Study School prepares to open registration for its Summer 2021 term the first week of April. As we continue to navigate the current pandemic, this summer’s schedule will be a virtual offering with all 20 classes split between 4 summer sessions, allowing students to take up to four courses during June thru August.�� While physically distanced this past year, COS students have maintained a well-rounded educational experience with an agenda including scheduled class meet & greets, interactive forums, and Zoom classes.�� “Dr. Endicott shares Saint Paul’s commitment to theological education through Course of Study in service to the church.�� He brings creative energy and a wealth of experience to this role.�� I have no doubt that the Course of Study Regional School at Saint Paul will continue to thrive and grow with his leadership,” says Dr. Jeanne Hoeft, Saint Paul Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean.

For more information on the Saint Paul COS Regional School, call 913-253-5051 or visit spst.edu/cos.

After serving as Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati and Senior Rabbi at Emanuel Congregation in Chicago, Rabbi Zedek returns to Kansas City Metro Area. ��Before departing Kansas City to teach and travel the world alongside his beloved wife Karen, Rabbi Zedek ministered as Senior Rabbi at Temple B’nai Jehudah and worked as a Saint Paul Adjunct Professor in Bible and Midrash from 1985 – 1991.��

In his new role as Rabbi-in-Residence, he will serve part-time teaching courses in Judaism and interreligious dialogue and collaboration, as well as advising students on what “every Christian minister should know about Judaism.” Rabbi Zedek looks forward to this new chapter to return to his family and friends in the area and build bridges in the community with a full-time engagement of his passions but only a part-time arrangement of his time.

Having taught at Rancho La Puerta in Tecate, Mexico for more than 20 years, the breadth of his experiences and wisdom will significantly benefit the Saint Paul learning community. “Rabbi Michael Zedek’s role as Rabbi-in-Residence offers �ԹϺ�����’s students and faculty an invaluable ecumenical and spiritual resource.�� Rabbi Zedek’s role as a nationally recognized leader, writer, teacher, and speaker will enhance our students’ academic experience.�� His skills also offer our students a unique and rich source of guidance about how to serve as an effective and faithful leader,” says Dr. Jeanne Hoeft, Saint Paul Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean.

For more information on �ԹϺ����� faculty, courses, and admissions, call 913-253-5000 or email admiss@spst.edu.