Methodist Theological School in Ohio

The Methodist Theological School in Ohio, commonly known as "Methesco", is one of the 13 official seminaries of The United Methodist Church.

MTSO is a partner in the Theological Consortium of Greater Columbus, along with Trinity Lutheran Seminary and the Pontifical College Josephinum. The seminary is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools to provide post-baccalaureate professional and academic degree programs to educate persons for the practice of ministry and for teaching and research in the theological disciplines.

In addition to The United Methodist Church, MTSO students represent over 20 other Christian denominations. The school offers special support to seminarians who are affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (PC-USA) and the United Church of Christ (UCC).

History

The Methodist Church authorized the establishment of two new seminaries at the 1956 General Conference. With support and guidance from Bishop Hazen G. Werner and under the direction of its first president, Rev. John W. Dickhaut, construction began two years later. In 1960, the school welcomed its inaugural class.

In 2006, the seminary named Reverend Jay Rundell as president.

Campus

The MTSO campus occupies 70 acres of rolling woods outside of Delaware, Ohio, on the banks of the Olentangy River about 12 miles north of Columbus. With recent additions and renovations the school now has a full set of facilities on its campus:

• Werner Hall - administration building
• Gault Hall - teaching and learning center
• Dickhaut Library
• Alford Centrum - worship center
• Burgett Preaching Chapel
• Dunn Dining Hall
• Dewire Residence Hall
• Helen Werner Apartment Building
• Kleist Manor Apartments

Outdoor facilities include a chapel, spiritual labyrinth, and walking trails.

Vision statement

Methodist Theological School in Ohio will be a center for rigorous theological inquiry, spiritual formation and professional development. Rooted in the scriptures and traditions of the Christian faith and committed to individual wholeness, social justice, inclusiveness, and religious diversity, we will prepare transformational leaders to engage the church and the world in leadership and service.

Purpose statement

Methodist Theological School in Ohio provides a vibrant learning environment for the preparation of skilled, passionate transformational leaders for churches, religious institutions, emerging faith communities and the wider world. We attend to the theological, spiritual, and vocational formation of a diverse group of students involved in a wide range of pursuits. Expecting active participation in our community of learning, we maintain an atmosphere of mutual respect and openness, teaching how to engage in conversation with the past and with others so that new and faithful perspectives may emerge. Our graduates demonstrate a deep understanding of the heritage disciplines of religious study, are highly competent in areas of practical theology, and show evidence of thoughtful reflection. We take seriously our responsibility for stewardship of the intellectual life of the church and our commitment to a just and sustainable world.

Degree programs

• Master of Divinity (MDiv)
• Master of Arts in Christian Education (MACE)
• Master of Theological Studies (MTS)
• Master of Arts in Counseling Ministries (MACM, previously MA/ADAM)
• Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

The Master of Divinity degree program includes several requirements to prepare the student for ministry outside of the school. At least one course must be taken in an ecumenical context, typically on the campus of Trinity Lutheran Seminary or the Pontifical College Josephinum. The cross cultural immersion experience exposes the student to Christianity in a different culture. Recent trips include Korea, Russia, Namibia, and Latin America. The field education requirement provides the student with practical ministerial experience.

Other academic programs

• Course of Study in The United Methodist Church
• Certification in the Advanced Course of Study in the United Methodist Church
• Certification for Deacon in The United Methodist Church

Lecture series

• Schooler Institute on Preaching is held every fall and features a well-known preacher. The weekend event includes workshops and continuing education.
• Williams Lectures on Theology

Notable alumni

• Hae-Jong Kim, retired bishop of The United Methodist Church.
• Joseph Sprague, retired bishop of The United Methodist Church.
• James W. Moore, retired elder of The United Methodist Church.

External links

• Methodist Theological School in Ohio