Mapping the Ecotone: A Landscape Survey of Lifelong Learning Programs in Theological Schools

For nearly 75 years, the necessity of lifelong learning for effective ministry practice has been affirmed by theological schools, denominations, and practitioners. As the pace of social and ecclesial change has accelerated, awareness of the critical need for ongoing continuing education to support the work of ministry has grown. However, until recently, there has been scant attention by researchers into lifelong learning programs and their leadership. This chapter presents empirical survey and interview data on lifelong learning programs in ATS-member schools, providing the first such landscape review of the field in more than forty years. Collected from late 2024 to early 2025, the data complement Blier’s 2020 survey to provide the beginnings of a longitudinal perspective. Examined are program content, design, and finances; program leaders; and institutional support for these programs. The chapter concludes with thoughts about the future sustainability of lifelong learning programs in theological schools.