Earlham

School of Religion

Rooted in the Christian Quaker tradition of contemplation that inspires action, ESR prepares theologically diverse students for a pluralistic world. Our curriculum unites spiritual formation, academic study, social engagement and vital ministry.

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THE PRIMARY QUAKER SEMINARY

Earlham School of Religion is a seminary founded on Quaker values. We provide a Christian theological education to all who wish to participate in a spiritual and academic journey for good. In the face of persistent inequality, poverty, violence and other forms of oppression in today’s world, our students and faculty are spurred to committed, loving action. Through service, we are able to share our unique voices and talents in ways that heal and unite.

Each of us has unique gifts, talents and leadings that allow us to address the world’s problems—as Quakers say, we have that of God within each of us. Through creativity and compassion, Earlham School of Religion seeks to help our students discern their unique talents and develop their own forms of ministry for today’s world.

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We are inspired by new and creative ways of ministering to the world.

At Earlham School of Religion, we believe that ministry happens in a multitude of ways, as ESR students and graduates demonstrate. Rooted in our Quaker tradition, our students and faculty come together as a community of learners. Each of us brings unique wisdom and experience to the classroom, and our students are continually challenged to re-evaluate their assumptions as they articulate their theological stance and live into their own creative ministry. The result: a deeper connection with spirit and with one another.

We help our students discern their own unique gifts and talents so they can develop their own creative ministries in their lives and careers. From social work to creative writing, entrepreneurship to healthcare, our graduates work to heal the world both from behind the pulpit and beyond it.

We foster contemplation that inspires action.

Our curriculum unites spiritual formation, academic study, social engagement and vital ministry. We seek truth in the belief that it will shine a light on the path forward, spurring us to take action and engage with our world.

Learn more about ESR

ESR Dean Search

Earlham College invites nominations and applications for the position of Dean of The Earlham School of Religion (ESR), its nationally respected Quaker seminary with a historic commitment to spiritual formation, rigorous scholarship, and social transformation. Reporting to the Senior Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, the Dean serves as the principal administrator for ESR, providing vision, strategic leadership, and faithful stewardship in support of the School’s mission within Earlham College and the wider Religious Society of Friends.

The Dean will lead ESR at a pivotal moment, guiding curricular innovation, faculty development, and program growth while strengthening enrollment, institutional partnerships, and financial sustainability. Working collaboratively with faculty within the School and Earlham College, the Dean oversees academic planning faculty personnel process, evaluation, and resource allocation, and ensures adherence to shared governance and institutional policies. The role includes close collaboration with Bethany Theological Seminary on shared academic programs, partnership with Earlham’s academic and administrative leadership, and active engagement with the Earlham College Board of Trustees and ESR’s Board of Advisors.

Happening on campus

Sing a New Song

Time: 7:00 pm

Join us as we come together to discern how we are being called to follow the biblical & spiritual imperative to “sing a new song” – whether literally or metaphorically. Join QLC to engage in music ministry and the “musicality of ministry” with Nate Macy & Melinda Wenner Bradley @ ESR in Richmond IN. Register & find out more at QLCSingANewSong.eventbrite.com!

The post Sing a New Song appeared first on Earlham School of Religion.

Apr

2026 Perkins Family Lecture: For the Sake of the Joy – Noah Bishop Merrill