Disciples Divinity House

(adapted from HELM press release) - The board of directors of Higher Education & Leadership Ministries (HELM) of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) has called Bernard "Chris" Dorsey to serve as its next president effective August 1, 2014. A dynamic and creative leader, Mr. Dorsey is currently an Assistant Professor of Theology and Preaching at Western Theological Seminary. He is a PhD candidate in Theology at the Divinity School, where he entered as a Disciples Divinity House Scholar, and holds degrees from the University of Texas at Austin (BS) and Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary (MDiv). An ordained Disciples minister, he previously served as a local church pastor, university chaplain at Clark Atlanta University, and as Vice President of Development and Marketing at Chicago Theological Seminary.

Recognizing a transitional point in the life of HELM's witness and ministry as well as current challenges facing local congregations and faith-based institutions, the HELM board invited applications for a transitional 3-year presidency. Board chair Ed Strong commented, "We were pleased with the success of the search process that led to the calling of Rev. Dorsey. The enthusiasm he engendered during this process is indicative of his desire and ability to guide HELM during its transitional period as it seeks to determine how best to serve the colleges, universities, theological institutions, and students in the task of developing and fostering leadership within the Church and society." Chris Dorsey responded, "I look forward to building on HELM's success of leadership development and finding new ways to equip people with the skills and tools needed for successful ministry and service in a rapidly changing world."