Theologian in Residence
The Theologian in Residence (TIR) Program was established to provide First UMC and the surrounding community with intellectual stimulation and opportunities for spiritual growth.
Upcoming Programs:
May 26-June 7: Al Staggs
Saturday, May 31, 7:00pm: The Legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Held in the sanctuary, No admission fee: Free-will offering taken, Reception following
A One-Person Play Adapted and Performed by Al Staggs brings the life of one of the great heroes of the twentieth century to the stage. The audience is brought into the prison cell where Bonhoeffer awaits execution and listens to his struggles with evil, injustice, and God.
In the play, Bonhoeffer tells of the profound influence of fellow Union Theological student, Frank Fisher, an African-American friend who introduced Dietrich to the blight of racism in America.
Prisoner Bonhoeffer expresses moral outrage against the Nazi treatment of Jews and explains how that outrage led him to become involved in the German resistance movement, a commitment that would result in his being executed by hanging on April 9, 1945.
“When I watch Al Staggs as Dietrich Bonhoeffer, I am confronted by the deepest moral questions of what it means to be a witness and how I am using my life.” Bill Moyers
Sunday, June 1, Al Staggs Preaching: Clarence Jordan and the God Movement
Al will preach as Clarence Jordan, a farmer, Baptist minister and biblical scholar who, in 1942, founded the interracial community of Koinonia in south Georgia. His perspective on Christian discipleship, particularly in regard to the issues of racial equality, war and greed, made him a highly controversial figure in his hometown of Americus and Sumter County, Georgia. Jordan’s life and theology were a radical embodiment of the teachings of Jesus, especially those from the Sermon on the Mount. He was called “a man whose greatest message was his life.” In 1968 Jordan and Millard Fuller founded Fund for Humanity, which later became Habitat for Humanity International.
“The power and persuasive eloquence of Clarence Jordan continues to this generation through the faithful artistry of Al Staggs. This talented actor and devoted minister … bears witness to the movement of God in our midst. His resonant voice, sense of humor, social compassion and evangelical warmth are like sticks of spiritual dynamite. They challenge our complacency with the status quo.” Dr. Jim Pitts, University Professor and Chaplain Emeritus, Furman University, Greenville, SC
Past programs include:
- contemporary ethical and social issues
- the labyrinth as spiritual practice
- mystical Christianity
- religious dimensions of the arts
- comparative religion & interfaith dialogue
- Native American spirituality
Individuals are invited to apply for a stay of 2 weeks up to 6 months. In turn, participants contribute to the life and spiritual growth of the church and community by sharing their area of study and passion 3-4 hours a week via classes, preaching, weekend seminars, retreats, lectures and/or other approaches. Theologians are responsible for their own transportation and daily needs.
The TIR Program is a perfect opportunity to discover the beauty of the Colorado Rocky Mountains and the diversity of the Boulder area, and engage a progressive congregation whose parishioners are eager to learn and grow in the Spirit.
Mountain Haven Retreat House
High in the Rocky Mountains (at an elevation of 9000 feet above sea level) sits the Theologian in Residence Program’s Mountain Haven. Mountain Haven is a perfect locale for sabbaticals, retreats, vacations, spiritual renewal, and space to write and create.
Surrounded by pine and aspen trees, the 2800 sq ft, Mountain Haven provides all of the modern amenities as well as the solace and solitude of the wild. Its 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, study, large kitchen, living room, meeting area and wood burning fireplace create an inviting, comforting and energizing environment.
Mountain Haven has year-round recreational opportunities - hiking, biking, fishing and horseback riding in warm weather; skating, snowshoeing, downhill and cross country skiing and snowboarding when the beautiful Colorado snows arrive.
Conveniently located just 35 minutes from the church, and one hour to either Rocky Mountain National Park/Estes Park or Denver, a stay at Mountain Haven opens the way to some of Colorado’s most popular attractions.
The Theologian in Residence Program
click here to view the PDF version of the Theologian In Residence Brochure.
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