By registration; Revelation 22:2 notes that the leaves of the tree of life are for "healing of the nations." In keeping with that idea, join us for a 90-minute interactive webinar with John Ragsdale, where we will explore how exploring how “therapeutic structures” can be cultivated in global theological education.
After a brief look at biblical themes of healing, participants will engage in small-group discussions (5–8 per group) around three core questions: What is a therapeutic structure? What is my personal role in fostering it? And how can our institutions sustain such structures? Come, reflect, share insights, and (re)imagine fresh pathways for healing-centered theological formation.
This webinar is part of the Globalizing Conversations: Mission, Formation, Partnerships series of the Global Awareness and Engagement Initiative of ATS. This series explores the intersections of theological education, intercultural formation, and global partnerships. It is designed for ATS member school administrators, faculty, students, and anyone—especially historic global partners of ATS—interested in global awareness and engagement in theological education. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and expert insights, you will be equipped with tools for a more globally responsive, ethically grounded, context-appreciative approach to theological education.
John Ragsdale serves as provost and vice president of academic affairs at Asbury Theological Seminary. Previously, he served as interim dean for the School of Theology at Azusa Pacific University, where he also worked as associate dean of the School of Theology and interim associate provost for undergraduate education. He carries two decades of experience in strategic planning, assessment, program review, and external funding within higher education administration. His research interests include Old Testament interpretation and hermeneutics, the Spirit in the Old Testament, theology of joy, and racism and lament. His most recent publication is a curriculum for churches and other groups titled Lamenting Racism: A Christian Response to Racial Injustice with the Herald Press. Ragsdale received an MA in Biblical languages from the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary and a PhD in religious studies from Marquette University.
Other
Date & Time
Fri, Jan 23, 2026
, 11 a.m. ET—
Fri, Jan 23, 2026
, 12:30 p.m. ET
