Poetic Living

“Poetic Living describes the life and ministry of Craig Barnes. Celebrated scholars, theologians, and pastoral leaders bear witness to Barnes’s faithful leadership at an unprecedented time in theological education and the church. The essays translate the impact of this president, preacher/poet, and pastor, who served a premier seminary at a time of sociocultural, theological, and educational disruption for ‘such a time as this’ (Esth 4:14).”


—Frank Yamada, executive director, Association of Theological Schools





“Every few years a pastor-theologian redefines the scope of leadership in higher theological education. Poetic Living is an impactful collection of essays depicting the core underpinnings of a thoughtful and strategic servant-leader, the Rev. Dr. M. Craig Barnes. Infused with personal and theological accounts from inspiring leaders, Poetic Living is an invitation, in these uncertain times, to connect with what is beautiful in God’s call to ministry while exploring our own shared reality with those we serve.”


—Victor Aloyo Jr., president and professor of practical theology, Columbia Theological Seminary