Dr. Josh Sweeden Named Interim Doctor of Ministry Director
Dr. Josh Sweeden, who is NTS Professor of Church and Society and was the former Dean of the Faculty (2017 to 2022), has been asked to serve as interim Doctor of Ministry Director.
Commenting on his new responsibility, Dr. Sweeden stated, “I understand my interim role as stewardship: resourcing our students as they engage in coursework and vital research for the sake of the church and the world, supporting our faculty and advisors as they guide and mentor our students, and assisting our skillful DMin program staff as they continue to strengthen and advance the program.”
Dr. Sweeden also emphasized his desire to build upon the “good leadership” of Dr. Levi Jones, who, since 2017, has been responsible for the development, maintenance, and advancement of the Doctor of Ministry program. Last month, Jones stepped down as director when he and his wife, Rebecca, were elected to serve as co-pastors of Puyallup Church of the Nazarene in Washington State.
Sweeden, already at work in his new capacity, stated, “Our DMin program team is already at work bolstering operational and instructional elements of the program in preparation for new students and future program leadership.”
Dean of the Faculty Dr. Sarah Coleson-Derck commented on Dr. Jones’ departure, “We celebrate with Levi and Rebecca all the bright possibilities and hope that this election holds for them. We also express our heartfelt appreciation for Dr. Jones’ impact and service at NTS.”
Dr. Jones is credited with launching a new DMin program in preaching in 2023 and served as an instructor in the preaching track. He will continue teaching duties in the future at NTS.
The search for a new director is underway with an anticipated announcement in the next few months.
About Nazarene Theological Seminary
Located in Kansas City, Missouri, Nazarene Theological Seminary is a graduate school of theology rooted in the Wesleyan-holiness tradition. www.nts.edu
Note: Questions about this press release may be directed to [email protected].
