PSR Alum, Mary H. Dyer, Publishes New Book
In Walls or Windows, Mary Heron Dyer (Class of 2009) shines a light on the othering that occurs when people are different than societal norms.
This I Believe: Christopher Lowson
Our Alumnx Council meets bi-monthly, and, as part of our closing practices each meeting, we invite a member of the Council to share a personal reflection, “This I Believe.” This month’s reflection comes from Christopher Lowson, who graduated PSR with a STM (now known as the MTS) in 1978. Lowson was awarded a World Council of Churches’ scholarship to study at PSR and previously studied Theology at King’s College in London from 1972-76. After graduating, Lowson was ordained a deacon (1977), priest (1978), and eventually a bishop in 2011. Lowson served in a variety of ministerial roles during that period in London, Hampshire, and Lincoln.
PSR Welcomes Rev. Angela Brown, JD
PSR is thrilled to welcome Rev. Angela Brown, JD, who joins the PSR Community Life staff as our new Associate for Student Formation and UMC Student Coordinator.
In Memoriam: George Conklin, Retired PSR Faculty Member
It is with deep gratitude and sorrow that we mark the passing of George Conklin, an innovative media scholar, visual storyteller, and longtime faculty member at Pacific School of Religion. George died July 24. He was 93.
New Staff at PSR
PSR is thrilled to welcome Dr. Hayden Reynolds Cowan and Tanisha Walton to our staff this fall, bringing bold leadership to development and theological education.
Remembering Rev. Dr. Joseph D. Driskill, PSR Emeritus Professor
With deep sorrow and abiding gratitude, Pacific School of Religion announces the passing of Rev. Dr. Joseph D. Driskill, Emeritus Professor of Spirituality, esteemed colleague, and cherished member of the PSR community.
Prayer Vigil and Community Note Regarding Initiation of War
With heavy hearts, we are taking in the sobering news that the United States has entered active military engagement with Iran, targeting Iranian nuclear facilities in a rapidly escalating conflict. As people of faith, we at PSR hold steadfast to our vision for a world where all can thrive. This requires us to recognize that every life is sacred. It challenges us to seek the peace that passes all understanding which, as Jesus says, is not achieved by the exercise of power and force that are the currency of this world.
Change Happens Now Podcast > Honoring the Life and Legacy of Rev. Dr. Dorsey Odell Blake
In this deeply moving Season 7 finale episode, we honor the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Dorsey Odell Blake, beloved faculty member, mentor, tireless advocate for justice, and prophetic voice in the Pacific School of Religion (PSR) community and beyond, who passed away in March 2025. Dr. Blake first came to PSR in 1968, during a time of national upheaval that he often compared to our own. Inspired by personal encounters with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other Civil Rights leaders, he pursued a theological education rooted in justice, compassion, and community. After graduating in 1971, he remained deeply connected to PSR, through transformative teaching that spanned more than five decades, serving as Professor of Leadership and Social Transformation at Pacific School of Religion (PSR) as well as Dean of the Faculty at Starr King School for the Ministry and pastor at The Fellowship Church founded by his mentor, Dr. Howard Thurman.
PSR Alum Rev. Lucas Hergert (DMin ’15) on Reclaiming Emotion in the Pulpit
PSR alumnx Rev. Lucas Hergert (he/him) offers a timely and transformative vision in his new book, Impassioned: A Guide to Progressive Preaching (Skinner House Books).
Ordination of Rev. MacAuthur Flourney, MDiv ’11
Rev. MacArthur Flourney, MDiv ’11, and current PSR DMin student, was ordained this weekend as a UCC Minister at Church of the Crossroads in O’ahu, Hawaii.