SPE History
Begun in 2002 through a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to Memphis Theological Seminary, Sustaining Pastoral Excellence is a ministry to support Christian pastors, their families, and their congregations as they seek to maintain vitality in Christian life and ministry. Through a variety of means, SPE provides resources to pastors throughout the mid-South and beyond for sustaining pastoral excellence. Working through small, diverse colleague groups of pastors, comprised of 8-10 persons, clergy participants covenant to join together for three years of mutual support. Pastors gather monthly for common study, worship, seeking of justice, and experiences of renewal.
SPE works directly with clergy families, congregations, and community partners as it weaves a network of support for Christian pastors by providing health and counseling services and educational opportunities for all participants. Since 2002, SPE has supported over 100 Christian pastors and congregations from ten different denominations in the greater area of Memphis, Tennessee. We are currently working with 40 pastors in 5 different colleague groups.
Beginning in August 2008, SPE expanded its mission to include seminary students who are enrolled at Memphis Theological Seminary. Using the colleague group model that was developed with full-time pastors, SPE initiated formation for ministry groups for all entering students as a way to form students in the practices of faith that will sustain pastoral excellence over the long haul.
SPE is overseen by a staff comprised of a Project Director, Program Director, Program Support Coordinator, Worship Coordinator, and a Web-site Editor, and is accountable to the Memphis Theological Seminary Board of Trustees and an SPE Advisory Board.
>Memphis Theological Seminary History