The University Senate has sent warnings to United Theological Seminary and Claremont School of Theology. The Claremont warning is interesting given the recent changes that school has been undergoing. The text reads:
The Senate cited Claremont’s failure to transmit the school’s most current audit and management letter and to consult fully with United Methodist authorities such as the Council of Bishops, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, and the University Senate in a substantial reorientation of the institution’s mission and proposed transformation from a school of theology to a university with schools of ministry.
Claremont must undergo a full institutional review to evaluate its new mission, formal acts of incorporation, organizational structure and operation, most recent budget – including current revenue compared to actual expenses. Claremont must submit a five-year business plan. This review, which must be completed by May 1, will assess the institution’s suitability for official listing as affiliated with The United Methodist Church. Claremont is located in Claremont, Calif.
This sounds to me like there is a significant chance could lose its status as a United Methodist seminary.
I am a part-time local pastor serving 
The doctrine of original sin is surely more humbling to man than the opposite: And I know not what honour we can pay to God, if we think man came out of His hands in the condition wherein he is now.
University Senate has done this before by putting schools on warning. Some, like Harvard, take years to get back on the “good” list…I think they are back on the accepted schools even though they aren’t Methodist.
I found the United exclusion more interesting as the rebuttal specifically mentions a longstanding feud to get them to close.
Regardless, doesn’t seem that interesting to me until they present their side of the case in a few months.
John,
Perhaps you remember this post and the conversation it generated between us back in the summer.
http://talbotdavis.blogspot.com/2009/07/rethinking-seminary.html
Thanks for picking up this story; I hadn’t heard of it elsewhere.
Talbot,
Is this the part where I say, “I was wrong”?
“I’m just sayin’ . . . ”
IMO, it already is unsuitable for a UM seminary.
So, if it is cut loose as a UM seminary…do these institutions fall under the trust clause or are they separate?
I have no idea, Missy.
Friends,
Claremont has issued an official response to this week’s sanctions. President Campbell also has posted a message on his blog (I’m sure he would appreciate your comments.). Here are the direct links:
http://www.cst.edu/news/2010/01/29/umc-sanctions/
http://presidents-pen.blogspot.com/2010/01/response-to-church.html
Grace and peace,
Jon Hooten
Director of Communication
Claremont School of Theology
Jon,
Thank you for the links.
John Meunier