Why La Mesa?
La Mesa Academy for Theological Studies is an innovative new learning opportunity at Candler, especially designed with multiculturalism at its core. La Mesa offers a welcoming and open environment for students from diverse cultures, ethnicities, and ecclesial traditions who are seeking to theologically reflect on issues impacting the church and our diasporic societies.
Through La Mesa, students are equipped to engage in culturally responsive dialogues that acknowledge the diversity of perspectives and theological stances. The program is designed to increase the intercultural competencies of students. It promotes well-being and includes opportunities to study with a community that engages spiritual formation and contextual educational experiences with global awareness and understanding.
Courses of Study
When courses begin in the Fall 2024 term, La Mesa Academy will prepare pastors, ecclesial, and other community leaders in hybrid programs that combine virtual and in-person learning. The required multilingual courses are offered in Spanish, English, and Korean.
Certificate in Theological Studies Program
The La Mesa curriculum provides an alternative path for students preparing for licensing or ordination that does not require a Master of Divinity degree. It also serves students in other ministry roles who believe a theological foundation will allow them to be more faithful and effective.
This two-year program consists of two semesters per year, with 8 weeks of online courses and an annual 3-4 day in-person residency.
Bridge Program Toward Master of Divinity Degree
La Mesa Academy students can choose to engage in a third year of study, which functions as a transitional period for those interested in the pursuit of a master’s degree. Students who opt for a third year of study will be prepared to undertake the challenging coursework of a Master of Divinity degree. Those who take part in the Bridge Program follow the same schedule as those in the Diploma in Theological Studies Program: two semesters per year, with 8 weeks of online courses and an annual 3-4 day in-person residency.
Learn more about La Mesa
The application for the fall 2024 semester is open!
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) are at the core of La Mesa Academy for Theological Studies. We were founded on the belief that our interculturalism, diversity of theology, ecclesial traditions, abilities, and perspectives are necessary for our collective growth. We believe that we grow best as a community, where every member can find belonging. The members of our La Mesa family are encouraged to bring their whole selves into our shared spaces to thrive as a member of the larger Candler community. Learn more about DEIB at Candler and Emory.
Christian Faith: Bible, Theology & History
- Old Testament
- New Testament
- History of Christianity through different cultural lenses
- Christian theology with an emphasis on different cultural perspectives
- Advanced courses such as Hispanic and Latinx approaches to biblical interpretation
Ministerial Capacity
- Community and Nonprofit Leadership
- Spiritual Entrepreneurial Leadership
- Church Administration Leadership
- Christian Formation and Worship Leadership
- Public Witness in Civic Engagement Leadership
Engaging Culture and Context
- Ethics and Society
- Prophetic Leadership and Proclamation
- The Future of the Multilingual, Multi-Generational & Multi-Cultural Church
- High school diploma or equivalency, including Bible Institute Certificate and/or other ministry experience
- Purpose Statement
- Autobiographical Statement
- Recommendations
- Interviews
At La Mesa Academy for Theological Studies, we believe that theological education should be accessible to all. Those who enroll as students of La Mesa Academy will be eligible to apply for partial and full scholarships that, upon award, would allow them to pursue their studies tuition-free. Additionally, they will be provided with the resources necessary to pursue their studies without limits, including laptops and other relevant items.
The transformative work at La Mesa Academy for Theological Studies is possible thanks to our partners who participated in the consultations where the vision of La Mesa came to fruition. These just and durable partnerships have been the key to implementing the work of La Mesa and without the ongoing investment of the 8 consultants and over 100 partners, this work is not possible. In addition, we work in close collaboration with the following Hispanic/Latinx theological organizations:
- AETH: Asociacion para la Educación Teológica Hispana
- The Justo and Catherine Gonzalez Resource Center
- HTI: Hispanic Theological Initiative
- HSP: Hispanic Summer Program