Rev. Dr. Brent Laytham Named Ecumenical Institute of Theology Dean

March 19, 2012 — Rev. Dr. Brent Laytham of North Park Theological Seminary in Chicago has been named the new Dean of the Ecumenical Institute of Theology of St. Mary's Seminary & University in Baltimore. Fr. Thomas R. Hurst, S.S., St. Mary's President Rector, made the announcement after a six-month national search. His appointment is effective July 1, 2012.

In his announcement Father Hurst noted that Dr. Laytham is an excellent theologian who brings both pastoral and administrative experience to his new position. Furthermore, he stated, "I am looking forward to working with Dr. Laytham so that we may continue to build the programs of the Ecumenical Institute in the great tradition set by Dr. Gorman and to face the new challenges that present themselves in the twenty-first century." Click here for more information.

Introduction to the Ecumenical Institute

The Ecumenical Institute of Theology (E.I.) was founded in 1968 by St. Mary's Seminary & University, America's oldest Roman Catholic seminary, in cooperation with ecumenical leaders. St. Mary's is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools and by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The Ecumenical Institute encourages people of all denominations to explore theological studies in a serious, open-minded, and supportive environment.

Our students are mostly working adults who are part-time learners following the ancient motto of “faith seeking understanding.” They pursue individual courses, one of several certificates (biblical studies, parish nursing, religious education, spirituality, urban ministry, and youth ministry), and/or one of two master's degrees, the M.A. in Theology or the M.A. in Church Ministries. Classes are held mostly in the late afternoon and evening on week days. There are three terms per year: fall, winter, and summer. Tuition is very reasonable—the lowest in the region for accredited, graduate, theological education

Our student body of women and men is both interdenominational and interracial, as is our excellent faculty. Nearly all of the Ecumenical Institute's professors have earned doctorates, and a significant number are well-known published scholars. The faculty is drawn from neighboring academic and religious institutions as well as from St. Mary's.

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