The environment for American theological education is becoming increasingly turbulent and challenging. In past decades, the seminary was regarded by the church as the most appropriate place to train ministerial leadership. It was assumed that pastors, and other Christian leaders, would attend a seminary and receive the academic and practical training required for ministry. Revolutionary changes in our culture have radically altered that perception. The mainline church has been moved to the margins.
Denominations are in the midst of a downward spiral, losing members, money and influence.
Today, the religious focus has shifted to the mega-churches and their pastors have emerged as the dominant religious figures in America. These pastors tend to downplay the importance of traditional seminaries for religious leadership. Instead of looking to the seminaries for their staff members, they call persons from their own congregations, and then train them. The pressure upon pastors is considerable, in light of increased congregational expectations. Church members, accustomed to a consumer friendly society, demand that their needs be met by their churches.