Every vibrant congregation stands on the shoulders of leaders who were shaped, challenged, and inspired by their theological education. On Sunday, September 21, 2025, churches across the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) are invited to celebrate Theological Education Sunday — a day to lift up the call to prepare future pastors, educators, and leaders for service in Christ’s name.

Rev. Bill Davis, Senior Director of Theological Education Funds Development, sees this day as an essential moment in the life of the church.

“Theological education doesn’t just prepare people for ministry — it grounds them in the way of Jesus and equips them to navigate the complexities of today’s world,” Davis said. “When we celebrate Theological Education Sunday, we’re affirming that leadership matters and that the future of the church is worth investing in.”

The Presbyterian Foundation has prepared worship resources — including liturgy, hymn ideas, PowerPoint slides, and bulletin inserts — to help congregations mark the day in meaningful ways. This year’s bulletin materials feature reflections from pastors whose seminary years transformed their ministries.

Your Gifts at Work
Through the Theological Education Fund, Presbyterians support seminaries and covenant partners in the U.S. and Puerto Rico, providing scholarships, innovative programs, and experiences that shape leaders for decades to come. The results are tangible: 91% of Presbyterian seminary graduates find ministry positions within a year, and carry less debt than their peers at other seminaries. They have greater freedom to follow God’s call.

Rev. Zoë Garry, Associate Director of Theological Education Funds Development, puts it simply:

“When you give to the Theological Education Fund, you are shaping the next generation of leaders who will guide the church with faith, courage, and vision.”

Whether your congregation celebrates on the official date or chooses another Sunday, the invitation is the same: honor those who have answered the call to serve — and help prepare those who will follow.

Resources are available now at https://www.presbyterianfoundation.org/theological-education-resources/.