Chicago Theological Seminary

The 2026 C. Shelby Rooks Lecture welcomes back the Rev. Dr. Lee H. Butler, Jr., President and CEO of Iliff School of Theology and former distinguished faculty member at CTS, for “From Revolution in Zion to Singing the Lord's Song in a Strange Land.”

During his time at CTS, Dr. Butler founded the Center for the Study of Black Faith and Life and inaugurated the C. Shelby Rooks Lectureship. His return offers an opportunity to honor a legacy of theological reflection, critical inquiry, and engagement with faith and public life.

Thursday, October 8 | 6:00 p.m. CT
Hybrid: Catholic Theological Union + Zoom
In-person reception begins at 4:30 p.m.

RSVP to attend.
https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/registration-form/?formId=ee2f674c-0eab-4718-91d8-15c072687f59&envId=p-QWWf1xvcg0-bK6-k4h8TAQ&zone=usa

For many years, the InterReligious Institute (IRI), with the support of Rabbi Rachel Mikva, has brought Sukkot to the “front yard” of CTS through the building of a community sukkah.

Hand-built each year by faculty, staff, and students, the sukkah has offered a place of hospitality, respite, learning, and gathering for the CTS and Hyde Park communities. Over the years, many hands have helped bring this tradition to life—and many conversations and connections have unfolded beneath its roof.

As we celebrate Sukkot, we’re taking a walk down memory lane and remembering some of these moments through the years. With special gratitude to Rabbi Mikva and her husband, Mark, for the care and commitment they have brought to celebrating Sukkot at CTS year after year.

Chag Sukkot Sameach!

For 170 years, Chicago Theological Seminary has prepared bold leaders to put theology into action, advancing justice, interreligious engagement, and transformative leadership in the church and public life.

Today, CTS and Yale Divinity School are pursuing a proposed affiliation grounded in shared commitments to theological education, public leadership, and communities dedicated to justice. The proposed affiliation envisions carrying CTS’s mission forward as the Chicago Theological Institute at Yale Divinity School, creating new possibilities to extend the reach and accessibility of this work.

This is an important moment of transition for CTS, but our central message is clear: the institution is changing; the mission is not.

Visit the CTS website to hear from President Braxton, read the full announcement, and explore FAQs about the proposed affiliation and what comes next.

Sukkot invites us to gather with gratitude and reflect on the sacredness of shelter, hospitality, and community. During this season, may we be mindful of our shared responsibility to create spaces of welcome, belonging, and care for one another.

As Yom Kippur begins, we honor this sacred time of reflection, repentance, and renewal. May all who observe find meaning, peace, and connection in this Day of Atonement. G’mar Chatimah Tovah.

Wishing a sweet, peaceful, and healthy New Year to everyone celebrating Rosh Hashanah! 🍏🍯

As the Jewish New Year begins, it is a beautiful time dedicated to reflection, renewal, and hope for the future. May the year ahead bring unity, happiness, and prosperity to our global community. Shanah Tovah to our Jewish friends and neighbors!

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