Reverend M. Craig Barnes has been named the seventh president of Princeton Theological Seminary effective January 1, replacing Reverend Iain Torrance who announced his intention to retire last year.
Barnes, a 1981 master of divinity graduate from the seminary, is currently a professor of pastoral ministry and leadership at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, and is pastor of the 1,100-member Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh.
Barnes earned his doctorate in American church history from the University of Chicago and has previously served pastorates at the First Presbyterian Church of Colorado Springs, Christ Presbyterian Church in Madison, WI, and the National Presbyterian Church in Washington D.C. He is the author of eight books and is a columnist for The Christian Century magazine, based in Chicago.
“I fell in love with Princeton Seminary in 1978 when I began my master of divinity studies here,” said Barnes. “By the time I left the seminary, the words faith and learning were permanently engraved together on my heart.”
“I am eager to help Princeton be the best it can be,” he added. “A winsome community that is committed to developing church leaders who are theologically formed, intellectually curious, and equipped to serve the church of Jesus Christ in a dramatically new cultural context.”
John Buchanan, pastor emeritus of the Fourth Presbyterian Church of Chicago and editor of The Christian Century, said, “Craig Barnes and the presidency of Princeton Theological Seminary is a match made in heaven. He is an exquisitely trained scholar, an eloquent proclaimer of the Gospel, a thoughtful analyst of culture, and a graceful and prolific author.”
Barnes plans to move to Princeton with his wife Dawne, and teenage sons Karl and Erik.
Princeton Theological Seminary, 64 Mercer Street, Box 821, Princeton 08542; 609-921-8300; fax, 609-924-2973. M. Craig Barnes, president. www.ptsem.edu.
