Author

Ellen F. Davis

Amos Ragan Kearns Distinguished Professor, Duke Divinity School

Ellen F. Davis is the Amos Ragan Kearns Distinguished Professor of Bible and Practical Theology at Duke Divinity School. She is interested in theological interpretation of the Old Testament, with particular concern for how the Bible is used to address urgent public issues. Her current work focuses on developing an exegetically based response to the ecological crisis.

A lay Episcopalian, she has been involved in interfaith dialogue for 40 years. Her previous teaching appointments were at Union Theological Seminary (New York City), Yale Divinity School and the Virginia Theological Seminary. She also served as the interim dean of Duke Divinity School from 2015 to 2016.

Learning to believe

By Ellen F. Davis Amos Ragan Kearns Distinguished Professor, Duke Divinity School

For many of us, there is a huge gap between the Easter proclamation of joy and the felt reality of guilt, chaos and hopelessness. But practicing the forgiveness of sins is practicing resurrection; that is how we may come to believe that in the crucified and risen Lord, everything has changed, says Ellen F. Davis.

Leadership in a time of war

By Ellen F. Davis Amos Ragan Kearns Distinguished Professor, Duke Divinity School

One of the hallmarks of the Most Rev. Dr. Daniel Deng Bul Yak’s remarkable leadership in southern Sudan is a commitment to education, both his own and others’, says Duke Divinity professor Ellen F. Davis.

Tim Soerens

Applications now open for Reflective Leadership Grants

“This was a game-changer for us. The chance to climb up from the ‘dance floor’ of our everyday activity and discern a clarified organization future from the ‘balcony’ was the gift we needed even more than we understood at the time.

If possible, please pursue this extraordinary opportunity.”

— Tim Soerens, Parish Collective

Christian leaders from a variety of roles are welcome to apply. The grants provide “balcony time” to reflect on accomplishments, broaden perspectives and discern next steps. The application deadline is May 2, 2025.

Learn more