Issue link: http://denverseminary.uberflip.com/i/1495097
2022-2023 Student Handbook 18 Denver Seminary takes neither a "complementarian" nor an "egalitarian" stance on the issue of gender roles in ministry. Our faculty reflects a diversity of opinion on the particulars of this question while valuing a climate of charitable orthodoxy, i.e. a clear commitment to biblical authority combined with a commitment to mutual respect and civil discourse. Disagreement on this issue is not a matter of biblical orthodoxy or a litmus test for fellowship, even though we may hold our opinions with great conviction. Recognizing the range of commitments on this issue, even among evangelical Christians with a strong commitment to biblical authority, Denver Seminary expects all students to demonstrate mutual respect for the rights of all other students to prepare for any form of ministry. Charitable, respectful dialogue on the issue is encouraged within these boundaries. Disrespect or demeaning treatment of other students, in any form, will not be tolerated due to the educational and formational nature of our Seminary's mission. Accepting a place in the student body of Denver Seminary is a statement of willingness to abide by this policy. We are committed to cultivating and protecting a community in which both men and women are free from derogation of any type and can thrive in their personal and professional development for whatever form of ministry they and their sponsoring fellowships sense the gifts and calling of God. Student Affirmation of Beliefs and Standards Denver Seminary is a religious organization that trains ministers and those who serve the Church within the context of a faith community. As such, our shared beliefs and standards within the faith community are as important as our academic training. Recognizing this, we require all applicants to certify that they have read, understand, and personally adhere to the shared beliefs as stated in the NAE Statement of Faith. Further, we require that all applicants certify that they have read, understand and agree to abide by the expectations and policies as outlined in the Seminary's Community Values and Behavioral Commitments, Academic Catalog and Student Handbook. Because of the nature of our shared faith community and the importance of maintaining consistency in our beliefs and standards, students are required to reaffirm these commitments each time they register for a new semester. The Seminary reserves the right to evaluate a student's continued standing if his or her belief has or is believed to have shifted away from our shared faith community, and the student may no longer be compatible with Denver Seminary. Students who can no longer certify that some aspect of the Statement of Faith is a sincerely held belief, or who can no longer willingly agree to abide by the expectations and policies as outlined in the above foundational documents, are encouraged to contact the Dean of Students for further discussion or assistance in transitioning or transferring if needed. As an inability to affirm Denver Seminary's beliefs and standards could result in preventing a student from continuing in his or her program, completing the program, and/or graduating, it is important to identify any issues promptly. This helps to avoid wasting the student's resources and to ensure a smooth transition if one will be needed.