L. Armstead Edwards, D.Min
Merion Station,PA
Summary
I believe that my religious and secular experiences uniquely qualify me to assist in the preparation of Christian leaders in missional ministry. Because the D.Min. program at Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University emphasizes the missional aspects of Christianity, those of us who completed the program are called to look outside of the structure of the church walls into the wider community. Missional is a holistic perspective of the church's theology and practices. Guided by the Scriptures and sensitive to the context of the church and its community, the missional perspective seeks to integrate faith into whole-life discipleship and maintains a servant and outward-focused lifestyle. This approach calls for me to be engaging, not withdrawn, serving, not selfish, and promote a holistic view of salvation, not a strictly otherworldly view.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Chaplain
Jefferson University Hospital
05.2019 - 06.2021
- After completing 1 unit of CPE training at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, I worked as a chaplain at Methodist Hospital of Philadelphia (a satellite affiliate of the Jefferson University Hospital System.) Responsibilities included providing support service rounds to nursing units and being available to respond wherever needed.
- The primary mission of our hospital chaplaincy program is to figuratively "walk alongside" patients, families, clinicians, and staff who are experiencing distress or trauma.
- The views of all religions, denominations, and personal philosophies are respected
- We are able to direct clients and hospital staff to particular clergy or faith leaders when requested or use our training to work through the situation
- Collaborated with interdisciplinary teams for holistic patient care, addressing both physical and emotional needs.
- Facilitated grief support groups, helping participants cope with loss and find healing through shared experiences.
- Developed relationships with patients and families, resulting in increased trust and rapport during difficult times.
- Note: Because of the COVID-19 pandemic and my present physical condition, my physician recommended I not continue my work at the hospital.
Director
Openseminary MTS Program, Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University
03.2011 - 08.2013
- The Master of Theological Studies (MTS Openseminary) was established to complement Palmer Seminary's existing Master of Divinity and Master of Theological Studies degrees, both of which are primarily campus-based programs
- The MTS Openseminary was established to provide integrated theological education in an innovative delivery consisting of online, classroom intensives, and independent study
- As the first Director of the newly initiated program, my duties included working with the executive administration of the university and ATS to qualify the Openseminary Model and to meet budgetary goals; visit local churches, as well as churches across the country to explain the program and enroll students, work with Palmer faculty to ensure an understanding that this new program would not replace existing programs; work with registrar to implement positive enrollment experience for prospective new students.
- Optimized staff performance by designing comprehensive training programs tailored to individual needs.
Adjunct Professor
Esperanza College of Eastern University
06.2008 - 06.2013
- INST 150Introduction to Faith, Reason, & Justice
- An introduction course to the mission and values of Eastern University and its most important sought principles: faith, reason, and justice
- We examined how these principles are the themes of church and theology, philosophy and ethics, and the social relationships of a spiritual and physical community
- We used a progressive approach seeking to connect and expand the understanding of the original three principles as expanding from one to another through a Christian theistic perspective
- How justice can be established in our world is the driving concern
- Enhanced student comprehension by employing diverse teaching methods and incorporating multimedia resources.
- Increased student retention by providing individualized support and tailored feedback on assignments.
- Served as a mentor to junior faculty members, offering guidance on effective teaching strategies and classroom management techniques.
- During my employment at Esperanza College, I also taught Business Communication, Freshman English, as well as Public Speaking.
Education
CPE Training 1 Unit -
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
04.2019
Doctor of Ministry Degree - Leadership of Missional Church Renewal
Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University
Saint Davids, PA05.2015
Faithful Teach Treatment Education Activists Combating HIV -
Urban Theological Institute
06.2013
Master of Science - Urban Education And Leadership
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA05.2002
Bachelor of Science - Elementary And Middle School Education
Cheyney University
Cheyney, PA05.1996
Skills
- Communication Skills
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Christian Theology
- Pastoral Ministry
- Leadership Skills
- Spiritual Formation
- Spiritual Guidance
- Ministry Development
- Microsoft Office
Accomplishments
Chairman of the Board of Directors, United Bank of
Philadelphia 2006-Present
Deacon, Robert Pinn Memorial Baptist Church 2008-Present
Finance Committee Chair, Presbyterian Community Ministries
Corporation 2006-2008
Host. ABC/A Better Chance Program 1988-1999
References
References available upon request
Timeline
Chaplain
Jefferson University Hospital
05.2019 - 06.2021
Director
Openseminary MTS Program, Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University
03.2011 - 08.2013
Adjunct Professor
Esperanza College of Eastern University
06.2008 - 06.2013
CPE Training 1 Unit -
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
Doctor of Ministry Degree - Leadership of Missional Church Renewal
Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University
Faithful Teach Treatment Education Activists Combating HIV -
Urban Theological Institute
Master of Science - Urban Education And Leadership
Temple University
Bachelor of Science - Elementary And Middle School Education
Cheyney University