SAMSON DEBOCH TESFAYE
Berkeley,California
Summary
Graduate theology student with advanced formation in Catholic theology and a developing research focus in Patristics, Church History, and Ignatian spirituality. My academic interests center on the development of early Christian thought, the historical formation of ecclesial structures, and the spiritual theology of discernment within the Ignatian tradition. Drawing on interdisciplinary theological training and ecclesial experience, I seek to engage historical sources critically while contributing to contemporary theological reflection. Particularly interested in the theological vision of the Church Fathers and their relevance for contemporary ecclesial life, I aim to explore how early Christian spiritual and institutional traditions continue to shape modern theological discourse.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Graduate Student Assistant
Santa Clara University Jesuit School of Theology
Berkeley
09.2024 - Current
- Advised and mentored undergraduate and graduate students.
Pastoral Coordinator
Archdiocese of Addis Ababa
09.2014 - 07.2017
- As a Pastoral Coordinator for the Archdiocese of Addis Ababa, responsibilities included overseeing various pastoral initiatives and enhancing community engagement. This role involved collaborating with different ministries to create impactful programs that served the spiritual and social needs of the parish. Leadership skills were vital in guiding teams and volunteers towards fulfilling the church’s mission and fostering a sense of community.
- Coordinated events and activities that promoted spiritual growth and community involvement.
- Worked collaboratively with church leaders to facilitate effective communication and outreach.
- Led training sessions for volunteers to equip them with the necessary skills for ministry.
Teacher
Cistercian Monastery Mariam Tsion Catholic School
09.2012 - 08.2014
- In the role of Teacher at Cistercian Monastery Mariam Tsion Catholic School, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, efforts were focused on delivering a comprehensive educational experience to students. This involved crafting lesson plans that catered to diverse learning styles and fostering an inclusive classroom environment. The position required a strong commitment to student engagement and continuous assessment to track progress and adapt teaching methods accordingly.
- Designed and implemented innovative lesson plans that enhanced student learning and engagement.
- Conducted assessments to measure student understanding and adjusted teaching strategies based on results.
- Facilitated a positive and supportive classroom atmosphere that encouraged student participation.
- Collaborated with faculty to develop educational programs that promoted holistic development.
Education
Licentiate - Sacred Theology (STL)
Santa Clara University Jesuit School of Theology
Berkeley, California05-2026
Masters - Catholic Theology (Mag. Theol.)
Catholic University of Eichstaett-Ingolstadt
Eichstätt07-2024
B.A. - English Language and Literature
Addis Ababa University
Addis Ababa07-2012
Skills
- Effective communication Experienced
- Creative problem-solving Experienced
- Strong teamwork Experienced
- Community engagement Experienced
- Student assessment Experienced
- Pastoral coordination Experienced
- Academic writing
- Qualitative research
- Research proficiency
Certification
Level IA: Introduction to Spiritual Care
Kaiser Foundation Hospital San Leandro, CA, USA
Languages
English
Full Professional
German
Full Professional
Italian
Limited Working
French
Elementary
Amharic
Native or Bilingual
Awards
The Paul and Lydia Kalmanovitz Endowed Scholarship Fund
Timeline
Graduate Student Assistant
Santa Clara University Jesuit School of Theology
09.2024 - Current
Pastoral Coordinator
Archdiocese of Addis Ababa
09.2014 - 07.2017
Teacher
Cistercian Monastery Mariam Tsion Catholic School
09.2012 - 08.2014
Masters - Catholic Theology (Mag. Theol.)
Catholic University of Eichstaett-Ingolstadt
B.A. - English Language and Literature
Addis Ababa University
Licentiate - Sacred Theology (STL)
Santa Clara University Jesuit School of Theology