Q&A with Reggie Abraham

Dr. Reggie Abraham joined the faculty of United Theological Seminary on July 1, 2022, as Assistant Professor of Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care. Dr. Abraham holds a ThM and MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary. His PhD, also from Princeton, was in Pastoral Theology with a specialization in Pastoral Care.

Tell us about a pivotal moment or person that shaped your faith journey.

I was disillusioned with religion in my late teens and had come to a point where I was ready to walk away from the Christian faith. Around this time, however, I had a dynamic encounter with the Holy Spirit that transformed me and completely altered the trajectory of my life.

What are you most excited about in coming to United?

There’s a lot to be excited about — great leadership, brilliant faculty and staff, faithful students who are difference-makers in their ministry contexts. However, what initially drew me here was United’s commitment to “historic faith, Scriptural holiness, and church renewal.” I believe that God is doing something here that is significant and noteworthy in the world of theological education.

What do you like to do for fun?

These days I pursue whatever fun activities my kids inflict on me. My most recent fun experience has been a dizzying array of amusement park rides at the Columbus Zoo. (Although indeed fun, I don’t recommend anyone attempt such pursuits shortly after having lunch.)

Why did you pick your field of study?

I was fairly good at most pastoral tasks, but I was kind of lousy at pastoral care. I had no idea of what to say to someone who was sick, or dying, or facing marital conflict. Instead of leaning into my strengths, I decided to lean into my weaknesses.

Where do you see signs of hope in the Church today?

I draw a lot of inspiration from churches in the global South. I am an immigrant from India where there is tremendous church growth despite severe opposition to the Gospel from militant anti-Christian forces. The church in India reminds me that the Gospel is powerful and the possibilities of divine grace are endless.

Is there a Scripture or other resource that you turn to when you need hope?

These days I think a lot about 2 Cor. 4:6-14, beginning with these delicious words: “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (ESV).