The Zinzendorf School of Doctoral Studies (ZSDS) successfully concluded its 2026 Doctoral Colloquium at Olivet University’s San Francisco Campus on October 16. Held from October 5 to 16, the two-week gathering brought together approximately 40 doctoral students from around the world for academic study, ministry reflection, and fellowship.

Throughout the colloquium, students deepened their theological understanding and explored connections between academic scholarship and ministry practice. Lectures, discussions, and personal interactions with ZSDS faculty and fellow students provided opportunities to exchange perspectives, examine ministry challenges, and learn from the experiences of an international community.

The Doctor of Ministry program offered core courses for first-year students and ministry-focused lectures and project development opportunities for second-year students. Dr. Don Tinder, Dr. William Wagner, Dr. Ray Tallman, Dr. Creig Marlowe, and Dr. Tom Cowley taught first-year courses covering theology, missiology, research, and spiritual formation. These courses provided a foundation for students’ doctoral studies while encouraging them to consider how theological learning can inform and strengthen their ministries.

Second-year students engaged with their track leaders and faculty to refine the direction and scope of their DMin projects. These conversations helped students clarify their research interests and consider their projects’ relevance to their ministry contexts. During the second week, students presented their developing projects and received faculty feedback to guide their continued work.

Beyond the classroom, the colloquium fostered meaningful relationships among students and professors. Bringing together participants from diverse cultural and ministry backgrounds, the gathering offered opportunities for mutual encouragement and a broader understanding of the church’s mission across the world.

Following the colloquium, students will continue their studies through online lecture sessions and discussions with faculty and their cohorts. These ongoing interactions will build on the learning and relationships developed in San Francisco as students pursue their research and seek to serve their ministry communities faithfully.