Same acronym, with a different moniker

What was known as Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary (JCSTS) now has the same acronym but is doing business under a new name — the Justice Center for Sacred Theological Studies.

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“The Justice Center for Sacred Theological Studies has emerged as a vital hub for theological education grounded in the sacred traditions of justice, faith and compassion,” according to a statement posted on the seminary’s website. “As an institution with deep roots in Black liberation theology, JCSTS honors its legacy while advancing a bold, inclusive vision for the future — one that equips diverse leaders to engage their faith meaningfully in today’s complex cultural landscape.”

JCSTS says its platform “is intentionally accessible, affordable and responsive,” serving “a broad and expanding global community of adult learners regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, orientation or denominational affiliation. Through innovative pedagogical models and spiritually rich content, JCSTS creates space for critical theological reflection, communal learning and faith-rooted public engagement.”

JCSTS serves a wide range of learners, including:

• People of faith seeking liberation-centered theological education beyond prosperity-driven or commercialized church narratives.
• Clergy and lay leaders from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds in search of practical tools to enhance their ministries and community impact.
• Justice practitioners and advocates exploring the intersection of theology, activism and social transformation.
• Lifelong learners who return to JCSTS repeatedly for small group interactions, ministry tools and spiritual formation.

“Our organizational structure reflects our values,” said the Seminary, which has historical ties to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). “JCSTS embraces a collaborative approach to educational design, administration and governance. In contrast to hierarchical and often secularized academic models, we affirm that our identity calls us to create a learning environment that is relational, just and reflective of our theological commitments.”

Why this change?

JCSTS notes that the world we live in today “is marked by profound social, political and spiritual challenges. From ongoing racial injustices and economic disparities to the pressing need for faith-rooted activism, the call for justice, compassion, and theological wisdom has never been more urgent. Our renaming is not simply a shift in identity, it is an affirmation of our purpose.”

Justice remains at the heart of the work of JCSTS, “as we equip faith leaders to confront systemic inequities and advocate for transformation in their communities.

Compassion “guides our theological approach, ensuring that sacred study is not only about knowledge but about the deep care and concern for humanity.”

The term “Sacred Theological Studies” “reminds us that our learning is grounded in reverence for the divine, fostering wisdom, healing and repair in a fractured world.”

Learn more by going here.