SFTS Presidential Inauguration

The inauguration of Rev. Dr. James L. McDonald as 11th president of San Francisco Theological Seminary will feature noted journalist and best-selling author Keith Boykin as keynote during activities Feb. 10-11.  The theme of McDonald’s inauguration is Faith and Public Life.

A stellar lineup of notable figures in media, religion, the arts and public policy will participate in the two-day inauguration ceremony. Boykin, a CNBC political commentator and social justice advocate who attended law school with President Barack Obama, will speak at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10, at First Presbyterian Church, San Anselmo. 

In addition to Boykin, the Friday panel will include Mike McCurry, partner at Public Strategies Washington, Inc., and former press secretary for President Bill Clinton. Dr. Daniel Aleshire, executive director of the Association of Theological Schools, will also participate as well as Rev. Dr. Martha Taylor, SFTS adjunct professor and Christian leadership facilitator.

McDonald’s inauguration address will be “The Real Presence of Christ in the 21st Century.”  The inauguration service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 11, at 10 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, San Anselmo.

 “It is our goal to engage the full community in a much broader discussion,” McDonald said. “How can we make the intersection of faith and public life a reality for world faith leaders, not just an academic question, but grounds for a discussion that will shape our future focus.”

Rev. Dr. Dean McDonald, the president’s wife, will preach in chapel on Friday in an opening worship service that honors baptism. Among her many experiences, Dean McDonald directed the College of Preachers at Washington National Cathedral for five years and was a frequent preacher and worship leader in the Cathedral’s services.  

The worship services during inauguration weekend will emphasize the connection between sacrament and justice. The celebration of communion will be at the center of the inaugural service, with breads from around the world representing our connection with the global community.

“I hope people will come and feel renewed, refreshed, engaged and looking forward in theological education,” Jim McDonald said. “The occasion will be festive and fun.”

Music will be a key part of the weekend events, highlighted by a concert by the Cyrus Chestnut Trio on Friday, Feb. 10, at 8 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, Sam Anselmo. During Saturday’s inauguration ceremony, the Allen Temple Men’s Chorus of Oakland will perform in addition to the SFTS Seminary Singers and the SFTS Korean Student Singers.