Silliman University Divinity School

Faculty Member Attends the 10th Conference and Workshop of the Forum of Asian Theological Librarians

The 10th Conference and Workshop of the Forum of Asian Theological Librarians (ForATL) was held last April 13 to 15, 2026 at the Aletheia University in Taipei, with this year’s theme: “Theological Libraries and Research: Collaborations Between Librarians and Researchers.” The conference was attended by twenty-four (24) participants from India, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

ForATL, established in 1991, is a regional network that connects theological librarians across Asia. It aims to strengthen collaboration, facilitate resource sharing, and support professional development in theological librarianship. Through consultations, training programs, and publications, the organization continues to promote the vital role of libraries in advancing theological education and scholarship throughout the region. ForATL maintains strong partnerships with the American Theological Library Association (ATLA) and the Foundation for Theological Education in Asia and the Pacific (FTEAP).

This conference was attended by SUDS Faculty member and Theological Librarian, Rev. Arnel Z. Faller, who is also the ForATL Executive Committee Convenor since 2018, and who was one of the core persons responsible in organizing the event. This conference resonates all efforts of SUDS to provide quality theological education for the SUDS faculty and students. This conference also highlights our deep-rooted connection with other seminary schools in Asia.

SUDS Faculty Publications AY 2025-2026

The Silliman University Divinity School Koinonia celebrates the breadth of scholarship from our faculty, whose works reflect academic rigor, theological depth, clinical insight, ecclesiological wisdom, and ecological awareness.

This AY 2025-2026, SUDS Faculty members continue to share locally and internationally their expertise in their specialized fields to contribute relevant knowledge and wisdom, giving voice to the different reflections coming from the struggles of the entire humanity and the rest of God’s creation.

Their contributions continue to shape and enrich our understanding of our faith in God, guiding both thought and practice in preparing students for the ministry of our Lord Jesus Christ in the church and in the world.

Divinity School Seminarian Completes One-Year Program in Austin, Texas

The Silliman University Divinity School (SUDS) continues its long-standing partnership with the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary in Austin, Texas, through a student exchange program running from August 2025 to May 2026. This collaboration has provided seminarians with opportunities to broaden their theological horizons and immerse themselves in diverse cultural contexts.

This year’s representative is John Fritz B. Guarte, an incoming senior Master of Divinity student of the SUDS. Hailing from the province of Antique, John is a seminarian of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP). Before entering the Divinity School, he completed his bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, a background that enriches his theological studies with a scientific perspective.

The seminary program in Austin offers participants a unique chance to engage in rigorous academic work while experiencing ministry in a new environment. Students are expected to maintain strong academic performance, comply with the host seminary’s requirements, and actively participate in both spiritual and social life. Beyond academics, the program emphasizes personal discipline, cross-cultural sensitivity, and faithful service.

The exchange program is made possible through generous support that covers tuition, board and lodging, and book allowances. Students also benefit from not needing to take the TOEFL exam, while the school shoulders half of the international airfare. In return, participants commit to shouldering their own passport and visa expenses, ensuring their readiness for the journey.

SUDS 2025: Additional Highlights

As we step further into 2026, we pause to look back and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our Silliman University Divinity School community in 2025.

From international conferences to published scholarship, our faculty and staff continue to carry the SUDS mission beyond the walls of our institution, into regional and global academic conversations and the broader work of theological formation in Asia.

For Rev. Dr. Robin's article, access it here: https://ejournal.uinsalatiga.ac.id/index.php/ijoresh/article/view/5014

SUDS Leads First-Ever Nationwide Summit on Seminary Field Education

Silliman University Divinity School (SUDS) spearheaded the First-Ever Two-Day Summit of Seminary Field Education Directors and Deans, held last April 13–14, 2026, at the UCCP Shalom Center in Manila.

Organized in partnership with the Foundation for Theological Education in Asia and the Pacific (FTEAP) and the Association for Theological Education in Southeast Asia (ATESEA), the summit brought together representatives from eleven (11) ATESEA member theological schools for a focused dialogue on the future of field education in seminary formation across the region.

Key inputs were delivered by SUDS Dean Rev. Lope B. Robin, ThD, and ATESEA Director Rev. Dr. Limuel Equiña, while the summit was spearheaded by SUDS Field Education Director Rev. Jeaneth Harris-Faller, ThD, a testament to SUDS's leadership and initiative in advancing theological education in Southeast Asia. Also representing the school as a participant was faculty member Rev. George Mikhail H.K. Pagalan.

Congratulations, Graduates of 2026! 🎓✨

The Silliman University Divinity School (SUDS) proudly celebrates the Graduates of 2026. These are individuals called and formed through years of study and sacrifice, together with the SUDS koinonia that have led to this moment.

To God be the glory!

Mga DS students, Banikanhong Magdudula is calling you to the stage 🎭

Prep your acting skills because we're holding auditions this March 25, 2026, 5:00 PM at the Faculty Lounge of the McKinley Hall!

Stay updated for more information in the DS Students' group chat.
See you there 👋🏼

𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐜𝐡 𝟏𝟖, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 | 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞

As we come to our final Wednesday chapel service for this school year, the Divinity School gathers in gratitude and reflection looking back on God’s enduring faithfulness throughout the journey. In every song sung, every prayer lifted, and every Word proclaimed, we are reminded that God has been with us every step of the way.

Grounded in Haggai 1:1–15, today’s sermon, “Fix The Temple,” preached by Celton Clyde Saa, Senior MDiv Student, calls the community not only to remember what has been learned, but to carry it forward to rebuild, renew, and serve with lives shaped by faith, hope, and love.

We give thanks for those who led and served in today’s chapel service:

Minister:
Rev. Dr. Jeaneth H. Faller

Preacher:
Celton Clyde Saa

Liturgist:
Marry Flowela F. Jaro

Bible Reader:
Fremcel Mae Narciso

Offering Ushers:
Sunshine Calipay
Lujille Fajardo
Dave Mariano
Gilbert Caldoza

Liturgy Writers:
Church Music 2 Class

Accompanist:
Engr. Dennis Noel De Lara

Cantors:
Vermil Jearol Rulida
Timothy Bigueras

AV Operator:
Marc-Ivan Benoni Lugo

Chapel & Elements:
Church Music 2 Class

📷 DS Koinonia Documentation Team