Hood Theological Seminary

"Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." — Galatians 6:2

The world needs compassionate leaders who know how to listen, encourage, and walk alongside others.

Be that presence.

The hymn "Higher Ground"—best known by its opening line, "I'm pressing on the upward way"—was written by Johnson Oatman, Jr. in 1898 and set to music by Charles H. Gabriel. It emerged during the late nineteenth-century Holiness movement, a period that emphasized continual spiritual growth, sanctification, and a deeper walk with God.

What makes the hymn enduring is that it is not primarily about reaching heaven after death; it is about spiritual growth in the present. Each verse expresses a desire to move beyond fear, doubt, temptation, and complacency toward a closer relationship with God. The refrain—"Lord, lift me up and let me stand, by faith, on heaven's tableland"—is both a prayer and a declaration of dependence on divine grace.

For many African American church traditions, "Higher Ground" has taken on an additional meaning. Beyond personal sanctification, it has often been sung as a testimony of resilience—a declaration that, despite oppression, hardship, or setbacks, God continues to call God's people to new heights of faith, dignity, and hope.

Answer the Call to Chaplaincy

The Master of Arts in Christian Chaplaincy at Hood Theological Seminary prepares students for ministry in healthcare, military, correctional, educational, and community settings.

Develop the theological foundation, pastoral care skills, and practical experience needed to serve people where they need hope most.

Learn more today.
www.hoodseminary.edu/apply

☀️Called to Care
Some people are called to preach from a pulpit. Others are called to sit quietly beside a hospital bed, comfort a grieving family, or offer hope in difficult moments.
Chaplaincy is the ministry of presence.
Where is God calling you to serve today?

The Master of Divinity (MDiv) is designed for those preparing for ordained ministry, chaplaincy, and advanced theological leadership.

At Hood Theological Seminary, our MDiv program equips students with:

Biblical and theological depth
Practical ministry training
Leadership formation rooted in the Black church tradition

Your ministry deserves both passion and preparation.

Your calling deserves preparation, not improvisation.

At Hood Theological Seminary, theological education is more than earning a degree—it’s formation for faithful leadership in church, community, and the world.

This week, step boldly into what you’re being shaped for.

The struggle for justice did not end with one law, one march, or one generation.

Each generation must decide whether it will protect the vulnerable or ignore their suffering.

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed." — Proverbs 31:8

There was a time in America when segregated schools, lunch counters, buses, neighborhoods, and voting restrictions were considered "normal."
History reminds us that progress has never come automatically. It has always required ordinary people willing to challenge injustice.

"The righteous shall obtain gladness, but the hope of the wicked shall perish." — Proverbs 10:28
As we remember the Civil Rights Movement, may we continue the work of building a more just society for everyone.

The work of justice can feel exhausting. The headlines can feel overwhelming.
Yet scripture reminds us that faithfulness is measured not by immediate victories but by our willingness to keep showing up.
"Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up." — Galatians 6:9