Commitment Statement

American Baptist College is committed to the faith that brought the Christian church into being, and it believes that one becomes more able to grasp that faith by critical theological reflection on the Hebraic and Christian traditions. It believes this faith to have significant meaning and central importance for the constituents of Black churches and for the common life of men and women in the world. Thus, American Baptist College is committed to assisting its community in achieving a critical and reflective understanding of the Christian faith and in discerning the implications of that faith for the church, society, and the lives of individuals. Concretely, this commitment entails the education of women and men who will be forceful representatives of the faith that undergirds the Black Christian tradition and effective agents in working for a more just and humane society, for development of new and better models of ministry for under-served and under-privileged communities, and for leadership in church and society that will help alleviate oppression of individuals and groups.

Thus, the purpose of American Baptist College is: to provide an undergraduate interdisciplinary, theological, and biblical education for men and women; to engage students in a theological understanding of the Christian faith; to help persons, both lay and clergy, re-envision and prepare for the practice of Christian Ministry and various social vocations; to encourage individuals in their spiritual and intellectual growth; and to prepare leaders who will be agents of social justice.

American Baptist College affirms its commitment to do all in its power to combat the idolatry of racism, gender based prejudice, ethnocentrism and all forms of discrimination in attitudes, practices, and language that deny the inclusion of individuals who desire involvement in the academic programs of ABC.

American Baptist College is committed to active participation in the struggles of individuals and groups for a healthier, more just, more humane, and more ecologically wholesome world. It has special concerns for the oppressed, for prisoners, for the poor, for the effects of environmental destruction, and for the securing of equal opportunity for all individuals.

Education is the primary task of American Baptist College. Thus, ABC is committed to an academic environment for critical dialogue among students and faculty that is open and free to enlist insights that will enhance intellectual and spiritual growth.