2025 Annual Scherer Lecture: Faith in a Time of Crisis

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025

On September 30, McCormick Theological Seminary, the Catholic Theological Union and Lutheran School of Theology will co-host the Annual Scherer Lecture, a space for rigorous reflection and timely dialogue on theology, leadership, and the witness of the church in today’s world. This year’s lecture will be delivered by Dr. Rafael Malpica Padilla, one of the most respected voices in global mission and Latine ministry.

A CRISIS OF FAITH IN OUR TIMES
“El Rostro Disfigurado de la fe Cristiana; The Missional Task for the Church in the United States of America Today” will address a pressing reality: the profound crisis in understanding the Christian faith in our time. Misguided theologies have emerged, shaping knowledge systems and ecclesial practices that stray far from the radical call of Jesus found in the gospels.

In this context, the words attributed to the 16th-century reformers — ecclesia reformata semper reformanda (“the church reformed, always reforming”) — remain as relevant as ever. Dr. Malpica Padilla will explore how this vision intersects with the call of 1 Peter 3:15: “Be ready to make a defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you.”

ABOUT THE SPEAKER
The Rev. Rafael Malpica Padilla serves as the John Damm Chair on Leadership and Director for the Latine Ministry and Theology Program at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC). He previously served for 31 years with the Global Mission Unit of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and is the Bishop Emeritus of the ELCA Caribbean Synod, where he faithfully led for 12 years.

EVENT DETAILS
Tuesday, September 30, 2025
4:00–5:30 p.m. CT
McCormick Theological Seminary, Room 210 or via Zoom
A reception will follow the lecture.

This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required.