Multnomah Biblical Seminary at Jessup University Secures Prestigious Grant to Enhance Pastoral Mental Health Through Innovative Science Engagement

ROCKLIN, Calif. and PORTLAND, Ore., April 09, 2025 – Jessup University’s Multnomah Biblical Seminary (MBS) has just received a major grant from the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) through its Dialogue on Science, Ethics, and Religion (DoSER) program. This funding is part of the “Science Engagement for Congregational Flourishing” (SECF) project, which focuses on the collaboration between science and faith.

The initiative is called “Church and Science Working Together to Cultivate Resilience in the Face of Suffering.” Its goal is to give pastors the skills they need to help their communities deal with suffering and trauma. This is especially important as many people are facing mental health challenges, including pastors themselves. Recent studies show that a significant number of clergy members report experiencing high levels of stress and even symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder.

Dr. Paul Louis Metzger, a professor of Christian Theology, emphasized the importance of this project. “Pastors often encounter tremendous suffering but may not have the right tools to manage these challenges effectively,” he noted. Along with Dr. David Timms, the Dean of the Seminary, Metzger will guide this initiative to help these leaders build resilience in their ministries.

The project will consist of two cohorts of pastoral leaders who will participate in workshops over two years, mixing discussions with mental health professionals and scientific advisors. These gatherings will cover the latest research on trauma and mental health, helping pastors integrate these insights into their congregational work.

Dr. Timms pointed out that today’s world presents unique challenges for churches, including pandemic-related stress and societal polarization. This initiative aims to strengthen the connection between science and faith, which can provide better support for both pastors and their communities.

The program kicks off in the fall of 2025 with a conference focused on holistic health. It plans to conclude by sharing key findings and creating resources for future leaders, including a graduate certificate program and a textbook.

In recent years, we’ve seen a growing acknowledgment of mental health within religious communities. According to a 2022 survey by the Pew Research Center, 62% of clergy members reported that their mental health had deteriorated over the last few years. This partnership between Jessup University and AAAS marks a significant step in addressing these urgent needs.

For more details about the SECF project or to inquire about participation in the cohorts, interested pastors can reach out to the team at secf@jessup.edu.

To learn more about the AAAS and its initiatives, visit their website AAAS.

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