McClendon Scholars
Bridging Faith, & Scholarship
The McClendon Scholar-In-Residence Program (MSIR) hosts renowned scholars, theologians, authors and other thought leaders for lectures, sermons, and dialogues that explore the intersections of faith, scholarship, and action. The above photo is of United States Senator Chris Coons in conversation with Rev. Sarah Johnson after his McClendon Scholar Presentation on January 12, 2026.
Established through the generosity of the late Rev. Dr. Jack E. McClendon, this program brings scholars and thought leaders to Washington to share their wisdom, learning, and insight about how Christians can be more effective in dealing with contemporary issues. Since its inception in 2006, we have had the privilege of hosting renowned scholars and authors who have shaped our understanding of faith, social justice and human flourishing. Walter Brueggmann was our first McClendon Scholar and he has been followed by many other notables such as James Cone, Katherine Hayhoe, Brian McLaren, David French, Raphael Warnock, Kristin du Mez, Judy Fentress-Williams and William Barber. Recordings of these and many other presentations can be accessed by clicking on “Watch Previous Events” below.
Join us as we continue to foster a community committed to learning, growth, and action.
Upcoming Event
Congregations and Our Unhoused Neighbors: Rising to Meet the Moment
April 18 | 10 am EDT
Rosanne Haggerty is President of Community Solutions, one of the most important national organizations that is working to reduce and eventually end homelessness. She will speak at a community convening at New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in downtown Washington, DC at 10:00 AM EDT on Saturday, April 18. This 90 minute program is co-sponsored by the Washington Interfaith Network (WIN) and will also be available as a webinar for those who cannot attend in person. Ms. Haggerty will provide an inspirational vision of how we can meet the needs of all of our unhoused neighbors and challenge congregations and individuals to be involved in this work in new and more effective ways. Faith leaders will share basic information on homelessness in our community and there will be time for questions and feedback from those in attendance.
After this morning meeting, there will be a luncheon workshop from Noon to 2 PM for those who are interested in working with Ward 2 congregations in Washington, DC on some new cooperative efforts in the downtown area. Representatives of the congregations taking action to help unhoused people will share information on their work and interact with Rosanne Haggerty to plan the best way to engage people and have an impact in the community. A free lunch will be served and so it is important to know how many will attend. If you want to attend the workshop, please choose the registration option that signs you up for the luncheon meeting as well as the general convening at 10:00 AM.