News
James M. Grier Website Launched
Jun 27, 2008
Dr. James M. Grier, Distinguished Professor of Philosophical Theology has developed a new website located …
Pastors' Masters Golf Invitational
Jun 18, 2008
Every year the Pastors' Masters has been a time of refreshment and rejuvenation for another week of …
GRTS Awards
Obadiah Award
Now the famine was severe…. Obadiah was a devout believer in the Lord…. Obadiah had taken a hundred prophets and hidden them in two caves, fifty in each, and had supplied them with food and water. (Obadiah states:) I your servant have worshiped the Lord since my youth. (I Kings 18:1-12) For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. (II Corinthians 4:5)
Purpose
The name Obadiah means “servant.” The Obadiah Award was developed by Grand Rapids Theological Seminary as a means to recognize individuals and organizations distinguished in modeling effective Christian ministry, ministry characterized by a sustained pattern and commitment of learning, serving and leading. A commitment to humble service in ministry reflects self-sacrifice and others-orientated service along with a life-long willingness to grow and mature. A commitment to leadership in ministry recognizes ones responsibility to utilize ones gifts and influence to assist others in the journey of life and faith. Learning, serving, and leading, for ministry and for life are core values at Grand Rapids Theological Seminary and central to our mission. The Obadiah Award enables Grand Rapids Theological Seminary to recognize and affirm individuals and organizations that exhibit these values in the practice of ministry.
Selection Criteria
The Obadiah Award will be awarded according to the following criteria:
- Evidence of Christian faith commitment
- Distinguished in modeling learning, serving, and leading in Christian ministry
- Characterized by humility and godliness
- Established reputation for effectiveness in ministry
- Recipient may be an individual or organization
Selection Process
An Obadiah Award recipient will be selected according to the following process:
- Nominations will be received from GRTS faculty, staff, students, and alumni through January 1 of each year.
- Nominations will be given to the office of the GRTS Academic Dean
- Nominations will be reviewed and appropriate research conducted
- Nominations will be discussed within GRTS faculty and GRTS Staff meetings
- Final selection will be made by the GRTS President and Academic Dean
Award Presentation
The Obadiah Award will be presented to recipients within the following context:
- Awarded within the context of GRTS Commencement
- Awarded by the President of GRTS
- Includes a letter of affirmation by GRTS President and the sculptured Obadiah Award.
