Back2School Champion: Justin Holcomb

Name: Justin Holcomb

Hometown: Orlando, FL

Occupation: Priest (Canon for Vocations, Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida) and Seminary Professor (Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Jacksonville, FL; Reformed Theological Seminary, Orlando, FL)

Church Affiliation: The Episcopal Church

What course(s) do you teach about sexual and domestic violence?

• “Violence, Sexual Abuse, and the Gospel” (Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary)
• “Systematic Theology Survey for Counseling Students” (Reformed Theological Seminary)

Why do you think it’s important for theological schools to offer this kind of training or teaching?
It’s important for at least two reasons. First, the prevalence of sexual and domestic violence is staggering. One in four women and one in six men are or will be victims of sexual assault. One in four women are or will suffer domestic violence. This means that there are many survivors of abuse and violence in churches or ministries where seminary students will serve and lead.  Second, the only thing more staggering than the prevalence of this violence is the acute physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual damage done to those who experience it. However, the gospel of the kingdom of God relates to these effects, and those who serve in ministry need to learn about this.

What has surprised or challenged you as you teach this material?
I’ve been surprised that I do not need to explain WHY studying this in seminary is important. I was pleasantly surprised that the academic dean at Gordon-Conwell proposed the course to me instead of me making a case for it. That is very encouraging.

What gives you hope as you do this work?
What gives me hope is the significant increase in awareness of sexual and domestic violence. The enrollment in courses about violence is strong. And there are many seminary students who are eager and passionate about applying the good news to the darkness of violence.