A Calvin Theological Seminary Publication by Students & Alumni
Faculty Spotlight: Professor Danjuma Gibson

Faculty Spotlight: Professor Danjuma Gibson

What brought you to Calvin Sem?

I was interviewing at a variety of schools after I graduated in May 2014 with my PhD from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston, IL. My religious upbringing included a Reformed heritage, but I’ve never been a part of the CRC. Calvin Seminary and meeting people here helped me make that decision – there was a reciprocal desire from them for me to be here and be me to be here.

Where are you from?

South side of Chicago.

What will you be teaching?  

All of the pastoral care courses, and some electives. In January I’m doing an elective on pastoral care in an urban context, and in the Spring foundations for pastoral care, as well as some independent studies.

What are your research interests and educational history?

My PhD is in pastoral theology and psychotherapy. In Chicago I still have a small psychotherapy practice where I work with clients. My undergrad was at Moorhouse College (Alabama) and my MBusiness Administration at DePaul University. In seminary I did a Master of Arts in Urban Ministry and Master of Arts in Christian Studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.

Introduce us to your Family:

I’m married to my wife Denise, and we have one daughter, Brooklynne (7).

Where do you worship?

I pastor Zion Faith Center Bible Church in the South Side of Chicago, where I’ve been the senior pastor just under 16 years.

What are your hobbies?

I love biking and running.

Any advice for seminarians?

Work on self-care and self-boundaries. It’s a life-long project; start it now! Most seminarians and pastors struggle with these issues and live a life outside of their passions and what God has called them to. I have a busy life, but it’s a rich and full life, and free time comes naturally. In a vocation and a calling, free time is inherent. In a job you hate, you have to look for free time and escape because your existence isn’t validating and affirming.