On December 2, 2025, Catharine Corder successfully defended her Master of Arts in Religion thesis, “A Novel Approach to Acts: Conceiving a Hybrid Church.” Her committee included Anthony Baker, PhD, the Rev. Jeehei Park, PhD, and Rodney Caruthers, PhD from Austin Seminary who all shared their enthusiasm for both her argument and methodology, as well as the overall execution of the project.
“As her faculty mentor, I am very proud of Catharine for the academic achievement she made here,” said Park. “Her openness, curiosity, and commitment were inspiring, and I am thrilled to see her journey continue at Brite Divinity School.”
Baker added, “Our MAR program gives students the opportunity to work closely with a faculty mentor, diving into research questions that they are passionate about. Catharine’s work with Dr. Park is a shining example of the kind of deep and meaningful work students in this program can produce.”
Catharine will continue her academic journey this spring as she begins her PhD program in Biblical Interpretation, concentrating in New Testament.
Southwest’s Master of Arts in Religion program prepares students for doctoral study, teaching, lay leadership, and a wide range of ministries by combining rigorous academic study with close faculty mentorship and a vibrant residential community. Students pursue focused research in areas such as biblical studies, theology, ethics, and church history while benefiting from the seminary’s interdisciplinary life alongside MDiv and counseling students. With small cohorts, individualized advising, and opportunities for advanced research and writing, the MAR program offers a strong foundation for those discerning further academic work or seeking deeper theological formation for service in the church and world.
To learn more, visit the Southwest website or schedule a visit.
