The Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) is a leadership incubator that inspires young people to make a difference through Christian communities. Since our founding in 1954, FTE has provided resources, events, networks, grants, and fellowships to cultivate tomorrow’s leaders, pastors, and theological educators. FTE provides a forum through which young adults, doctoral students, and ministry partners can explore their purpose, passion, and call.
Forty Thousand Leaders is committed to cultivating bold, faithful, and intellectually grounded leaders for the church and society. Through our **doctoral fellowships**, we equip emerging scholars and practitioners with the theological depth, spiritual formation, and missional clarity necessary to lead with conviction.
Our community fosters a collaborative environment where aspiring **Christian leaders** can wrestle with Scripture, engage diverse traditions, and refine their vocational calling.
Building The Future of Theological Education
FTE supports the next generation of underrepresented and underserved theological educators through funding, networking, and professional development opportunities. Learn more about how we can support your doctoral journey and exploration of leadership in theological education.
Strengthening Networks and Fostering Inclusion
FTE has supported thousands of organizational partners through grantmaking, convening, and coordination efforts. Discover more about the experiences, opportunities, and financial support we provide to ministry leaders, helping to create environments where diverse, inclusive, and equitable approaches to vocational discernment for young adults are both feasible and sustainable.
Creating Spaces for Discernment and Connection
We are committed to guiding the next generation of young adults as they explore their vocation in pastoral ministry and envision themselves as innovative leaders within Christian communities. Learn more about how FTE can support you on your discernment journey.
DISCERNext is an innovative initiative designed to support young adults, students, and the leaders who accompany them in exploring diverse approaches to discerning meaning, purpose, and God’s call. Rooted in a commitment to renewal and restoration, DISCERNext inspires a new generation of change-makers to discover and pursue vocations in Christian ministry, theological scholarship, and more.
A four-week course for underrepresented and underserved individuals considering a Ph.D. in Religious/Theological Studies and related disciplines. Through discernment practices, a community of peers, inspiring storytelling, and many other resources, participants will have access to the support they need to explore what it takes to achieve a doctorate.
A one-year fellowship for sophomore and junior college students interested in deepening their vocational discernment and implementing discernment practices with their peers
Our doctoral fellowships provide advanced academic and spiritual formation for candidates pursuing doctoral study in theology, ministry, and related disciplines. Fellows receive mentorship from seasoned theologians, structured research support, and opportunities to teach and publish. Graduates leave prepared to serve the academy, church, and public square with excellence.
A course for underrepresented and underserved faculty, scholars, and administrators in theological education and religious studies interested in executive leadership at a theological school
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