Candler School of Theology defines what it means to be the whole people of God, to live in community, to deepen spiritual formation, and to embrace creativity and the arts. A lively and imaginative approach to study, worship, and work attracts the best faculty and students and helps them to thrive.
James “Jimmie” Abbington grew up in Gary, West Virginia, a small coal mining town of 3,000 with strong support for excellent music and worship. A gifted musician, Abbington began playing the piano at age five. As a student at Morehouse College, he developed a love for the organ and a deep appreciation for the wonders that high-quality music can work in worship.
An associate professor of music and worship at Candler, Abbington prefers to lecture while sitting at a piano or organ. He says it’s the best way to get his points across. He makes certain his students understand the practical side of ministry, and he wants them to avoid merely entertaining congregations by teaching them how to truly worship God through music.
Good music often goes straight to the heart, he says, by touching on universal experiences. Abbington teaches that singing hymns makes worshippers feel connected to the worldwide, age-old body of Christ.
With your support, Candler will continue to nurture leaders who guide and inspire spiritual growth through creativity and the arts.
