Atlanta, GA – Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS) Atlanta is proud to announce the recent conferment of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree to Dr. Karen Ellis, Lecturer in World Christianity and Culture, Director of the Alonzo and Althea Edmiston Center for Christian Endurance Studies, and Robert Cannada Fellow for World Christianity. Dr. Ellis received her degree from The Oxford Center for Mission Studies, through Middlesex University in London on December 4, 2024, following the successful defense of her dissertation titled A Theology of Persecution and Christian Endurance: Cain, Abel, and a ‘Black Book of Acts’ Among the St. Thomas Moravians, 1732-1740.
Dr. Ellis’ research offers a compelling exploration of Christian endurance under persecution, drawing on historical narratives and theological insights to deepen our understanding of faithful perseverance in the face of adversity. Her scholarship reflects her passion for global religious freedom, theology, and human rights, and her work continues to inspire and equip Christians worldwide.
“Christian communities under persecution have greatly shaped practical theology, church history, and Christian ethics. As a believer living in the freer world, I’m deeply humbled to add my voice to theirs. My research defines Christian Endurance Studies as an umbrella term for theologies of martyrdom, suffering, persecution, risk, and joy. I’m grateful for the contributions of our spiritual ancestors to this work, and I pray the Lord uses the Edmiston Center to raise more voices to strengthen Christ’s body in our most challenging moments,” Dr. Karen Ellis remarked on the achievement.
Dr. Guy Richard, President of RTS Atlanta, celebrated Dr. Ellis’ accomplishment, saying, “Dr. Ellis’ work is incredibly important for the Church in the 21st century. This is because persecution continues to increase in our own backyard as Christians continue to be the subjects of hostility in places of business, in schools, in universities, in neighborhoods, as well as in the media and online. Dr. Ellis’ work on Christian Endurance is not only what we need in the Church, but it’s also what our missionaries, and future missionaries, need to be prepared to serve in the most challenging places around the world. I am honored to have Dr. Ellis as a part of the RTS Atlanta faculty.”
In addition to her academic achievements, Dr. Ellis directs the Alonzo and Althea Edmiston Center for Christian Endurance Studies, which seeks to empower Christians to navigate life’s challenges with biblical resilience and hope. Her work with International Christian Response, The Center for House Church Theology, and Two Cities Project has further solidified her commitment to connecting local and global Christians while advocating for Christian endurance around the globe.
RTS Atlanta invites the community to join us in celebrating Dr. Ellis’ remarkable achievement and her continued contributions to the study and practice of global Christianity. Her work is a testament to the enduring strength and relevance of theological scholarship in addressing the complexities of our world.