Dr. Craig T. McMahan
University Minister
Dean of Chapel
Assistant Professor of Religion
Education
- B.A., Taylor University
- M.Div., Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
- Ph.D., Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Biography
Fides quaerens intellectum (Faith seeking understanding). Spoken nearly a millennium ago, these words express the passionate life-quest of St. Anselm of Canterbury. They also resonate deeply within my own soul today. With the commitment of faith as the starting point, I find myself in a lifelong pursuit to know better the One who stands at the center of my life and of all creation.
For years my journey toward faithful understanding has taken me in the direction of congregational ministry. Ordained an American Baptist, I have served churches in Ohio, Kentucky, Alabama, and North Carolina. On August 1, 2005, I came to a new congregation, Mercer University. Appointed Minister to the University and Dean of the Chapel, my responsibilities include conducting University Worship, working with a number of religious groups on the Macon and Atlanta campuses, sharing leadership in the Mercer Commons program, and offering pastoral care to Mercer students, faculty, and staff. In addition, I am especially pleased to have received a teaching appointment in the Roberts Department of Christianity. Having earned a B.A. from Taylor University, an M.Div. and Ph.D. from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, my particular area of interest is in the gospel narratives. Anchored in history, layered with meanings, the gospels tell the timeless story of Jesus with a potency and vitality that continues to challenge all who would be his followers.
Mercer’s Baptist soul provides an ideal context for exploring one’s faith. Nourished by spiritual devotion, stretched by intellectual freedom, and supported by a caring community, here faith can develop toward maturity. Whether it is participating in a class, studying in the library, worshiping in Newton Chapel, or working on a Habitat for Humanity house, faith is repeatedly exposed to opportunities for growth. In my multiple roles at Mercer, I hope to encourage and engage students as they seek to find greater depth and understanding of their faith.
Beyond my life at Mercer, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Jennifer, who is an elementary school teacher, and our four children, Nathan, Hannah, Rebekah, and Jordan. Vacationing on North Carolina beaches is a family favorite.