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Gregory Leffel
President at One Horizon Institute
Professional Background
Gregory P. Leffel, Ph.D, is a distinguished scholar and thought leader in the fields of missiology and intercultural studies. As the co-founder and president of the One Horizon Institute, Dr. Leffel has dedicated his career to exploring and nurturing the intersection of faith and public life. His extensive contributions to academia and community initiatives highlight his unwavering commitment to social justice and activism. A prominent figure within the field, he has held several prestigious positions, including presiding over the American Society of Missiology and the Association of Professors of Mission, showcasing his leadership and influence among peers.
In addition to his leadership roles, Dr. Leffel served as an adjunct professor at Asbury Theological Seminary, imparting his knowledge and expertise in intercultural studies to aspiring students. He also founded Communality, a missional community based in Lexington, KY, which operated from 1997 to 2012 and further exemplified his passion for collective action and social movements. Through Communality, Dr. Leffel fostered an environment where faith-based activism could thrive, building a robust network of individuals dedicated to enacting positive change in their communities.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Leffel’s academic journey is marked by a deep commitment to understanding cultural dynamics and their implications on faith and mission. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Intercultural Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary, where he honed his research skills and developed a nuanced understanding of contextual theology and its application in worldly affairs. Furthermore, he laid a foundational understanding in the physical and social aspects of community design by obtaining a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Landscape Architecture from The Ohio State University. This diverse educational background allows Dr. Leffel to approach missiology with a holistic perspective that values both the built environment and the human experience.
Dr. Leffel has also made significant contributions to scholarly literature, further solidifying his reputation as an authority in his field. He is the author of "Faith Seeking Action: Mission, Social Movements, and the Church in Motion," a groundbreaking text that bridges the gap between theological reflection and actionable social strategies. Additionally, he co-authored "The Not on Our Watch Christian Companion: Biblical Reflections on the Mission of End Genocide in Darfur and Beyond," a powerful work that articulates the role of faith communities in advocating for justice and humanitarian responses to global crises. These publications not only reflect Dr. Leffel’s scholarship but also his desire to inspire others to engage in meaningful activism.
Achievements
Dr. Gregory Leffel’s achievements have transcended academia and have resonated within various communities, showcasing a life dedicated to impactful change through actionable faith. His leadership positions within esteemed organizations like the American Society of Missiology demonstrate his standing in the professional community, where he’s recognized for his contributions to the study of missions and social movements.
Moreover, as a public missiologist, Dr. Leffel researches and promotes interaction between faith-based perspectives and public life. His work richly contributes to the fields of cultural studies and social activism, ultimately underscoring the importance of faith within civic engagement. Through lectures, workshops, and community initiatives, he encourages individuals and congregations to recognize their role in addressing contemporary social issues.
His work also emphasizes globalization's impact on faith and community dynamics, drawing attention to how beliefs can shape societal actions and vice versa. By examining these intricate relationships, Dr. Leffel helps individuals navigate their faith in an increasingly interconnected world.
Dr. Leffel’s tenure as the president of One Horizon Institute further exemplifies his commitment to fostering a world where faith and action converge. Under his leadership, the institute has become a catalyst for individuals and organizations seeking to implement informed faith responses in their communities and beyond. His efforts have inspired diverse groups to work collaboratively toward social betterment, grounded in a shared faith commitment.
For those looking to explore more on Dr. Gregory Leffel’s impactful work and mission, you can discover a wealth of information and resources via the One Horizon Institute’s official website at www.onehorizon.org. There, interested individuals and organizations can delve into the various initiatives led by Dr. Leffel, find educational resources, and learn how to engage with communities around the world in meaningful ways.