Earlham School of Religion

Earlham School of Religion (ESR), located in Richmond, Indiana, operates as a Quaker seminary affiliated with the Religious Society of Friends and connected to Earlham College, a liberal arts institution established in 1847. Founded in 1960 and accredited by the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) in 1969, ESR emphasizes contemplative ministry, peace, and spiritual formation within a Quaker framework. The school also holds accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission via Earlham College, serving students interested in Quaker theological education or programs focused on inner guidance and communal discernment.

ESR offers graduate programs including the Master of Divinity, along with Master of Arts degrees in areas such as ministry, peace and justice, and Quaker studies, as well as certificates and non-degree options. The curriculum incorporates consensus decision-making, explorations of peace ethics, mystical theology insights, and guidance from the inner light, with a focus on unprogrammed worship and serene discipleship. Coursework integrates biblical, theological, and historical studies with spiritual formation and vocational preparation, available in residential, hybrid, and online formats to accommodate diverse learners.

Student activities at ESR include silent meetings for reflection, discernment sessions, and service opportunities in peaceful causes, fostering a community attuned to spiritual growth and social concerns. The campus environment fosters collaborative learning among students from diverse backgrounds, promoting personal growth and fostering strong relational bonds. Graduates are prepared for roles in ministry, peacebuilding, education, and community leadership, applying Quaker principles to contribute in ecclesiastical and societal contexts.