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DALLAS (ÌÇÐÄvlogÊÓƵ) – Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University opened the 2025–26 season of its Faith and Business Luncheon series Sept. 15 with a conversation featuring Dr. Bryan P. Stone, Leighton K. Farrell Endowed Dean of Perkins School of Theology.

In a Q&A moderated by John Martin, director of development, Stone shared personal stories about his call to ministry, his pastoral years in Fort Worth, his decades of academic leadership at Boston University and his scholarship in theology and culture. His responses emphasized a central conviction shaping his leadership at Perkins.

Theology is for everyone. That will be my mantra. 

– Dean Bryan P. Stone

Stone outlined three areas of focus for accessibility in theological education:

• Financial accessibility: Expanding scholarship opportunities to reduce cost barriers. 

• Online and residential accessibility: Strengthening flexible digital programs while preserving a vibrant residential community. 

• Vocational accessibility: Broadening the scope of theological education beyond clergy training to include laity, chaplains, nonprofit leaders and others. 

Hosted by Perkins Development, the Faith and Business Luncheon series fosters reflection on the intersection of public life and personal faith. Each event features leaders who share experiences and insights, inspiring dialogue across the Perkins community and beyond. 

For more information on upcoming luncheons or to support Perkins School of Theology, visit perkins.smu.edu or contact the Office of Development at faithandbusiness@smu.edu.

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, founded in 1911, is one of five official University-related schools of theology of . Degree programs include the Master of Divinity, Master of Sacred Music, Master of Theological Studies, Master of Arts in Ministry, Master of Theology, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Pastoral Music as well as the Ph.D., in cooperation with The Graduate Program in Religious Studies at ÌÇÐÄvlogÊÓƵ's  of Humanities and Sciences.