Welcoming Dr. Tim Basselin

Introducing Dr. Tim Basselin

Dr. Tim Basselin joined the faculty of Western Theological Seminary this month to serve as the new Director of Field Education and Student Life and Associate Professor of Ministry, Theology, and Culture.  

Dr. Basselin comes to Western with eight years of field education experience, having created and supervised an internship program for the Media, Arts, and Worship Department of Dallas Theological Seminary. He also has a deep love for congregational ministry, serving on the preaching team at his current church Catalyst Community Church in Rowlett, Texas, and as ministry coordinator at his previous church, Living Springs Community Church, an RCA church in Glenwood, Illinois. 

 “We are grateful that God has called Tim to enter into this important role within our seminary’s life together,” said Dr. Kristen Deede Johnson, Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs.

Dr. Deede Johnson continued, “Tim has gifts for helping students attend to God’s presence in their lives as well as discern God’s callings on their lives through intentional conversation.  He has significant experience working with students, local churches, and other ministries to bring imaginative internship possibilities to life.  Tim is also deeply attentive to the importance of cultivating a  community of belonging for all students in the seminary. He will be a great addition to the WTS community.”

Dr. Basselin’s Background

In his teaching and service, Tim has been committed to multiracial ministries and congregational involvement in local communities.

 Dr. Basselin received degrees from Fuller Theological Seminary, including a Ph.D. in Theology and Culture, before becoming an assistant professor of Media Arts and Worship at Dallas Theological Seminary. His publications include Flannery O’Connor: Writing a Theology of Disabled Humanity (Baylor University Press). 

In his role as Director of Field Education and Student Life, Dr. Basselin will engage with churches, denominations, and parachurch ministries to both develop field education opportunities for students and to forge partnerships for Western Theological Seminary. He will also work with students in vocational discernment, provide leadership to the Student Life Office, and assist the faculty, Student Life team, and broader seminary community as they contribute to students’ formation. 

About Western Theological Seminary

Western Theological Seminary is a Christian theological seminary affiliated with the Reformed Church in America. Located in Holland, Michigan, Western offers 12 graduate programs online, in residence, in English, and Spanish, for women and men preparing for faithful Christian ministry. Home to the Eugene Peterson Center for Christian Imagination, Western is committed to providing excellent theological education and forming students spiritually. Western Theological Seminary was founded in 1866 when seven of the eight members of Hope College’s inaugural graduating class wished to become ministers and petitioned the RCA to allow them to complete their education in Holland.

Published in February 2022

Revised January 2024