• In 1875, Holland Nimmons McTyeire, Bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and the first president of the Vanderbilt University Board of Trust, proclaimed the University theological community a Schola Prophetarum. In working to uphold the spirit of those who have created the “School of the Prophets,” Marginalia seeks to uphold this tradition by bearing witness to the needs and experiences of the Nashville homeless community.
• We recognize that theological education is an ongoing process, and we seek to continue our own education and spiritual growth by reaching out to those on the margins.
• In keeping with the commitments of Vanderbilt University Divinity School to be “effective agents in working for a more just and humane society,” Marginalia has “special concern for the oppressed, for prisoners, for the poor … and for the securing of equal opportunity for all individuals, peoples, and creatures to enjoy God’s gifts.”
• Nashville has one of the largest homeless populations in the country and will experience an increase in displaced individuals after the controversial closing of Tent City; therefore, homelessness in Nashville is an issue that summons “appropriate action” from students within the Divinity school. Marginalia aspires to answer that summons in the manner of the prophets, speaking out and calling to action those in our community.