51²è¹Ý

David Willhite is a doctoral student in the History of the Christian Tradition. His research interests include early Christ cults of the 1st through 4th centuries CE, the formation of the biblical canon(s), the spectrum of authority given to religious literature (past and present), and the intersection of current neurological research, materialism, and ancient conceptions of "soul."

Born in Toledo, Ohio, David was moved to the Dallas area at the age of two, where he has largely remained for the better of three decades. Prior to 51²è¹Ý, he earned an M.A. in Ecumenical Studies (2023) at the University of Bonn, in Bonn, Germany, an M.Div. (2021) from Baylor University’s Truett Theological Seminary in Waco, Texas, and a B.A. in Christian Studies (2016) from Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He enjoys mountain biking, watching the English Premier League, and cooking with his partner, Amanda.

Coursework Advisor: Dr. James K. H. Lee

Presentations:

European Society for Intercultural Theology and Interreligious Studies, "American Civil Religious Supersessionism," Bonn, Germany (2022).

The World Council of Churches 11th Assembly, "Transforming Injustices: Reconciliation with Oikos," Ecumenical Youth Gathering, Karlsruhe, Germany (2022).

Fellowships, Awards, and Service to the Profession:

2021-2023, The Excellence in Study and Research Activities Grant, The University of Bonn.

2017-2021, University Ministerial Scholarship, Baylor University.