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Kimberly Lymore

What motivated you to become a part of the faculty at Catholic Theological Union? 

I have been a part of the CTU community since being a student in 1998. I was a Tolton scholar. After graduation in 2003, I continued to be involved with CTU and the Tolton Program. In 2016, I became the director of the Tolton Program, which is a part-time position.  The atmosphere at CTU is a feeling of a tight-knit community with a common goal of making and being disciples of Jesus Christ.  

Can you share a particularly rewarding moment from your teaching experience at CTU?

It is always rewarding when a Tolton Scholar graduates. One of the requirements of the scholarship is that they currently are active in ministry at their local church. When they graduate and can truly fulfill their calling, that puts a smile on my face and makes me proud. I recently heard from a scholar who graduated in 2019, that she got a position as a chaplain at a big hospital.   

 How do you incorporate your faith into your teaching?

As a formation director, faith is woven throughout our formation night through prayer, theological reflection, and authentic sharing with each other. Faith is an essential component of ministry. Faith is ever-evolving as we encounter different circumstances especially when life is “lifing.”  

What do you find most fulfilling about teaching at CTU?

CTU is a unique institution. The ethnic diversity as well as the vocational intersection of priests, seminarians, religious, and lay people is amazing. There are many perspective. The collaboration between all of us is what should be happening in the church. 

How do you engage and inspire your students in the classroom?

I engage the scholars by being my authentic self and sharing my story and experiences with them.   

Can you share an example of how you’ve seen a student grow during their time at CTU?

The student that I mentioned earlier, was at first difficult for me. She would disregard my guidance. She reported me to the president of CTU. As time went on she began to see that I was focused on what was best for her. When I congratulated her on her new position, she said she owed a lot to me. Of course, that melted my heart. 

What are some of the unique challenges and rewards of teaching theology?

The unique challenge of teaching theology is making the connection between the classroom and ministry. When I had Introduction to Theology with Steve Bevans, he stated in the class one evening “We have to learn the foundation before we can improvise.: That clicked for me. I was able to make the connection between the classroom and what I do at my home church, St. Sabina. 

How do you stay connected with the CTU community outside of the classroom? I attend some of the CTU events. It is especially fun when we have our Tolton events (i.e the Lecture or fundraiser, Harambee) when the Tolton alumni come back. We are going into our 35th year as a scholarship program at CTU. I am excited about this upcoming year. 

What research or projects are you currently working on?

I do not currently have any research projects. Myself with some of the Tolton Scholars and alumni produce a monthly newsletter, The Pulse. This is an informational and informative newsletter with articles, information, and highlights of the Black Catholic Community. Outside of CTU, I am the convener of the Black Catholic Theological Symposium (BCTS). We meet annually at a host institution site. This year we will be in Montgomery, AL. 

What is your favorite quote or scripture?

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

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