Echoes of 1995 at Southern Seminary
The removal of Jon Singletary as dean of Baylor University’s Diana R. Garland School of Social Work mirrors a similar controversy from three decades ago. In 1995, Southern Baptist Theological Seminary President Al Mohler fired Diana Garland after she defended a faculty nominee who supported women’s ordination. That decision led to the closure of the Carver School of Church Social Work. Now, history seems to be repeating itself at Baylor, where Garland later helped build one of the nation’s leading Christian social work programs.
Controversial Grant Sparks Backlash
This fall, Baylor returned a grant from the Eula Mae and John Baugh Foundation, intended to study loneliness among LGBTQ individuals and women in church settings. Critics claimed the grant promoted values contrary to Baptist orthodoxy. Under pressure, the university asked Singletary to return the grant. Shortly after, he was removed as dean, effective October 15, though officially, he will take a sabbatical and return as faculty.
Supporters Alarmed by Erosion of Academic Freedom
Supporters of Singletary and the social work school argue the university has capitulated to far-right pressure. They view the move as a betrayal of Baylor’s historical commitment to academic freedom and Christian compassion. Open letters circulated in support of Singletary, with some faculty and alumni criticizing Baylor President Linda Livingstone for not defending the dean’s decision to accept the grant.
Critics Warn of Doctrinal Drift
Opponents of the grant argue it signaled a softening on LGBTQ issues that contradicts biblical teaching. Some Southern Baptists fear Baylor is on a slippery slope toward progressive theological positions. They insist that Christian institutions must maintain doctrinal clarity, even at the cost of public or academic disapproval.
A Broader Shift Toward Conservatism
Observers see Singletary’s ouster as part of a broader trend. The Baptist General Convention of Texas, once a bulwark against fundamentalist control, has moved steadily rightward. Institutions like Hardin-Simmons University and now Baylor have faced pressure to align more closely with SBC-style conservatism. For many, Baylor’s action marks a loss of independence once thought to be secure.
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In an ironic turn, Baylor University mirrors Southern Seminary
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So sad. Studying loneliness among LGBTQ individuals and women in church settings would greatly help the church body understand how to minister more effectively.