Seminars & Reading Groups

Seminars at the Study Center offer opportunities for weekly thought-provoking, small group discussion about topics relevant to faith, life in the university, and beyond. All are led by NCSC staff, sometimes in partnership with campus ministries, visiting teachers, and/or UNC faculty members.

Spring 2026

Kierkegaard’s Either/Or

“To become human does not come that easily.” - Kierkegaard

Join us for a 10-week reading group as we dive into the thought of Danish philosopher Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855). We’ll read Either/Or, a major work of existential philosophy that explores two fundamentally different ways of living. Through vivid portraits of the pleasure-driven “aesthetic” life and the responsibility-embracing “ethical” life, Kierkegaard invites us to confront the deeper choices that shape who we are becoming. If you wish to know yourself better, to become more human, to flourish and to lead a meaningful life, and to have deep and lasting relationships, Either/Or can assist you on your journey. Kierkegaard’s writings are intellectually challenging. But they more than repay the exertions required of us.

Led by Dr. Ron Begley
Wednesdays at 3:30 pm
This seminar will last ten weeks, beginning on January 21

The Theology of Exercise, Health, and the Body

Mass media suggests that Americans are obsessed with health and fitness. Yet the majority of us do not exercise enough and live sedentary lives. We live in a fitness-crazed, technological culture that is confused about what it means to be embodied. Join us for a 10-week reading group where we dive into a biblical and christological vision for honoring God with our bodies. We’ll talk about the benefits and challenges of exercise and sports, the appropriate pursuit of health for Christians, and what our bodies are for. Whether you’re an avid gym-goer or new to this topic, there will be much to discuss and learn from one another.

Note: We will be reading the unpublished manuscript of a book scheduled for release by IVP Academic in 2027.

Led by Rev. Dr. Andrew Borror
Thursdays at 3:30 pm
Beginning January 22

The Gospel According to Matthew

Join us this spring as we continue our deep dive into the Gospel of Matthew—a rich, compelling account of Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah and Teacher. Together, we’ll explore themes of the Kingdom of Heaven, Jesus’ fulfillment of Old Testament promises, the call to discipleship, and the radical way of life He outlines in His teachings.

We’re offering mens’ & women’s cohorts on Mondays and Thursdays at 3:30—pick the option that works best for you.