Short Bio
Rev. Dr. Dongwoo Lee is a scholar, pastor, non-profit leader, and author whose diverse career spans academic, ministerial, and philosophical work. His focus lies in integrating theology, philosophy, and ecological justice, addressing contemporary global challenges through interdisciplinary and cross-cultural approaches.
Academic Career
Dr. Lee holds a PhD in Religious Studies from Claremont School of Theology, specializing in Comparative Religion and Philosophy. His dissertation, Organic Panentheism in Northeast Asian Views, bridges Eastern and Western theological traditions. He currently serves as an adjunct faculty member at Schreiner University, and has previously taught at Claremont School of Theology. Dr. Lee offers courses on process thought, eco-theology, and comparative religion, focusing on how theology and philosophy intersect with pressing global issues such as climate change and social justice. His deep expertise in process thought and comparative studies informs his interdisciplinary approach to teaching and research.
Ministerial Leadership
Dr. Lee has a long history of pastoral leadership within the Presbyterian Church (USA), serving congregations across California, including Pasadena Presbyterian Church and Claremont Presbyterian Church. Beyond his local ministry work, he has held leadership roles at the denominational level, including serving on the Commission on Ministry and the Commission on Preparation for Ministry at the San Gabriel Presbytery, where he mentors aspiring pastors. Nationally, Dr. Lee serves as an examiner for ordination candidates through the Presbyteries’ Cooperative Committee on Examinations for Candidates, underlining his dedication to shaping the next generation of clergy.
Non-Profit Leadership and Philosophical Advocacy
As Executive Director of Ecological Civilization, a non-profit organization, Dr. Lee leads initiatives exploring the philosophical and theological foundations of ecological justice. His role includes research, policy development, and organizing international forums that bring together scholars, activists, and policymakers to address ecological well-being on both local and global levels. Additionally, he serves as a director at the Center for Process Studies, a globally recognized institute for process thought, where he applies relational and interconnected philosophical frameworks to ecological and social issues.
Author and Public Speaker
Dr. Lee is the author of several books, including the Korean bestseller Imagining a Post-Pandemic Meta-Church, which explores innovative ecclesiastical responses to contemporary challenges. His works span topics like eco-theology, process thought, and postcolonial theology, often intersecting these fields to provide critical insights. He is a frequent speaker at international conferences and public forums, delivering lectures that address the theological and philosophical implications of process thought, ecological civilization, and the role of religion in confronting global crises.
Dr. Lee’s career is a testament to his commitment to fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and advancing practical solutions for ecological and social justice. Whether through his academic research, pastoral ministry, non-profit leadership, or public advocacy, he continues to spearhead efforts to create a more sustainable, equitable, and interconnected world.
Rev. Dongwoo Lee’s Sermon Podcast
Rev. Dongwoo Lee’s expository sermon according to the Revised Common Lectionary
Articles and Interviews with Rev. Dongwoo Lee
Rev. Dongwoo Lee interview article
Articles of Pasadena Presbyterian Church
Top 10 news articles from the Korean community and religious circles in 2017
Top 10 news articles from the Korean community and religious circles in 2018
Interview articles related to the tent making ministry
KCMUSA, Interview with Korean American Christian Mission Foundation, ‘Multicultural Ministry’
Publication
Whitehead’s Glossary of Process Philosophy and Process Theology
Rediscovery of Christian Traditions, Design of Worship and Sermons through the Bible Course
Follow Rev. Dongwoo in Social Media
