Frederick Niedner
Frederick Niedner Senior Research Professor of Theology fred.niedner@valpo.edu 219.464.5281 Linwood House B05
BIOGRAPHY
Fred Niedner taught biblical studies and Hebrew language in Valparaiso’s Department of Theology from 1973 to 2014. At various times during his active teaching years he also served terms as coordinator of the Chapel’s Morning Prayer worship, Director of Freshman Seminars, Teaching Resources Center Director, Department Chair, and Associate Director of the Institute of Liturgical Studies. His doctoral work focused on the Hebrew Bible, and he was a founding member of the Society of Biblical Literature’s Tradition History of the Pentateuch Seminar. Much of his teaching and research also centered on the New Testament, and particularly on the gospels.
As Senior Research Professor, Fred continues to lead or make presentations at conferences and workshops on preaching and on the general topics of forgiveness and reconciliation.
EDUCATION
Th.D., Christ Seminary—Seminex, 1979
S.T.M., Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, 1973
M.Div., Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, 1971
CONTRIBUTIONS
In addition to Keeping the Faith: A Guide to the Christian Message (Fortress Press, 1980), co-authored with the late David G. Truemper, initially published for use as a text in introductory theology courses at Valpo, Niedner has published numerous scholarly articles and edited several devotional and homiletical resources, including two editions of The Valparaiso University Prayer Book. His text studies appear regularly in publications that serve the ministry of preaching, including Sundays and Seasons (AugusburgFortress), Feasting on the Word and Feasting on the Gospels (WestminsterJohnKnox), and the Christian Century.
Niedner also writes a fortnightly op-ed column for the Chicago Tribune’s northwest Indiana edition (Post-Tribune), something he has done since 1995.
MEMBERSHIPS
Society of Biblical Literature
Chicago Society of Biblical Research
Association of Lutheran Church Musicians
Lutheran Deaconess Association
RECOGNITION
Caterpillar Award for Teaching Excellence, 1996
Alumni Association Distinguished Teaching Award, 2008