Carl F. Ellis Jr.

Carl F. Ellis Jr. (born 1946) is an American theological anthropologist who has been a pastor and faculty member at Westminster Seminary and Redeemer Seminary. He is Provost's Professor of Theology and Culture at Reformed Theological Seminary. He has authored books on African American theology and the church's global mission.

Early life and education Born in Brooklyn, NY, 1946, Ellis grew up in Gary Indiana and attended Hampton University in the late 1960s. He wanted to join the Air Force like his father, a WWII veteran and Tuskegee airman. But mix-ups with his draft papers made the government think he was dodging service. The ordeal connected with this incident ended his plans for military service. He studied under Francis Schaeffer at L'Abri in Huemoz-sur-Ollon, Vaud, Switzerland.

Ellis has authored several books promoting intercultural understanding and engagement within theological education. His work seeks to apply biblical theology to the concerns of different cultures, particularly minority groups.

Personal life Ellis married his first wife in 1974. They had two children and were married for seventeen years. In 2011, Ellis married a graduate of Westminster, Karen Bishop.

Publications