NOTE – ADDED 3/11/2009.
Before commenting about this post, I’d like to point out that you need to respectfully read it word for word, carefully. I’ve noticed that people skim this post, and make assumptions and then comment on those assumptions.
In this post, I, in no way, state that you need a doctorate to lead people to Christ. Although I mention that the pastor of my old church home has an academically-earned doctorate, I, in no way, state or imply that you need a doctorate to lead a church. I, in no way, state that people with doctorate degrees are “better than/holier than/smarter than” non-doctorate degree holders.
All I’m saying is that when you use the Dr. title, people are automatically going to assume that you studied at an accredited university to obtain your degree. If you haven’t obtained your doctorate in this fashion, then you need to let people know this when you use the title because you don’t want to mislead people.
After carefully reading this post, in its’ entirety, feel free to comment, and if you want to know more about me or my novels, visit my website and look at other entries on this blog!
I’m Cecelia Dowdy, a Christian fiction author. Read my books! Tell your friends and church buddies! Now, back to discussing the DD degree…
Raspberry Kisses – a Christian novel!
Okay, now onto the Doctor of Divinity post:
I’m going to go off the beaten path and not talk about books, recipes, or writing today. I’d said earlier that I’d be posting about Divinity school. Something strange happened a few years back. A person who I knew slightly had a self-published book released. When I saw the cover, it stated this person’s name as: Dr. (Person’s name) D.D.
Number one, I was shocked, because this person had only been out of high school for a few years and wasn’t old enough to have a doctorate degree, and number two, this person had mentioned to me that they’d quit undergrad temporarily after only one semester. This person was currently working at a clerical job and wasn’t leading a church or anything.
I didn’t understand. How could this person call him/herself Dr., but then not have ever graduated from college, not even as an undergrad?
My sister’s roommate is a graduate of Oral Roberts University, so she knew a little about educational levels within the religious community. So I asked her how someone could have a Doctor of Divinity degree without ever graduating from college. She explained that a Doctor of Divinity degree is not always an earned degree, it’s honorary. People sometimes pay a few dollars to an institution and they can automatically use the title, even though they don’t have a degree. She said it’s a sore spot within the religious community with some people because there are others out there, who have rightfully earned their doctorate, and they don’t like the fact that others can use the title just because they want to, and have never earned a degree. I still didn’t get it. I said, “Do you mean to say that it’s a common practice?”
She said it’s fairly common. I guess it upset me so much because I don’t think a lot of people are aware this is the case! For example, when I showed the book mentioned in the first paragraph to a friend of mine, he looked at the cover and said, “Oh, he has his PhD? That’s impressive!” I laughed, and he said, “Why are you laughing?” That’s when I told him that the author had never earned a doctorate, masters or bachelors. He said, “Well, why does he have this on the cover of his book if he hasn’t earned the degree?” That’s when I explained that a Doctor of Divinity degree is not always earned the traditional way.
When I asked my best friend’s husband about it, he pointed out that not all doctorate degrees are earned. He said, for example, that Oprah and Bill Cosby had honorary degrees. He went on to say that if somebody says they have their doctorate, you need to ask them where they went to school and check out their credentials. That’s all true…however, I was always under the impression that when an honorary degree is bestowed upon someone, that person has done something truly phenomenal, and it’s only given by an accredited university and it’s done on rare occasions. However, my impressions might be totally inaccurate. Now, I have heard that some Doctor of Divinity degrees are given to those who have done some phenomenal works within the church. However, I don’t have any specific examples about the works that would be involved within a church to earn a degree in this fashion. If anybody has any comments about how this is done, I’d be interested in hearing what they had to say.
I asked some other people about the Dr. of Divinity issue, and they said they assumed if somebody called themselves Dr. or Reverend Dr. in the religious field, they thought that person had their doctorate degree. Like, they earned it at a university or religious school and studied approximately eight years, give or take! One woman asked me, “When someone calls himself Reverend Dr., I always thought they had their degree! Do you mean they don’t have their degree?”
I patiently pointed out that some do and some don’t. I know at my old church home, the pastor was known as Reverend Dr., and on the church’s website, it stated where he went to school to get is undergrad, masters and doctorate. Here’s a link from the webpage of my old home church. The reverend’s credentials are listed on the seventh paragraph from the bottom.
http://www.reidtemple.org/pastor.asp
I just don’t think it’s right for somebody to use the title who hasn’t rightfully earned the degree. I feel to use the title, one should have been in school for several years, right? I’m not saying it’s wrong for un-doctored (if that’s really a word!) ones to have leadership roles within the church, or to give sermons and such, but I just don’t feel it’s right for them to use that title! I feel it’s not fair to those who study for their degree and earn it the ‘traditional’ way.
I did an internet search and found a few places where one can get their doctor of divinity degree fairly easily. Check out these links!
This one can get you a doctor of divinity degree for only $40!
http://ficotw.org/drdivinityprogram.html
http://victorynetwork.org/DD.html
This link offers the Honorary Doctor of Divinity degree for only $10.00!
http://home.wi.rr.com/pcdr/credentials.html
This one is for $20.00, however, you have to be ordained to apply!
https://host228.ipowerweb.com/~ulchqcom/osCommerce/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=32
They charge $50.00 for their Doctor of Divinity Degree!
http://www.amfellow.org/id5.htm
Those are just a few links. There are others. Just Google Doctor of Divinity honorary and see what comes up.
Also, check out this Wikipedia reference, too. (I know, Wikipedia is not the most reliable source, but I still look there occasionally for information.) If you look at the bottom of the entry it states: In the United States the D.D. is usually awarded as an honorary degree. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doctor_of_Divinity
Does anybody have any thoughts about this? Am I over-reacting? Has my head been in the sand and this whole Doctor of Divinity issue is just plain common knowledge? Inquiring minds want to know! Also, if you disagree with this post, feel free to comment since I’d like to hear from all about this subject!
Also, if you have an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree, and you use the title Dr. regularly, I’d like to know if you let people know from the start that your degree is honorary and not earned the traditional way? If you were to speak or give a sermon, or are a guest someplace, do you let the audience know, somehow, that your degree is honorary? Or do you assume they already know this? I’m thinking they probably don’t know, unless they know you personally. What if you are on a panel with those that have earned their degree, and you’re introduced to the audience as Reverend Dr. XYZ. I’d think most in the audience would assume you’d earned your degree like the rest of the participants in the panel.
If you’d like to read more blog posts about religious and Biblical matters, then read my Sunday Brunch articles. LEAVE A COMMENT on my Sunday Brunch blog posts!
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I have thought about creating a University in my own home and granting myself a doctorate. The problem with that is that people pay attention to whether a school is accredited or not. The Timothy Fish University is obviously not. I will say that I used to have a dog that was ordained to preach. It was free, so I couldn’t pass up the chance. No one thinks much of a degree that you can purchase for pocket change.
I think an honorary degree from an accredited university is worth mentioning. Even though the person has not put in the class time, the person has done something worth recognition, such as becoming President of the United States. It is a true honor to receive such a degree.
I did not know all that Cecelia! I have to agree with you, a person should earn their degree or have done something remarkable to deserve the “honor.”
Hello,
Atis International Bible College gives Honoray Doctor OF Divinity for FREE,but you must to work hard to earn it.(belive me is not easy as you will see.they don’t ask not even donation.
http://www.freewebs.com/romaniacolegiulbiblic/
(Honorary)DD,With this certificate you can obtain respect,and olso religios university and churches can gives this certificatesbut who earnd his/her a H.D.D. Should writte in this way.(Honorar)DD
Many know, that some people work most of their lives transforming the lives of others. I agree to a certain point that maybe some people do not deserve to hold such a degree, but, on the other hand, I feel that others do deserve it. I know several devote Christian leaders that earned their Doctor’s of Divinity. The services they rendered to churches, communities, and families abroad transformed lives, empowered communities and blessed souls completely. These people deserved the degree bestowed upon them which truly acknowledged tem for their dutifulness to the community at large.
Beside, Christian Degree’s are based primarily on service and the level of knowledge one has to serve. Jesus, in fact was the Christ, and because of his works, he was esteemed as Lord over the church world. We also have to look at things from a spiritual prospective as well, because many will be surprise how who earned what on judgement day. (All I have to say about people with degrees, is that the fruits of that degree will be made known.)
And I have a bachelor’s, Master’s and will soon pursue my Doctorate-all course required degrees of course.
Some workhard for their DDD and some don’t, but the fruits of any degree will show.
God Bless you,
I agree that Christians should make sure that they have been called and chosen by God and doing the work of the Gospel.
Our man made- given degrees mean nothing in the Kingdom of God. Our God like faith with our God ordained work is what should matter to us and shall matter to God. I earned my honorary DD via 20+ years of church, school, and community service. I was selected by the University via a nomination process. I never use Dr. when being introduced outside of the awarding University and/or in a Ministrial setting. I always acknowledge in my Bio that I have been bestowed an honorary doctorate which I am grateful that the Lord allowed man to bestow an earthly honor upon His servant. I have an academic B.S. and M.S. from an accredited University. I do agree that we should make it known honorary vs academic to keep down offense and confusion. God is not the author of confusion. Thanks for this platform because it is needed. Love you all and God bless!
I AM ALWAYS AMAZED AT HOW PEOPLE FIND WAYS TO ATTACK THOSE ‘WHO PREACH THE GOSPEL’
IN THE ‘AFTERLIFE’ MAYBE YOU SHOULD ASK THE GREAT PHYSICIAN ‘ST. LUKE’ IF HE ATTENDED AN ACCREDITED COLLEGE.
maybe that’s why your book is not a
‘new york times best seller’
God does not bless those who attack his ‘PREACHERS’ is specifically stated in the Bible
Anonymous, I’m not attacking those preaching the gospel. If you read my post, I’m merely stating that it’s misleading to use the title doctor when you’ve never been to an accredited school. Preach the gospel widely, but, when you use the title Dr., most assume you’ve earned an advanced degree. If you haven’t, then it’s up to you not to mislead people. Doesn’t God want us to tell the truth? Don’t use the title if you haven’t rightfully earned it. It’s not fair to those who HAVE ATTENDED COLLEGE! Why should some pay $40.00and use the title while others study several years and use the same title?? Does the Lord want us to mislead people this way?
Again, anonymous, you are entitled to your opinion, but, again, I’m not attacking preachers. I’m questioning those specifically using the title Doctor. Several people on this earth will assume people using this title have earned an advanced degree. Read the ending of my post…if you were on a panel and you haven’t earned the title Dr., and you paid $40.00 for this degree, and then you have somebody else who’s studied several years for this degree, do those in the audience know that one of you paid $40.00 and the other studied for several years for the title? Will the person who has an honorary degree stand up and state that they have not studied for their degree at an accredited university, like the other person on the panel? Are you going to let the audience “assume” that you studied for this degree like the other party?? If you were in this position, what would you do? Call yourself a preacher, but don’t call yourself a doctor!
Cecelia,
I agree with you. I have studied for a Ph.D.. at an accredited university and earned an Ed.D. from another accredited university. It took me a number of years and lots of dollars to get to where I am now. I believe that those who have simply paid a few dollars to purchase a degree (doctorate) should NOT call themselves Dr., unless they make it plain where the degree came from and how they got it!!!
As for Dr. Bill Cosby, he earned a Ed.D. from an accredited university–this information can be easily verified. His wife, Camille, earned a doctorate from an accredited university, too.
I have been wanting to have a conversation on this topic for a long time. Thank you for the dialogue.
Hi, Linda
Yes, several have pointed out that Bill Cosby earned his degree. However, he does have some honorary degrees, too. I can’t even recall why I mentioned Bill Cosby and Oprah on my blog post. Oh, yeah, just read it. A friend of mine mentioned this fact to me when I was asking him if he’d heard of the Doctor of Divinity. Glad to share some dialog. I wrote this blog post seven years ago! It still has regular traffic! If only the rest of my blog post would receive this much attention!!
you just said it LOTS OF DOLLARS. THAT’S ALL THESE GREEDY UNIVERSITIES want is your money and they will criticize anyone who comes between that. Everything is bought but the folks who spend hundreds of thousands of dollars and almost a decade of there life have a inferiority complex and feel cheated to someone who out foxed them, IT’S ALL ABOUT THE MONEY and self glorification for ALL. The Bible never mentioned honorary doctorate degrees and doctorate in theology nope preachers prophets and priests, the rest is like i said self glorification on the university and honorary so there
If the person that paid $40 for his “certificate” and lives his life doing God’s work DAILY… and the person next to him who “earned” his degree is cheating on his wife with prostitutes and shooting up heroin that he’s buying with monies from his non-profit ministry… which of the two do you think GOD will think REALLY EARNED their title??
Pastor Kristal Hardy D.TH.
I stumbled upon your blog, as I am searching for alternative licensing and degrees. I have a mixture of what is called “accredited” and “life experience” education and gifts. I attended Purdue. I had been out of school for 8 years, so I was placed in “prep classes.” I tested out of them all. The English Comp prof took me in the hallway and asked why I was in her class. I explained that is where I was placed. She complimented me on my abilities, told me that I passed all college level English (as far as she was concerned) and to pursue a career in journalism. Psychology, sociology, and theosophy only upset me. I could not understand why at the time, but I chose travel for entrepreneurship possibilities over continuing on that course. Subsequently, I suffered from cancer, had a child, and got cancer again. I never returned to school, with the exception of an Info Tech associates at a business college.
The last bout of cancer lasted for years. I went through chemo along with external and internal radiation bombardment. I then suffered from radiation necrosis, an incurable condition-dead tissue. All of the PhD’s were telling me that I was going to die with chronic pain. I knew I would not. They pumped me full of pain meds and told my husband to make me comfortable during my last time. I lay in the bed for the better part two years, choosing to turn my studies of the Scriptures into my daily activity. I was nearly dead. I could see the gray in my eyes. Then, someone I hardly knew came to my home and told me that God was going to heal me and I would help many people. Within a week, I was seeing a healer in Chicago. He practices bioenergy-Ireneusz Stobiecki from Poland. I saw him three times in one month, and the necrosis poison drained from my body. Something ‘incurable’ was healed. I had to go back to my doctor, as I was medically reliant on the heavy doses of pain medicine. I told the area’s best oncologist, Dr. Michael Method of South Bend Memorial (IN), that I was healed, and he did not believe me until he examined me. He marveled.
Once all of the medication was out of my system, which was an illness all it’s own; I had revelation upon revelation. The oxycontin is synthetic heroin, which attacks the central nervous system. It interrupts the electrical impulses of the brain. All of that studying began to connect into a very educated level of the Wisdom of the Living God. Mr 13:23 ‘But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.’ Where were we told all things? Answer: In the Word. Now, my level of study is one of analytical research. I have the works of scholars to teach me, such as Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance. I take it back to the original meaning according to ancient texts through that one world-renowned scholar. Just one example of how I study. Bottom line is that I have studied the Wisdom in the True Word of God, because all wisdom comes from Him.
Switching gears to the ‘accredited’ educators you feel should be preferred; they are the ones teaching the PhD’s. The same ones who told me that I had no chance to live; yet here I sit healed. PhD’s, educated by traditions of men, were the equivalency of the legalistic Pharisee’s and Scripture lawyers who tempted Christ with His own Word, and you can find many references to His response to them in His ministry period of the New Testament. It is a great study. Along the way, you will discover they are the ones who conspired to kill Him because He was teaching contrary to their teachings. He was a threat to their money and power.
Christians founded this country. History PhD’s have taken that out of our institutions. Check out wallbuilders.com. Author and Historian David Barton can tell you all you need to know about that. Anyway, the right to freedom of religion is a constitutional right of all Americans. Propagation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is at the top of the list as to why this country was founded. I do not want to learn the traditions of men. I tried that. I now know why I was upset at Purdue. There is no honor in teaching anything at all contrary to Wisdom. There is, however, much money and power in it. It attracts the immoral. I see how sick our society is with the absence of Biblical principles in leaders who get the grade, not that all are that way, but there sure is an overabundance of them.
Finally, you can receive a doctorate from an ‘accredited’ university for business, education and more; just Google ‘AFFORDABLE DEGREES’. You will see what I mean. It is not just in the theological field. People can easily portray themselves as just about anything they want if they are willing to spend their money and do a little research. My educated opinion is that evil swallows itself, and some ‘accredited’ PhD’s have taken God out of nearly everything, but Praise be to God that our religious freedoms allow us to let the Holy Spirit move freely in this country. Perhaps, this is God’s way of taking back some of the lost. You see, Christ had no education at a college, and neither did Paul or Matthew or Peter as far as we know. It was the moving of the Holy Spirit that was so effective, and God will use whomsoever He may choose, and there is nothing new under the sun. Ec 1:9
You are a Christian. Have ye not read? Have you allowed the Holy Spirit to lead, guide and direct your path? Matthew chapter 7 is a good read. It will tell you the same things I have outlined in this response. Bless your heart, read the rules in all of your studies. You will only add maturity to your PhD and your Christian walk by becoming a disciple of divinity from the best Teacher of all.
Reference: Mt 5:19, Mt 7:24, Mt 10:14
A doctor is a healer. DD is simply a title. It gives one credentials, which are required to practice. My true credentials come from the Lord Himself, and I am fortunate to live in this great Christian nation. If I can be of assistance in the healing of spirits through what I have learned, should I need approval from a man? I think not, and there are obviously laws on the books that protect my right to freely pursue that happiness. I have worked just as hard as PhD’s, and smarter in my opinion, to know what I know. A word to the wise is sufficient.
Amen my brother.
I went from sad and heartbreaking then happy to extreme joy by your story, then you gave this amazing Talk of God and healing and who is who, this was totally a great comment and may i say your life story was uplifting God Bless You and GLORY TO BE TO GOD
Dear Anonymous,
Thanks so much for your frank and honest entry to my Doctor of Divinity degree post. However, like others who have read this, I believe you misunderstood my meaning. I, in no way, said that I prefer a person to have a Doctor Of Divinity Degree. I do understand that some are gifted to heal without ever going to medical school. I don’t think you need a doctorate to bring people to Christ. You certainly don’t need a doctorate to lead a church.
My whole point of this post is to make it known that when people use the title Doctor, in the United States, a greater majority of the population assumes that this person has been to school a number of years, working hard toward a degree.
If said person has NOT been to school a number of years, rightfully earning their degree, AND THEN THEY USE THE DOCTOR TITLE, IT IS HIGHLY MISLEADING TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC. I feel they are grossly misrepresenting themselves to the general public if they don’t make it known that they’ve earned their “degree” by paying forty dollars, ten dollars, or whatever amount, and simply wrote a few pages, or a few paragraphs worth of testimony.
Doctors certainly don’t have all the answers. Only God does.
Also, my post was only addressing the Doctor of Divinity degree.
I’m not addressing the issue of people earning their PHD in medicine or any other field.
I’m only focusing on the Doctor of Divinity degree. The reason I was focusing on the DD is because I was told that it’s a practice that is somewhat common in religious fields: people using the Doctorate title within their realm of religious work and they haven’t rightfully earned said degree.
If you haven’t earned your degree, then you shouldn’t be using the doctor title. That’s the point I was trying to make.
However, you can still lead a church, serve the Lord and minister without the doctorate…hence, my point is not to use the title…
Instead of using Doctor, you can use Pastor or something else.
If you glance through the links I’ve provided (if they still work), you’ll see that people spend a few dollars, write their testimony, then call themselves a doctor.
Have a good day.
There are others who use that title. I know a woman who went online and purchased all kinds of degrees for the practice of homeopathic remedies. She opened an office and mixes herbs into capsule form right there on her property. God knows what that kwak is putting in those pills, but there is no one, to my knowledge, who is regulating the stuff she is selling others to put into their bodies. She uses the title of Doctor.
Unfortunately, this country today has lowered the standards of just about everything. The only thing we can do is stand by our own works and beliefs. I understand your position, but I stated in my first response that I believe a lot of the damage in our society is due to the absence of God, and the ‘DD’s’ of the theological leadership have had a lot to do with that through the generations.
You may not be able to digest the fact that people are using that title legally, but they are. The Scriptures will teach you about how you are to deal with unfair practices. I don’t know that I will be using the title of DD, but society is certainly more drawn to that title more than just ‘Pastor’, so I can see why some choose to use it. In the ministry, it is a filteration process, as it is with sales. You could say the same thing about salesmen who mislead, but no one has really tried to stop them either. There is too much money to be had. It always comes down to the money and prestige for the majority. It does not change the fact that it won’t matter how much money they have once the Lord comes back.
I am of the minority. I don’t pass a plate or hat around when I do what I do. The Lord does take care of His own.
This world is temporal, and we can’t start demanding that the rights of others be taken away in this country cuz there is enough of that going on anyway. There is much to tolerate, but we are supposed to do it with confidence. We will get there if we just keep our hearts in the right way.
God Bless you in your endeavors.
This is very interesting because I was recently contacted by a college to inform me that I had been nominated for an Honorary Divinity Degree. However, they put me through a vetting process. I was required to give my background, submit letters of recommendation, list my earned degrees (I have 2, and have studied at Harvard Divinity School.) etc. I have been in ministry 31 years, planted 2 churches and written one book. I don’t know whether that qualifies me for an Honorary Doctorate but it is very different than buying a “Degree” on line. Any Christian who does that should be ashamed of themselves. Accredited schools have been giving honrary degrees to accomplished people for a long time. Nothing wrong with that practice, but I’m sure you can’t go out a “buy” a medical degree and hold yourself out as a M.D. without spending time in jail for it. Anonymous
Anonymous, thanks for commenting. The DD that you’ve been elected to receive, and the qualifications you stated, is along the lines of what I envision an honorary degree encompasses.
This Doctor of Divinity post gets a lot of traffic…over 200 hits a month to my blog are specifically for this post. Even though I posted this over a year ago, people still access it daily. I plan on doing a part II on this post soon, addressing the comments made to this blog entry.
I understand what you are saying. I feel your question about the validity of the DD is asking a bit much. Was John the Baptist asked to show his degree in divinity or theology when he was baptising and preaching the word of God? Did anybody question him? You are given the gift of the Holy Spirit to discern things about God’s word. The Holy Spirit will also show who is real, and who is not real when it comes to Gods chosen teachers, preachers, evangelist, etc, of His word. The world is stuck on “Titles, labels, name brand material things” in life instead of the truth. I buy a tie and handkerchief set, silk, for $4, the same one in a men’s store for $50-$60, and you would never know the difference. What matters to some is that it came from a well known mens haberdashery instead of the wholesale store that I get mine at. Do I walk in and tell people, “My tie is wholesale”?
No, I do not. I just take any compliments that may be given, smile, say thank you, and go about my business. If you are given the true, living word of God by Sam Sausagehead, via sermon, bible study, or group study, and you know it is true, do you question him about having a license to preach/teach the gospel? No…you take the word to heart and become a “Doer” of the word. I heard a preacher the other day say he was looking at a book titled, “Deliver Us From Meville”. It hit the nail on the head, squarely on the head. We are stuck on “ME” instead of seeing things for what they are worth. I am saying this to say, I have an honorary DD and use the title along with the one I already have been licensed and ordained legally, Reverand. And I have done a lot of things, some more, and some less than others. I got mine for my continued contribution to my Lord and Savior, then mankind as I am so called to do, and will do until the day I die. It’s not about the title Rev Dr, or Rev John Doe, DD, I have been called worst before. And I probably will be called other names later. It’s only what I do for Christ that will last. I am a called disciple of Jesus
Christ, as we all are. Some live it. Others don’t. So don’t be bothered by titles, etc. Be concerned that the word being taught to you is the true living word of God. God bless you. And just ask God for understanding. He will bless you with it. I love you in the name of Jesus Cecelia.
P.S.
Your Shepard is an anointed man of God any way. He has been all this time, and will continue to be. One of my close friends comes here to preach at Reid Temple AME. Even if your pastor only had his license and ordination papers, he brings the “True Living Word” each and everytime he is called to do so.
Anonymous, thanks for commenting. However, as some others have done, you merely misread or skimmed my post. I’m not implying that you need a doctorate to preach the gospel or lead a church, BUT, it is misleading to use the title Dr. without earning a degree. I don’t have a problem with people calling themselves Pastor, Reverend, etc. However, most people are going to assume you studied several years to get a degree if you use the title Doctor.
I’ve been involved with a few strong, great churches and the lead pastor DID NOT have a doctorate, and that was fine with me. However, this pastor DID NOT use the Doctor title. We called him Pastor. Understand?
If titles REALLY DON’T MATTER, THEN WE SHOULD GET RID OF THE Doctor of Divinity title when it’s not earned through an accredited university. Why do we need it? My question to you is, why do you feel you need a Dr. title if you think people get hung up on titles too much? If titles really don’t matter, then why do you use one? Also, do you let people know that your degree is honorary? Just wondering…
The Honorary Doctorate of Divinity is mearly a cirtificate of appreciation and nothing more. It may be awarded by any person for any reason, but it is usually to honor service. For example, your grandchildren can make one on construction paper with crayons and it would be just as legal as one presented by Harvard University, and you could use the title Dr. There are no academic rules, or statutes governing the presenting or use of this award. The use of the title Dr. at this point becomes a personal matter for the awardee. It would seem prudent to use the title with the designation (h.c.). For example XYZ, D.D.(h.c.) which would immediatly indicate that it was not acedemic. It is also mot in the best interest of anyone to mislead people, but we all know the true nature of people, what price vanity. When observing the use of this title, criticism becomes of little value and only causes consternation and stress. Let it go, they were awarded it, they use it, and my question is So What? It is not my problem, they will have to deal with it some day, not me. I am free from that bondage. Dr. Thomas Todd D.D.(h.c.(
If you want a real Dr degree in today’s world look for the letters Th.D. ( Doctor of Theology )The Th.D. has replaced the D.D. in most of the USA and the rest of the world. The reason way the D.D has been replaced is because it has became a ” handout. ” Hopefully the Th.D. will not have the same fate.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doctor_of_Theology
I’m working on my Th.D.right now. That being said I know many good men of God who have ever been to college one day.
Soon to be Dr. Jamie, Th.D.
sorry Jamie that Th.D can be honorary as well
I am an ordained minister of sorts. It spawned from a discussion I got in with some friends. She stated that her husband was ordained and that he did it online. I argued that this could not be legal. A bet was made that I had to research it and verify that it was legal, and if it was I had to get ordained. As it turns out, the federal courts have determined that a church may ordain ministers in any way that it sees fit, whether in person, throug the mail, or online. So, in keeping up my end of the bargain, I became ordained. My ordained friend actually performed my wedding for me, and I have performed a couple for some friends myself, and it is all legal per Alabama law.
Anyway, I am a geek and love certificates to hang on my wall. Through the church that ordained me, there was an option to make a “donation” and receive an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity. I thought to myself how great this would look on my wall, so I ordered it. Now the federal courts have also ruled that Churchs may grant Honorary degrees without issue. The issue here of course is the use of the term Doctor.
As this is an honorary degree, I do not apply it to resumes or job applications. For me my honorary doctorate is nothing more than a cool looking certificate that hangs on the wall. I use the term “Dr” jokingly around friends and family, but never in a professional manner. I believe that using doctor before your name if you only have an honrary degree is insulting to those that have earned their degrees through years of hard work.
Earlier someone alluded to Bill Cosby’s doctoral degree. While Mr. Cosby has several honorary doctorates, he has an earned one as well. He earned his Ed.D in 1976 from the UMass and wrote his dissertation on something relating to the Cosby Kids and their use as a teaching tool. So Bill Cosby is a real Doctor of Education, not an honrary one.
Bottom line, I think its fine if you have an honorary degree, but don’t use the term Dr. unless you have earned it.
Dan from Alabama
Your initial post and comments (excluding the really rude ones) are all insightful. I would add that honorary degrees are often considered not to be of the same standing as substantive degrees, except where the recipient has demonstrated an appropriate level of academic scholarship that would ordinarily qualify them for the award of a substantive degree.
Many states will not permit someone to preside over a marriage, baptism or funeral without being licensed as an ordained minister in that state. To register and be licensed, one must belong to an order or congregation, serve in the capacity of a minister or pastor, hold a letter of good standing and (in some states) also hold a D.D. (h.c.), Th.D or some other degree related to their field. (The h.c. stands for honoris causa.)
Many people who obtain “ordination” from groups such as Universal Life Church do so in order to serve in the capacity of “minister” with regard to marriage. This began in the 1960’s and 1970’s with interracial couples wanting to have their marriage conducted by a minister when most churches frowned upon them. It continues into our modern times with gays and lesbians wanting to have their marriage conducted by a minister in those states that allow for same-sex marriage.
Other people are of faiths not recognized by universities: Wiccan, Pagan, Natural Law, Hinduism et cetera. These people would not be able to function as a licensed minister without ordination through an interfaith or universal faith group.
Perhaps 15% of the people who obtain a D.D. (or even a simple “Ordination”) go through the motions in order to tend to those who the Christian world would not or cannot tend to. I am proud of the fact that I am in this category. I do not have theological training from a university and my BS is in geology, of all things. My Christian knowledge has come from years of research and at least three years of auditing Franciscan University classes in order to further my knowledge for the joy of learning. The only time you will see D.D. (h.c.) after my name is when I must sign an official state document. I am registered in my state and licensed to serve as an ordained minister with my order (those who granted my ordination.)
My “degree” permits me to visit hospices in the capacity of a minister so that I may pray with those who are dying from AIDS or cancer. My “degree” permits me to give a simple baptism to a baby before she or he dies. I work in tandem with our local priests, rabbis and church pastors, not as an equal in education, but as a right hand to assist them. I might notice Mrs. Jones in the bed next to Mrs. Smith, and as this is a small town, I’ll know that Mrs. Jones belongs to Fr. John’s parish – I’ll place a call to Fr. John and give him a heads-up about one of his flock. I also am the eyes and ears for our social workers (county mental health) and when people seek mental health guidance, I will point them to those professionals that I know and trust. I volunteer my time; I am not paid.
It sounds cheesy: getting something for doing nothing. It does not detract from those who do hold doctorates.
The correct method of denoting these honorary titles is: Rev. Dr. John Q. Public or Rev. John Q. Public, D.D. (h.c.). However, recipients of an honorary doctorate do not normally adopt the title of “doctor.” It is not usual for an honorary doctor to use the formal title of “doctor,” regardless of the background circumstances for the award. Notable exceptions to the commonly-accepted usage include:
· Benjamin Franklin, who received an honorary doctorate from the University of St. Andrews in 1759 and the University of Oxford in 1762 for his scientific accomplishments. He thereafter referred to himself as “Doctor Franklin”;
· Billy Graham is regularly addressed as Dr. Graham, though his highest earned degree is a BA in anthropology from Wheaton College.[3]. He holds 20 honorary doctorates and has turned down nearly twice as many.[citation needed]
· Maya Angelou who calls herself and is referred to by many as Dr. Angelou despite holding no undergraduate or advanced (non-honorary) degree.[4]
· Durham University awarded an honorary doctorate in 2004 to the writer Bill Bryson. When it subsequently made Bryson its Chancellor, it began referring to him as Dr Bryson.
· The University of Exeter has awarded honorary D.Litt degrees and subsequently referred to the recipients as Doctor. [5]
· Terry Wogan has received an honorary doctorate from the University of Limerick, and refers to himself as “Doctor” on air.
· Judy MacArthur Clark received an honorary doctorate of veterinary medicine and surgery (DVMS) from the University of Glasgow[6], and refers to herself professionally as “Doctor”[7]
· Ralph Stanley, the bluegrass artist, is referred to by many people[citation needed] and refers to himself as “Doctor” after being awarded an honorary Doctorate of Music from Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, Tennessee, in 1976.
· Hunter S. Thompson, journalist and creator of Gonzo Journalism, received an honorary doctorate from the Universal Life Church in the late 1960s.[8] Thompson often insisted on the title, as did his alter ego Raoul Duke in Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas who claimed to be a “Doctor of Journalism”.
· Stephen Colbert received an honorary doctorate of fine arts from Knox College in 2006. Since then, the credits of The Colbert Report jokingly refer to him as “Dr. Stephen T. Colbert, D.F.A.” (which uses both the title “Dr.” and a postnominal, which is improper)
· Mirza Ahmad received an honorary Doctor of Laws from Small Heath Poly in 2007. Since then, the credits of every document produced by Birmingham City Council refer to him as “Dr. Mirza Ahmad LLD (hon), MBA., LL.M, Barrister,”
Thank you for your time. I hope that this comment isn’t too long.
~ just T. Wheeler
Excellent response. I have recently been ordained within both major groups of the Uniniversal Life Church. I hope only to do good work through this. I am legally ordained and fully understand that the D.D. degree is strictly an honorary degree. Reviewing proper usage Dr. Should not really be used in public, but D.D. with (honoris causa) is acceptable as you had mentioned. This has been ruled on by a Federal District Court back in the 1970’s as the title is honorary. Unfortunately if people are not aware that is sad, but the granting and usage is legal. Yes, I would always make people aware that it is an honorary title.
Anonymous, as mentioned in my blog post, I believe most people DON’T know. I didn’t know. As I said, I’d never even heard of this honorary degree until around the time of my original post. Also, when a friend of mine saw the book I was referring to, he just assumed the author had their PHD. I feel most use the title to puff up their pride, make them seem as if they’re educated. I have no way of backing up my claims, but, it’s just how I feel. Don’t really understand why the title is needed? Just forget about the title, call yourself a Christian, live according to God’s will and all….
Hi Cecilia,
I’m the anonymous from February 2016. I agree with you that a person should not really use Dr. in front of their names. Yes, it would seem quite strange that a young lady without a batchelor’s degree and hardly any post secondary schooling would be using Dr. Actually the proper way to use Dr. as in the honorary Doctor of Divinity is only when corresponding with the organization that issued\bestowed the honorary degree. In normal day to day activities and correspondence with other people the Dr. should not be used. As an honorary degree they should only use D.D. (honoris causa) behind thier name if they feel the need to. I’m taking a seminary class now that will take 20 weeks to complete while working toward a master’s degree. This class will be in Chaplaincy Studies. Hopefully I will be able to counsel and assist people. I’m a couple of years from 60 and have a degree in public administration and supervise a group from Virginia to Louisiana. I’m just hoping my ministry will be a positive influence. Have a great weekend!
Hi Anonymous
Thanks much for your response. I wish you well on your studies and your ministries. You have a great weekend, too! If you like Christian fiction, you can download a free copy of my novel, Raspberry Kisses! Or, if you know of someone who reads Christian fiction, feel free to pass this message onto them. I’ve gotten some good reviews on Amazon: http://amzn.to/1RV8uoe
discussing honorary doctorates, it is necessary to weed out historical doctorate holders like Franklin. The PhD was not an earned degree as such but rather bestowed as a reward for cumlative work over time. Thus, Franklin’s doctorate would grant him the rights of holding such a title. Modern doctorates are earned (unless honorary),meaning there is a perscribed curriculum and requirements.
Dr Emmons (earned Phd)
Again man has found another way to make money and again man desire power and glory.Yet still some men just want to do the will of God. We honor men with degrees.I ask who
is the greatest in God’s sight, the physical doctor who saves a man from a gunshot wound and the man lives to be 100 or a man of God
who helps to save the same mans soul and he lives forever. I would rather a Doctor of Divinity lead me to Christ and I live forever that a physical doctor save my physical life and I live to be 100.
Gifts of the Spirit are Gods not degrees
The main problem we have here is that we are trying to bring the natural world to the spiritual world. If we are called by God, we then are ordained by God, man can not ordain another man only God can. God does not care about a title or letters only about the number of souls we lead to Him.Jesus did not have a PHD, DD,
or any other title, but maybe a minister does become a doctor in Gods eyes by the number of souls he wins for Christ, but after all is said and done, will those titles
matter on the other side be it a physical doctor or a doctor of divinity. I think not and only what
we do for Christ will be counted. God wants us to be humble yet most of us walk with our chests stuck out as to say I am a doctor so I am
more and better than you when in Gods eyes we are the same.(IF saved
and walking in the Spirit)
Dr. should be something that is earned through educational means, not a handout. I agree with you 100%, I have spent 6 years working towards this opportunity.
I was about to comment on Cosby’s doctorate when I noticed Dan had mentioned it. He’s right — Cosby has a legitimate (earned) doctorate from UMass in addition to the honorary stuff.
Honorary doctorates or bogus ordinations have their uses. My parents, not being religious, wanted a friend to marry them instead of a minister. So their friend got a Universal Life Church ordination and performed the ceremony. I’ve known other friends who have done the same.
Of course, the trouble starts when the holder of such a doctorate starts to see it as something other than a piece of paper. In the case of an honorary doctorate from an accredited university, it should be seen as just that — an honor, nothing else. In the case of an “ordination mill,” it should only be used to get around laws that say you can’t just let any old bum perform a marriage.
It annoys me to see “Dr.” Billy Graham and “Dr.” Maya Angelou when the recipients of such degrees are clearly not meant to use those titles. Graham has a B.A. from Wheaton; Angelou has no degrees whatsoever. It’s even worse when people buy these degrees online or order them from a catalog.
They might say that they’re not trying to fool anyone, but if they didn’t want people to think they had the credentials, why would they use the title? How is it impressive to have a degree you didn’t earn?
I wanna be a doctor.
I’m excited to know it can happen…today!!!!!!!!!!
I read somewhere that if you get an honorary doctorate good manners allow you to call yourself Doctor for that day only, after that, it’s pretensious.
Great discussion, Cecilia.
I am an ordained minister, called by The Lord Jesus Christ to preach the Gospel and to feed the Lord’s sheep. I was raised in a Baptist church under the ministry of a man who had been an inspiration to me for all of my formative years, and in whose footsteps I always dreamed of following. He was truly an example of the spirit and work ethic portrayed by our Lord. His title was Reverend. Period. Many of his congregation members addressed him as Pastor, but I, being very close to him on a personal level (he took me into his home after my parents divorced when I was 17) always addressed him as Brother, followed by his last name. After I left his home to join the service, he attended a private bible college and was given credit for his 43 years in the ministry, and after passing a battery of bible knowledge tests and writing a lengthy thesis about his experiences in the ministry, was awarded an honorary DD. Now there are those who might say that he did nothing extraordinary during his tenure in the ministry, but I would have to disagree with them. I am certainly one life that was changed because of his loving spirit and Christlike example, as were countless others who were ministered to by the Lord through him over the decades. I have sat under the teachings of many men over the years, and have taught many over the years as well. Yet to this day, I have found none who better exemplified the gifts of the Holy Spirit, or possessed the wisdom of this man. A man may be educated in many fields, but only the Holy Spirit can educate a man to be like Christ. Therefore, in honor of the good race he has run, and the superior spiritual stature of the man, I find it only fitting that he should bear the title which separates him from the rest of the field (just as an MD or DDS or PhD does in secular fields) by recognizing the QUALIFICATIONS of the man, instead of just the number of hours spent in the classroom. I myself have spent years in the study of the scriptures, as well as in the work of ministry, but I do not consider myself half the minister he is, and still consult him on matters in which I find I need a little extra wisdom. Despite his lack of formal education, I find him to be far more qualified in his field than most of the classically educated men that I have met in my lifetime. So, regardless of the title of the man, it rests in the eye of the beholder to determine the qualifications of the man, and to value the title accordingly. I suppose that it would be safe to say that my opinion on this matter can be summed up in one simple question and answer. What do you call the person who graduates at the bottom of his medical school class? Doctor. God bless you, and continue steadfastly in the faith.
Well, I must say that this discussion is riveting. However, I mut agree with a previous poster insofar as that you are ignoring the religious practictioners of other than dominate faiths who have spent years dedicated to their studies, yet have no curriculums offered here to attain the coveted title without committing spiritual perjury. Am I to understand that only one faith has validity,and that only through a mortar and brick facade can higher learning be transmitted and discipline practiced? For shame, good folks. Is it not true that the assumption in the original posting is that if one does not study thier decades in the generally accepted Chrisitan dominated institutions that the option of civil recognition is somehow a venue of lesser peoples? Let us, for a moment, assume that people study and pass on teaching traditions other that your own, and that they have not yet chosen to merge and form their own selfperpetuating institutions. Let us also assume, that some of them are actually native to this land and geography and had spiritual systems and learning levels of their own in harmony with the one you have mentioned. Does this invalidate their right to use the title because they refuse to go through double the years by taking the same materials a second time and paying a college accepted by your constituents? Take care in how you generalize the motivations and propriety of the usage of such titles and examine the person’s credentials in relation to their field of learning, lest you be seen as racist, elitist,and more than a little arrogant. Ten years studying with a Medicine Lodge, every day, is no less valid than ten years at Byrn Mawr, Madame.
Consider this well.
Sincerely,
Ms. Davis,
B.A. (earned in your colleges)
Reverend (elsewhere)
Hello from Germany !
The titles from the “Title Mills” are worthless. In Germany its illegal to use them. In the US should be the same…
But I also dont believe in years of studies to receive such a title. But at least there should be a “screening” of the life of the applicant.A known criminal should not be able to have such title. And there is need for some kind of “Thesis” what shows that the applicant is able to do a “scientific” way of research etc. Also a 18 year old cant qualify…Has no life experience etc. to base such honor on normally.
But this has nothing to do with the kingdom of God. There are other qualifications necessary as quoted in the ACTS etc… Be the servant of all. No need for titles etc.
Greetings
Honestly the titles, certifications, degrees what have you are only for show for some people but for holistic workers it is some what of a protection…. BTW, Degrees and years of STUDY don’t mean they really know what they are doing. (They could have just barely passed college and is now your new Pediatrician). I turned to Holistic health (which actually worked) because the MDs, PhDs that I assumed were good…couldn’t help, misdiagnosed, prescribed drugs but did not CURE anything. I don’t see anything wrong with someone calling themselves Rev. Dr. D.D. whatever….those are the people most times have a vast life experience… For example, in my religion you grow up learning about God and going to Theocratic Ministery “school” (for free!) as common practice…this is normal and everyone in the congregation (all ages) learns how to minister to people, etc. If I want to be a Rev. Dr. I think I should freely be able to because technically I have more training and experience than those 6 year college graduates(who again don’t have experience and no guarantee they didn’t just pass by the skin of their teeth)…I have 25 years of experience and training behind me and I am only 30 years old. (So the fact that Im very young shouldn’t immediately discredit me either…) So… I don’t “need” to sit in a university per se to take classes on subjects that I have already been learning, practicing AND teaching all my life to be considered a Rev. Dr. Whomever…. Degree are issued based on your understanding of the required subjects,etc. whether you are in a class room or not. The honorary degrees and other accelerated programs for degrees, while not all credible, the ones I have looked in to want a full thesis on your understanding and is examined and graded…some even have extensive programs where all you do is take strenuos competency tests on the subjects…if your grade falls below a certain percentage you are required to take the class and re-test. It’s not as easy as many may think… I can understand how some would be upset that they spent loads of $$ and a hand full of years of school beyong high school to achieve a piece of paper basically proving that they did just that in order to hold a title….where others (who have a lifetime of knowledge and experience) only pay a fee to hold the same title. People, whether they went to a university or not, are responsible for having the appropriate knowledge and legal abilities to perform certain jobs and services….to each is own. If they screw up they WILL be held accountable just like the University graduates. Just like applying for other positions, you see degree or equivalent years of experience….You get paid well for what you know not for the title or certificates or papers I obtained. Sure it “helps” you move up the secular ladder faster because of the paper but that is pretty much all it’s good for.
Your observation is a valid one. As someone who has an honorary DD from an accredited university, I wish there was another title for an honorary degree. A group of friends got together and presented my name and a bio asking that I be recognized. They had always joked that I was the go to gal when someone was troubled because I had a Phd in L.I.F.E well they saw to it that I got an ‘actual’one. I don’t use the title becasue of exactly the confusion you describe. It’s not that I’m not honored as they intended or proud to carry the title it’s just that there are so many bought degrees with the same name and others who have spent classroom time studying for theirs. I don’t want to be confused with them. I earnd mine in the trenches. Please don’t misunderstand, it’s not a situation of better or worse, just different. If I ever write a book, I’ll probably use the letters Phd.hon after my name adn leave off the DR. what do you think?
Michelle, I think that’s a great idea…an idea that other honorary DD holders should use! It would help cut down on the confusion…from my research – just from talking to other people about this – the honorary DD degree is NOT common knowledge. When people see others using that title, they assume that person has studied at an accredited university for several years to obtain that degree, which is usually an incorrect assumption!
THATS THE PROBLEM WITH AMERICA. STOP POITING THE FINGER, STOP JUDGING OTHER FOLKS. WHO CARES IF THE DEGREE IS ACADEMIC. IF THEY ARE LEADING SOULS TO THE LORD THATS ALL THAT MATTERS. AT LEAST HES NOT OUT THERE ROBBING AND STEALING CAUSE YOU WOULD HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY ABOUT THAT.
FYI, the various Jewish denominational seminaries typically honor their alums with an honorary D.D. after 25 years of service as a rabbi. Serves much the same purpose as reunion, apparently. A handful of recipients use the title, the vast majority enjoy the visit and then ignore it.
My concern about any honorary degree is whether or not the recipient uses it to deceive.
It is rather interesting for me to read that post. Thank author for it. I like such topics and anything connected to them. I definitely want to read more on that blog soon.
I disagree with your assumptions and premise. Everyone I know that Doctor of Divinity is an honorary degree as it is not an offered degree in America – In fact it is only offered, as far as I know in England – and rarely bestowed. Anyone who does not know this does not know ALOT OF THINGS and would need SO MANY THINGS EXPLAINED TO THEM it would not be worth the time. Secondly, it is common sense in even the lowly educated world to ask where one went to school after someone introduces themselves with letters to ascertain the quality of that education. Every minister I have met who used the Doctor of Divinity – upon asking where they went to school has replied that is was an honorary degree.
Furthermore, you could make your asinine argument about your lack of education and culture, on a great many subjects that someone such as yourself, apparently, makes or does not make proper assumptions about.
Letters after ones name only hold up until the one who made the display opens their mouth – and after that it is up to the audience to decide. In my opinion a full, massive, percentage of medical doctors should not be practicing as it is detrimental to the health of patients ..particularly from certain Universities.
In fact, it is my studied opinion that no Doctor from Tulane University should be allowed to treat patients unless they have attended an equal length of education at a school that imparts a better education.
Sounds like sour grapes to me – I would not want someone stuck on this at a dinner party – it’s hardly worth discussing.
It only shows you aren’t very ..educated
I would get rid of it – it’s rather vindictive, mean, sour grapes, blah blah, imbecilic, LOL seriously – it makes you sound a bit ‘dull’ or ‘simple’ –
M.M. (I didn’t’ use a spell checker and I’m not going to proof read this – I’ll let you guess how many letters I have and from how many schools) – in the end.. I get paid to win cases. PS. It was an honor to read the reply of the person above who had the time with cancer and studies through it all. Grace, class, and wisdom – money can’t buy. I wish you and your sour grapes well. Unbelievably immature. LOL I’m aghast LOL
– it’s 4am in cali
Wow. I found your post when searching for information about the D.D. The postings of some of the contributors just show how fragile their egos are… that they would be so angry at your sincere post.
Most of the educated world uses D.D. (hon). I would suggest that your friend do the same. Christianity is already (unfortunately) filled with people who claim doctorates from the “Church of God with Jesus and the Saints Holy Sanctified Apostolic …. Seminary.”
As someone who will soon (March 20) graduate with a Master’s degree from an accredited university, I found this article while searching for online universities granting doctoral degrees. Six years ago, I only had a high school diploma and I have worked hard to earn my AAS, BA, and now my MS. I am 60 years old and have earned it in spite of chronic pain due to rheumatoid arthritis and weakness due to being on chemotherapy. If I can keep up the good work for 3 more weeks, I will graduate with a 4.0 grade point average. That said, I do resent those who do absolutely no work, pay a small fee, and feel they have the right to put the initials after their name. As one commenter said, of course their lack of education will show once they begin to speak…so true. I am definitely not against honorary degrees being bestowed on those who have achieved in their fields and have earned the honorary degrees in an alternative fashion; however, for those who want to go through diploma mills, they are the kind of people who want to slide through life with absolutely no self-discipline. This lack of hard work will eventually catch up with them no matter what initials they put after their names. Thank you for a well-thought-out and sensitive article. It was a pleasure reading it and I commend you for addressing the problem with dignity and kindness.
I agree with you. I know of a Pastor who had an honorary doctrate of divinity degree bestowed on him for a particular service. The honorary degree is to highlight a particular function or service being rendered at the time. It is not a blanket title to be used forever by the person. This Pastor is now releasing books and publicizing himself as a Doctor. i feel this is misleading and dangerous. Degrees are earned…not merely thrown around.
Did anyone know the The Doctorate of Divinity was considered the highest degree a person could have. Even above that of a J.D. and M.D. It only became one of lesser degrees when the secular decided so. I want to share a list of people who have D.D. behind their names and run Mega Mega Churches in the U.S. Making Millions of dollars weekly. http://www.ministers-best-friend.com/Doctor-of-Divinity-Famous-Ministers-with-our-Doctor-of-Divinity-Title-Premise-by-NewtonStein.html I personally think, because most people don’t have the $100.000.00 or the time it takes to complete a traditional doctrate degree in any field, if you are a preacher, minister, Rev. and this helps you in anyway do a better job. Go for it. Why do some of these people and others need this D.D.? IT SHAVES THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS FROM THEIR EVERYDAY LIV ?ING IN TAX BREAKS. Bias opinion
Why in the world would someone admit to a “biased opinion”? In an accredited university, one is taught to use critical thinking skills in order to eliminate as much bias as possible. As far as most people not having time to go to school, I attended an accredited online university with other students who worked full time, came home to care for elderly parents and/or children, some of whom (like me) had medical challenges, and who still found the time to get their homework done. One will always make the time for that which one finds important. Thousands of dollars being paid to those with degrees is most likely not the norm without also having worked and proven one’s self in one’s field of expertise. I am very thankful to God for making it possible for me to go to an accredited university and giving me the opportunity to earn a real degree. Now I will hopefully be able to use that degree to serve Him by teaching or counseling others.
Please get over yourselves. A doctor who has an honorary / university or religious can use the title.
The church was the first one that created the Doctorate. Not the medical profession.
How much amount of pray and theological study can you do? University doctorates are drawn with crayons also. You are just born to believe that because you spend alot of money and sit in a room with someone that you earned it. What a joke. Can you not see you are just paying thousands of dollars for a useless piece of paper.
You have the right. Use it or do not. But do not sit back and whinge… what makes Harvard better than a public college for example. Yes you guessed it… advertising that they are the best. What a load of garbage… degrees etc within the industry of education are known as currency… Put two and two together.
An honorary doctor should have all the rights of a dumb ass doctor that paid 100,000 for harvard next to it… who is more intelligent the doctor that pays $100,000 for his degree or the guy that gets one for free in recognition of his intelligence.
Dumb asses pay thousands and thousands… yet they are smarter? hahahahaha.. wake up people please… capitalism at its best… you are told what they tell you and you pay for it and believe it. Plain and simple.
What is a GP but a self gloried idiot that hands out permissions slips on behalf of a pharmaceutical company… which can contain any concoction of crap which is taken in faith… a placebo… lol.
I’m not exactly sure why someone would be so hateful towards people who have worked hard to earn their degrees, unless there is some envy involved. I went back to school 6 years ago to earn my degree because I truly believed that the Lord had called me to do so.
I attended a local community college for my AAS, an online Baptist college (excellent education there) for my BA, and a secular university online for my MS. I fought through pain and discouragement, especially in the last class I took, in order to earn my degree…and I earned every line of ink written on it. I worked as hard towards excellence as I have worked at any profession. I worked through pain from Rheumatoid Arthritis and the sickness caused by chemotherapy for treating it. There are times when I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that the Lord “wrote” my assignments through me. Will I ever get to use it now that I’m so ill? Only the Lord knows that; I did, however, inspire friends and family with my self-discipline, work ethic, and perseverance.
I do not believe that I’m better than anyone else because of that education. I do believe that having that piece of paper may well help me to support my husband who is in his mid-60’s and has heart disease, diabetes, and needs knee replacements. With that legitimate piece of paper, I am more likely to get a job than without it.
Whether one wants to get a degree from an accredited university is a personal choice. Degrees from accredited universities are more credible than “buying” one online only because the person who has it had to jump through the hoops the university requires in order to get it. This shows prospective employers that one can follow orders, can complete assignments in a timely manner,can interact cooperatively with peers and authority figures, and can set goals and complete them.
I am sorry you feel the need to degrade other people’s accomplishments. I’m not sure what your purpose was in doing so. I am proud of my achievements, my family is proud that Mom stuck with it, and I believe that the Lord is proud of me too, knowing what a malingerer and non-finisher I used to be.
I hope at some point in time you will learn how to “rejoice with those who rejoice”. Sour grapes sets everybody’s teeth on edge; better is the wine of achievement with grace.
Hi, Aslan’s Lady. I’m assuming when you talk about sour grapes and degrading other people’s accomplishments, you are talking to Anonymous, who posted Saturday, June 5?
In the post, I don’t degrade the accomplishments of others, I’m talking about those who pay a few dollars, don’t take ANY CLASSES, and then get a degree and use the Doctor title, misleading those who’ve studied for several years at a university.
Online degrees are legitimate if they’re earned, though. Like, I know tons of people who’ve TAKEN CLASSES online, the same amount of classes that you take at a university, and get their degrees, which is cool.
the online degree that I’m referring to, you don’t have to study for it, you just pay, and then you get your “degree” and that’s about it.
Anonymous June 5, you rambled about people going to high-profile universities and about how they’re not smarter than those who don’t attend high-profile universities…I never stated this in my post. Read my post word for word to see what I’m talking about.
Also, the people that I’ve encountered, when they see that Dr. title, they’ll automatically assume you studied for your degree at SOME SORT OF UNIVERSITY, but, if you haven’t, then you need to let people know. In the example that I used in the post, when my friend saw the book and saw the doctor title, he said, “She has her PHd? That’s impressive!” But she doesn’t have her PHd, so she shouldn’t use the title and mislead others! I don’t think the Lord wants us to mislead others by sprouting about accomplishments that we haven’t rightfully earned, do you?
Unfortunately the church I attend now is going thru this very problem. The church is trying to dismiss him now because he lied about his credentials. The search committee for a pastor failed to do an investigation before he was voted in and now the church is split because some wants to keep him. An investigation has been done three years later after much confusion concerning some of his decisions. The investigation showed he lied about being a Doctor and about the College and the fact he founded and pastor a specific church. Unfortunately our church is divided. He refuses to leave.
Anonymous – June 23, 2010 – your pastor should have made it clear that is doctorate was honorary. I’m assuming that’s the case here. When clergymen use this title, most congregants are going to assume their pastor has gone to a college, accredited university or accredited religious school, but that’s not always the case. From the LIMITED research I’ve done, most people aren’t aware that Doctor of Divinity is not always an earned degree.
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I just wanted to add my two cents worth here. I am totally against those D.D. degrees that you can send $40 and your a Dr. So and So. But I must say that there are those that have worked in ministry for many years and are given honorary D.D. degrees and I feel they have every right to use the title of Dr. They have earned it by working in ministry and learning by the school of the Holy Spirit and hard knocks. They may have not gone seminary but they have through life experience.
I don’t see reason not to give Doctor of Divinity, by it nature, it is honorary. In every church or univesity, this title is not link to study. If people do take it for a PhD, it is there problem.
I have a B.A. from the University of Montreal. It is not the same and it will never be.
Anonymous, thanks for commenting. This blog post continuously gets hits DAILY even though the post is now three years old. Even though Doctor of Divinity is honorary by nature and is not linked to a field of study in any university, it’s NOT COMMON KNOWLEDGE THAT THIS IS SO!! I only found out on my own, through research, when I saw a self-pubbed author that I was acquainted with, a very young girl, not old enough to have a PHD, which made me question what she was doing. AFter some digging and talking to people, I found out the information on the blog post. I know I’ve spoken with others, and most were in agreement with me, they DIDN’T REALIZE IT EITHER. It might be common knowledge among some, don’t know, but the people that I spoke with said that they’d assumed the person would have a PHD if they used that title.
Okay, off my soapbox for the time being! 🙂
Very interesting post. I will say one thing. Check the number of accredited school that offer religious based doctorate degree vs the total number of colleges or seminaries that offer religious doctorate degrees. You will find that many schools that require years of class work and expensive tuition fees are not accredited. There are lots of religious schools that choose to not become accredited sue to the fact that they feel they are teaching Gods work a certain way and do not wish to be imposed upon. I have spent the better part of the last 25 years of my life as a minister in religious works. I have 2 Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degrees, I also have a BS is Electrical Engineering and I am enrolled in the Masters of Biblical Studies program at Regent University and plan to complete the Doctorate program after I obtain my Masters. Since I don’t claim the Christian Faith, to even enroll in the programs that I am interested in at Regents, I had to get letters of recommendations from Christian Ministers as to my moral background and purpose for wanting to learn Christian Theology or Biblical Studies. Lucky for me, and not for many others like me, I am in the Military and the Military Chaplains know me quite well and were willing to write my letters of recommendation. Others of the Pagan or other Non Christian faiths aren’t so lucky. And must use other means to be legally recognized. There is a School, that is soon to be accredited that will offer a Masters course in the study in Wicca. And I believe they are working on creating coursework for other areas of non-christian religious fields as well. Any Doctorate in a theological field is based on interpretation. So if an Honorary Degree candidate is properly reviewed and is recognized for Life Work accomplished and proven…I don’t see much of a difference when it comes to religious degrees. So far the classes that I am taking and have taken have all been review of things I already knew or know. So I am paying for the paper given from an Accredited School. I have yet, to date, learned anything that I didn’t previously already know.