Rev. Nelson Cowan, Ph.D.

About Me

Rev. Nelson Cowan, Ph.D., is a United Methodist elder (pastor), worship leader, and liturgical theologian. He earned a Ph.D. in Liturgical Studies from Boston University School of Theology in 2019, and currently serves as the director of the Center for Worship and the Arts at Samford University. 

Dr. Cowan teaches worship, church history, and preaching adjunctly for Candler School of Theology at Emory University (Course of Study Program), Drew University (M.Div students), and Wesley Theological Seminary (D.Min students). He carries six years of lead pastor experience and twelve years in worship ministry.

Current Projects


Teaching Competencies

Christian Worship (ecumenically-oriented or United Methodist-specific), Liturgical Theology, Sacramental Theology, Preaching, The History of Christianity, United Methodist History, Doctrine, and Polity.


Research Interests

Liturgical Theology and Hermeneutics, Pentecostal-Evangelical-Charismatic Movements, Contemporary Congregational Song & Hymnology, Intersectional Theology

Curriculum Vitae

Updated September 2023

NCowan CV - September 2023.pdf