JST-SCU Hires New Testament Scholar with Extensive Ministry Experience
We are delighted to formally announce the addition of Alberto Solano Zatarain to the faculty of the Jesuit School of Theology of Santa Clara University (JST-SCU). He joins us from the University of Oxford, bringing a significant background of scholarship in New Testament studies and early Christian exegesis, alongside extensive experience in pastoral ministry. His commitment to both rigorous theological inquiry and service aligns closely with JST-SCU's mission.
Solano Zatarain joins the JST-SCU community after five years in the UK, where he currently serves as Assistant Tutor of New Testament at Wycliffe Hall, University of Oxford. He holds an MPhil and is currently a DPhil Candidate in Theology from Oxford. His recent research explores how the Sinai narrative is used in the Epistle to the Hebrews, investigating how early Christian writers interpreted the story of the giving of the law to shape their community’s identity under a new covenant and high priest.
Solano Zatarain’s interests extend to early Christian exegesis and cosmology, with a particular focus on how first- and second-century Christian authors envisioned the relationship between heaven and earth. He is also engaged in exploring the extent to which early Christian communities distinguished themselves from their Jewish counterparts, and when a definitive parting of ways occurred. His research aims to contribute to ongoing scholarly efforts to better understand the diverse cultic developments that emerged within the first two centuries CE and how these shaped both Christian and Jewish identities.
“Having visited JST-SCU earlier this spring, I left with a strange but profound sense of belonging,” Solano Zatarain shared. “The JST-SCU community is an extraordinarily rare blend of warm-hearted and passionate individuals, seeking to do remarkable good in the world through humble service, while also pursuing world-class scholarship. Its missional intention to serve people across cultures and traditions deeply resonates with both my personal and academic hopes.”
Originally from Mexico, Solano Zatarain has extensive experience in pastoral ministry, having served in various roles across the U.S., Mexico, and the UK. In addition to his Oxford degrees, he holds an MDiv and ThM, and hopes to continue serving the Church in the Bay Area, especially among Latino communities.
In his free time, Solano Zatarain enjoys a good cup of coffee and conversations about Mexico and Latin America, particularly its history, politics, and art. His favorite hobby these days is spending time with his wife and four little children, and he’s looking forward to exploring the natural beauty surrounding JST-SCU with his family.