When Felix Gilbert joined Denver Seminary’s faculty in 2013, he brought with him a passion for connecting the Seminary with Denver’s urban communities. As the founder and director of the Urban Initiative—now the Black Church Programs—he pioneered a year-long Lay Ministry Program to equip lay leaders in urban Denver communities. His visionary leadership helped bridge the gap between the Seminary and the local community, fostering transformative partnerships. 

Felix’s efforts went beyond the classroom. He and his wife, Kotane, co-pastored Restoration Christian Fellowship, in Aurora, Colo., and launched Restoration Christian Ministries, a community development organization, and Restoration Christian Academy, offering faith-based education. 

Driven by a commitment to advancing theological education within the Black community, Felix established the Black Student Fellowship at Denver Seminary. His work led to the creation of the Black Student Fellowship Endowed Scholarship in 2019, renamed the Dr. Felix Gilbert Black Student Endowed Scholarship, following his death in April 2021. Felix’s enduring vision was for affordable, accessible, and theologically-sound seminary education. His influence continues through this scholarship, ensuring that future ministry leaders can pursue their calling regardless of financial barriers. 

Felix earned his Master of Divinity in 2008 and a Doctor of Ministry in 2017 from Denver Seminary. He is survived by his wife, Kotane, and their three adult children, Veronica, Gerald, and Eddie. His legacy of faith, leadership, and community transformation remains deeply rooted in Denver Seminary and the broader Christian community. 

“Preacher, worship leader, pastor, professor, encourager, mentor, and friend, Dr. Gilbert enriched our lives and changed Denver Seminary in profound and beautiful ways. A courageous and compassionate soul, Felix walked alongside me into difficult, soul-searching, heart-wrenching, badly needed and long overdue conversations about racial reconciliation with leaders in the Black community. He earned respect and engendered trust through patient love, a generous spirit, and persistent hope. His love for Jesus was contagious. We are a better seminary because God graced us with Felix Gilbert. More importantly, we are better people because God used him to change us. Oh, how I loved him.” 

-Dr. Mark Young
Chancellor, President 2009-2024