ConneXions - Spring 2012

Conne ionsknox college • Faith Matters. volume 19, issue 1 • spring 2012

also: • New Director of academic Programs• a KNoXFRa Wedding• legacy Giving

looking forward to Convocation

connexions • spring 2012 Faith Matters. • knox college2

This has been an unusual winter in Toronto. One day there is snow, another rain and on

other days, snow, sleet and rain — all in one twenty-four period. The temperature has been up and down like a yo-yo — unseasonable warm and unseasonable cold, all in a single day.

At the present time theological education across North America is very much like the weather this winter. It’s unpredictable, changeable with joys and challenges existing side by side on any given day or term. All of us, whether mainline, Catholic or multi-denominational, speak of these as unprecedented times, making it all the more important for us to engage in a regular assessment of our work and resources.

The Association of Theological Schools in the U.S. and Canada, as part

of its ongoing commitment to excellence in theological education, evaluated Knox in November. As a result of their in-depth investigation of our programs, Faculty, financial resources, governance, library, student services etc., our accreditation as a school and our degree programs were renewed for a further ten years. In their evaluation report, among other positive comments, the team set out the following as distinctive strengths: the commitment, collegiality and community of the Faculty and the welcoming of diversity in our student body and programs.

During the spring and summer we contracted with an architectural firm to carry out an assessment of the Knox building. Soon to be 100 years old, we were delighted to discover that the building is sound. Given its age, however, it does need substantial capital investment over the next 15 years to bring it up to today’s standards. The Board of Governors is presently working with me to develop a plan for its renewal. Like this Toronto winter, the building confirms that there are signs of both sun and rain in our forecast.

A sure and certain sign of the former is our location in the midst of a flourishing environment of learning. The ecumenical richness of the TST makes this one of the foremost places for theological education in North America. How thankful we are that our home is at the centre of the University of Toronto with its multi-cultural, multi-faith student body and programs!

So in the midst of the unpredictability of the times, there is great joy. In the pages that follow Charles Fensham

speaks from his experience of 10 years at Knox about our commitment as Faculty not only to passing on content and skills but to forming students for ministry, facilitating their growth in wisdom. The learning that takes place is a daily feast of “aha” moments in which a new understanding of God, or self or neighbour emerges. At the Convocation we will be graduating a large class of students ready to go out into the ministries to which God has called and prepared them.

Also in the pages that follow is the announcement of this year’s Doctor of Divinity recipient, The Rev. Dr. Silas Ncozana. His life and ministry in Malawi and various other parts of the world speaks profoundly about what we seek to do at Knox. He is someone who represents a call to committed leadership within both denominational life and society.

In an earlier issue of Connexions I raised the question: what difference would it make to the PCC if Knox College did not exist? I trust that in the pages that follow you will come to the same conclusion that motivates all of us at Knox. Please continue to remember us in your prayers and with your generosity.

In friendship,J. Dorcas GordonPrincipal

PRiNCiPal’s messaGe

a school of distinctive strengthsReport praises commitment, collegiality, community and diversity

J. Dorcas Gordon

Look for the Korean translation of the Principal’s Message on page 17 and the Chinese translation on page 18.

knox college • Faith Matters. spring 2012 • connexions 3

Conne ions FaCes uP FRoNT

iN This issue

looking forward to ConvocationThe Board of Governors announces this year’s recipient for the Doctor of Divinity, (honoris causa)see story page 4

Building healthy Communities of FaithThe Centre for Continuing Education explores strategies and tactics for congregational rejuvenationsee story page 8

Q&a with The Rev. Dr. Charles Fensham

“For me to teach is ministry.”see story page 12

Principal’s Message ��2

Knox News ��4–7

Continuing Education ��8

Board Convener’s Message ��9

Student & Alumni News �� 10–11

Faculty News ��12

Ewart Centre News ��13–14

Asian Centre Update ��15–16

Principal’s Message in Translation ��17–18

Calendar of Events ��19

volume 19, issue 1 • spring 2012

Conne ionsknox college • Faith Matters. volume 19, issue 1 • spring 2012

also: • New Director of academic Programs• a KNoXFRa Wedding• legacy Giving

looking forward to Convocation

ConneXions is published twice per year for graduates and friends of Knox College and knoxfra (Knox Former Residents Association)� We welcome news of grads, friends and former residents and your comments and suggestions�

For address changes, please include the mailing portion of ConneXions with your correspondence� Please send comments and change of address to:

The Development OfficeKnox College59 St� George StreetToronto, ON M5S 2E6Tel: 416�978�4500Fax: 416�971�2133Email: knox�college@utoronto�ca

Visit Knox on the Internet at www.knox.utoronto.ca

Knox College respects your privacy� We do not rent, trade or sell our mailing lists� If you do not wish to receive this publication, please contact us at 416-978-2787 or knox�college@utoronto�ca�

Knox College is a Theological College of The Presbyterian Church in Canada, federated with The University of Toronto, and a founding member of The Toronto School of Theology� As a seminary of the Reformed tradition, it has ecumenical relationships with the World Communion of Reformed Churches, the World Council of Churches, The Canadian Council of Churches, as well as partnerships with various seminaries in the global community� Knox holds its accreditation through The Association of Theological Schools�

Photo Credits: Studio 2000, Marie Ainey, Terry Tingchaleun and Joyce Wong

Special thanks to Helen Cheung, Wan-Kit Keng, and Nam Soon Song�

The King’s College doors on an unexpectedly warm winter day.

— Photo by Marie Ainey


KNoX NeWs

a t its 168th Convocation ceremony on Wednesday, May 9, 2012, Knox College will confer the degree Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa) on The Rev. Dr. Silas Ncozana. The board of

governors has selected Dr. Ncozana based on his creative leadership in mission and the church’s life, as well as his outstanding faith-based contributions to public life.

The Rev. Dr. silas NcozanaPastor, community organizer and developer, statesman, diplomat, teacher and scholar — these are the words that people often use to describe Dr. Silas Ncozana.

Silas is the former General Secretary of Blantyre Synod, Moderator of General Assembly for The Church of Central Africa, Presbyterian (C.C.A.P), Youth Director for the Synod of Blantyre (C.C.A.P.) and travelling General Secretary of the Student Christian Organization of Malawi. He was a member of the Central Executive of All Africa Conference of

Churches, World Alliance of Reformed Churches and World Council of Churches. He has taught at Fort Hare University in South Africa, served as interim Principal of Zomba Theological College and is the current Vice-Chancellor, Professor of Church History, Executive Administrator and Chief Academic Officer of Sindima Memorial Institute.

In addition to his work in ministry and education, Silas was appointed High Commissioner to Tanzania and later Ambassador to Germany, Austria, Poland, Denmark, Russia, the Vatican, and the World Trade Organization in Switzerland. He has also been involved in community projects focused on safe water, orphans and green energy.

Silas has diplomas in theology from The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian Theological College and The University of Central Africa, Zimbabwe, a diploma in administration from Kabete College in Kenya, a diploma in Community and Youth development from The University of Birmingham, a master’s degree from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. from The University of Aberdeen.

Doctor of Divinity recipient announced

Knox College’s 168th Convocation

Wednesday, May 9, 2012 Ceremony @ 7:30 p.m.

Convocation Hall, University of Toronto

keynote speaker: The Rev. Dr. Malcolm Warford

Being in Ministry

doctor of divinity (honoris causa)

to be conferred on

The Rev. Dr. Silas Ncozana

The Hidden World of Ministry

with The Rev. Dr. Malcolm Warford

Wednesday, may 9, 2012 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Knox College

For more information, contact Marie Ainey 416.978.2787 or

[email protected] online at

www.knox.utoronto.ca

Everyone Welcome!

PRe-CoNvoCaTioN WoRKshoPThe Rev. Dr. silas Ncozana and his wife Margaret


KNoX NeWs

helen Ge joined Knox College as the Technical Services Coordinator in September 2011� After graduating in 2008 from the Faculty of Information Studies at the University of Toronto with a Master of Information Studies degree, Helen worked as a cataloguer for two years at the Richard Charles Lee Canada-Hong Kong Library at U of T�

Flo Cook began as Assistant to the Director of Finance and Administration at the end of February 2012� Flo is a Certified Management Accountant who brings professionalism and a wealth of experienceto the position�

New at Knox

Knox College appoints The Rev. Dr. John vissers Director of academic Programs

The Board of Governors at Knox College is pleased to announce the appointment of The Rev. Dr.

John Vissers as Director of Academic Programs and Professor of Historical Theology effective January 1, 2013.

“John and I have been colleagues for 13 years and have worked together on matters relating to both theological education and the Church,” said Principal Dorcas Gordon. “The Faculty and I are delighted to work more closely with him here at Knox.”

Dr. Vissers, a two-time Knox graduate, will administer the Advanced Degree, Basic Degree and certificate programs of the College and supervise the Academic Office in the exercise of its duties.

“I am excited by the call to continue my work in theological education at Knox College,” says Dr. Vissers. “I look forward to joining Principal Gordon, the Faculty, and the staff in delivering

excellent academic programs as students prepare for ministry and mission in Christ’s church today.”

Dr. Vissers has been Principal of Presbyterian College since 1999. He is an ordained minister of The Presbyterian Church in Canada, and has served congregations in British Columbia and Ontario. He was Professor of Systematic Theology at Tyndale University College and Seminary for eight years and his research interests include Reformed theology, contemporary theology and constructive Christian doctrine.

The appointment of Dr. Vissers is subject to his release by the Board of Governors of The Presbyterian College and the Presbytery of Montreal.

The Rev. John Henderson will remain Interim Director of Academic Programs through the end of 2012. The College is grateful for his leadership and service during this transition period. The Rev. Dr. John vissers


KNoX NeWs

T he residence at Knox College holds a special place in the hearts of those who have called it home. Many residents have left with life-long friendships formed

during their time here with those from a wide variety of backgrounds. For Lauralee Bielert, she left with not only life-long friends, but a life partner.

Originally from Vancouver, Lauralee moved to Ontario to study, first journalism at Carleton and then law at The University of Toronto. She decided to live on campus, choosing the residence at Ewart College as it housed mainly graduate students and was centrally located on campus.

She quickly became familiar with the campus and Knox College as the meals for both residences were served there. When the residence closed after Ewart amalgamated with Knox in 1992, Lauralee made the decision to move into Knox.

One fall morning she found herself in the first floor reading room of the residence where she met Michael Kiang who was studying medicine at U of T. The two became close friends and spent much time together in a group with four other residents that remain close friends.

Over time, Lauralee and Michael became a couple, started careers with the Ontario Government and McMaster University respectively, and eventually became engaged.

To celebrate their marriage, the couple settled on the Knox Chapel as the location because of its beauty and sentimental value. They were married on December 18, 2010 in a service performed by the University’s Ecumenical Chaplain The Rev. Ralph Wushke.

lauralee Bielert and michael KiangPhoto credit Studio 2000

knoxfra wedding:

a match made at Knox

Knox offers short-term and long-term accommodations in the heart of the city�

Single rooms (double rooms upon request) are available with shared

washrooms from May to August�

For more information, contact us: (416) 978-0168

[email protected]

or visit our website: www.knox.utoronto.ca

Visiting Toronto this summer and need a place to stay?


KNoX NeWs

a s The Centre for Clergy Care and Congregational Health moves into its sixth

year, it will mark its first year as an independent charity.

Since 2006, The Centre, through the support of Knox and Emmanuel Colleges, has been a source of support, information and resources for clergy and other ministry professionals. With

the continued success of its workshops and research, The Centre found that its programs needed to be more ecumenically sensitive and wider reaching. In order to ensure its future growth, the Centre and its Board realized that it would need to be independent. The process of incorporation was completed in the fall of 2010 and it received its charitable status in June 2011. Despite the Center’s independent status, its office remains at Knox College.

To celebrate the milestone, the Centre hosted a relaunch party on November 7, 2011 and announced the expansion of its programming. Not only will the popular workshops Taking Care, Starting Well and Making the Most of Retirement be made available across denominations, but plans are in the works to host

courses across the country. The Centre’s programs were offered in Ontario and British Columbia, but will now be also held in Maritime and Prairie locations in 2013. It will also be expanding next year by adding a program focused on small/rural ministry featuring Todd McDonald.

There has been one more significant change at the Centre this year—the departure of Anne Miller. Anne has left her role to become Children, Youth and Family Minister at Dundas Street United Church in Woodstock, ON. The Centre and the College thank Anne for all of her hard work over the past six years and wish her well in her new position. They also offer a warm welcome to Rick Garland, the Centre’s new Administrator.

o ver the past twenty years, Canadians have dramatically changed the way they make donations. Gone are the days of major direct mail campaigns

with $5 and $10 gifts to multiple charities. Today’s donors want information, impact and choice.

This has been a good change for not-for-profit organizations, and has created an environment where charities can rely more heavily on a committed organizational donor base making larger annual and legacy gifts.

Every year, more and more Canadians are choosing to leave a planned gift, in their will, to a charity of their choice. In 2004, 22.4 million Canadians, approximately 84% of the population made a financial donation of some sort, however only 4% left behind a gift in their will. Today, 7% of Canadians support charitable organizations by leaving a planned gift in their will (Statistics Canada).

This is a trend that we recognize as critical for the

future of theological education at Knox — and a trend that will provide our donors with impact and choice.

Legacy gifts, also known as bequests, enable donors to make significant donations that may not have been possible during the donor’s lifetime. These gifts are part of a donor’s estate plan and, given the many options that exist today, should be prayerfully considered with one’s financial advisor.

These donations can be designated to Faculty Chairs, building funds, bursaries, scholarships, Knox Centres of Excellence or left undesignated for use in areas of greatest need that would be identified by the College at the time of the gift’s receipt.

The impact of these type of gifts can be transformational not only to the College, but to our church and our world.

Should you be interested in learning more both about the College’s areas of need and making a planned gift, contact Lisa Watson at 416-978-0139.

Centre receives charitable status

a rich tradition….a lasting legacy

the Centre forClergy Care &CongregationalHealth


KNoX NeWs

i n the fall, the Centre for Continuing Education at Knox College offered two of its memorial lectureships,

The Ada Adams and The Charles H. MacDonald, as a full day workshop.

Each lectureship focuses on a specific area of ministry with The Ada Adams on ministry with children and youth and The Charles H. MacDonald relating to some aspect of practical ministry in church or society. Although they are two distinct lectureships, Knox presented them together to tackle a very important issue facing the church today — exploring how to move from survival to revival as presbyteries and congregations.

As many congregations struggle to survive as members age, numbers dwindle and with fewer members of younger generations in attendance, the workshop was designed to address these issues and allowed leaders to discuss strategies and tactics for rejuvenation.

From Survival to Revival: Building Healthy Communities of Faith featured

a presentation in the morning from Dr. John Bowen, Professor of Evangelism at Wycliffe College, who spoke of his research on why young people stay in the church, leave the church and return later in life.

The afternoon gave participants a chance to listen to the real stories of three congregations from within

The Presbyterian Church in Canada that illustrated the projects that they undertook to engage community members and overcome challenges.

Representatives from Knox, Waterloo shared their story of renewal that

included the construction of a brand new building, weekday Christian education programs, and children’s programs. At St. Andrew’s, Picton, The Rev. Lynne Donovan found that focusing on the needs of the wider community brought about growth. They established a Ten Thousand Villages store, renovated the sanctuary to allow for wider community use and invited musicians from the community to participate in their worship. For Living Faith, Baxter, the amalgamation of three churches and construction of one building was the solution to effective ministry.

The Centre will continue to focus on strategies to build healthy communities of faith at the 2012 Charles H. MacDonald Memorial Lecture, to be held on Saturday, November 10.

The Rev. heather malnick (left) and Dr. John Bowen were among the presenters at

this year’s Ada Adams and Charles H� MacDonald Memorial Lectures that explored

ways in which congregations can build healthy communities of faith�

As many congregations struggle to survive as members

age, numbers dwindle and with fewer members of

younger generations in attendance, the workshop was

designed to address these issues and allowed leaders to

discuss strategies and tactics for rejuvenation.

continuing education:

Building healthy communities of faith


messaGe FRom The CoNveNeR oF The BoaRD

i t’s a privilege to contribute to both the College and the broader Presbyterian Church as Convener

of the Board of Governors at Knox College. Without doubt, this is an engaging and exciting time for both the Board and the College.

Knox is an outstanding school in North America’s theological landscape. Its Faculty, staff, students and alumni are proud of the College’s past and look forward to a bright future. Although the College is well known for its architecture and beauty, it is much more than just an inspiring building. The College is shaped by its mission and values. Its people are defined by their character, integrity and religious vision, as well as their study and the work that they do for our world.

The Board remains committed to planning for the future and as such, is working to ensure that the rich and proud heritage of the seminary and the residence continue for another 170 plus years. To this end, the Board is focused on the preservation and upgrading of the College’s historic building. For almost 100 years, our present site has provided students and residents with a reflective space in which to learn and contemplate in what capacity God is calling them to serve the world. There is great history within the walls of the

College, a sanctity that is steeped in Reformed theology and academic thought. There is also a lighthearted collegial history — a place where multi-cultural and multi-faith worlds come together.

As we look forward to the 170th anniversary of the college in 2014 and the building’s centenary in 2015, we remind ourselves of the years of education, service and life lessons that have taken place within these walls. Great church leaders, great civic leaders — they are the lasting heritage of Knox College — people who have come together in celebration of their Christian faith and taken what they have learned and seen and experienced during their time on campus to the broader world.

It’s a great history, but more importantly for me, a great legacy to give to the future. It’s definitely my privilege to work for the church in this capacity and I’m excited to be a part of the next 100 years of Knox College.

Respectfully, Peter Fullerton, FCA

Board remains committed to planning for the future, ensuring heritage continues

Peter Fullerton, FCaConvener of the Board, Knox College

“For almost 100 years, our present site has provided students and residents with a reflective space in which to learn and contemplate in what capacity God is calling them to serve the world�”


KNoX alumNi NeWs

F ellowship events continue to be the focus of the Knox Ewart Graduate Association (kega) as

it works to foster relationships with alumni and current Knox students.

kega members again welcomed new and returning students to the College with their semi-annual community worship service and dinner. Students had the opportunity to interact with Knox Graduates and to learn about the importance of kega in their lives after they leave the College.

2011 saw the Executive bid farewell to long-time member Bob Geddes as he stepped down from the committee. kega thanks him for his many contributions to the Association over the years, especially at last year’s successful book sale, and wishes him well in all future endeavors.

With many graduates accepting positions in ministry at great distances from the College, Executive members are brainstorming ways in which to better engage members across the

country. Committee members from the west and east coasts are currently being sought and satellite events are being researched so that alumni can come together wherever they may be.

For those attending this year’s General Assembly, kega invites you to join them for the annual gathering on Tuesday night after the sederunt.

We look forward to another year of alumni activities — we hope to see you there!

KeGa update

KNoXFRa update

T he Knox Former Residents Association (knoxfra) has undergone some changes over

the last year.In early 2011, the finishing touches

were put on the revised procedural guidelines (formerly bylaws) that govern the Association. They were then approved by the College and adopted at this year’s agm.

knoxfra hosted its third annual Knox Night at the Movies. Together, the past and present faces of the residence enjoyed a wonderful barbecue before the weather forced those gathered inside to watch Tron: Legacy. The candy bar provided by the Association ensured that the rain didn’t dampen any spirits and made movie watching more enjoyable.

The 17th Annual knoxfra Dinner and agm was held on November 12th. Those assembled were treated to a rare evening inside the College’s Caven Library, a place in which many of them didn’t get a chance to spend much time during their years at Knox. Attendees listened to a presentation given by

former resident Gordon Mawdsley on his work at Sunnybrook Research Institute where new and novel imaging techniques for breast cancer detection and diagnosis are being developed.

In addition to the adoption of the new procedural guidelines, the agm marked the end of Sandy Macpherson’s tenure as knoxfra President. The role will now be filled by Andy Wood-Gaines,

a long-time Executive member. The College and Executive thanked Sandy for his years of dedication and leadership to knoxfra and presented him with a Knox College tie.

This year, the Executive will continue to work on expanding its membership to reach out to a greater number of knoxfra and hope to plan new events both inside and outside of the College walls.

Gordon mawdsley andy Wood-Gaines


KNoX sTuDeNT NeWs

K nox thrives on people power. This one-of-a-kind microcosm we form stays healthy because of the many people who energetically organize the finances,

policy, and logistics.The unique nature of the Knox residence is something to

be cherished, and its relatively small size compared to other colleges means we can’t always rely on “someone else to do it.”

Keep the connections alive. That’s one of the easiest things you can do. Make your friendships from Knox be permanent ones, not temporary.

At this year’s knoxfra Dinner, it was great to see the vibrant camaraderie between former residents who are well into their careers or retirement, plus an exciting and intriguing new crop of 20- and 30-something former residents.

The “Knox Yell”, a bombastic mantra which I experienced for the first time, is inspiring and makes one realize we need more of this. Our traditions form some of the fondest memories. To go further, the “Boar’s Head Carol” has recently had its music arranged and updated specifically for Knox — and that’s just a start.

To the current residents, I ask, who among you will be with us, keeping those friendships alive, being part of this vibrant culture now and in the future?

To the knoxfra members, I ask, how can you encourage our lasting community to develop and flourish? You are fascinating people. We are interested in your lives and your stories. As well, I think the current residents benefit from your presence, as well as your support. By helping with part of the orientation activities this year, you created opportunities

for new residents to meet and engage — something grand.The kca has been active in continuing this — with

multiple Halloween parties, music concert outings, a formal Christmas dinner and reception, and what may have been the most popular carolling music night in 10 years. As well, both the kca and the College Administration have been working to encourage an enhanced spirit of collaboration. I applaud the College Administration for forming a

“Residence Council”— a forum where issues are discussed between kca members and Administration for the long-term mutual benefit of the residents and College.

In our time at Knox, we’ve met some of the best, goofiest, happiest, most inspiring minds and personalities — you know who you are. It’s great that we’ve met you. Keep in touch.

— Ryan Janzen, President

KCa update

members of the 2011–12 Knox College association executive marina mikhail, Nikolaos anesiadis, emily Brander, Ryan Janzen and michael arsenault

m&T update

T his is becoming a year of practical theology for the students at Knox! It is a year

in which we have been, and continue to be, challenged to consider what it means to be an inclusive community. It is a year where you can hear English students greet Korean students in their native language; at once recognizing in all students the desire for greater closeness and appreciating the sensitivity that is required to get to know each other. It is a year where we have taken

pains, together with the Faculty and staff, to create a worship experience that is accessible and inclusive while incorporating multiple locations. And it is a year in which we have questioned what it means to be community when our student body includes persons who are studying on-line, part-time, and commuting from great distances.

All these discussions mirror the challenges that we will be facing as we enter into ordained ministry. How do we become a Church that

reflects the multi-cultural landscape of Canada? How do we make our Churches accessible? How do we minister to congregational communities who are bombarded with multiple priorities? These are questions that have no easy answers; however be assured that at Knox we are prayerfully engaged in the theological struggle and the M&T are working together with the College to build a more supportive and inclusive community experience.

—Patrick Gushue, President


FaCulTy NeWs

In February 2009, C o n n e X i o n s began a series to help the broader Knox College c o m m u n i t y better know our Faculty. In this issue, The

Rev. Dr. Charles Fensham, Associate Professor of Systematic Theology, agreed to answer a few of our questions.

Q: When did you feel your call to ministry? When did you realize you wanted to teach instead?I describe the story of my experience of a call to ministry in my book on missional spirituality which is appearing this Spring. It occurred at the end of the second year of Architectural Studies (my second love!) after reading the text from the Book of Hebrews,

“Today if you hear my voice do not harden your hearts!” (Heb. 3:7-8) I have never seen the call to teach as in any way a contradiction to the call to ministry. For me to teach is ministry. In our Presbyterian tradition the ministry of teaching the Word is one of the two primary parts that we recognise as call. Teaching theology is about reading the Bible in and for the present time. That is what I endeavour to do in my teaching at Knox College.

Q: During your own academic studies, what class had the biggest impact?Strangely enough, it was a course I took with my own dad as professor! In that course, in my first year of study, he spoke with great excitement about the wonder of God’s call to Abram and the mystery of Abram’s response to this call.

It was his enthusiasm that inspired me to understand how important it is for Christians to read and understand the stories of the Bible in relation to our own stories.

Q: Why is systematic theology important to students in their preparation for ministry?I have to confess that I have a fundamental problem with the idea of “systematic theology”! This name is a 19th century invention which divided theological disciplines into camps that became impenetrable silos in some cases. For me, the work I do is to explore the great themes of the teaching of the Bible and how we understand this in the church. The church has always called this dogma or teaching. To understand these great themes, and the great and wonderful story of God’s loving creation and purpose, is of fundamental importance for every person in the Christian faith. It is this which helps us understand who we are and where we are going and how to live in the present. How can we preach and minister, if we have not thought deeply about the purpose of all things? How can we minister in word, sacrament and deed, if we can not connect these actions with God’s purpose for creation and humankind?

Q: Knowing that we are all characters in a larger story known as the history of Knox College, what legacy do you hope to leave behind?I read somewhere that the Dalai Lama was very offended when an American Journalist asked him about his legacy. Legacy is an expression of human hubris and part of an individualist culture’s need to rate individual performance

rather than communal grace. If we were to take this question to explore what impact I hope my presence might have at Knox College, I would answer that I hope that those who knew me would say “he is/was a mensch.”

Q: you’ve spent 10 years teaching here at Knox College. What makes the school, the education and the people unique?I could probably spend hours on this question! For me the greatest gift of the College is in my colleagues. We have a unique and diverse faculty, however, we also have a faculty committed deeply to a call to minister to students as people on a journey. Knox College has been a leader in North America in its development of the idea of formation within Protestant education. For a long time Protestant seminaries focused only on knowledge as content, presently, we are all growing in an understanding of how theological education, in a seminary context like ours, is fundamentally about facilitating people’s growth in insight and gifts. Content is very important, but wisdom, which is a Divine gift, is just as critical as people respond to God’s call love God’s creation and God’s people.

Q: What are you currently researching? how will this help the College and the Church move into the future?I have a new book appearing this Spring with the title “A Missional Spirituality for an Emerging Church.” I am thankful to Rob Clements at Clements publishing for taking on this project!

Cont’d on page 14.

getting to know knox faculty: The Rev. Dr. Charles Fensham


eWaRT CeNTRe FoR lay eDuCaTioN Anniversary Celebration

The Ewart Centre for Lay Education at Knox College

10th

You are cordially invited to a Celebration of the 10th Anniversary

Of the Ewart Centrefor Lay Education at Knox college

Saturday May 5, 2012

Celebration commences at 3:00 p.m.With a Panel Discussion

“Challenges to Christian Laity: In an Ever Changing Church and World”

Followed by a

Reception, Banquet& EntertainmentRSVP by April 12, 2012

by email to knox.ewart@utoronto

cost$50.00For payment online through the secure online site

www.knox.utoronto.caOr by cheque to Knox College

Attention Susan Sheridan For more information

Contact: Susan Sheridan 416-946-8536

Knox College59 St. George St.

Toronto, OnM5S 2E6

Anniversary Celebration

The Ewart Centre for Lay Education at Knox College

10th

낙스 칼리지 이와트 센터평신도교육

10주년 기념 행사

평신도 지도력 축하와 영예의 잔치에여러분을 초대합니다.

KNOX COLLEGE

행사장소Knox College59 St. George St.Toronto, ON M5S 2E6

2012년 5월 5일, 토요일 오후3:00 패널토의

*주제: 변화하는 교회와 세상에서 기독 평신도가 맞는 도전*

오후5:15 리셉션(장소: Rotunda)

오후6:00 만찬 (장소: Knox College Dining Hall)

오후7:00 축하연주

참가신청2012년 4월 12일 까지전화:647.680.4347 한경국 목사[email protected](Ticket $50/person)


eWaRT CeNTRe FoR lay eDuCaTioN

T en years. It is hard to believe that the Lay Education at Knox College is 10 years old.

These 10 years have added a great deal to the lives of laity — both those that attended courses at Knox and those that studied online.

I have taken all of my courses at Knox College and completed both certificate programs. For the last few years, the focus has been on spirituality and the various facets related to it. For example, there were courses on Spirituality and Violence as well as Spirituality and Politics. Neither of these courses is for the certificate program but strictly for interest sake and interesting they sure are!

The lay education courses have allowed me to have a much better understanding of the many aspects that make up Christian life. I have been able to travel a great deal in my role as the Coordinator of Leading with Care. With the background of the many subjects covered in these courses, I have

gained a much better understanding of the pluses and minuses that are occurring in our congregations from coast to coast and thus I can share some of the knowledge that I have learned from Knox. The topics that were covered give me a daily insight into the lives of people that I visit and work with in seminars, worship services and daily life.

As I have travelled and also worked within The Presbyterian Church in Canada and my home congregation, I have realized the importance of leadership in our congregation’s lives. The laity courses have allowed me to expand my leadership abilities and to pass this on to the people around me.

The laity course participants have followed many paths. Some have gone into full time ministry of word and sacrament with the church. Others are continuing their studies at either a degree or an interest level, and still many use their courses within their home congregations. Each of us has gained a

great deal from our time returning as students to the Knox Laity Program.

I would remiss if I did not also mention the social aspect of the courses — especially for those of us who attended at Knox proper. My cohort gathers together for lunch a couple of times each year to reminisce and catch up on our lives and church experiences.

Finally, I would like, on behalf of all participants, to thank Co-ordinator Susan Sheridan, and all of those that have taught, listened and answered our many questions. It has been a true learning experience for us and allowed us to deepen our Christian faith.

—Dave Phillips

Ten years of learning Christian faith and life

Cont’d from page 12.

This book is written for the church as a whole to help us think through who we are as Christians as we face the 21st century and how to walk the way of Jesus Christ. I have also been working on two other projects. One is a book of prayers and liturgies that reflects our Reformed tradition in ecumenical conversation with the

church as a whole. This project is born out of my pastoral ministry at Central Presbyterian Church where I serve as honorary assistant to Dr. Clyde Ervine, and where I often get the opportunity to pray. One of my concerns for the future of the church is to recover the positive traditions of the pietist movement that has fundamentally shaped our spiritual practices. The old medieval saying work and pray, could not be

more relevant today! For Presbyterian Christians prayer is work and work is prayer…. The other project concerns the doctrine of original sin and ecology. In this project I am seeking to recover a Biblical and Reformed perspective on our present challenge of ecological destruction. My hope is that we as Canadian Presbyterians might begin to take seriously God’s original call to care for the earth.

getting to know knox faculty:

The Rev. Dr. Charles Fensham


asiaN CeNTRe uPDaTe

Knox College, through its partnership with YuShan Theological College, offers its students a summer exchange to Taiwan to work with the country’s indigenous congregations. Christian Persaud is Knox’s first student to partake in this program.

i feel extremely blessed that Knox College provided me the opportunity to visit Taiwan. The

three months spent there left me with countless indelible memories. Although somewhat anxious before leaving, I knew everything was in God’s hands. I looked forward to working with Taiwan’s indigenous peoples although I had no experience working with our own First Nations people. As a result, I was eager to learn as much as I could.

I stayed at YuShan Theological College and Seminary for the first month, amid beautiful landscape. Outside, one could see lush mountains, blue skies, and a calm lake. It was easy to see God’s handiwork in nature and also in the people. Although few students spoke English, and I only knew how to say “Hello” in Mandarin, we tried our best to communicate. The students were friendly and accommodating, often inviting me to eat or to play with them. I attended a few classes and was given brief summaries by those who had a good grasp of English. I was also able to go to some English classes led by Murray Garvin, a Knox Alumnus who recently died having spent many years in Taiwan.

My stay coincided with the school’s 65th anniversary, and amazingly, people from all across the island gathered to take part in the worship and activities organized by the Seminary. It was

wonderful to see the impact YuShan has made in a relatively short period. Amongst trying new foods, learning how to use chopsticks, making new friends, and trying to pick up another language, four weeks went by and it was time to move on.

For the next two months at three different churches living in indigenous villages, I was able to learn about different tribal cultures and customs, while constantly being asked to sing (an unexpected way to get over being shy). I saw how pastors responded to the challenges of being minorities both in terms of ethnicity and spirituality. While I got intimations about how policies at the Government level have not been favourable toward the native peoples, I was able to see how positively people have turned to Christianity through the

work of the Presbyterian Church. In many villages, the Presbyterian Church was a place not only for believers to gather for worship but also centres for the entire community to learn about healthy living, cultural heritage, and sometimes English. Some areas of Taiwan are seeing such rapid growth in Christianity that there are not enough pastors to meet the needs of the growing number of believers.

I am grateful for this opportunity as it was truly a blessing to see how Presbyterians in Taiwan respond to the gospel. Thank you for your prayers while I was away, and please remember Christians in Taiwan and around the world in their various circumstances and challenges of which we in Canada are too often unaware.

— Christian Persaud

Christian Persaud gathers with students during his exchange in Taiwan

our exchange student in taiwan:

Christian Persaud


asiaN CeNTRe uPDaTe

W hen I enter our Knox building, many memories fill this place. I vividly remember the frustration I had in the classrooms. The difficulties related

to learning in a second language have been undeniably huge. Many times I did not know why students were laughing together. Often, I did not understand clearly what the professors and students wanted to assert, even though they obviously emphasized the point of their arguments. Sometimes in the middle of the class, I was painfully worried about some sickness which my family far away was suffering. Repeatedly I was not sure how long I could stay in Canada with my limited financial resources.

The memories of my struggles with those hard moments are embedded in Knox. Without the bountiful joy and encouragement that this great theological community has given me, I would not have been able to face them day by day. Even with my incomplete ability to understand English, in grace there were moments that changed me forever. I remember a student asking this question in class: “when I work as a worship leader or preacher in worship and feel driven by my responsibility in that moment, how can I still be a true worshipper?” Whenever I preach or take a role in worship, I ask myself that very question. With deep gratitude, I remember what The Rev. Dr. Arthur Van Seters, who passed away in May of 2011, told me. “I always need students for my continuous learning and inspiration.” I am deeply grateful

that Knox has welcomed and needed me so that I might see, hear and touch what God has called me to learn with all my heart, soul and mind.

—By Joon Ki Kim, PhD (Knox student 2004–2011)

unforgettable moments at Knox

Joon Ki Kim surrounded by family after receiving his doctorate�

T he Korean Bible Academy offered two courses in the fall of 2011. Pentateuch, led by Dr. Marion Taylor, gave students the opportunity to learn the key stories and laws in the Pentateuch

and deepened their understanding of God’s purposes for their lives and all of creation.

The second course, Reformed Theology and Spirituality led by Dr. Chun Hoi Heo, gave students insight into spirituality based on the Reformed tradition and compared features of Reformed Spirituality with both Catholic and Jewish spirituality.

Korean Bible academy Courses


PRiNCiPal’s messaGe — KoReaN TRaNslaTioN

학장님 말씀

토론토의 올 겨울은 참 이상합니다. 하루는 눈이 오는가 하면 다음 날은 비가 오고 또 하루에 비, 눈, 진눈깨비가 한꺼번에 오기도 합니다. 24기의 모든 것을 한꺼번에 경험하는 것 같습니다. 기온도 요요 현상처럼 계절에 맞지 않게 덥기도 하고 계절에 맞지않게 춥기도하며, 하루 안에서 오르고 내리는 것을 경험합니다.

오늘날 북미의 신학교육도 올 겨울 날씨와 아주 흡사합니다. 신학교육도 한 학기와 주어진 시간 안에서도 아주 예견이 불가능하고 기쁨과 도전이 함께 하는 변화가 많은 때에 있습니다. 개신교, 천주교, 또는 범교단이든 모든 신학교육기관들이 똑깥이 우리의 일과 자원들을 정규적으로 평가하는 것이 전례없이 아주 중요다고 말합니다.

북미주의 신학교육협회는 신학교육의 탁월성을 위해 지난 11월 낙스칼리지를 평가했습니다. 교수, 자원, 행정, 도서, 학생들을위한 봉사의 영역에 걸친 심도있는 심사에서 앞으로 10년간의 우리교육과 학위에 관한 인가를 새롭게 허가한 것입니다. 그들의 평가서에 있는 긍정적인 평가의 대표적인 것들은 다음과 같습니다. 우리의 열심, 교수들의 공동체 의식과 동료의식, 우리 학생들과 프로그램에 나타난 다양성의 환영등 입니다.

지난 봄과 여름에 우리는 우리의 건물을 진단 분석하기 위해 한 회사를 고용했습니다. 그 결과로 곧 100년이 되어가는 건물이 든든하다는 것을 알게된 것은 기쁜일이었습니다. 그러나 그 나이로 미루어 볼때 오늘의 기준으로 끌어올리려면 앞으로 15년간 우리는 많은 투자를 건물에 해야합니다. 그래서 이사회는 저와 함께 이 건물을 새롭게 할 계획을 하고 있습니다. 토론토의 올 겨울 기후와 같이 이 건물도 우리의 예보에 맑음과 비의 징조가 있음을 보게됩니다.

확실한 좋은 징조는 날로 번영하는 학습환경 가운데 우리가 위치해 있는 것입니다. TST의 에큐메니칼의 풍부함은 북미에서 가장 뛰어난 교육의 장으로 인정되어 있습니다. 우리가 다문화와 다종교의 학생들과 프로그램이 있는 토론토 대학교의 한 중심에 있다는 것은 얼마나 감사한 일인지 모흡니다.

그러므로 불확실성의 시간 속에서도 커다란 기쁨이 있습니다. 다음 페이지에서 찰스 펜샴 교수님은 그의 10년간의 낙스 생활은 학생들에게 지식의 내용과 기술을 전달하는 것 만이 아니고, 그들을 목회자의 자질을 갖도록 돕고 지혜가 성장하도록 돕는데 전력을 다했다고 말합니다. 매일 일어나는 학습은 하나님과, 나 자신, 그리고 이웃에 대한 새로운 이해가 일어나는 “아하”의 순간들의 잔치였습니다. 이번 졸업식에서 우리는 하나님께서 부르시고 준비하신 목회의 현장으로 나가는 많은 졸업생들을 배출하게 될 것입니다.

그리고 또 다음 페이지에서는 올해의 명예박사 학위를 받는 니코자나 실라스 목사님에 대한 광고를 보게될 것입니다. 말라위와 또 세계 다른 지역에서의 그의 사역은 낙스가 하도록 찾고있는 사역에 대해 깊이있게 말하고 있습니다. 그는 교단안에서 만이 아니라 사회안에서의 헌신적인 지도력으로 부름받은 지도력을 대표한다고 할 수 있습니다.

저는 지난호의 코넥션에서 만약 낙스칼리지가 존재하지 않으면 캐나다장로교회에 어떤 차이를 가져올까하는 질문을 했었습니다. 저는 이번호를 읽으면서 낙스에 있는 우리 모두에게 동기를 부여하는 같은 결론에 이르리라고 생각합니다. 저희들을 여러분들의 기도와 너그러운 나눔에서 기억해 주시기 바랍니다

그리스도의 우정 안에서

도르가 고단 학장


【院長的話】多倫多今年的冬天，確與往年不一樣；有時一整天下雪、有時卻整天下雨，或在一天之內，雨雪紛飛；氣溫活像搖搖一樣，時溫暖，時嚴寒，而這麼大的溫差，往往在一天內出現。若説到北美洲的神學教育，也與這些反常天氣有類似之處，便是同樣難以捉摸。在每個工作天或每個學期，喜樂和挑戰夾雜其中。我們這些神學工作者，毋論來自主流宗派、天主教及其它宗派，均承認我們正處於前所未有的處境，以致我們必須恆常審視我們的工作及資源。美國及加拿大神學院協會是負責評核成員學院教學水平的機構。去年十一月，協會代表，就本院的課程、教授團、教學資源、管理能力、圖書館及學生服務等多個範疇，進行深入考察；協會肯定本學院符合所有規格，獲續牌十年。在他們的評審報告中，有多項正面評價；而其中藉得鼓舞的，是評審團讚許我們對神學教育的委身、教授團的學術水平和協作能力、及課程和學生群體的多元性。在剛過去的春夏之際，我們委聘了一所建築師事務所，評估我們這所有近一百年歷史的建築物；勘察結果是這所建築物仍然完好。但要維持這狀況，未來十五年便要投放更多資源，進行保育維修。校董會跟我正擬定計劃，執行是項工程。像多倫多今年的冬天一樣，我們預計這系列維修工程，會面對像晴天、雨天等不明朗的境況。但有一點要肯定的，是我們這所神學院正處於學術氣氛濃郁的環境中。我們隸屬於多倫多神學院聯盟，成員學院來自𣎴同神學傳統，是神學生和神學工作者理想的硏究園地。而諾克斯神學院正正處於多倫多大學的中心地帶，這𥚃有來自不同文化、不同信仰的學生群體和課程，為此我們獻上感恩。在面對前景不明朗之境況下，我們仍大有喜樂；在本期通訊中，范爾森教授(Prof. Charles Fensham) ，分享他在過去十年教學中，不單解惑授業，還在靈性智慧上，扶助學生成長。這傳授過程，像每天靈光一閃的創新意念般，令我們對神、對自己、對鄰舎增加嶄新的了解。而正正是這批蒙召命的學生，在要來的年度畢業，投身工場。此外，在本期通訊中，我們公佈本年度道學博士的得主，便是尼高桑拿牧師（Rev. Dr. Silas Ncozana）。尼高桑拿牧師在非洲西南邊的馬拉維共和國牧會，他並且在全球各地，鏗鏘有力地把諾克斯神學院所宣揚的，傳揚開去；在教會內、社會上擔負領導的重責。在早前的通訊中，我曾發出以下的問題：若諾克斯神學院不復存在，對加拿大長老會聯會，有啥影響？我深信當大家閱畢這通訉後，會跟我們有同感：便是充滿熱誠，再接再勵，鼓勁直前。請繼續在禱告中記念我們，並且慷慨支持我們。主內歌頓多加上《鄞雲傑譯》

PRiNCiPal’s messaGe — ChiNese TRaNslaTioN


alumNi NeWs & NoTes

Principal’s Reunion year Dinner Tuesday, May 85:30 p.m.By InvitationA dinner to honour the 1972 Grads

Pre-Convocation Workshop Wednesday, May 99:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.All welcome, registration is required

“The Hidden World of Ministry” with The Rev. Dr. Malcolm WarfordContact Marie Ainey at [email protected] or 416-978-2787 for more information.

168th Convocation Wednesday, May 97:30 p.m.All welcome

The Knox community celebrates the graduation of its Knox and Lay Education Graduates and honours The Rev. Dr. Silas Ncozana with the degree, Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa).

Convocation Address by The Rev. Dr. Malcolm Warford:

“Being in Ministry”Reception following at the College.

kega Reunion year luncheon Wednesday, May 912:30 p.m.By Invitation

As a guest of the Knox/Ewart Graduate Association, a luncheon for all those celebrating special reunions (1952 and prior, 1962, 1972, 1987 & 2002) and to honour the 2012 Knox Graduates.

kega annual GatheringTuesday, June 5To be held at General Assembly.

Calendar of events

We would like to invite you to join us with open eyes and minds to learn about the experience of new immigrants and share ways to help new Canadians feel at home.

KEYNOTE ADDRESS

UNDERSTANDING NEW CANADIANS

IN CANADA

Dr. Samuel NohDavid Crombie Professor of Cultural Pluralism and Health

University of Toronto

For more information or to register, call 416.978.0371 or email k n o x a s i a n . c e n t r e @ u t o ro n t o . c a

www.knox.utoronto.ca/crossing-cultures

CROSSING CULTURES TOGETHER VIII

OPENING OUR MINDS & OUR DOORS:UNDERSTANDING THE EXPERIENCE OF NEW

IMMIGRANTS AND RESPONDING IN FAITH

Saturday, May 26, 2012 - 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM

THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN CANADA JUSTICE MINISTRIES

THE CENTRE FOR ASIAN-CANADIAN THEOLOGY & MINISTRY AT KNOX COLLEGE

KNOX COllege

Return Address:Knox College59 St. George StreetToronto, ON M5S 2E6

Publ. Agreement #40010853

Publications Mail Poste-publications

SHARE YOUR NEWS!Your former classmates and roommates want to know what’s new with you! We welcome news of grads, friends and former residents. Please take a moment to complete and submit the form below.

Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________________Graduation Year: _____________ Email Address: ________________________________________________________________Street Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________Phone Number: ___________________________________________________________________________________________News & Notes: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Please return this form to:

KNOX COLLEGEDevelopment Office59 St. George StreetToronto, ON M5S 2E6Email: [email protected]

Documents

ConneXions - Spring 2012