Preparing Christian Leaders
Installation Service
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n Friday evening, November 3, 2006, the Acadia Divinity College community and friends gathered in the Manning Memorial Chapel for the induction of three new faculty to their respective positions. In each case there was a favorite passage of scripture read, a charge from the President, Dr. Lee McDonald, a response from the incoming person, a commitment of support from faculty, an installation prayer and a brief statement from the newly installed person. Dr. Christopher Killacky was installed as Academic Dean and Associate Professor of Theology. He responded by discussing the unique role of the Dean in standing between the administration and the faculty. Dr. Lionel Moriah was installed as Associate Professor in the John Gladstone Chair of Preaching and Worship and Director of Supervised Field Education. He thanked the College for the opportunity to be involved in theological education for the
By Robert Wilson
next generation of leaders. He closed by being the initial occupant of this significant reflecting on the importance of preaching new Chair in Theology. All of the faculty participated in the serand the significant role Dr. Gladstone had vice and it served as a time of recommitment played in the Canadian church scene. Dr. William Brackney was installed in to the calling to theological education by the the new Millard R. Cherry Chair of whole community. Christian Theology and Ethics. Dr. Brackney’s address reminded the audience of the history of Academic and Theological Chairs in North America and the important role Baptists played in their development. His remarks highlighted the significant role of Dr. Cherry as first Principal of ADC and long time Professor of Theology. Bill shared his From left to right: Christopher Killacky, Academic Dean and Associate Professor of Theology; Dr. William Brackney, Millard R. joy in returning to ministry Cherry Chair of Christian Theology and Ethics; Dr. Lionel Moriah, in theological education in Associate Professor in the John Gladstone Chair of Preaching and Worship as well as the Director of Supervised Field Education. Canada and the privilege of
11.06 2, No. 02 0 Vol.
Installation Service . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 From the President . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Cornerstone Write Up . . . . . . . . . 3 Continuing Education . . . . . . . . . 3 Faculty Book Picks . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Faculty Whereabouts. . . . . . . . . . . 4
Guardians of Hope . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Benjamin Osei. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Alumni News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Tracy’s Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Attitude of Gratitude . . . . . . . . . . 7 Events of Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
ADC Student Association . . . . . . . 8 J-Term & Spring 2007 Courses . . 9 Doctor of Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Student News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Rev. Freeman Fenerty . . . . . . . . . 10 Praxis: Lebanon . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
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Dear Friends of Acadia Divinity College: As Christmas approaches we are experiencing yet another exciting year at ADC and with a terrific incoming class! Our overall enrollment is high and may surpass last year’s record enrollment by the end of this academic year. While the increasing enrollment suggests that the future of pastoral leadership for our region of churches coming from the College is very good, the downside to this is that we have fewer resources to share with students in terms of bursaries. We have to slice the pie thinner and that contributes to student debt. We are encouraged, however, by the recent meetings of our regional ministers and some active lay leaders in our churches who are seeking ways to address this concern. Please pray for them that we will be able to find solutions to this growing problem. We hope that this year we will be able to announce some creative ways to address the financial needs of our students. We continue to seek additional bursary funds for students and we are grateful that Dr. David Watt has been able to interest several new donors in recent months to contribute to these funds. We saw a good number of prospective students at our November Day for Discovery event at the College, and anticipate the same when it is repeated March 1-2. These events have been very productive in terms of attracting students to ADC. More importantly, our graduates are continuing to find significant opportunities
ADC Today is published twice a year by the Development Office, Acadia Divinity College. It is distributed free of charge to friends of Acadia Divinity College. Editor: Trisha Urquhart Email: trisha.urquhart@acadiau.ca
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of service in our churches and in churches of other conventions. Placement is generally quite good and we are pleased. Placing our women graduates has been a challenge, but there are several good news stories that we can share about this. On November 3, we installed the Rev. Dr. William Brackney, former Principal of McMaster Divinity College and Professor of Historical Theology, as the first occupant of the Millard R. Cherry Distinguished Professor of Christian Theology and Ethics. Dr. Brackney comes to us with excellent experience in theological education, both as professor and administrator, but also he has served as a pastor. He has published some twenty-six books and began his tenure among us July 1 of this year. We also installed the Rev. Dr. Lionel Moriah, who began with us last year, as the John Gladstone Associate Professor of Preaching and Worship and Practical Theology and Director of Supervised Field Education and Dean of the Chapel. At the same time, we also installed Dr. Christopher Killacky as our Academic Dean and Associate Professor of Theology at Acadia Divinity College. The Acadia Studies in Bible and Theology series of volumes continues to grow and we now have four of the projected five volumes in the series published. It is quite likely that Baker Academic Publishers will continue publishing our Hayward Lectures in this series. It has been a successful venture for them and they are pleased. Dr. Craig Evans
Writing: John Campbell, Stewert Dockendorff, Brian Keezer, Andrew MacRae, Lee McDonald, Claire Peverill, David Watt Design, Publishing & Distribution: PinPointCreative.com; Mark MacDonald
and Dr. McDonald are the editors of this series of books. Thus far we have had very good responses to these short volumes. We have been able to welcome scholars of international acclaim to share in these lectures and also to promote both our own faculty and some of the professors at Atlantic Baptist University. This fall we were delighted to welcome the internationally known scholar and churchman Bishop N. T. Wright as our guest lecturer. This fall we began offering a one-year (30 unit) fully accredited diploma in theological education program focusing on Bible and Theology and practical ministry. This program functions at both the B.Th. and M.Div. levels and those completing this diploma program can transfer all of their course work to a degree program if they choose. Finally, it is with mixed feelings and much gratitude that I complete my last year as president of the College. My wife and I have been blessed here beyond measure and rejoice at the privilege that has been ours to serve the Lord at ADC. We anticipate a very good final year here and are grateful for your support both of the College and our opportunity to serve the Lord with you. Do come and visit us. ADC is your seminary! LEE M. MCDONALD, President
Mary and Lee became Canadian Citizens in July of 2006. Congratulations and Welcome to Canada!
So, What’s Happening on Price Edward Island?!
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o, what’s happening on Prince Edward Island?! Judging from one congregation just outside of Charlottetown, a lot!! In the last ten years Cornerstone Baptist Church has grown from 30 people to over 240! They have half the congregation studying the Scriptures in nine cell groups located throughout the area. And they are in the process of calling a fourth pastor on staff! According to Pastor Stewert Dockendorff, one of the key things that has fueled such growth has been “staffing ahead of the curve.” When he first came to Cornerstone he wanted to offer the community a worship service that would make people want to come to church. He knew he couldn’t do that by himself, so two years later, while the church had 30 people, Pastor Dana Ingersoll was called on staff to help. Today Cornerstone blends old hymns with contemporary music, praise and preaching in such a way that people are not only excited to come to church, they are inviting their family and friends to come too! As one person puts it, “From the first time I came here, I felt at home! If I miss a Sunday, it ruins my entire week!” Another adds, “For the first six months I cried through every service. The presence of the Holy Spirit was so real!” Encouraged by what God was doing, and
CONTINUING EDUCATION
by Dr. David Watt Director of Development & Recruitment
I was captivated by a continuing education advertisement as I followed a Metro bus across a Halifax bridge. It had the picture of a man on the face of a mountain and a caption that read something like, “taking the next step is critical.” Paul puts this thought before the Philippians, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus (Phil. 3:14).” Halifax lawyer, Harry Thompson, teaching the adult class at West End Baptist Church calls the church to the critical task of “helping church people to know the Bible.”
by Stewert Dockendorff
with one of the fastest growing communities on their doorstep, three dedicated adults felt led to begin a weekly children’s program. They started with four children. Now, three years later, Pastor Phil Woodworth, a graduate of Acadia Divinity College (2005), heads up a ministry that reaches over 100 families. “What I find most exciting,” he says, “is that many of our kids come from unchurched homes right around here! We are building Christ into their lives, and I love it! There’s nowhere that I’d rather be!” But things have not always been smooth at Cornerstone. Last year, Pastor Stewert’s wife was diagnosed with cancer. He and his family moved to Boston for a year and he had little time to be concerned with the church. As it turned out, he had little need to! When he left, there were 210 people attending on an average Sunday morning. Nine months later, there were 240! Professors from both ABU and ADC helped supply the pulpit, but the largest part of the load was carried by Pastors Ingersoll and Woodworth. “The response from our people was phenomenal!” says Pastor Stewert, “I have never felt the power of God so much in prayer as during that time. Everyone in the Church—and across the Convention—was praying for us. And the ministry just kept moving on!” That
His call was for well trained pastors and church leaders who know the Bible and are effective at communicating its truth to others. Rev. John Perkin, chaplain at Mt. Allison University, shared his priorities for pastoral ministry with me recently. He said, “The essential need is for pastors to be good liturgists and preachers, to provide and facilitate meaningful small group experiences (including but not limited to study and learning) and for sound and compassionate pastoral care.” Last week, I sat around the board room table at ADC, with a dozen prison chaplains and addiction counsellors who work in correctional centers throughout Atlantic Canada. On the table was the subject of providing effective programs of study. How do we prepare our leaders to provide the best care for the addicted and maginalized people of our society?
Fall, Cornerstone held their bi-annual Pig Roast and hosted 450 guests. They launched a “40 Days of Community” campaign that saw the church’s cell group ministry expand to include 80 per cent of its adult population. And their first team was sent off to Cuba to begin the ministry there.
What does the future hold? “Well, that’s really up to God,” says Pastor Stewert. “Right now, with help from Baptist churches across the Island and our Convention, we are planting a new church in Stratford. We hope to see a lot of people coming to Christ as a result of that work. But we do have our eyes on several other opportunities.” And then he talks of building a new worship center, starting a ministry to the seniors and adding more staff. How, and where, you might wonder. The answer comes from another philosophy that Cornerstone has: “staffing from within.” One of their members, Chad Clements, is a first year student in the Youth program at Acadia Divinity College. “And you never know what God might have in mind for him and us,” muses Pastor Stewert, with a thoughtful look in his eye.
Aubrey Malphurs calls seminaries to provide wider training for church leaders in our complex and changing culture. Malphurs writes, “Many evangelical seminaries teach the Bible and theology, and it is imperative that they do. However, they often do not provide strong training in leadership, people skills, and strategic-thinking skills…” It is in these significant areas that ADC is seeking to provide significant study offerings to our students and church leaders in our constituency through our continuing education programs. The next step “is crucial” and the Bible calls us to “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth (2Tim. 2:15). Join us in “continuing” your education!
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Faculty Book Pick
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ften our churches struggle with issues of power and control. How do we begin to work our way through the conflict that results? “The Emotionally Healthy Church” by Peter Scazzero (with Warren Bird) challenges the leadership team, including the pastor, and provides some insight into how the church can move from dysfunction towards health. Blessings, David Watt
John Collins and Craig Evans (eds.), Christian Beginnings and the Dead Sea Scrolls (Baker Academic, 2006). The essays included cover important topics: Messianic expectation, John the Baptist, Jesus, and the apostle Paul. Contributors include ADC faculty Craig Evans, Jonathan Wilson (former faculty), and Glenn Wooden, as well as ABU professor Barry Smith.
Faculty Whereabouts DR. CRAIG EVA N S
November 17-21 Society of Biblical Literature Washington, DC DR . L E E MC D O N AL D
November 17-21 Society of Biblical Literature Washington, DC
Becoming Guardians of Hope: A Canadian Perspective Mulgrave Park Baptist Church
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n the January 2006 issue of Tidings they printed an article by Patty & Malcolm Card (one of our missionary Couples in Kenya). She talked of the work of CBM and the Guardians of Hope (GOH) being invited to partner with the African Brotherhood Church to address the poverty and distress caused by A.I.D.S. (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). This is simply the inability of the body’s immune system to fight off infection and viruses due to the fact that it has been severely depleted. After reading this article, we at Mulgrave Park Baptist in North End Halifax decided to have a Missions workshop around the same topic. Fifty two people attended. We invited the A.I.D.S. Coalition of Nova Scotia and C.B.M. representative, Cheryl Ann Beals. It was a great day of information, small group and panel discussions. It left us with much to process. Following the event I called the A.I.D.S. Coalition and asked how we as a church family could help. They were eager to share their desire to meet the needs of people diagnosed with H.I.V. in Halifax who, due to their diagnosis and financial situation, were unable to purchase personal care items. They were looking for people and/or organizations who would put together a shoe box of personal care items (similar to operation Christmas child) to be distributed in the community. Since that time we have been sending bulletin inserts to the churches of our association and churches in our neigbourhood.
January 20 Seminar on the Canon Regal Road Baptist Church Dartmouth, NS February 19-20 Atlantic Baptist University April 21-23 Princeton University D R . K E N PE NN E R
November 17-21 Society of Biblical Literature Washington, DC
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I have been amazed at the response of some individuals’ giving and surprised on the other hand by the apparent lack of response of churches to embrace a ministry that is affecting not only Africa but North America as well. At the same time I am excited at the possibilities as we continue to invite people to respond in Jesus’ name.
by Rev. Brian E. Keezer
We have just recently sent out some more bulletin inserts with the hope of gaining more response. I spoke with the representative from the Coalition a few weeks ago and asked what other organizations were helping. Her reply was “you are the only one”. This reminded me of Bill Hybels’ statement, “The Local Church is the Hope of the World.” It also made me reflect on Jesus’ words in Matthew 25: 31-40: “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to visit me... when you did it to one of the least of these brothers of mine you did it to me.” This verse haunts me as we attempt to be a church of HOPE to a lost and dying world. Meeting needs that no one else is meeting and doing it in Jesus’ name. When we do, we will be the church of irresistible influence and I am convinced the world will be beating a path to our doors.
Benjamin Osei Outstanding Community Service
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by Dr. Andrew D. MacRae
n September 2, 2006, at a Ghanaian Canadian Awards Nite in Toronto, the Famee Furlane Banquet Hall in Toronto was filled with about 350 celebrants among whom 32 were honored for their outstanding contributions to the Ghanaian community in Canada, in various areas, including academics, business, professionalism, technical innovation, sports, cultural promotion, community service and youth. The guest speaker for the function was the Chief of Police for the York Region, Armand P. La Barge. He praised Ghana for the significant strides it has made towards Continued on Page 5
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nation building. Chief La Barge congratulated the awards recipients and the organizing committee for all their handwork. Speaking for the first time in public shortly after assuming office in Canada as Ghana’s High Commissioner-Designate, H.E. Dr. (Mrs.) Margaret Ivy Amoakohene used the occasion to express her deepest and personal commitment to the ceremony because of what the awards represent and symbolize. She urged all Ghanaians in Canada to be true ambassadors of Ghana wherever they are in Canada. Among the award recipients was one of Acadia’s most outstanding Divinity graduates, Benjamin Osei, recognized for his outstanding Community Service in Toronto. I first heard of Osei (pronounced O-say, and his preferred name) in 1989, when he wrote to me to enquire about studies at Acadia Divinity College. It took six years of repeated efforts to get him here, and the story of the in-between years are dramatic in the extreme. When he first arrived in 1996, he stayed in our home until we found suitable accommodations in which to place a student on full scholarship. After three years of separation from his wife in Ghana, he completed his Master of Divinity studies very successfully in 1999, and returned to Ghana with the intention of establishing a centre for training and equipping church leaders there. However, that effort was short lived, because of attempts by some violent people to kidnap him. On his return to Canada, he took up work with Youth Unlimited and a group of Christian churches, in the Jane-Finch area, an area characterized by a great deal of conflict and violence. There his work has been widely recognized. In a tribute to honour Benjamin Osei’s youth leadership at a public function in Toronto in May 2005 at Driftwood community centre, Mario Sergio, M.P.P. for York West, united with Judy Sgro, M.P., then the Minister of Immigration, and local councilor Peter LiPreti, along with dozens of local constituents, including local religious leaders and youth who came together to pay tribute to his
remarkable life and extensive community involvement with youth at risk in the Jane and Finch community. Mario Sergio filled in some of the story in these words: “Mr. Benjamin Osei is a man who has triumphed over insurmountable odds, to turn personal tragedy into a lifeline, which is today saving many youth at risk in my riding of York West.” In 1985 Benjamin Osei was tutoring in Kabala, Africa and founded a bakery with the intention of assisting displaced youth with skill development. When war broke out in Sierra Leone in 1991, soldiers confiscated the bakery, massacred his first wife and children
and held Benjamin Osei captive. His miraculous escape led him to Canada where he earned a Master of Divinity degree at ADC in Nova Scotia. Upon his return to Ghana, where he aspired to continue with his vision for troubled youth, Benjamin Osei became the victim of a botched kidnapping. He managed to remarry and return to Canada working odd jobs during the day while faithfully serving the Jane & Finch community as a full-time youth worker by night. He established a successful youth outreach program teaching life skills to vulnerable youth. Mr. Osei currently runs basketball programs for 60 boys and girls as well as a girls-only club. He also assists the poor and single mothers in the community”. On his return to Canada, Osei tried to
achieve Refugee status, in the light of the great danger of returning to Ghana at that time, and was refused. Continuing efforts to secure permanent residency status on humanitarian grounds were, after numerous delays, denied, and a deportation order was issued. In the light of his outstanding work in Jane-Finch, many protests were made against his deportation, which ranged from his initial base in Nova Scotia to Toronto and all across Canada, and which led to much exposure to the media, which took up his cause also. Eventually, as I recall vividly, the Minister of Immigration, while insisting that deportation could not be averted, agreed to give an assurance of his re-admission to Canada, subsequent to his return to Ghana. On this, the Government was as good as its word, in that, after being deported to Ghana, was readmitted about 9 months later, together with his wife and two children. Since his return, he has resumed living in the Jane-Finch area with his family, and has again become a vital and vibrant part of that area, with enormous influence in the lives of many young people. Despite facing a serious bout of cancer, he continues to minister widely, and to give leadership which has earned the appreciation of every segment of Toronto Society, including the city Mayor, the Chief of Police, a wide range of churches, and, most of all, the many young people and families he continues to serve. Recently, early in October, his wife Monica gave birth to their third child, Samuel Kojo Osei, and all are doing well. At another level, while several churches and pastors, beginning with Fred Witteveen of the Friendship Community Church and Mel Finlay of the Fallingbrooke Heights Baptist Church, are proving very supportive of his work, he has to raise his own support, and with the growth of the work, the needs continue to grow also. Supportive prayer and gifts are, of course, welcome.
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Alumni News ALLEN, Jack, ’53, has been called to Albert Mines United Baptist Church, NB to serve as part-time Pastor. BAXTER, Ron, ’72, was commended by the churches of Region 2 and the CABC Council to continue as Regional Minister for a second term which began July 1/06. BURBIDGE, Robert, ’03 was ordained by the Wolfville Ridge Baptist Church, NS. CLARK, Renée, ’02, has been called to Freeport / Tiverton United Baptist Churches, NS. CROSBY, Ernest, '75 died in Halifax, NS, May 25, 2005. Ernie served pastorates in Barss Corner, Lancaster and Centreville, (CSI), as well as student placements in Halls Harbour, Burlington and Aylesford. He is deeply missed by wife Luella and their daughters and sons. His Faith, unconditional Love and Courage, facing lifelong illness, live on to inspire us all."
Inclusion." Jason and his wife are living in Wainright, AB and teaching at Lakeland College in Human Services, mostly in the Child and Youth Care and Disability Studies programs. Congratulations Jason! EGERS, Dave, ’99 has resigned from Greenwood Drive Baptist Church, NB and has been called to Second Chipman Baptist Church, NB. GREER, Dale, ’99, has resigned from Meductic United Baptist Church, NB, and has been called to Wellington Street United Baptist Church, NB. HUNTER, Mark, ’06, will be ordained at Second North River, NB, October 29. IRVING, Jeff, ’06 has been called to serve at Havelock United Baptist Church, NB. JOHNSON, Tim, ’06 has been called to serve as Youth Pastor at Newcastle United Baptist Church, NB.
DAVIDSON, Tom, ’03, has accepted a call to become pastor of the Jordan Falls Baptist Church, NS.
KNASS, Kathryn, ’01, was married on August 5 in Vancouver, BC to Shawn Penner. Kathryn works in healthcare Chaplaincy at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, as well as being ordained this year
DeADDER, Virginia has had her summer term as Pastor at the Mount Denson Baptist Church, NS extended to June of 2007.
McLEOD, Thelma, ’05, following an interim ministry will be ordained by the Bethany Memorial Baptist Church, NS, November 26.
DEWLING, Jason, ’99, has completed his Ph.D. from the University of Alberta, his thesis was entitled “Educating a Community for
MILLEY, Gary, ’95, has resigned after 25 years as Professor of Church History and Theology from McMaster’s College and Seminary to
Tracy’s Story
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by John Campbell
he’s a self described ‘embodied oxymoron’, and at first glace you’d almost have to agree with her. A Chaplain’s job is to listen to other people, which can be a hard task if you’re almost completely deaf like Tracy Demmons. Before meeting Tracy I couldn’t understand how someone who couldn’t hear could be a Chaplain. After a few short minutes with Tracy I was once again reminded that God’s wisdom and understanding reached far beyond my own. I found myself sitting across a desk from a vibrant, young woman who, in such a short period of time, has accomplished more with her life then most of us could ever dream of.
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“I’ve had divine intervention” she explained with a laugh and a smile, which I soon learned accompanied every answer she gave. Graduating from ADC in 2004 with a Master of Arts in Theology, as well as a Masters of Divinity equivalent in Pastoral Counselling, Tracy has had to cope with her hearing loss, which has been a side effect of the radiation treatment she has received in her fight against brain tumors. Although her hearing loss has slowed now, she describes the time when it was deteriorating quickly as a time of “increasing silence that grew around me, allowing me to better hear the voice of God.” After graduating from ADC in 2004, Tracy packed her bags, kissed her parents and her wiener dog Max goodbye, and left for St. Andrews, Scotland to begin her Ph.D. “Scotland has been wonderful”, Tracy says. “I’ve found a really wonderful church there,
return to pastoral ministry at Park Avenue Pentecostal Church, Mount Pearl, NL. NICKERSON, Dennis, ’06, has accepted a call to become pastor of the Greenfield, Chelsea and Buckfield Baptist Churches, NS. PALMER, Michael, ’01, and Sheila, have a new addition to their family. Caleb Stephen Baker Palmer was born August 27. Congratulations! PHILLIPS, David, ’06, Phillips has been ordained at the Wilmot United Baptist Church, NS, October 19. POTVIN, Mark, ’87, has been released from pastoral responsibilities with West Halls Harbour Baptist Church in order to devote his gifts and energy to the continuing development of the ministry at the Centreville Baptist Church, NS. RAINS, Ken, ’91, has been called to Lower Coverdale United Baptist Church, NB. RILEY, Jennifer, ’06, will be ordained at Victoria Road Church, NS on December 2 and has accepted a call to Windsor Plains United Baptist Church, NS. SMITH, Carol, ’92, is presently serving as Interim Pastor at Hill Grove Baptist Church, NB. SMITH, John, ’01 has resigned from Debert Baptist Church, NS. SPICER, Rob, ’06, has been called to West Oro Baptist Church, Ontario.
where I’m now the youth pastor. I’ve had an especially strong relationship with people in the church. They have been such a blessing.” Moving to another country to start studying would be difficult for anyone, but for Tracy it was even more difficult. “It’s had its challenges. Language is a big one. I’ve had a hard time understanding people at first, especially with their accents”. In 2005, while doing research for her thesis, Tracy happened upon an advertisement on the UN website for doctrinal summer internships.
“My supervisor encouraged me to apply for a position, but wasn’t optimistic. We thought that Theology might not be a very good match with the United Nations.” Continued on Page 7
WHAT'S HAPPENING Continued from Page 6 Much to her own surprise she was accepted to work with the Office of Humanitarian Affairs in their Disability Unit. This surprise and joy, however, was quickly replaced by disappointment, as two days after accepting the position she learned she needed surgery that summer which would prevent her from working. “Why would God let me get so excited, go to Manhattan to find housing, then not be able to do it in the end?” she had thought. In the fall of 2005 she decided to apply to the UN again, and again was accepted as a summer intern. Much to her surprise, however, this time it was with the department of Safety and Security. “It must have been a typo! I mean, what am I going to do with Safety and Security!?!”. She ended up working with a small group within the department that was made up of five counsellors who deal with the psychological, sociological and spiritual needs of UN workers and victims of disasters all over the world. “If you had a UN team of thirty people go into a country” she explained, “you would have a couple of medical workers on the ground with them. In the same way the UN also is deploying people who have basic psychological, sociological and spiritual tools that could help support the team in these environments”.
This summer Tracy has been assisting the UN in developing curriculum to train field workers and equip them with the tools they need. Phase one of the curriculum is nearly complete, and it’s now up to Tracy to go to Turkey and test the second phase of the curriculum on the ground. Tracy says that the UN has been an amazing placement for her, a perfect fit. “The UN has a very complete view of the whole person. They see people as a psychological, sociological and spiritual being. I’ve never had to apologize for coming from a background of theology since they see spiritual as just as valid as psychological aspects of a person.” All of this wouldn’t have been possible
without her experiences at ADC. Aside from the CPE training she received while being here, which has been the foundation for the curriculum she has been developing for the UN, the group of friends she made while at the seminary as well as her own personal growth has helped create a firm foundation for her. “I was on the floor of the UN building that handled the evacuation of Lebanon. When the UN observers were killed it was my floor that handled that. I was at the 8:00 am meetings on Lebanon every morning, then I’d go to my desk and there was an email from Dr. Jonathan Wilson wanting to know how my day was going. It’s just so grounding to have that foundation and to know that there really are people praying for you and caring for you throughout that day of chaos.” The summer is over, however, and soon Tracy will be heading back to Scotland to continue her studies. It won’t be an easy transition to make again after an exciting summer at the UN. “I just don’t get very excited about editing and footnotes” she jokes. She admits that her experiences with the UN this summer have taught her many things about God and about herself. “The things that the world values and holds up as advantages or disadvantages, God works on a very different scale from that. The world holds up power, riches, beauty and health, but for me I don’t have that health. But for God it’s the attributes of Love, Joy Peace, Patience, Kindness, Gentleness and Self Control. In times of struggle the things that God wanted to bring about in my life, while working with a hearing loss, has brought about the things that God values. The hearing loss has been a loss in the world’s eyes, but in God’s perspective it has been something He has used to open up grace in other areas of my life…understanding people. Having a pastor’s heart, a sense of love.
The only way for us to know God was for Jesus to die. And that’s not the way that the world would have done it.
Congratulations to Dr. Lee McDonald
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r. Lee McDonald has been nominated as President of the Institute for Biblical Research! The IBR is the largest association of evangelical biblical scholars in North America, with a membership of around 450 biblical scholars across the USA and Canada.
AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE
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t is fall harvest time in the Annapolis Valley and the fall colors are out in all their beauty. We are reminded daily of the majesty of God's provision. It is a time for ADC to once again say thanks to the people who support our students in a variety of ways - your prayers, words of encouragement and for your financial gifts. We are inviting you once again to support our annual fund goal of $285,000, of this we still need $198,000 by March 31st, 2007. We have a distance to go can you help us? These are very exciting, yet challenging, days for the church in our changing global culture. ADC is privileged to partner with you in providing well trained leaders that are passionate for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. One sign of a healthy church is a spirit of generosity prevailing among its people. We see this in the Jerusalem church. All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had (Acts 4:32). We also see this same spirit in our churches in Atlantic Canada. Thank you! Yours in partnership, Dr. David Watt Director of Development and Recruitment
There was no other way for this to work for me other than to have Him take what was there in my life and use it.”
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Events of Interest January 3-6 J Term Courses See page 9 February 12-14 Simpson Lectures Tom Bandy President of Easum, Bandy & Associates http://www.easumbandy.com March 1-2 Day For Discovery Discover Your Calling Acadia Divinity College Special Speaker: Dr. David Morehouse http://adc.acadiau.ca May 11 Commissioning Supper Wheelock Dining Hall 902.585.2220 May 11 Commissioning Service Wolfville United Baptist Church 7:30 pm May 13 Spring Convocation Acadia University May 24 Dr. Lee McDonald's Retirement Party Plan To Attend Old Orchard Inn, Greenwich, NS Call 902.585.2213 to reserve a ticket 6:15 pm
This is the thoroughly updated & expanded third edition of the successful The Formation of the Christian Biblical Canon. It represents a fresh attempt to understand some of the many perplexing questions related to the origins and canonicity of the Bible.
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Acadia Divinity College Student Association
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he writer of Hebrews wrote, “…let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another…” (10: 24 & 25). Acadia Divinity College is a community of believers from various walks of life. Once through the doors of this academic institution, one would probably find professors preparing for their next class, younger students just beginning one of the degree programs available at the college, slightly more ‘mature’ students involved in, or entering, pastoral ministry or Biblical studies, after spending many years in other professions, and support staff assisting in the operations of the college. Some students and staff arrive through the doors of ADC from Atlantic Canadian communities, many come from much farther. Many students have families they have left behind, at least for a short time, to follow God’s call on their lives to prepare for future ministry. Wherever we have come from, or wherever God plans to take us, as Christian pastors, educators and missionaries, we share the experience of seminary together, as a community. I have personally enjoyed my life as a student of Acadia Divinity College. As I have begun my graduation year (and my first fulltime year) of the Master of Divinity program, I am getting to know new people and building friendships with people I have been in classes with before. It has been the desire of students over the last few years, to have available more opportunities for spiritual growth and fellowship. This year, the Acadia Divinity College Student Association has facilitated this type of community development within the college. On Friday, September 8th, the ADCSA held a Barbeque for students, faculty, staff and their families. I think I can speak on behalf of all who participated in saying that it was a fun time. Again, people at different stages in their lives and ministries, came together to share their love for Jesus through worship around a campfire, hearing God’s Word (thanks to John and Chuck), and getting to know one another better. Games such
by Tim MacKinnon
as football, Chuck’s ‘Which Side of the Line Are You on?’ and Al’s ‘Four-Way Tug-of-War’ helped to bring people together. Spouses and children also became acquainted with one another. The weather and, of course, the food were perfect for the event. Further social events are to be planned throughout the year. The small group ministry is another way for students to get involved. These happen at times that work for all group members. Each group looks different. Most groups have spent the last week or so simply getting to know, and praying for, one another. Prayer, Bible Study, ministry and leisure are potential components of these groups. Each small group is encouraged to organize a social event for all at ADC, as well as do some type of outreach for the Acadia University community at large, such as passing out free coffee in front of the college. All these are ways in which students can become involved with one another at ADC and to show God’s love to others on the Acadia campus. For more information about small groups, talk with John Campbell: earthoven@gmail.com I have spoken with many former students who say that the chapel experience is one of the most positive memories of being with their colleagues at ADC. Worshipping our Savior, collectively, is one of the most powerful bonds that we can share with one another. Praising God, hearing Scripture and being led in prayer, facilitate our response to God as He challenges and leads us in our lives and studies. Chapel occurs Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:30 am with a fellowship time following. A sign-up sheet is available on the glass wall of the computer lab if you would like to assist in the leading of chapel worship. Hebrews 10:24 & 25 reminds Christians of the need for meeting together regularly in the Name of Jesus and encouraging one another, as we journey in faith. God has individual callings for each of us as teachers, pastors, leaders and students of God’s Word, but He intends for us to work through those callings together, not alone. As we share in our ministry lives at ADC, may we remember that God’s design for us as humans is to share in life together, as women and men of Christ.
Acadia Divinity College J-Term and Spring Courses for 2007
J-Term 2007 January 3 - 6 CHUR 7083 X 2 REVIVALS AND RENEWALS R. WILSON A seminar course on major religious and church renewal movements, past and present. The course includes lectures, reading and interpretation of selected sources, and critical assessment of the impact of revival movements on society. PACC 6153 CONFLICT RESOLUTION C. DELONG The thought of engaging in conflict creates anxiety for many. This course will focus primarily on interpersonal conflict management in terms of what we as individuals bring to conflict situations, what goes on during the interaction itself, and an in-depth look at effective conflict management skills. We will also touch upon two additional areas of conflict management: the plethora of biblical wisdom
available on dealing with anger and conflict, and third-party mediation. Through lectures, discussions, case studies and interactive exercise, students will walk away with some realistic alternatives to poor conflict management. YMIN 6123 X 2 INTERPRETING YOUTH CULTURE J. CARTER/J. PENNER Understanding youth culture sets the stage for the practice of effective youth ministry. Consideration will be given to a practical examination of youth culture blended with a theoretical survey of the multi-faceted phenomenon of youth culture. Emphasis will be placed on interpreting current trends in Canadian youth culture as they relate to music, video, economics, the Internet, sexuality and other topics.
SPRING 2007 BIBL 7553 X 5 THE DEAD SEA SCROLLS & THE NEW TESTAMENT C. EVANS WOLFVILLE, JUNE 4-8
YMIN 6163 X 5 YOUTH MINISTRY SUMMER INSTITUTE M. PENNER PRAGUE, JUNE 11-15
A study of the Dead Sea Scrolls, their contents, themes, critical issues, and relevance for understanding the writings of the New Testament. Prerequisites: BIBL 5013, BIBL 5023, BIBLE 6013, BIBL 6023; Greek and Hebrew and assets.
This course is a one-week Youth Ministry Institute course offered each D Term by visiting instructor. The course will cover an area of study in youth ministry not covered in detail in the youth ministry curriculum. This course may be repeated for credit.
PACC 7083 – BIBLICAL UNDERSTANDING OF MARRIAGE & FAMILY GAIL NOEL WOLFVILLE, MAY 28-JUNE 1 We are living in a society that has placed great demands on our preconceived ideas about marriage and family. Marriage as an institution seems to be disappearing. Christians divorce at approximately the same rate as the un-churched. Many children raised in Christian homes have adopted society’s trend of “living together” without the benefit of a wedding. Thousands of Canadian children are being raised without benefit of living with both biological parents. How is the church to respond? What does the Bible teach about marriage? Is the “traditional” family that we long for, really one that is envisaged in Scripture or is it merely a reflection of nineteenth century living? Should the home be a “safe haven”? Where do children fit in the family? We will study these and other questions together as we “rethink the significance of the family” for the twenty-first century. THEO 7533 X 5 COMMUNICATING CHRIST IN CONTEMPORARY CULTURE A. ROBBINS WOLFVILLE, JUNE 11-15 In these courses an in-depth consideration is given to specific area within the discipline of Theology. These areas will be defined as specific topics in consultation with the ADC Curriculum Committee.
CHRI 7093 X 5 SPIRITUAL NATURE OF CHILDREN C.A. JANZEN FREDERICTON, MAY 14-18 What does it mean to “set the child in the midst” as Jesus did? This interactive course will focus on children’s spiritual experiences and needs as we explore approaches to Christian nurture that will help them to develop a meaningful relationship with God through Christ. You’ll be introduced to innovative programs and ministry models that seek to integrate children into the faith community – where they belong. DMIN 8576 THE RELEVANCE OF BIBLICAL STUDIES FOR THE PRACTICE OF MINISTRY C. EVANS WOLFVILLE, MAY 14-25 This course teaches and updates the participant on new aspects of Biblical Studies and looks at Biblical Studies in the light of contemporary ministry. This course will give a functional dimension to the study with specific emphasis on preaching, worship, teaching, counseling and other aspects of professional ministry.
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Doctor of Ministry
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cadia’s Doctor of Ministry program continues to grow, and is attracting persons in ministry from every Denominational background and from all over Canada. During May, Dr. Jonathan Wilson taught the required course entitled Ministry in Light of Contemporary Theology. In the photograph, he is on the front row, on the far left. The diversity of the DMin is reflected in the candidates, all of whom are engaged in active ministry, except for two MA students Let me identify them: Back Row: Darrell Feltmate, (Belmont Baptist); Sharon Leighton (MA Th program), Ken Gloade (Prison Chaplain in Timmons, ON), Charles Warner (Anglican-Catholic, Sydney, NS),Roger Graham (Forest Hills, Saint John NB), Elias Mutale, (Regional Minister, AUBA), Second Row: Adam Greeley (MA Th), Cheryl Ann Beals (Canadian Baptist Ministries staff), Nancy Draper (First Baptist, Dartmouth, NS), John McNally (Kentville Baptist ), Don Rafuse (Aylesford Baptist,
Student News CUMBY, David, has accepted a call to provide pastoral ministry with the West Halls Harbour Baptist Church, NS. DeJONG, Geoff, was called to Newport (Scotch Village) Baptist Church, NS. GOUGH, Stephen, has started a one year ministry at Gibson Woods United Baptist Church, NS. MILLETT, Darren, was inducted as the Associate Pastor at Bethany Memorial Baptist Church in Aldershot, NS. REID, Brian, has accepted a call to serve as part-time Pastor at the New Tusket Baptist Church, NS. SYPHER, Mark, became the Pastor of Church Family Life at New Minas Baptist Church, NS.
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by A. MacRae NS), Karl Csaszar (Skyline Acres Baptist, Fredericton, NB), Front Row: Dr. Jonathan Wilson (Professor), Dan Green, Chester Baptist, NS, Bryan Hagerman, Regal Road Baptist, Dartmouth, NS, and Wayne Desmond, (Cherry Brook Baptist, Dartmouth NS). The Acadia DMin has earned a reputation for flexibility and for its commitment to giving priority to strengthening the diverse ministries of candidates and their churches or Christian organizations. Whereas many sisterschools require candidates to work through the program as part of a cohort, which limits their freedom to develop in areas of personal preference and specialization, Acadia has placed its emphasis on enriching the ministries of participants through the highest level of academic training and professional development, rather than forcing candidates into an Institutional mould. This year we have already admitted a number of people
from across Canada, and are dealing with applications from potential candidates in British Columbia, New York State, and, in addition, a number of candidates are applying to transfer into our program from other accredited Doctor of Ministry programs, with a view to completing their work at Acadia. All in all, the Doctor of Ministry degree is enlarging the reach of the College and the University, as it draws applicants from the entire Christian spectrum. Persons interested in enquiring into the possibilities of the Acadia DMin are invited to contact the Director, Dr. Andrew D. MacRae at (902) 585-2231 or the Registrar, at (902) 585-2215.
The passing of Rev. Freeman Fenerty really does mark the passing of an era. I have known and admired him for the 26 years since we came to Canada and Acadia. He ranks alongside Drs. Murray Armstrong, Myron Brinton and Stuart Murray as pillars of Atlantic Baptist life over many years, and while we are all the poorer for his passing, we are infinitely the richer for his presence amongst us. He had a passion for Christ, for the Church, and for the work of Christian witness and outreach. Nothing was ever allowed to challenge the supremacy of Christ in his life and ministry. His love for the church and its people was evident in his commitment to pastoral care, in that he maintained regular and caring pastoral visitation in a way seldom seen in our
self-protective society, and in his unyielding commitment, even into old age, to planting new churches wherever they were needed as a witness to the Lord. On more of a family note, Freeman was a dedicated family man and as his daughter said, “Dad was a people person. As long as he was helping people, he was happy.” He learned about helping people while working in Halifax after receiving his early education. He experienced ‘life’ then furthered his education to become the minister that ministered to so many people. He was meticulous about keeping records, specifically of the more than 2,000 weddings he performed. What kind of man was he? He would phone the couples he married on their anniversaries, some of whom he’d married more than 50 years before. What kind of man was he? A man showing God’s Love for almost a century. Like countless others, I was often grateful for his encouragement, and will always be thankful for the example of his life and the blessing of his friendship.
ADC Loses a Long-Time Friend
PRAXIS: Lebanon 2006 ADC & CBM Joint Project
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“Here I am Lord, send me!” Isaiah 6:8
ave you ever been a passenger in someone’s car and wondered if you’d ever come out alive? Well this past June I had the opportunity to experience some cultural unknowns in the country of Lebanon. I had the privilege of joining six other Praxis students from around Canada on this great mission adventure. Praxis is a scholarship program that combines a missional and educational experience all into one. After four weeks experience in Beirut, Lebanon, we would each spend time reading and writing papers for Masters level credits. When I had first heard about this available opportunity, I almost thought it was too good to be true. With a heart for missions and studying at Acadia for my Master of Divinity, this opportunity couldn’t have been put together any better. I was truly excited and felt more than blessed to have had the chance to be a part of the team for this adventure. We arrived in Beirut, on June 5th, 2006 and stayed at the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary with the missionaries, Elie and
by Claire Peveril Mirelle Haddad. Elie is the provost for the university and he and his wife, Mirelle, guided us while we were there. Soon after we arrived we took a condensed Arabic course to be able to speak some of the language, and then some Middle East classes to understand the history and present issues at hand in Lebanon. We were being prepared for some ministry we would be doing with Muslims and for the Middle East Conference held every year. It also took us some time to adjust to the culture and really discover more about these people that we would be ministering to. If you ask me about feelings of anxiety, fear, frustration and nervousness, I will quickly admit that each emotion surfaced during this trip. I know now that God intended for those moments where I was forced to completely trust in Him. Any time I have ever been sent on a mission, trust seems to be a common ground that God intends to cover yet once again. One experience that caught me off guard was our door to door ministry to Muslims. When I heard that we were going to take part in this type of mission I immediately thought, “there’s no way this ministry is
effective! When I think of those who do door to door ministry from other faiths, I am typically annoyed and feel as though my space has been invaded. How can this time walking around handing out bibles be effective? And what about being dangerous? And what if we get viciously rejected?” You can imagine that every possible negative image crossed my thoughts all at once and I was overwhelmed with fear, anxiety, frustration and nervousness all at the same time. Before I had time to make a public rejection, I was given a sheet of paper marking off my corner of the neighborhood where I would be handing out bibles. I took the paper and just shook my head wondering, “whose idea was this?” God humbled my heart that day and I can just imagine he was probably shaking his head at the same time wondering, “whose child is this?” Continued on Page 12
Don Robertspn and his wife Carine recently celebrated Don's 50th anniversary of his ordination. Many friends and family were present.
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PRAXIS
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This was the day he showed me how big he was and how small I was. After walking half an hour, following my directions, getting lost only once, we finally arrived at the right apartment building complex. We walked up to our apartment holding our Injil (New Testaments Bibles) tightly and paused, “This is it… I think”, one of my teammates nervously said. And so we headed in. Little did we know that God would use us in amazing ways in the next couple days there in that place. God even used me, the one who walked with hesitation, disbelief in this method, and some resentment. My God is so gracious to me. There was this one Muslim family who invited us in even after we offered them the Injil. We ended up having the most wonderful afternoon with this Shiite Muslim family, sharing, laughing, and almost crying at our departure. Our conversation went from family, to jobs, to weddings, to future plans, and to movies like “The Passion of the Christ”. Our conversation couldn’t have shifted from us, to Him more harmoniously if we had tried. The presence of the Holy Spirit was evidently there that day as we shared with them about our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ. “The Passion of the Christ” gave us opportunity to share about our God who unconditionally loves and accepts us, and the sacrifice he went through
for us. His grace is sufficient for us, and it is not by our doing, but by the grace of God. Before we left that day we asked if we could pray for them, and they lovingly accepted our invitation to speak to God on their behalf. We stood together; the father, mother, daughter, son, and granddaughter, and joined our hearts together in prayer. I never thought in a million years that I would be praying together with and over a Muslim family in their home in Beirut, Lebanon. Does God want to expand our concept of Him? He sure does! He wants us to believe in the unseen, to expect the unexpected and trust in the invisible hand of God. I walked away that day in awe of what God had done in and through us. I would love to say that I will never put my God in a box again, but so easily we say that and then
surprise ourselves again in disbelief. Mark 9:24 states it clearly, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” Thank you for your grace, O Lord. Help us Lord with our unbelief. Ultimately I walked away from this trip realizing the vastness of our God. It is interesting that once you think you have God figured out, He does something or shows you something that expands your concept of Him. My God is bigger to me now than on the day I left for Lebanon. My God is ever more mysterious. He is gracious beyond imagination and works in ways I never thought possible. I am so grateful for the experience I was blessed to be a part of in Lebanon. I will continue to seek out ways I can serve and be used by Him. Here I am Lord, send me! (Isa 6:8).
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