Summer 2009 • Vol. 05, No. 01
Reflections on Global Ministries and minds to theology that was done in other contexts. Each graduate was asked to speak at chapel during the final year of studies. As part of a directed study at ADC I read Stan Mooneyham’s book: What Do You Say To a Hungry World? I still remember the haunting scene in which he had been with a person dying of hunger and found that he had no words. I related that scene to my colleagues and professors during my chapel address. I am almost certain that I had nothing profound to say except that faithful discipleship required some sort of engagement with human need.
I take satisfaction when people say: “Thank God for the church.” Gordon King monitors food aid program in Kenya.
will always be grateful for my formation at Acadia Divinity College. We studied theology and reflected on ministry in a manner that embraced the world. Our professors brought their own convictions and backgrounds to the academic disciplines which they taught. Visiting professors included Dr. Abel Masilamani of India. Masi was a brilliant communicator and thinker who taught us to open our hearts
I
Over 30 years have passed. I have lived and worked in Bolivia, the poorest country in South America. My wife is a genocide survivor from Rwanda. I have spent time visiting development programs in Latin America,
by Rev. Gordon King ‘77
Asia, and Africa. I have cried many times in sorrow and desperation, sometimes alone and sometimes with others. I still find it hard to articulate an understanding of how our world works and does not work for the bottom billion whose circumstances are even more difficult in 2009 than they were in 1989. I serve as director of The Sharing Way, the relief and development department of Canadian Baptist Ministries. Our mandate is to give hope to the poor through community based programs that are well designed and witness to God’s love. Some of our programs are developed with matching funding from the Canadian Foodgrains Bank. These development programs address the painful issues of hunger by increasing food security in rural areas and providing food aid in times of crisis. This past week we launched a food aid program in Kenya that will meet the nutrition-
From the President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Looking Ahead. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Legend & Legacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The Acadia Partnership . . . . . . . . . . 5 Day for Discovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 A Time of Celebration. . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
> Continued on Page 3
Commissioning Photos . . . . . . . . . . 8 Development in Eastleigh . . . . . . . . . 11 Events Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Continuing Education . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Alumni News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Mind the Gap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1
Missions or Mission t the end of my first year of studies at
AAcadia Divinity College there was an
opportunity to enroll in a special intensive course on missions. The very word conjured up scenes of adventure and exotic places and the thrill of sharing the gospel of Christ to “those who have never heard”. It was a great course and Dr. Ohsberg did a wonderful job of presenting the biblical and theological basis for missions. We worked with case studies of cross cultural missions. I had the chance to interact with Canadian Baptist missionaries who were home “on furlough”. It was in many ways a life changing experience for me. So much so that I remember going home at one point and saying to Gail, “God is calling us to Africa”. Her reply to me, taught me a great deal about God’s call and marriage. She simply said, “Well, God may be calling you to Africa, but He hasn’t said anything to me about it”. I remember visiting Dr. Ohsberg to have him pray for my dear wife and in his gentle yet perceptive way he reminded me that God was much more interested in my marriage than in my ministry and that if we were to go to Africa, He would speak to both of us about it. Yes … we would pray but we would also wait and watch for the Lord’s leading. Quite apart from my own sense of God’s leading, I had placed mission in that category that made it something that was only done somewhere else other than here and preferably somewhere across an ocean. In recent years, Gail and I have visited Kenya twice and after our first visit I was able to say with a smile, “God wasn’t call-
2
ing us to Kenya”. The fact is that Gail would have done really well in that environment because of her gifts of teaching and practical helps but we understand now that God has called us to serve in this cultural context. But, have I really been involved in missions? Of course! Did I somehow miss out on greater service because I did not cross a sea? Not at all! At the heart of God is a heart of mission. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of mission and actually He has driven the church forward with this agenda in spite of the reluctance of God’s people who sometimes are content to settle in one place. We are called to be a people of mission whether here or in Africa. A few years ago, Canadian Baptist Ministries adopted the slogan, “Start Local, Go Global”. This simple statement captures the essence of the Great Commission which is found at the end of each Gospel and in the early verses of the Book of Acts. “You shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria and to the uttermost parts of the earth.” While there is a progression of impact and global outreach, mission does not bypass the local to reach to the global. Mission is an attitude of outreach in the name of Christ before it is ever an action. In the fall of 2007, Gail and I visited again in Kenya and this time we saw firsthand the centers of theological training of the African Brotherhood Church and the African Christian Church and Schools. Canadian Baptist missionaries have served there for many years. We were really taken with one approach of the African Brotherhood Church whereby every divinity student must live and study for one semester at the “farm” in Kwbesi. In this setting, intensive learning takes place in agriculture. The church understands
that mission must be integral. The proclamation of the Gospel must be incarnational. Pastors must be able to assist their people in growing crops that will help to sustain their communities. The gospel is not divided between word and deed. It is integrated in such a way that the mission of the church must be comprehensive in feeding both soul and body. Acadia Divinity College has a comprehensive three-prong approach to theological education. We seek to focus on the growth and development of the person in ministry, to develop strong biblical, theological and historical understandings of the Christian faith and we seek to develop strong practical competencies for a life of servant leadership. When the course on missions is treated as simply another course we have forgotten that our reason for being at Acadia Divinity College is to equip ministry leaders who will lead others in the mission of the church to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Silo mentalities and approaches to courses dissolve when an overall emphasis on mission is re-captured. In his recent book, Borderland Churches, Gary Nelson, General Secretary of Canadian Baptist Ministries reminds readers that God is calling the Canadian church to mission right here in this place as we seek to understand the dynamics of a rapidly changing culture. So… it is not about missions as something done in a far off exotic place or culture. It is about mission as an attitude that births action beginning where we are and even reaching by God’s grace across the world. Acadia Divinity College will continue to cultivate such an attitude in each of the courses in the future. “For the love of Christ compels us…” 1 Corinthians
Reflections on Global Ministries > from Page 1 al requirements of over 20,000 vulnerable people for the next six months. The program required household surveys to assess the needs and to identify the most vulnerable people. Even the purchase of food supplies had to be conducted in a way that considered the impact of local bulk purchases on price and availability for others. The food deliveries requires monitoring, ration cards and constant assessment. I take satisfaction when people say: “Thank God for the church. They worked with us to provide food for the hungry. They helped us make our land more productive. They worked with us to ensure that our children have safe water to drink. They visit the homes of people who are living with AIDS and tell them they are welcome in the church.”
I am constantly encouraged by the parable of the “sower and the seed.” This farmer does not have the fertile, flat ground of the valley. It appears that he must work with secondary land on a hillside where there are rocks, constant thorns, and hard pathways of wild animals, goats and sheep. Three quarters of the parable is about the adversity that he faces. Some seed never takes root. Other seed wilts in the intense sunlight or is choked by the thorns. It seems that all hope may be lost. But there is good soil. The crop is abundant beyond all expectations. I think that this is the promise of God. He will establish his kingdom despite adversity and apparent failure. Thanks be to God for his promise that he will reign with justice and mercy for the poor.
Dawn for the Poor It all began in 1996 when the Lord brought a small revival to urban poor youth in Welfareville, a slum area of Manila. In only three months, more than 40 young people became believers. Many had dropped out of school and were involved in drugs and other illegal activities, but now they wanted to study again and make something of their lives. Their families could not afford to send them, but God provided for 30 to attend school that year. The number has now risen to 300, supported each year, and many of these youth have become leaders in their communities and in our ministry. The Lord has also opened up other holistic ministry opportunities through the felt needs of the poor and their own participation. Sponsored youth often serve in these ministries, including our pre-schools, livelihood, health and youth centres.
by Patrick Hobbs, ‘04
This community development is known as Dawn for the Poor and has spread to seven Philippine cities. In 2001, a change took place in our method of church planting. Believers were encouraged to form House Churches in their own homes. This 'Church Multiplication Movement' has spread rapidly and given birth to more than 105 House Churches and Bible Studies. We are now sending our own short-term mission teams from slum areas to other provinces and islands of the Philippines, bringing Good News in action. God has blessed this ministry in extraordinary ways in the past 13 years. Much transformation has taken place in the lives of the urban poor and their communities. For more information about Dawn for the Poor, go to www.dawnforthepoor.org. If you would like a representative to come to your church or small group to speak about this ministry please contact Patrick Hobbs at hobbspatrick@omf.net.
Acadia Divinity College Engages in Self-Study by Dr. Bruce Fawcett
very ten years colleges and
Euniversities accredited by
the Association of Theological Schools (ATS) are required to engage in a self-study process. This process leads to the writing of a selfstudy report that prepares the way for a visit by an ATS team. The visiting team conducts a full audit of the school and makes recommendations to the ATS Board of Commissioners regarding granting renewal of a theological school’s accreditation.
“The self-study process has come at an excellent time for the College” The self-study requires the Acadia Divinity College to examine itself in 10 key areas from the curriculum and library through to its governance and student services. “The self-study process has come at an excellent time for the College”, commented President Harry Gardner. “As we envisage how theological education will look in Atlantic Canada in the coming decade, this process of self-evaluation will help us lay the groundwork for strategic steps to be taken in the coming years.” The self-study is a collaborative process and includes input not only from faculty and staff of the College but also from alumni, students, and board members as well as from the wider constituency. Dr. Bruce Fawcett has been asked to direct the selfstudy process with subcommittees being chaired by Dr. Andrew MacRae, Dr. Glenn Wooden, and Dr. Chris Killacky. The selfstudy report is due to be completed by summer 2010 and a visit by an ATS assessment team is expected in the fall of 2010. Members of the ADC constituency are invited to take part in the self-study process by e-mailing their thoughts on the College’s ministry and theological education in general to bruce.fawcett@acadiu.ca. 3
Looking Ahead his past February, at our annual Acadia Divinity College Alumni Dinner, Rev. Don Rafuse finished up a successful term as Alumni President and turned the reigns over to me. Over the past two years, Don and the Alumni Executive have made some great steps toward making the Alumni Association a greater presence and support system for the alumni of ADC. Together we introduced a new website and an e-newsletter which will keep Alumni up to date on current issues and initiatives. Already many Alumni have used this new forum to express opinions and desires to the Executive. Check out the website at http://www.adcalumni.com/. There are some updates on alumni as well as great conversations with the professors from Acadia Divinity College.
T
As an executive we have begun to plan the next steps in making the association a great resource for Alumni which includes:
1.To provide more times of fellowship for Alumni in local areas, thereby avoiding travel costs that are often prohibitive to new pastors with large student loans.
by Jennifer Riley , ‘05
2. To take the opportunity during these fellowship times to engage speakers on practical issues facing pastors in these local areas i.e. unemployment issues, teen pregnancies, how to help people dealing with drug problems, etc. These fellowship times could also be times for networking with professionals in these areas who could become partners with pastors and churches. 3. To partner with Acadia University in its reunion program, allowing times during the reunions for special gatherings of ADC Alumni. 4. To explore mentoring opportunities for ADC students and graduates that will help foster lasting friendships of mutual support. 5. To develop new fundraising opportunities to aid the College. As an executive, we understand that these are lofty goals which will require long term
Legend & Legacy of Gerald Simpson housands of pastors
T and church leaders
over the past thirty years have been enriched through the quality lectures, workshops, spiritual conversations and encouraging fellowship that swirl around ADC’s Simpson Lectures. Each year those who attend hear “thanks” being offered to the donor, Gerald Simpson. Who is this generous man – a legend around Acadia Divinity College? Gerald Simpson died this year at the age of 98. He lived his whole life on Deer Island, NB as the resident plumber/electrician. He
4
served the island population faithfully until he was ninety-three. Gerald lived consistently the values that were ingrained in his character. He valued the Christian faith and supported the local church and served for many years as deacon, choir member and Sunday School superintendent. Gerald was a self-taught electrician and took a short course in plumbing. However, he placed a high value on education. Gerald never went to university but was a lifetime learner, reading passionately in a wide variety of subjects. He encouraged his daughters, Sandra and Sylvia, to get a good education – both are Acadia University graduates. He invested in the
but the planning Executive is committed to these goals and I feel certain that over the next two years, the Alumni Association will be able to make great inroads in these areas and become an organization which is committed to forwarding the goals of the College and supporting its members. Of course, we will continue with our well established times of fellowship, including our Alumni BBQ which will be held at the College during Oasis on Thursday, August 20 at 5:00 p.m. This year, Dr. David Watt will be presented with the Distinguished Alumni Award. David is a constant source of inspiration and support to the Alumni Association and his work at the college cannot be underestimated. Please join us at the BBQ to congratulate David! Please let us know your thoughts and ideas for the Alumni Association. As always, you are our greatest concern, and we covet your prayers as we move forward in service to you and to God as an executive.
by Dr. David Watt, ‘65, ‘80, ‘99
practical training of pastors and church leaders by establishing the Simpson Lectures in 1979. Being a man of the Bible, Gerald Simpson saw an opportunity to help church leaders fulfill Paul’s challenge to Timothy: “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Tim.4: 2) Acadia Divinity College is grateful that Gerald Simpson believed that continuing education would strengthen the work of pastors and leaders serving the churches on Deer Island and beyond. He has left a lasting legacy to the church and its leaders all over the world.
Gifts of Encouragement “Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4) e are pleased to share the good news of the establishment of three bursary funds to help support the training of future leaders at Acadia Divinity College. These new bursaries will help reduce a student’s debt while acquiring a theological education. The church’s greatest need today is excellence in leadership and it is the support of generous donors “considering the needs of others” that makes this possible.
W
The Fenerty Bursary The Fenerty Bursary has been established by Laurie D. Fenerty and his wife Marion
2009 Acadia Students’ Union Teaching Award Dr. Glenn Wooden The following is a presentation made by Borden Scott, ’09, at the ASU Teaching Award banquet:
lenn Wooden was the recipient of
"Gthe 2009 Acadia Students’ Union Teaching Award for the Faculty of Theology. As Professor of Old Testament, Glenn is known to his students as a teacher who presents material in a thorough and thought-provoking way. Dr. Wooden challenges students to succeed and gain as much as they can in their studies. Glenn is also known to take interest in his students and provide all the help he can as they seek to reach their goals, including answering emails and phone calls the night before a test! For his commitment to scholarly excellence, his investment in his students, and his ready laugh and welcoming attitude, it is a pleasure to present Dr. Wooden with an ASU teaching award."
M. Fenerty. This bursary is to be awarded to a student(s) attending Acadia Divinity College full time and who has financial need. Laurie felt it be very fitting to have a bursary at Acadia Divinity College that offered financial assistance to students as he was once one of those needy students who was helped along the way. Rev. Patricia Gow Memorial Bursary The Rev. Patricia Gow Memorial Bursary has been established by Shirley Gow and the late Frank Gow in memory of their beloved daughter, Patricia, to honor her contribution to Acadia Divinity College during her years as Adjunct Faculty in Clinical Pastoral Education (1994 2007). This annual bursary of $1000 will
be awarded to the student who demonstrates a strong aptitude and passion for Clinical Pastoral Education. Rev. Brian R. Long Memorial Bursary The Rev. Brian R. Long Memorial Bursary has been established by the Kennebecasis United Baptist Church in honor of Rev. Brian Long who was the pastor of this church from 1996 to 2007. Brian was a well-loved pastor who loved his pastorates. Brian will always be remembered for his growing love for God and His people. This bursary will be awarded to a student(s) attending Acadia Divinity College full time and who has financial need.
The Acadia Partnership “… you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so. Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness to do it may be matched by your completion of it…” (2 Corinthians 8:10-11)
cadia Divinity College
Ahas launched a financial campaign to raise the endowment funds to support the present and future mission of the College. Donors are invited to consider giving “a tithe of their estate” to the valuable mission of training Christian leadership for our churches, chaplaincies and other ministries here in the Atlantic region and throughout the world. Acadia Partnership has its focus on “Honoring the Past” and “Securing the Future” by funding the nine Academic Chairs that have been established to honor the contribution of people who have served Christ and his church through the years. These endowed Academic Chairs are important to the College in three key areas:
1. They allow us to attract top scholar-practitioners, ensuring
by Dr. David Watt, ‘65, ‘80, ‘99
quality instruction for our students. This results in our churches and ministries having well-prepared leaders. 2. Since professors are paid out of the interest received from endowment funds set aside to support the Academic Chair, student tuition rates are lowered. This lessens the student debt loads for our graduates, thus reducing financial stress upon ministry families. 3. Endowed chairs enable us to make wise strategic decisions about adding new programs and initiatives to advance our mission of preparing Christian leaders. We can do this carefully, knowing that core programs have stable and dependable funding. You are invited to become an Acadia Partner with a tithe of your estate or a gift in the present.
5
Hayward Lectures
It is Not What is Taught, but What is Lived cadia Alumni Ben Osei remembers a
Atime when he was not well-received while doing ministry.
“I even offended my parents the way I presented the gospel,” Osei said. Sometimes people will reject the messenger before the message. But you wouldn’t assume Osei once experienced this, looking at the success of his ministry today.
Creator, Creation, and Creatures God and His World October 19-21 • 7.30 PM KC Irving Auditorium Monday, October 19, 7:30 pm God as Creator Tuesday, October 20, 7:30 pm God and Creation Wednesday, October 21, 7:30 pm God and His Creatures Dr. John B. Webster is Professor of Systematic Theology in the School of Divinity, History, and Philosophy in King’s College, University of Aberdeen. Professor Webster has taught at the University of Durham, the Toronto School of Theology, and was for seven years the Lady Margaret Professor of Divinity at the University of Oxford. He teaches and writes in the fields of systematic, historical, and moral theology. He is well known as an authority on the theology of Eberhard Jüngel and Karl Barth. Professor Webster is currently writing a theological commentary on the letter to Ephesians. For a listing of his publications please visit our website. Currently Professor Webster is editing the Oxford Handbook to Systematic Theology and is writing a theological commentary on Paul’s letter to the Ephesians.
6
Osei and his supporters formed the Jane Finch Church Coalition to meet the needs of at-risk youth in Jane-Finch Toronto. Ten churches in the Jane-Finch community provide a range of programs for youth of different ages. In each program, the participants are taught to build character and how to attain personal goals. These after-school homework clubs, sports programs and summer camps engage the youth with fun, while also providing the opportunity for relationship. “The church exists not for the people inside, but for those outside,” said Osei, describing the vision he shares with the church leaders in the coalition. The success is great, and participation is high. So what changed so that Osei, who wasn’t welcomed when teaching the gospel before, can now describe himself as “a catalyst for change”? Osei recalls the education he received at Acadia Divinity College as a changing point in the way he does ministry. “After going through the three-year training, I knew where to draw the line,” he said, referring to a new understanding he gained for approaching ministry. He described a new confidence to understand those he serves because of the biblical training and practical demonstration of ministry he experienced in college. Osei completed his Mater of Divinity at Acadia Divinity College in 1999. And,
by Ben Osei, ‘99
while the classroom teachings left an impression, he maintains that the relationship he had with his professors greatly influenced how he views serving. “They exemplified what they were teaching,” he said, elaborating that the professors brought authenticity to what was being taught in lectures by the way they lived. He shared how visiting the home of one of his professors helped define how he views serving today. “He is a professor—he has a Ph.D.—and he was in the kitchen washing dishes, and that taught me a lot.” Osei explained that this is not common in his Ghanaian culture, so it was a shift in how he viewed the role of men, and a new perspective in what it means to serve. The relationships he had with professors taught him the value of meeting people where they are and personally investing in their lives. “I see no reason not to go down with these kids on the street, and to be at their level and serve them,” he said about the youth he serves in Jane-Finch. And now, Osei is the one exemplifying the things he says in the way he lives. He has become an accepted messenger in his community. Members of the Jane-Finch community protested his deportation in 2004, and rallied for him to return to Canada. His firm biblical training from Acadia, and his humble heart has formed a firm foundation by which Osei now shares the gospel. “I know when to show restraint, and when to look for the right timing to present the message without getting them offended,” he says, counting it blessings to have had the training he received from Acadia. And he teaches remembering that it is not what is taught, but what is lived that leaves the largest impact.
Commissioning Service & Convocation 2009
Acadia Divinity College’s graduating Class of 2009; including graduates of the Bachelor of Theology, Master of Divinity, Master of Arts (Theology) and Doctor of Ministry programs.
A Time of Celebration he Acadia Divinity College community
Tenjoyed a time of celebration the weekend
of May 8 – 10, 2009. It began with the annual Commissioning Supper where 300 students, faculty, staff, family and friends, alumni and supporters gathered to enjoy a time of fellowship. Participants were treated to a wonderful supper while listening to words of welcome by President Dr. Harry Gardner, special music, and the presentation of several prizes and awards. Greetings were brought by Dr. Tom Herman, Vice-President, Academic of Acadia University as well as from Rev. Dr. Mark Parent, then Minister of Agriculture and Minster of Labour and Workforce Development for the Province of Nova Scotia. The soon-to-be-graduates were welcomed into the ADC Alumni Association by Alumni President, Jennifer Riley. The Special Service Award was given to graduating student, Amanda Henderson, for her “significant contribution to the life, spirit, and well-being of the College”. Lastly, a special report was given by Dr. David Watt, Director of Development for ADC.
Later that evening, the 48th Annual Commissioning Service was held at Wolfville Baptist Church. Over 300 people attended this important service where 15 graduating students participated in the Act of Commissioning. At this time, the graduating class reaffirmed their commitment to Christ as Lord, and to their place in the Lord’s service and pledged themselves in all of their ministries to seek first the Will of God. Lastly, each graduating student responded positively when asked if they accepted their commission to serve the Lord Jesus Christ in His ministry. The special speaker during the Commissioning Service was Dr. Lois Mitchell whose sermon was, ““The Gospel According to Jesus: Living Justly in an Unjust World”. In addition to her work with Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches (CABC), Dr. Mitchell is the Justice Initiatives Coordinator for Canadian Baptist Ministries (CBM). She also teaches courses on Globalization and Civic Responsibility and serves as CBM’s representative on a
working group of the Canadian Council of Churches preparing for the G8 Summit being held in Canada in 2010. On Sunday, May 10, twenty-two Acadia Divinity College students walked proudly across the stage of a packed Convocation Hall to receive their diplomas. (During this time, Dr. Lois Mitchell received an honorary Doctor of Theology by Acadia University.) Graduates included Doctor of Ministry students: Kenneth Chroniger, Karen MacRae, Peter Reid. Master of Arts (Theology) graduates: Michael Ashfield, Douglas Horsman, and Bradley Longard. Master of Divinity graduates: Sarah Clapham, David Cumby, Matthew DeLong, Christopher Drew, Al Fewkes, Amanda Henderson, Craig Minard, Seth Moore, Vanessa Moore, Borden Scott, Sylvain Vachon, and Geoff deJong. Bachelor of Theology graduates: David Cawley, Chad Clements, and Deborah Ripley-Carter. Those absent were: Min Hee Park (DMin), Lynn Erskine (MDiv), Kevin Haggarty (BTh). 7
Recipient of ADC’s Special Service Award, Amanda Henderson (Master of Divinity), here with Dr. Harry Gardner, offered reflections as a graduate during Commissioning Service.
Dave Cawley (Bachelor of Theology), Sylvain Vachon (Master of Divinity) and Karen MacRae (Doctor of Ministry) line up to process into the 48th annual Commissioning Service.
Over 300 people attended the 48th annual Commissioning Service which took place at Wolfville Baptist Church on May 8, 2009.
Dr. Joyce Ross was presented with the Christian Foundation Diploma and the Diploma in Prison Ministry during Commissioning Service.
8
The Laying on of Hands during the Commissioning Prayer by Dr. Lionel Moriah.
The 2009 Graduating Class singing “In Christ Alone� to the congregation.
The ADC graduating students after completing the Act of Commissioning.
Borden Scott (Master of Divinity), seen here shaking hands with Dr. Gardner after receiving his diploma, was the recipient of the University Silver Medal in Theology during Convocation 2009.
Geoff deJong (Master of Divinity) prepares to process into Convocation Hall at Acadia University where graduation was held May 10, 2009.
Master of Divinity graduates in Convocation Hall after receiving their diplomas.
9
Chad Clements of Prince Edward Island received his Bachelor of Theology during Convocation 2009.
Dr. Lois Mitchell received an honourary Doctor of Divinity from Acadia University during Convocation 2009. She is seen here with the Chancellor, Arthur Irving, and Dr. Tom Herman, Vice-President, Academic.
Hundreds of family, friends, faculty and graduates filled Convocation Hall for the graduation ceremony. Measha Brueggergosman gave the Convocation Address after receiving an honorary Doctor of Music from Acadia University. Measha’s father, Sterling Gosman, and brother, Neville, are graduates of ADC.
Dr. Harry Gardner and Dr. Lois Mitchell after Convocation.
1010
Christopher Drew (Master of Divinity) celebrates his graduation with his wife, Meghan, and new born son, Simeon.
Dr. Harry Gardner with Master of Arts (Theology) graduates Mike Ashfield (left) and Brad Longard (right).
Development in Eastleigh
by Aaron Kenney, ‘02
Events of Interest For more information on these events, visit our website at http://adc.acadiau.ca
September 13 3:00 pm Covenanting Service (Manning Memorial Chapel)
s a student at Acadia Divinity College, the message of the Kingdom of God as both a present and future reality was transformative for my understanding of Integral Mission. When Jesus tells us that the reign of His Father is at hand, he is speaking of a new reality breaking into this world where the good and perfect will of God is to be done on earth as it is in heaven. Jesus announces and makes possible God’s initiative of redeeming the world – everyone and everything.
Adiscovering
Step by step the women mobilized to overcome problems of illiteracy, lack of clean drinking water, poor nutrition, low household incomes, and gender/ethnic discrimination. In the Somali ghetto of Eastleigh, Canadian Baptists have been working in partnership with local churches to serve and empower vulnerable families living in extreme poverty. Back in the autumn of 2007, we began to establish a new partnership with The Sharing Way and the Eastleigh Community Centre (a ministry of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa). Working directly with vulnerable mothers and young Somali women, we held a series of community meetings and visited about 120 homes. Together with the women, we began to identify and assess their strengths and the overwhelming challenges facing their families and their community. Step by step the women mobilized to overcome problems of illiteracy, lack of clean drinking water, poor
nutrition, low household incomes, and gender/ethnic discrimination. The women called their group “Iftin” a Somali word for “light” because in their words “We want to be a light for our community!” Rather than doing relief or charity work as a response to poverty, the Eastleigh Community Centre and The Sharing Way are committed to the long road of sustainable community development where we work to empower, encourage, and enable people to bring about visible signs of the Kingdom of God. This continues to draw isolated women into a circle of love and hope. Together we believe that God has a better future for their community and our world. The gospel in its fullness calls us to love and accept people and, by the mystery of the Holy Spirit, work for fundamental change in everyone: spiritual, social, economic, and physical change. Understanding Jesus’ message of the Kingdom as being multidimensional was, and is, basic to the ministry of which we are a part. In his book, Walking with the Poor, Bryant Myers argues that “To declare that the mission of the church is solely about spiritual things ignores the Incarnation”. To be followers of Jesus, we are not merely to believe the gospel, we are to follow it so that by God’s grace we will embody the love and truth of His gospel. Aaron and Erica Kenny are serving as global field staff with Canadian Baptist Ministries in a Somali Refugee Urban Development in Kenya. They live in Nairobi with their three children Tristan, Emma and Ava.
October 19-21 2009 Hayward Lectures “Creator, Creation, and Creatures God and His World” John B. Webster, Professor of Systematic Theology, School of Divinity, University of Aberdeen February 8-10 7:30 pm Simpson Lectures Festival Theatre Dr. Marva Dawn February 9 Alumni and Friends Supper 5:00 for 5:30 pm Wolfville Baptist Church Registration required: 902.585.2217 or email trisha.urquhart@acadiau.ca March 4-5 Day for Discovery Special Speaker: PASTOR RENEE EMBREE Acadia Divinity College Call to register 1.866.875.8975 ADC Informational Dessert Parties
October 19 at 7:00 p.m. First Baptist Church, Charlottetown, PE November 12 at 7:00 p.m. Birch Cove Baptist Church, Halifax, NS November 16 at 7:00 p.m. Kennebecasis Baptist Church, Quispamsis, NB November 23 at 7:00 p.m. Middleton Baptist Church, Middleton, NS 11
ADC Continuing Education - 2009/2010 HAYWARD WEEK COURSES OCTOBER 19 - 23, 2009
J – TERM COURSES JANUARY 4 - 8, 2010
CHUR 6023 - Baptist History & Polity DR. ROBERT WILSON Baptists began 400 years ago among some exiled English religious dissenters. They developed distinct principles and emphases which flow from both their history and the Scriptures. Their distinct theological interpretations have shaped modern evangelicalism and remain as defining doctrines of Atlantic Baptists that guide them as they interact with today’s culture.
CHUR 7073 – History of Baptists in Atlantic Canada DR. ROBERT WILSON Baptist history in Atlantic Canada stretches back into the eighteenth century with the foundation of a number of congregations in the wake of the Wesleyan Revivals and the Great Awakening. In the nineteenth century, Baptists in the Maritimes experienced remarkable growth on the wings of revivals that significantly shaped the emerging “denomination”. The twentieth century saw Baptists just holding their own and experiencing a decline in relationship to the population. This history helps explain Atlantic Baptists and their impact on modern Atlantic Canadian society – for no denomination does more in education, seniors’ housing, youth ministry, or evangelism.
PACC 6143 – Suicide: Perceptions & Intervention DR. CHRIS COFFIN This course will explore the issue of suicide through the experiences of survivors and their families, addressing challenges that arise in pastoral ministry. Course participants will complete the ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) program, certified by LivingWorks, Calgary. Certificates will be given for this portion. The ASIST workshop is included in the tuition for credit students. Auditors may attend the first three days for $100, and may take the ASIST workshop for an extra $250. ASIST is the nationally-recognized training program for first-responders and those in the helping professions. THEO 7513 – Theology of Reformers DR. BILL BRACKNEY The Reformation is the great theological watershed in Christian heritage. This course will explore in depth the thinking and writing of the great Reformers including Luther, Zwingli, hubmaker, metanotion, Cranmer, and John Calvin whose 500th birthday is this year. Students will use the primary sources of these theologians. This is the second in sequence of a set of courses covering the historic development of Christian thought.
YMIN 6123 - Interpreting Youth Culture DR. JEFF CARTER AND JAMES PENNER This course is an examination of Canadian and global millennial youth culture trends. Topics include the subcultural features which surround youth as a social category, adolescence in historical and generational perspective, socialization and the shifting relationship between youth and social institutions such as the family, religion, education, state, and market economy.
PRAC 6123 – Theology & Practice of Prayer DR. LIONEL MORIAH This course will examine the biblical basis of the theology of Christian prayer, and also explore an overview of its practice in various Christian traditions. Participants are expected to gain greater knowledge of prayer, and a deeper appreciation for the varied approaches in the practice of prayer, both personally and corporately, through practical exercises during the course.
ADC IN METRO FALL 2009 CHUR 5013 – Church History I DR. ROBERT WILSON Christianity, as a living organism, grew in response to the implications of the Lordship of Christ in a variety of cultural settings, first in the Roman Empire and then beyond its shrinking borders. Moving from “fire to favous” in the first three centuries, this small group of believers changed their world and came to be the primary cultural shapers of Western Europe before 1500. Through this process, the church developed doctrines, worship forms, expressed piety, and created patterns of ministry and organisation, many of which still have an impact on the church of our age. Day & Time: Mondays - 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. September 14 to December 7
SIMPSON WEEK COURSES FEBRUARY 8 - 12, 2010
Location: Birch Cove Baptist Church, Halifax
PACC 6163 – Caught in the Web: The Dark Side of the Internet DR. VICKI PATTON Dr. Patton will explore the power and dynamics of Internet addiction and the issues of isolation, loneliness, secrecy, and condemnation which accompany it. The course will offer practical approaches, including the role of faith, for those in ministry or the helping professions in dealing with this complex problem.
BIBL 5013 – Old Testament Introduction I REV. MATTHEW WALSH This course will encourage participants to treasure and rediscover the Old Testament as an important part of God’s revelation, which has continued relevance for Christian thinking and living. Readings, assignments and class time will be devoted to looking at Genesis through Nehemiah in their historical, religious and literary contexts. Special emphasis will be on divine providence as witnessed in the call of Abraham, the lives of the Patriarchs, and in the midst of the faith and failings of the nation of Israel, all of which paved the way
For all Courses: If you would like to audit or take a course for credit, contact Student Services at: adcinfo@acadiau.ca or 1-866-875-8975
> Continued on Page 13 12
Continuing Education opportunities > Continued from Page 12 for the fulfillment of God’s plan of salvation in the life, death and resurrection of Israel’s Saviour, Jesus Christ. Day & Time: Tuesdays - 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. September15 to December 8 Location: Regal Road Baptist Church, Dartmouth
PACC 6123 – Ministry with Seniors REV. GARY MYATT This course will explore aging as it relates to spiritual development and the need for pastoral care and counselling, including the pastoral care of persons with dementia, their families and caregivers. The course will include class presentations on theory as well as descriptions of helping approaches that will be practiced during class
sessions. Participants will be exposed to case studies and invited into discussion as well. Day & Time: Wednesdays - 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. September 17 to December 3 Location: Parkland Estates, Fairfax Dr., Halifax
Day & Time: Mondays - 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
ADC IN METRO • WINTER 2010 CHUR 5023 – Church History II DR. ROBERT WILSON Christianity moved in radically different directions with the reformation. The new Protestants, the continuing Roman Catholics, and the Greek Orthodox Church would interact with their world and take quite different directions. The hostilities ran very deeply and the numerous divergent streams of Protestantism would transform the church, particularly as
Professor Trites Teaches in Hong Kong and at ADC College under the late Dr. Charles Taylor, and have done remarkable work in Clinical Pastoral Education in both Hong Kong and mainland China.
Dr. Trites with students from Bethel Theological Seminary, Kowloon, Hong Kong
r. Allison Trites, retired Payzant Professor of Biblical Studies at Acadia Divinity College, has had a busy few months of teaching, both on the Acadia campus and overseas. On Boxing Day he set out for China, where he visited Fukien Province, and later Macau. His main purpose in the trip was to teach a course in New Testament Theology for ADC’s affiliated institution, Bethel Bible Seminary in Hong Kong, where Drs. Gaspard Lam and Nelson Yiu have given leadership over many years. Both men studied at Acadia Divinity
DDistinguished
it spread outside the European base. An understanding of the diverse stories is crucial in understanding church history. The present-day church is dramatically shaped by its history even as it writes its own values on the modern world.
During the visit, Dr. Trites preached in several Hong Kong churches and visited the Hong Kong Bible Society, bringing greetings as a governor of the Canadian Bible Society. He also had an opportunity to meet several theological educators including Dr. Thu En Yu, Principal of Sabah Theological Seminary from Sabah, Malaysia, and Rev. Alfred Y.C. Kong, former President of Hong Kong Baptist Theological Seminary, plus the Chaplain of Hong Kong Baptist University, Dr. King-Tak Ip. On his return to Nova Scotia, Dr. Trites immediately began teaching the second half of the New Testament course, “The Introduction to the Apostolic Age,” replacing Dr. Craig Evans for the semester as he takes a partial sabbatical. Dr. Trites is also teaching the Historical Theology course for the Lay Pastors’ Training program.
Location: Birch Cove Baptist Church, Halifax
BIBL 5023 – Old Testament Introduction II REV. MATT WALSH In this course we will continue to rediscover the Old Testament, as we spend time in what for many is the least familiar section of the Bible: Esther through Malachi. Day & Time: Tuesdays - 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Location: Regal Dartmouth
Road
Baptist
Church,
Jesus, the Final Days What do history and archaeology have to say about Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection? Authors Craig Evans ( Pa y z a n t Distinguished Professor of NT at Acadia Divinity College) and N. T. Wright (Bishop of Durham, England) team up to tackle these controversial and important topics in their new book Jesus, the Final Days: What Really Happened. They demonstrate that the evidence for the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus-contrary to what some have said in the popular media-is substantial and compelling. Available from Westminster John Knox Press (www.wjkbooks.com).
13
Day for Discovery
Alumni News BERRY, Paul, ’92, has been called to Springhill Baptist Church, NS. BIGELOW, Fred, ’88, has resigned from the Ashmore and Riverside Baptist Churches, NS. CAWLEY, Dave, ’09 has been called to serve New Tusket United Baptist Church, NS.
Discover Your Calling
CLARK, Renee, ’02, has resigned from Freeport and Tiverton Baptist Churches, NS and has accepted a call as Minister of Christian Education at First Baptist Church in Halifax, NS.
Are you sensing a call to the ministry? Join us for Day for Discovery and find out how Acadia Divinity College can help you.
COOK, Colin, ’05, has resigned from First Baptist Moncton, NB as Assistant Pastor and has accepted a call to Sunny Brae Baptist Church, NB.
March 4-5, 2010 Acadia Divinity College, Wolfville, NS
CUMBY, Dave, ’09, has resigned from West Halls Harbour United Baptist Church and accepted a call to serve at Bridgetown and Centrelea United Baptist Churches, NS.
Have you been asking yourself, “How do I know if God is calling me into ministry”? “What can I expect to gain from a theological education”? Have you wondered about the costs involved and what type of financial assistance might be available to you? Day for Discovery is an excellent opportunity if you are considering a vocation in Christian service. With a distinguished record of theological education, ADC is committed to equipping individuals to become effective Christian leaders whether in the church, overseas or in the local community. We are also committed to providing students with a variety of study options including on campus classes, distance learning courses and part-time studies. Special Speaker: Rev. Renee Embree Renée Embree graduated from Acadia Divinity College with an MA in Theology. Renée has been challenged to live out the gospel with God’s people in various places across the globe—in Scotland, in India, in the Czech Republic and right here in the Maritimes. She has a passion to see people captured by Jesus, so that it completely transforms their life and the lives of those around them. Renée is currently the Associate Pastor at Main Street Baptist Church in Saint John, NB. For More Info Contact us at: 902-585-2217 or 1-866-875-8975 Email: adcinfo@acadiau.ca Register at http://adc.acadiau.ca 14
DIMOCK, Carol, ’89, has accepted a call to serve as Interim Chaplain at the Evergreen Home for Special Care in Kentville, NS. DOUCETTE, Karen, ’08, has been called to Oxford Baptist Church, NS.
MACDONALD, Freda, ’97, has accepted a call to serve at Black Rock United Baptist Church, NS. MACGREGOR, Adam, ’05, has completed his ministry at Brookfield Baptist Church, NS. MACKINNON, Eric, ’96, has completed his ministry at Grafton Baptist Church, NB and has been called to Brookfield Baptist Church, NS. MACLELLAN, Allan, ’84, has resigned from Sydney Mines United Baptist Church, NS. MACLEOD, Todd, ’90 has been called to Jacksonville Baptist Church, NB as Associate Pastor. MOORE, Seth, ’09 has been called to serve as summer Chaplain for the Cadet Camp at CFB Gagetown, NB. POLEY, Gordon, ’85, has resigned from Sunny Brae Baptist Church, NB to accept a call to Military Chaplaincy, Greenwood, NS. READ, Randall, ’99, has resigned from Billtown Baptist Church and has accepted a call to Military Chaplaincy at CFB Gagetown, NB.
DREW, Christopher, ’09 and his wife Meghan are rejoicing in the birth of their son, Simeon Reese, February 23, 2009.
REID, Brian, ’07, has resigned from the New Tusket Baptist Church, NS.
DREW, Christopher, ’09 has been called to West End Baptist Church, Halifax, NS as Associate Pastor.
RILEY, Sherrolyn, ’02, has accepted a call as part-time pastor at Mahone Bay Baptist Church, NS.
HILL, Nathan, ’07, and his wife Mandy welcomed son, Benjamin William-Clarke Hill, on December 1, 2008.
ROBBINS, Anna, ’93 and Peter ’94, welcome a son on November 23, 2008, David Alan Alfred Robbins.
HOPPER, Steven, ’88, has accepted a call to Liverpool and Brooklyn Baptist Churches, NS.
TAYLOR, Heather, ’01, has been selected to attend Saint Paul University in Ottawa, ON to achieve a MA in Spirituality and Counselling.
INGRAM, Dan, ’04, and his wife Danielle welcome a daughter, Ellianna Ingram, January 28, 2008. JOHNSON, Tim, ’06, has resigned from Riverside-Albert, Harvey New Horton Baptist Churches, NB to accept a call to Shelburne Baptist Church, NS. LOCKE, Phil, ’92, has accepted a call to Pleasantville Baptist Church, NS.
TEED, Steven, ’07, and his wife Sheena welcome a son Rylan Zayne Teed. TIDD, Perley, ’67, has resigned as part-time pastor at New Canada Baptist Church and accepted a call as part-time pastor at Port Mouton Baptist Church, NS.
MIND THE GAP
Dr. David Watt
Dear Friends, During the years my wife, Florence, and I served with CBM in Europe, London was often the stepping off point of our visits. I can still hear the voice on the London underground warning “mind the gap!” As we step into a new fiscal year at ADC, we are challenged to find the funding that will help us reach over the “gap” of $15,000 that was the shortfall of last year’s goal of $300,000. A number of our regular donors have added an extra gift this year (some sharing a portion of their income tax rebates) for which we are very grateful. As we go to press, the financial markets around the world have been seeing an increase. This
should help (availability of more funds) as we reach toward the Annual Fund goal of $310,000 in this new financial year. In the end, this ministry is a faith mission and we trust God to supply the needs of the College through the gifts of His generous people. We are reminded once again of Paul’s list of spiritual gifts in Romans, including “… if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously.” (Romans 12:8) We invite you to prayerfully consider what God would have you contribute to the mission of ADC this year. Again, we are grateful to God for your faithful prayers and financial support.
Acadia Divinity College Annual Fund Donations 2008/09
Alumni 13%
Individuals 32%
Church’s 52%
Corporations 3%
Dr. William H. Brackney new Director of ACBAS The Board of Trustees of Acadia Divinity College is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. William H. Brackney as the third Director of the Acadia Centre for Baptist and Anabaptist Studies (ACBAS). Dr. Brackney presently serves as the Millard R. Cherry Distinguished Professor of Christian Theology and Ethics at Acadia Divinity College, and a member of the Faculty of Theology of Acadia University. His appointment came with the enthusiastic unanimous support of the Administrative Committee of ACBAS.
Please remove and mail with donation, or call with your information.
Name ................................................................................................................................................... Address ................................................................................................................................................ City..........................................................Prov/State........................ Postal/Zip Code ......................... Phone (
)...........................................................Email.................................................................
VISA/MC Number ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___
Expiration Date ___ ___ / ___ ___ Choose
Please accept my gift of $______________ for the ADC Annual Fund. Please note my change of address. Please remove my name from the mailing list. Please send me information on the Personally Approved Payment Plan. Contact me about wills and other gift planning options.
Name on VISA/MC............................................................................................................................. Spending of funds is confined to Board approved proAcadia Divinity College Wolfville NS B4P 2R6 http://adc.acadiau.ca
CALL: (902) 585-2217 Fax: (902) 585-2233 EMAIL: adcinfo@acadiau.ca
THANK YOU
FOR HELPING PREPARE CHRISTIAN LEADERS!
grams and purchases. Each gift designated toward an approved program will be used as designated with the understanding that when any given need has been met, designated gifts will be used where needed most. Gifts are acknowledged and an official receipt issued for income tax purposes.
15
Making a Difference Helping to equip leadership for the church in the 21st century is a humbling and invigorating task. It goes far beyond the learning from texts and preparation for examinations. While these are important, the development of a vision for service is a crucial part of preparation. The recent Simpson Lectures on “Just Living: A Biblical Imperative for the 21st Century” was an opportunity to catch a broader vision. Ronald Sider, author of Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger, challenged all of us to think of service for Christ as being not only in the local church context but also to “Love the Whole Person the Way Jesus Did: Holistic Ministry in the 21st Century”. The call to “make a difference” for Christ goes beyond our normal comfort zones to the ministry to the poor, the oppressed, and the hopeless, wherever they are found. At the end of the lectures, one student said: “I will never look at ministry in a narrow sense again.” For the faculty, it became a time of reflection. We remembered those who went before us who had a vision for “making a difference” to the whole person. Dr. Earl Merrick, as a missionary in Bolivia, was
Dr. Robert Wilson
involved in freeing the serfs through land reform as Canadian Baptists modeled how it could be done. When he came here to teach, he had a clothing depot for the poor in his office. Dr. Charlie Taylor was the father of clinical pastoral education in Canada and his vision for ministry in the prisons led him to found Canada’s first prison chaplaincy program. The prison ministry goes on and there is a street marathon for former prisoners at many times a year here at ADC. Dr. Jerry Zeman fled Czechoslovakia ahead of the Communist takeover and in Canada ministered for many years to refugees, and brought that compassion for the oppressed to his teaching. Dr. Abner Langley met people at Pier 21 in Halifax to welcome them to a new life in Canada.
In our courses, we call attention to see the broader needs of the world. The impact of these leaders and other faithful mentors is seen in the lives of our alumni who are presently involved in ministries which go beyond the local church to “make a difference” in very practical ways around the world. This ADC TODAY shares some of the stories of graduates who
are “making a difference” in many peoples’ lives. There are several others whose stories are no less significant. For this generation of students, we continue to open the doors of opportunity and vision. In our courses, we call attention to see the broader needs of the world. Student mission trips to Europe, particularly to the Czech Republic and Poland, have developed new relationships and opportunities for service. Canadian Baptist Ministries has an education program (Praxis) for students and for the past three summers, two or three of our students have travelled each year to Lebanon, India, and Kenya. They were lifealtering experiences as they met and worked with people who were “making a difference” in the lives of the poor, the oppressed and those longing for hope in Jesus Christ. On Sunday, my pastor, Rev John McNally, reminded the people at Kentville that: “The place God calls you is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet.” (Buechman) For us at ADC, the challenge is for each student to understand his/her gifts, to see the world’s needs, and to discover the joy of “making a difference” for Christ.
If undeliverable please return to:
Acadia Divinity College 15 University Avenue Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6
41228525