ADC Today - Winter 2009

Winter 2009 • Vol. 05, No. 02

I Stand at The Door

Ella B. MacLeod of Penobsquis, NB hosts Pastor Jurek Rogaczewski, from Katowice Baptist Church, Poland.

Ella has set up an Operating Endowment at Acadia Divinity College and a Bursary for students in memory of her parents.

est End Baptist Church in Halifax

W joined the local business community

for the annual celebration called Quinpool Day. Dozens of local people passed through the church parking area as members provided hotdogs, painted faces, decorated cookies and entertained families. It is a great time of connecting with people from the neighborhood and informing them of the programs the church offers the community.

Each year that I have participated some wonderful conversations have ensued. I was

intrigued by the response of a visiting Christian leader when I asked him what his involvement was in his own church. He said, “I have been serving on the welcome committee. I love people and want to see them connect with the church and its ministries. Greeting visitors is an aspect of church life that we don’t always do well. I really work at it and feel it is important.”

The Psalmist elevates the lowly task of being a doorkeeper (gatekeeper) in the temple. He writes, “I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than to dwell in the tents of the wicked.” (Psalm 84:10b) This is a practical area of hospitality that we need to address in our churches. It is that first

impression that often determines whether a visitor returns to a church for a second look.

Back in the late nineties I connected with a church in Western Canada that had an ambitious program of visitation and as a result was growing quite rapidly. An important part of their outreach was to have well trained greeters that welcomed visitors and connected them with individuals or small groups in the church.

Our own church at the time had a few who served as greeters and embraced new people by inviting them for a meal at their home.

How well do we harness the gifts of hospitality in our churches? This summer we hosted a team of youth leaders and their pastor from Katowice, Poland. High on

From the President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Siblings Share a Passion. . . . . . . . . . . 3 New Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Hospitality in the Margins . . . . . . . . 5 Covenanting 2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Gifts of Encouragement . . . . . . . . . . . 7

> Continued on Page 2

ADC Continuing Education . . . . . . . . 8 Events of Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Dr. Brackney Publishes 4 Books . . . 10 The Acadia Partnership. . . . . . . . . . . 12 Alumni News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Distinguished Alumni Award . . . . . . 16 1

I Stand at The Door > from Page 1

Come On In y grandfather was the village blacksmith during my mother’s growing up years in Greenfield, Queens County.

She had vivid memories of helping her mother make bread and prepare the noon meal because they never knew how many people her father would

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bring home. Opening the home for a meal was a common practice and one that carried on in my home growing up as well. My father would often do the same and it is good that mother had lots of experience and a heart as big as the table that was spread with food.

I think that has become part of me as well. I thoroughly enjoy Christian ministry because of the opportunity to share in the lives of others. I remember on one occasion when my father was near 90 as we came from visiting at a senior’s home, he said, “You know those old people love it when you come”.

Throughout his life he had been a regular visitor there.

Gail and I have been recipients of the gracious hospitality of many people through the years here in Canada and across the world. It has often been at kitchen tables that some of the richest spiritual conversations have occurred.

Recently I was privileged to share in a funeral service for a woman who had always welcomed me warmly to her home. On one of my pastoral visits as we discussed spiritual things around the table, her husband spoke up and said

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that he wanted what his wife had.

Shortly thereafter I baptized them together with their teen daughter. Their hospitality opened the door for another unseen Guest to join us at their table and to make a natural entrance into their hearts and lives.

The privilege of opening our home and encouraging students and their families to come in has been a new chapter of blessing in our lives. Whether it is our home or at my office at ADC we have been the rich recipients of the stories of people’s lives. It seems incredible to me that a simple act of welcoming a person can be such a blessing. A sober second thought makes me realize what that has meant to me at times as well.

Not everyone has the gift of hospitality but Christians are called to practice hospitality. Some will even entertain angels and not even know it.

Learning to share in the lives of others is a key component in Christian ministry and is a priority in our teaching at the College. At this time of year we are mindful that “the Word became flesh and lived for awhile among us and we beheld His glory…Who came from the Father, full of grace and truth”. Because He came to us, we can have an abundant and eternal life.

Please pray for us and support us as you are led that we will be effective in demonstrating hospitality and teaching students to do the same. In the midst of their future conversations as they show genuine interest in others, Christ will make His way into those hearts and homes as well.

their response at the end of the visit was their deep gratitude for the opportunity to visit our homes, enjoy our Maritime cooking - learning about how we live our Christian faith. Ella MacLeod, from Penobsquis, represents one of many homes where the Polish team experienced a “down East” welcome and warm Christian hospitality.

Recently I revisited the famous poem by Samuel Shoemaker, “I Stand At The Door”. Shoemaker highlights his calling to stand at the door that leads people into the presence of God.

Some have a calling to go deep into the faith. However, he is passionate about staying ”near the door.” There he finds those longing for God, seeking to find their way into his presence.

Others, he discovers, need a word of encouragement and a reminder of the abundant life that God offers. He is called to “stand at the door” to help people in and to be sure that no one falls out.

The welcome committee is a practical ministry that will strengthen your church and impact your community. One man said, “Whenever I engage someone I learn and grow.” It is time that the Christian church sets the standard for neighborliness and reconciliation – welcoming people with joy and intentionality. Yes, “I stand at the door!”

Siblings Share a Passion for The Church

Rev. Nancy Murphy, ’04

he Murphy kids in ministry? Who would

Thave thought? Certainly not our parents

who endured endless sibling squabbles, arguments, pestering and pranks. Over the years, however, a lot has changed. Now, my brother, Wayne ‘99, and I have times together with fewer squabbles and a lot more opportunities to share how God is working in our lives, to encourage each other, and to share ideas – but of course you need to remember we are still brother and sister!

As hard as it is to admit, I followed in Wayne’s footsteps in attending Atlantic Baptist University and Acadia Divinity College. We are grateful to both schools for helping to shape our vision for ministry.

Nine years ago, Wayne was called to Norton United Baptist Church, in Norton, NB to serve as senior pastor. Since arriving, he and his wife, Angie, now have a family that has grown to include five children. They have also witnessed growth within their church family.

They are now in the midst of constructing a multi-purpose expansion that includes new washrooms, a bonus room and a large common area allowing space for receptions and various programs for children and youth.

Five years ago, I was called to serve as Associate Pastor to Children at Brunswick

Street Baptist Church in Fredericton, NB. We also have experienced growth within our congregation and have recently celebrated the opening of our Family Life Centre. This new facility includes age-appropriate classrooms for children and youth.

Growing up, it was impossible for me to realize that Wayne and I had anything in common.

We were a brother and sister with different gifts and abilities.

Worlds apart! It is now neat to

see how God is using our individual gifts in different places to accomplish the same goal.

Wayne and I share a passion for the church – a passion for it to be relevant to the communities of which they are a part. Although the ministries, locations, and buildings in which we serve are very different, they share a common purpose of providing more opportunities for ministry.

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Day for Discovery

New Program! Minor in Theological Studies cadia Divinity College (ADC), as the of Theology of Acadia University (AU), is pleased to provide a new opportunity for Acadia undergraduates – a Minor in Theological Studies!

Undergraduates at AU, no matter what their degree or major, are invited to choose courses from among ADC’s undergraduate academic course offerings.

Students can choose courses that interest them from the fields of New Testament, Old Testament, Church History, Theology, and Ethics.

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Discover Your Calling March 4-5, 2010 Acadia Divinity College, Wolfville, 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. Renée Embree

Renée Embree graduated from Acadia Divinity College with an M.Div. and an MA in Theology.

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

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“As word spreads on the campus we’ve had some keen interest among undergraduate students in the other faculties”, says Academic Dean, Dr. Chris Killacky. “We have been offering these courses all along as part of our Bachelor of Theology program and its makes sense to make them available to the wider AU student body.”

Students interested in taking a Minor in Theological Studies are invited to meet with the ADC Registrar who can advise them in the selection of their courses.

Jesus Bread - Making Significant Sam Jess, 3rd year Master of Divinity Connections On Campus preacher once asked, “In the gospels, when do we see Jesus at his best?” Doing miracles? Preaching? “No,” he said, “I’m convinced that Jesus was at his best when he was engaging with individuals on their own turf.”

People like the woman at the well, various lepers, the rich young ruler, and Nicodemus.

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my faith on people, but I knew that if I showed love to people, then the questions and conversations would come.

I prayed with some friends about what to do to connect with students, and an idea came to me: I had a breadmaker stored away in my parents’ house. So I started making fresh When I was looking for a seminary, what bread late in the evening, when students have attracted me to ADC the most was that fact the munchies, or when they’re partying. It helps with the over-drinking, that it is right in the middle as the bread absorbs alcohol. of a secular campus. In my (Some big party nights I’ll undergrad I was trained in make 10 pounds of bread.) my Christian walk by the And it gives students a sense Navigators. They taught of home: everything else in me to see the residence as a the campus atmosphere is great place to grow and to mass produced, not made learn Jesus’ ways of reachwith care. And without me ing people. So I was excitpushing anything, a lot of stued, after four years out of dents seem to know that it school, to move into resicomes as an outworking of my dence here at Acadia when I Sam Jess faith. Many extended convercame to ADC. I was blessed sations develop. It’s encouragto get a job as a Residence Assistant (RA), where my job is to build ing when even the most hardened atheists community and to get to know the resi- bite into it and say, “Oh, yum, Jesus bread!” dents. As an RA, I am not allowed to push

Hospitality in the Margins s I sat around the table with the staff of Free Flight, under the corrugated roof just outside the kitchen, on my second visit to Brazil in the past year, it occurred to me that I felt like I belonged!

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In Aguas Lindas de Goias, Brazil, where CBM partner Joyce Hancock has spent much of the past decade, this is the kind of mid-day gathering that happens at workplaces throughout the country. I’ve been told

the gringo (me) catches the humour this time. And like the Torah teaches, the foreigner is welcome.

This experience reminds me of another cross cultural experience of hospitality from a year earlier when I spent a week at Jacob’s Well in the downtown eastside of Vancouver. Located in the poorest postal code in Canada, Jacob’s Well is a unique blend of individuals from diverse back-

Paige Zwicker and Rachel Smallhorn, from FBC Dartmouth and four staff of Free Flight (Adilio, Frank, Dinealton, Josue and Diego) around the table at lunch.

that it is law for employers to provide a noon meal for employees. I’m aware, as I am treated another delectable meal of arroz y feijao (rice and beans), frango (chicken), farofa (manioc) and a tall glass of Guarana, that this is perhaps the best meal any of us will have today. But even beyond the blessing of a nutritious and delicious meal, something else is taking place . . . we are relating like family!

Frank is teasing Josue (affectionately referred to as Jean-Claude Van Damme) for piling his plate so high in contrast to his diminutive stature; Bruno is entertaining us with his perfectly enunciated English inquiry (the only phrase he knows) to his friend Adilio, “How are you my boy?” and laughter erupts! Even

grounds that have become a community that practices hospitality. One example of this is something called Community Kitchen, which happens each Tuesday evening as friends from the neighbourhood, many of whom are staying in an SRO (single room occupancy) or are homeless, are invited to a shared meal. Unlike the typical soup kitchen model, where guests line up on one side of a counter and volunteers or staff hand out food from the other side, Community Kitchen is a time where everyone is involved equally, from choosing the menu, to acquiring the food items (whether from a local market or Jacob’s Well’s own “guerrilla garden” off Hastings), to the actu-

Rev. Martin Zwicker, ’95 al food prep and clean up. By far, however, the most powerful distinctive of Community Kitchen though is that everyone sits down together and eats together like family. I am reminded of Psalm 68:6, “God sets the lonely in families.”

In the wildly popular best seller, Three Cups of Tea, Greg Mortenson shares his experience of hospitality following his failed attempt to summit K2, the second highest peak in the world. One of the team has fallen ill and must be carried down the mountain. Mortenson and another team member volunteer to take him, while hoping they will be able to rejoin the team and the attempt to summit which never happens.

Eventually, the man is rescued, but the exhausted Mortenson finds himself wandering off the trail to a remote village in the mountains of Pakistan. There he is welcomed and cared for while he regains strength. One of the customs of the village, he learns, is to share a pot of tea. But the custom involves more than just one cup, three actually, and each has its own significance, “The first cup of tea, you're a stranger; the second cup, a friend; and the third cup, you're family.”

We often think of ourselves in twenty first century North America as far removed from, and significantly advanced beyond, the customs and ways of first century Middle Easterners or even undeveloped nations or neighbourhoods in our time. But there is a lesson in hospitality that is waiting to be learned and experienced, that will not only enrich our communities, but enable us to experience the kingdom of God! Martin is Co-Pastor at First Baptist Dartmouth and has been on the pastoral staff since 2001.

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Covenanting 2009

Dr. Lionel Moriah, ’85

“From time to time the Lord's people have gathered and assembled together for the purpose of seeking renewal of the Holy Spirit in their midst in order to perform work that is acceptable and honouring to the Lord. Acadia Divinity College hereby seeks to work collectively with families and congregations, as partners in Jesus Christ in the work of training men and women for ministry in the church to the glory God. Therefore, as servants of Christ, we are pleased to covenant together with you for this purpose, seeking the Lord’s anointing upon us in this endeavour.”

he above quotation summarizes the goal and intent of a special worship experience held in the Manning Memorial Chapel on the afternoon of September 13, 2009. The diverse assembly comprised all who were in some way associated with Acadia Divinity College.

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The gathering included: students - new and continuing, part-time and full-time; families of students; Regional Ministers; President of Acadia University, Mr. Ray Ivany; President of Acadia Divinity College, Dr. Harry Gardner; staff and faculty with their families; and student’s supervisors (pastors of local churches who are partners with ADC to provide onsite mentoring and training for students on Pastoral

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Ministry Track). Hymns were sung, scriptures read, special music presented, and Dr. Gardner preached a sermon on the theme of “serving one another”, based on the “one another” statements in the New Testament.

This was the third annual Covenanting Service. The first service took place in September 2007 under the initiative of Dr. Robert Wilson, then interim President of Acadia Divinity College.

The intent of the service is to provide a venue for the celebration and observance of the beginning of the school year as a community of faith and learning.

During the service on September 13, pledges are made between the various parties, in which mutual commitment of support and accountability is expressed. Everyone was invited to a time of refreshments in Manning Hall, following the service.

The event is also intended to be a corollary of the Commissioning Service held each spring, prior to Convocation, as another celebration and observance of successful completion of studies by graduands. Both events are very much appreciated for their experience and symbolism, and we anticipate God’s blessing in all our endeavors through such would likely be part of ADC heritage for years to come.

Gifts of Encouragement

Dr. David Watt Director of Development, ’65, ’80, ’99

“I thank my God every time I remember you.”

Philippians 1:3 ne of the themes that echo through the letters that Paul writes to the early church is that of thanksgiving. He is repeatedly expressing his gratitude to God for his transforming grace, and to fellow believers for their wonderful support in the mission of the gospel. We find ourselves echoing that same sentiment around the Development Office at ADC. We are constantly amazed at God’s provision and humbled by the sacrificial giving of so many of our supporters.

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In the last issue of ADC TODAY we featured three new bursaries that have been established. All three have seen significant funds from a variety of sources building these endowments. One family friend sent in a gift of $3,000 to strengthen one of the bursaries and a church raised over $4,000 from a Thanksgiving Offering in support of another bursary. We are encouraged by these gifts and want to express our gratitude.

We would like to highlight one of the nine Academic Chairs being featured in the Acadia Partnership Campaign. Our attention is directed to the Abner J Langley and Harold L Mitton Chair of Church Leadership. Dr. Harry Gardner holds this chair and serves as President of ADC.

Harold Mitton and Abner Langley both served as well loved pastors of key Canadian Baptist churches. These two servant-leaders were great friends, and served ADC in the capacity of Principal as well as in other roles over a number of

We extend our congratulations to Dr. Harold and Mrs. Marguerite Mitton on reaching the milestone of a 65th wedding anniversary. The Mittons were married by Rev. Harry Taylor in Hartland Baptist Church. Also, we congratulate Mrs. Thelma Langley on the recent celebration of her 99th Birthday, Dr. Millard Cherry on his 88th, and Dr. Harold Mitton on his 90th!

years. They were leaders in denominational life and mentored younger pastors and church leaders. Harry Gardner and I have shared stories with each other of how these two men shaped our ministry (and others) through significant teaching moments and modeling of church leadership.

Your gift to the Abner J Langley and Harold L Mitton Chair of Church Leadership will assist ADC in helping to train students in the area of church leadership in the present and for future generation. Your gift will also honor the memory of the significant leadership these men brought to ADC and to the wider work of God’s Kingdom.

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ADC Continuing Education - Winter 2010 J - TERM: JANUARY 4 - 8, ACADIA DIVINITY COLLEGE 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 sub-cultural 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.

SIMPSON WEEK: FEBRUARY 8 - 12, ACADIA DIVINITY COLLEGE CAUGHT IN THE WEB: THE DARK SIDE OF THE INTERNET AND ITS IMPACT ON THE CHURCH 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.

THEOLOGY AND 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.

MISSIONS AND THE CHURCH Rev. Terry Smith The course is designed to enable the student to look at the Christian missionary movement from a biblical, historical and contemporary perspective. It will encourage the student to explore missions in a practical and personal way as they prepare themselves for service in the community of faith – serving both locally and globally. The focus of the course in on the “local church” and how it engages in mission globally.

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LEADERSHIP THAT ADVANCES THE MISSION Dr. Bruce Fawcett Advancing the ministry of a congregation or other Christian organization requires effective leadership.

This course will explore leadership theory and arts that can help a Christian leader advance the mission of his or her ministry. Topics will include: defining leadership and followership, establishing and communicating vision, time management, communications, fund raising, and growth strategies. Barriers to success in ministry leadership including failure, disappointment, and conflict will also be discussed.

VIRTUAL COURSE 2010 LOCAL CHURCH AND YOUTH MINISTRY Rev. Dale Stairs An introduction to the practice of youth ministry in the local church. Topics to be discussed include: Understanding Atlantic Canada, developing a theology and philosophy of youth ministry and designing youth ministry programs for both large and small churches in rural and urban areas.

Time: Mondays from 2:15 - 4:15 pm Date: January 11 - April 12

REGISTRATION: If you are interested in having more information on any of these courses, or if you would like to register, please contact Lorraine Higgins as soon as possible at: lorraine.higgins@acadiau.ca Phone: 902-585-2215 or Toll Free: 1-866-875-8975.

ADC IN METRO CHURCH HISTORY AFTER THE REFORMATION 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 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.

Location: Birch Cove Baptist, Halifax Time: Mondays - 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

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.

Location: Regal Road Baptist, Dartmouth Time: Tuesdays - 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

INTRODUCTION TO FAMILY THERAPY Dorothy Messenger This course introduces students to modern family theories and therapies. It will teach how to minister effectively to individuals, couples, and families in the congregation in times of transition, difficulty, and crisis. As a pre-requisite to effective ministry, students will carry out an in-depth exploration of their family of origin.

Location: Bedford-Sackville area - TBA Time: Wednesdays - 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

SPRING 2010 DEAD SEA SCROLLS AND THE NEW TESTAMENT Dr. Craig Evans Location: Halifax Time: May 31 - June 4 BIBLICAL UNDERSTAND OF FAMILY AND MARRIAGE Gail Noel Location: ADC YOUTH MINISTRY INSTITUTE: COUNSELLING ADOLESCENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES Dr. Marv Penner Location: ADC Dates: May 17 - 21

Hayward Lectures rofessor John Webster of the University of Aberdeen awed

Phis audience with his stimulating lectures on God and His

world. Professor Webster presented three evening lectures, treating God as Creator, God’s creation, and humanity, God’s creature. Each lecture was followed by lively questions and discussion. Dr. Craig Evans, who directs the Hayward Lecture series, was pleased with the strong attendance.

“Professor Dr. Harry Gardner and Webster emailed me,” Evans Dr. John Webster said, “to say how much he enjoyed his visit. He expressed great appreciation for the warm Acadia welcome extended to him.” Professor Webster’s lectures will be published in the Acadia Studies in Bible and Theology series, which is published by Baker Academic Press.

ONE-WEEK INTENSIVES A SUCCESS While the Hayward Lectures were taking place, ADC was also offering an exciting line-up of one-week intensive courses as well as a three-day orientation for Doctor of Ministry students. Over 50 students and auditors participated in courses such as Suicide: Prevention & Perception, Baptist History & Polity, and Theology of Reformers.

Many of the students involved in the oneweek intensives were distance students who rarely have the opportunity to take courses onsite and enjoy the warm ADC community. One Master of Arts ADC welcomes students from (Theology) student around the world. Rabih Wazir, a student from Lebanon, is travelled all the way welcomed to campus by Trisha from Lebanon to take a Urquhart, Development Office theology course, while and Shawna Peverill, Registrar. several others were from New Brunswick or other parts of Nova Scotia. During the week, ADC treated students to a luncheon in order to bring all classes together.

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Dr. Brackney publishes 4 books this year; begins new research program r. William Brackney, R. Cherry Distinguished Professor at the Divinity College since 2006, has published four major books this year: Congregation and Campus: A History of North American Baptists in Higher Education; Historical Dictionary of the Baptists; A Capsule History of Baptist Principles; and Studying Christianity.

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“My work over the last little while has spanned a wide landscape and I am extremely grateful for the response in various communities of interest”, says Brackney.

He noted that several of his works are now in their second editions. (Acadia alums will be interested in the coverage of Acadia University in the volume).

Having completed these works, Brackney reports he is now commencing several research projects including an historical dic-

tionary of radical Christian groups from the early church to the present and a volume in the “Dissentium Series” published in Germany and devoted to scholarship of the 17th century Protestant dissenting traditions. Likely his most energetic project in many years is “BENA: Baptists in Early North America,” in which the original texts of key 17th and 18th century congregations will be published with critical introductions and supporting scholarship.

Dr. Brackney serves as general editor of the series and will prepare two volumes himself.

He describes the series as an exploration into the community life of early North American congregations (including the Maritimes!), their theology, history, and interrelationships.

It introduces a new way of looking at Christian life and thought from a village or community orientation.

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He follows Dr. Miriam Ross and the founder, Dr. J. K. Zeman, in the role of leading a university centre that bridges the Divinity College and the Acadia University Vaughn Library.

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DC students, alumni, and friends will want to read the latest book by Craig Evans and N. T. Wright, Jesus, the Final Days: What Really Happened?

(Westminster John Knox Press, 2009).

Evans, Payzant Distinguished Professor of New Testament at ADC, and Wright, the well known New Testament scholar and Bishop of Durham, write on the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.

“We wanted to show how solid the supporting evidence is for the three most important events in the rise of the Christian Church,” said Dr. Evans.

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Events of Interest For more information on these events, visit our website at http://adc.acadiau.ca

February 9 Alumni and Friends Supper 5:00 for 5:30 pm Wolfville Baptist Church

Brackney Named Director of Acadia Center for Baptist and Anabaptist Studies t their Spring meeting, the ADC Trustees confirmed the appointment of Dr. William H. Brackney, Cherry Distinguished Professor, as the third director of the Acadia Centre for Baptist and Anabaptist Studies (ACBAS).

Faculty Book Pick

The Centre encompasses lectures, collections of historical materials, visiting scholar programs, and publications.

Registration required: 902.585.2217 or email trisha.urquhart@acadiau.ca

March 4-5 Day for Discovery Special Speaker: Rev. Renée Embree Acadia Divinity College Call to register 1.866.875.8975

May 14 Commissioning Supper & Service May 16 Baccalaureate Service May 17 Spring Convocation Go to our website for more course information @ http://adc.acadiau.ca/

Dr. Leslie McCurdy: Director of Studies in Metro for Acadia Divinity College r. Leslie McCurdy is a native of Halifax and a graduate of Dalhousie University. He earned a Master of Divinity degree in Vancouver, served churches in Saskatchewan and New Brunswick, and then attended the University of Aberdeen in Scotland, graduating with a Ph.D. in systematic theology in 1995.

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College, the Centre hosted ten courses between 1997 and 2000.

Learning from that experience, the College decided to take a bold step of faith, committing itself to offer a series of ten core MDiv courses over a three-year period. These were attractively scheduled for parttime learners and located at a variety of evangelical churches in Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford, and Sackville.

After a year of teaching at Emmanuel Baptist University in Oradea, Romania, Dr. McCurdy returned to Canada to be senior pastor of Bayers Road Baptist Church in Halifax, a post he still holds. His church has been supportive of his work as a sessional lecturer for ADC since 2000, during which time he has taught a variety of courses in both systematic and practical theology.

Beyond the teaching, however, Dr. McCurdy’s heart for the greater Halifax area is apparent.

Soon after arriving in Metro, he founded the Centre for Christian Leadership, whose goal was to bring ministry education to Metro Halifax. In cooperation with Atlantic Baptist University and Acadia Divinity

The current phase of ADC’s course offerings in Halifax began in earnest with a series of courses held on Monday nights (hence the earlier name “Mondays in Metro”), hosted by Mulgrave Park Baptist Church from 2005-2007.

ADC has been teaching courses in Halifax for decades - whether it was continuing education for pastors in the 60s and 70s, educating about urban ministry in the 80s, or cooperating with City Centre Ministry to staff a wide variety of courses in the early 1990s.

The first of those courses, New Testament I taught by Dr. Craig Evans, attracted 65 students. Total enrollment in the first two years exceeded 225 people. Now, in the third year of the program, the courses continue to draw a wide variety of students, many for academic credit and others who audit simply for interest. The goal remains to prepare Christian leaders by bringing ministry education to the Halifax churches.

Dr. Evans Keynote Speaker at the United in Worship r. Evans was one of three

Dkeynote speakers at the

United in Worship Toronto conference held at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the Royal Conservatory from October 31 to November 1. The event was held in conjunction with the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit at the ROM. The theme of the conference was on worship, including worship as attested in the

Dead Sea Scrolls (and why the Scrolls are important for understanding better the world of Jesus and the early church).

Evans also provided a guided tour of the Scrolls exhibit. I gave a plenary address, a plenary seminar, and three workshops.

There were about 500 people in attendance at the plenaries and about 100 or so at each of the workshops. Performing at this event were, Vicky Beeching, Paul Baloche, and Robin Mark.

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Simpson Lectures

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 has 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.

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Worship in an Age of Weary Skeptics and Confused Millennials Festival Theatre, Acadia University Wolfville, NS • 7:30 pm Dr. Marva J. Dawn February 8-10, 2010 The Simpson Lectures are an annual lecture series in ‘Preaching and Practical Theology’ providing continuing education for students and pastors. Established in 1979 by Gerald K. Simpson, this lectureship has welcomed many distinguished preachers including HaddonW. Robinson, Alan Sell and Gardner Taylor.

Internationally-renowned theologian, author, and educator, Dr. Marva J. Dawn, serves as Teaching Fellow in Spiritual Theology at Regent College in Vancouver, BC. Under Christians Equipped for Ministry of Vancouver, Washington, she has preached and taught at seminaries, clergy conferences, churches, assemblies, and universities throughout the world.

Monday, February 8, 7:30 pm “What is Killing Christianity in North America?”

Tuesday, February 9, 7:30 pm “What is GOD Looking For in our Worship?”

Wednesday, February 10, 7:30 pm “What is GOD Looking For in our Preaching?”

See Page 8 for week-long course descriptions. Workshop titles and registration forms can be found at http://adc.acadiau.ca/

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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:

They allow us to attract top scholar-practitioners, ensuring quality instruction for our students. This results in our churches and ministries having well-prepared leaders.

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.

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.

20th Baptist World Congress July 23 – August 2, 2010 Tour Co-Hosted by: Regional Minister Rev. Jerry Horsman & Rev. Brad Putnam Join with Dr. Peter Reid and Dr. Harry Gardner, as they fellowship with Baptists from around the world. Be a part of the group from Atlantic Canada attending this historic Congress, as part of a larger, fantastic Hawaiian experience.

For more information contact: Rev. Jerry Horsman (506) 474-1585, jerry.horsman@baptist-atlantic.ca OR Brad Putnam, Jet Set Travel, 1-866-501-9444 ext. 612, jstravelpursuits@rogers.com

http://adc.acadiau.ca

Doctor of Ministry Program at ADC or the last 20 years, the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program at Acadia has been very successful in enhancing the ministries of many people in ministry, from pastors, to prison, military and hospital chaplains, counsellors, and the staffs of other Colleges. The DMin is the only accredited Doctoral degree offered by Acadia University, and enhances the reputation of

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Back Row - Left to Right: Dr. Harry Garnder, Dr. Peter Reid, Dr. Andrew MacRae. Front Row – Left to Right: Dr. Lois Mitchell, Honorary D.D., Dr. Karen MacRae, Dr. Ken Chroniger.

the University, which already enjoys a prestigious reputation as a leading Canadian undergraduate University.

The DMin program was introduced in the late 1980s by Dr. Andrew MacRae while he was serving as Principal and Dean of Theology. For the last ten years, while Dr. MacRae has been the Director of Doctoral Studies, the program has grown in many interesting directions, with candidates from all over Canada, the USA and from as far away as Hong Kong.

This past year, at the 2009 May Convocation, four candidates graduated successfully with the DMin degree, including: Rev. Dr. Peter Reid (the new Executive Minister of the Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches); Rev. Dr. Kenneth Chroniger (a minister in the Seventh Day Baptists of New York State); Rev. Dr. Karen MacRae (the minister for two Presbyterian congregations in Ontario, and a native of P.E.I.); and Rev. Dr. Min Hee Park (the pastor of an evangelical Baptist Korean Church in Toronto).

Making a Good Investment “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

(Galatians 6:10) hese days many of us are bombarded

Twith requests to donate. Since the down-

turn in the investment markets this past year I have done a lot of thinking about how I invest the money the Lord has entrusted to me. I’ve begun to wonder if we should be investing more in ministries and organizations we are familiar with and less in organizations that we know little about. When it comes to donating to charities, I have become quite selective. Personally, I try to donate to those charities that are specifically meaningful to me, like the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, World Vision, the SMILE program at Acadia University, and, of course, Acadia

Divinity College (ADC). One might say that I am biased when it comes to Acadia Divinity College however, I can say with confidence that I have seen people’s lives transformed during their time at ADC. Though I have regretted investing in some mutual funds, I know I have never regretted investing in providing a life changing experience for a future Christian leader.

The Pre-Approved Payment Plan (PAPP) for donating to ADC works well for me as a donor and it works well for ADC too. The PAPP helps me by allowing me to budget and manage my own finances more easily.

The PAPP helps ADC by allowing the College to have a dependable cash flow.

Many charities see the bulk of their donation revenue come in a couple of times a year during a specific campaign. This makes the managing of cash flow particularly diffi-

Over the last four years of the program, 20 candidates have graduated from the program with their Doctorates. Currently, eight candidates are working on their theses, and are eligible to apply for graduation in 2010, subject to successful Thesis Defences. They include one Anglican, one United Church minister, one Anglican-Catholic, one Pentecostal, one Korean Baptist, one Baptist transfer from a PhD degree programme in France, one Clinical Pastoral Education teacher and counsellor from Hong Kong, and one Baptist minister/broadcaster.

We have had a strong enrolment this fall and the programme continues to attract candidates from ever-widening areas of the world.The year 2010 will be a year of significant transition. Although he will continue to teach at ADC and carry other responsibilities, Dr. MacRae will complete his time as Director and relinquish the position to Dr. Bruce Fawcett, whom Dr. MacRae describes as ideally suited for the position, bringing academic ability, vision and creativity to the position.

Pam Connell, Financial Controller cult. Traditionally, donation revenue trickles in very slowing during the first six months of ADC’s fiscal year until we launch our Christmas and March Appeals in the last six months. Tuition revenue also follows this cycle. These two mentioned sources of funding account for about 40% of the total revenue for the College. So, dependable monthly giving would create a dependable cash flow for the College.

As you consider how you might invest your money this coming year, please prayerfully consider Acadia Divinity College and the important role it plays in transforming lives of the futures leaders of our churches.

For more information about ADC’s PreApproved Payment Plan for giving, please contact Trisha Urquhart at 902-585-2217 or trisha.urquhart@acadiau.ca.

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Alumni News ALLEN, Edwin, ’98, has resigned from Temple Baptist Church, Bear Point and Doctors Cove Baptist Churches, NS and has accepted a call to South End Baptist Church in Dartmouth, NS. BEALS, Patty, Student, has been called to Lawrencetown Baptist Church, NS to become the interim pastor.

COFFIN, Pauline, ’97, has accepted a call to the position of Chaplain at Nova Women's Prison, Truro, NS. COLDWELL, Todd, ’07 was ordained on November 8 at Faith Baptist Church in New Maryland, NB DEJONG, Geoff, ’09, has resigned from Newport Baptist Church, NS and has accepted a call from Saint Martins Baptist Church, NB. DEMMONS, Tracy, ’04, completed her PhD and graduated in June from St Andrews University. The title of her thesis was “Being in Encounter: Toward a Post-Critical Theology of Knowledge of God for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities . She is now working on the draft for publication. Tracy has been called to Capital Health as a staff chaplain at the Rehab and Victoria General sites.

ERSKINE, Lynn, ’09 and his wife, Natasha, welcomed a daughter, Alea Joy on October 27. A sister for Roya. Congratulations, Lynn and Natasha!

FISHER, Michael, ’08, was ordained on October 10 at Emmanuel Baptist Church, NS. FREDERICKS, Michael, Student, and his wife, Julia, have a beautiful baby girl, Ruthie Sue, who was born August 8. Congratulations, Mike & Julia!

HOPPER, David, ’06, has resigned from his ministry at Bear River East Baptist Church, NS and has accepted a call to Clyde Avenue Baptist Church in Sydney Mines, Cape Breton, NS. HUNT, Ellen, ’03, has resigned from her ministry with Forest Hill Baptist Church, NS. JOHNSON, Liz, ’01, has resigned from her interim ministry at Black Rock Baptist Church, NS.

MANUEL, Shant, ’01, has been serving as part–time pastor at the Hammonds Plains Baptist Church. In February of 2009, Shant established a global ministry called Far Corners Ministry (FCM) which takes teams of Christian leaders to train pastors and church leaders in the states of West Bengal and Sikkim, India.

MCGUIRE, Chuck, ’08, was ordained to the Christian ministry by Harmony Baptist Church, NS on October 17.

MCRAE, Kendell, ’82, has resigned from First North River Baptist Church, NB, and has accepted a call to Second Kingsclear Baptist Church, NB. MERRILL, Wayne, ’92, has resigned from Falmouth Baptist Church, NS and has accepted a call to Coldbrook Baptist Church, NS. MINARD, Craig, ’08 was ordained on October 25 at New Heights Baptist Church (Formerly Arcadia Baptist Church) in Yarmouth County, NS. PARKS, Bill, ’89, has been called to Havelock Baptist Church, NB. PICKENS, Corey, ’97, has been called to Milton, Charleston and Port Medway Baptist Churches, NS on a part-time basis.

SHAW, Murray, ’62, has been called to Canning Baptist Church, NS as interim pastor.

SHREVE, Mike, ’08, has been called to serve at West Halls Harbour Baptist Church, NS. SMART, Kirby, ’90, has resigned from his ministry at Waterville Baptist Church, NS. SMITH, Roger, ’05 was ordained and was hosted at Centreville Baptist Church on October 2.

SNOW, Matt, Student, and his wife, Heather, welcomed their first born Elijah Alexander on November 4. Congratulations, Matt and Heather!

SPIDLE, Aron, ’07, was in the right place at the right time and got the honour of holding the 2010 Olympic Torch that was travelling through Halifax.

KEEZER, Chris, ’08, was ordained on October 12 at Newcastle Baptist Church, NB.

WALSH, Matthew, ’06, and Christine, welcomed a son Oliver Justin Raymond on October 11.

Congratulations, Matthew and Christine!

KRAUSE, Don, ’85, has been called to Summerside Baptist Church, PE.

ZINCK, Gerry, ’91, has been called to Billtown Baptist Church, NS as the interim pastor.

LEPPER, Jarvis, ’06, has been called to Second North River Baptist Church, NB. 14

Our Revenue Sources from the Year Past INVESTMENT REVENUE AU Grant

$605,461

Donations

$408,871

Tuition

$477,046

on Donated Monies

$480,783

Other Total

he question from many of our supporters is “Where do you (ADC) get your money?” This helpful chart should help to answer these inquiries. The challenge this year is our funds from student tuition are down, which puts pressure on us to reach the

T

$85,408 $2,057,569

Annual Fund goal of $310,000 by the end of March. We encourage giving throughout the year but make two special appeals – our Christmas and March Appeals!

the needs of others, let him give generously” (12:8). We invite you to prayerfully consider what God would have you contribute to the mission of ADC this year.

Paul outlines a variety of spiritual gifts in Romans including, “...if it is contributing to

We thank you for your partnership in this important ministry.

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.

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Distinguished Alumni Award – Dr. David Watt or those of you who were present at this

Fyear’s Annual Alumni and Friends BBQ, you know that we had a great time

and a record turn out. I want to thank everyone who helped to make the BBQ possible, and everyone who came out for a great time of fellowship.

Each year, one of the highlights of the BBQ is to present the Distinguished Alumni Award.

This year we were honored to present that award to Dr. David Watt. David is a four time graduate of Acadia, three of those degrees coming from the Divinity College.

In his college days, David was an avid hockey player and he was recently recognized by Acadia University for his contributions in that area.

David’s ministry contributions have included pastorates in both urban and rural settings,

Rev. Jennifer Riley, ADC Alumni President, ’05

missions work in Europe, the Mediterranean, Brazil and India, and teaching at Acadia Divinity College in the areas of Clinical, Supervised Field Education and, of course, missions. As Director of Development and Recruitment, David continues to work tirelessly for the College, always encouraging people to support ADC with just the right combination of persistence, humor, seriousness and humility.

But for those who work closely with David, it is not the accomplishments that you see; it is the passionate heart for sharing his experiences in serving Christ with each person he meets that truly shines through. David is truly committed to helping everyone find their gifts and finding a way to use those to the Glory of God.

If undeliverable please return to:

Acadia Divinity College 15 University Avenue Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6

41228525