The Bridge, Spring 2016

Vol. 57, No. 1 - Spring 2016

learning together

COVER PHOTO: Dr. Heidi Janz in her office at the University of Alberta speaking about her ministry focus on those who are marginalized.

published by Taylor College and Seminary

Special Needs A Community of Belonging, pg. 3-14

Class of 2016 Story and Photos, pg. 20-21

Alumni Profile Rick Foster (’83, ‘10), pg. 22

A Note from the President “…[W]hatever you did for the least of these… you did for me.”

With these words Jesus suggests that he comes to us in ways we often overlook.

Think about it: we overlook him by not seeing our brothers and sisters who are right in front of us. By saying this Jesus helps us recognize that we don't look out into the world and see what's there. We look out into the world and see what's important to us; what we value. We see what will help us achieve the ends we are trying to achieve.

Some would say, we see what we want to see.

We can get so busy with doing all the good things we do that we miss Jesus in “the least of these.” Jesus invites us to be different.

When you look into the world what do you see? What draws your attention to it? Our hope and prayer is that this issue of The Bridge is going to divert your attention. The writers of these articles want you to come to see something that you might not now see.

The stories you are going to find are powerful. I have to confess that when I first read them, several of them brought tears to my eyes. They are stories that need to be told and stories that need to be heard.

But it is actually a bit uncomfortable for us to talk about the topic of this issue, uncomfortable because we often really don't know how to talk about it. The language we use is often pejorative, offensive, or at

least off-putting. In the past we callously talked about invalids until we developed the sensitivity not to invalidate someone just because they couldn't do all the things we thought were normal.

Of course, that's a problem too, isn't it: normality?

One of my sons had some difficulties with learning that most of the other kids his age didn't have. One of our goals with him was to normalize his “disability” by focussing on the reality that everyone has difficulties with some things and easier times with others. He found certain aspects of learning harder than some of his friends, so he would have to work harder, but then again, he found other aspects of life easier than others. He wasn't “disabled” so much as he was “differently-abled.”

This edition of the Bridge invites you to think about, listen to, learn from, be inspired by, and ultimately walk alongside some of the “differently-abled” in our midst. May God give you the eyes to see and ears to hear what the Spirit is saying to the churches.

Shalom!

David Williams, Ph.D. President, Taylor College and Seminary

Today, our culture values the wealthy, the beautiful, the young. Those who are poor, disfigured, old or sick are judged to have less value, or perhaps no value at all.

In stark contrast to these attitudes, the beautiful gospel of Jesus declares the infinite value of all--all races, classes, ages and abilities.

This issue of The Bridge seeks to help us consider how we might all experience the love and kindness of Christ – those with needs and those with special needs, loving and serving together. I hope you will be encouraged and inspired by the stories in this issue.

Perhaps we can find new ways to be a faithful community together, one that recognizes and accommodates behavioral challenges, mobility issues, learning disabilities and special needs of all kinds, purposefully finding new ways of serving together that includes all.

We were deeply touched by the strong response to our last issue of The Bridge – the first in this new expanded format. We hope this issue will also provide food for thought and motivation to action.

Thank you for your continued support of Christian education!

Tim Willson Editor, The Bridge

Vol. 57, No. 1, Spring 2016 Published by Taylor College and Seminary to communicate with students, alumni, friends and supporters, as part of our mission to develop Christ-minded leaders who make a difference in the world.

Editor: Tim Willson TheBridge@Taylor-Edu.ca Taylor College and Seminary 11525 - 23 Avenue NW Edmonton, AB T6J 4T3 Cover: Tim Willson

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The Things I’ve Learned Dr. Heidi Janz: Playwright, Academic and Feisty Ethicist on Life and Faith

by Heidi Janz, Ph.D.

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he dedication of the new Sunday School wing was a big event for our church, but what I remember most clearly about it was that I saw my mom crying: it had been built with staircases everywhere. Of course, we managed – my dad schlepped me up and down the steps as needed, but it was another reminder of the barriers I would face both inside of the church, and out in society.

I was born into a German immigrant family, and an NAB family, and we worshipped at Zion Baptist Church. I still do, and I love it. But even before the new Sunday School wing was built, I had a nickname for the big imposing staircase to the sanctuary: Mount Zion. I could still walk with help in those early days, but there was no getting into the church without help.

I began writing in elementary school—mostly poetry.

Later, I started writing short stories and novellas. My school librarian, Barbara Fraser, and my English teacher, Pauline Kachuk, both played an important role in helping me develop as a writer when I was in junior high and high school. And the principal of the Glenrose School, Henry Unrau, was—and continues to be—one of my biggest supporters. Henry was my mentor and publicist and my first editor. He got me to write a regular column in the school newsletter for parents – and he always teased me about my spelling! (This was before spell check.)

Henry was really the first person who saw something in me that other people, including my own family, didn't. He saw my disability, but he also saw the real Heidi and the potential I had. He continued to be supportive I have had to deal with many when he retired and I went to obstacles in my life, but there have university.

For 7-8 years, he read all the also been many blessings, and my required reading for my Master's and mother's insistence that we go to Ph.D. programs onto tape for me—over Dr. Heidi Janz in her office at the church as a family was one of them.

2,000 hours of reading! We still stay in University of Alberta in Edmonton.

Honestly though, there have been touch, and we usually have a joint times in my life when church birthday party on Labour Day to celebrate our seemed more of a challenge than a blessing. But, September birthdays with our Glenrose family. Henry during those times, God used two main things to is in his late eighties now, but I pray God still grants keep me in the church: number one, my own us a few more of these celebrations. stubbornness (my German stubbornness!), and number two, a series of people who came along just as questions and doubts threatened to become overwhelming.

CEREBRAL PALSY: BURDEN, OR GIFT? I was born with cerebral palsy. Rightly or wrongly, a lot of people at church thought of me as my parents' burden, their cross to bear. Although I generally felt accepted by people at church, I didn't really have any close friends; life revolved mainly around my school (at the Glenrose Hospital). When I was a preteen, there was a young adult in church who had a brother with special needs who lived in an institution. She kind of adopted me as a little sister, so we would hang out and do stuff together. (She now lives in the United States, but we stay in touch through Facebook, and I regularly beat her at Words with Friends!)

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It's hard for me to imagine what my life would have been like if I had not gone to school at the Glenrose, and had the encouragement and support of Henry and others; I don't know if I would have become a writer. As it is, I have had the joy of seeing four of my plays produced and am presently working on my fifth play. All of my plays deal with disability in some way.

Along the way I also completed my Ph.D. in English at the University of Alberta, then completed two postdocs. Most recently, I co-directed, co-wrote, and was the subject of a short documentary for the National Film Board; it's about how difficult it is for bureaucracy, and society, to comprehend that someone can be both severely disabled and highly capable at the same time. I continue to write and speak extensively about issues related to those who are marginalized, and much of my work has been focused on issues related to “assisted dying.” None of

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this would have been possible without the encouragement of these people who saw my ability.

CRISIS OF FAITH My faith has always been a big part of my life.

However, I have experienced some highs and lows along the way. The biggest crisis for me was triggered by the Robert Latimer case. He was the farmer in Saskatchewan who killed his young daughter, Tracy, in 1994, because (he said) he couldn't bear to watch her suffer from cerebral palsy. This was a huge news story, and Canadians took sides – some defended his actions as a socalled “mercy killing”, but I was among many who were horrified by this event.

People in the church – leadership in the church—didn't think it was that big a deal.

When I tried to speak out and engage the issue, I heard either dead silence, or “No, it isn't that big a deal.” I just kept hitting a series of brick walls. And I progressed from confusion, to frustration, to anger. I basically told God, “I'm done.” Not with Him, but with the Church.

But I didn't have the energy to make a big dramatic move, to look for another church. So I kept going, and God talked to me repeatedly, “Yes, other people have messed up, but how many times have you messed up? And maybe you're still here because this is your field – a mission field.” I wasn't happy but I stuck around. And, eventually, things began to change.

I've learned the truth of the old adage “Be careful what you pray for, because God may give it to you.” A little while after I had grudgingly agreed with God that I needed to stick it out at church, we got a new Senior Pastor, Shafer Parker. Shafer was returning to the pastorate after having worked as a journalist for several years. The reason he had felt called to go into journalism was because (get this!) he was so appalled by the mainstream media's one-sided coverage of the Latimer case that he was compelled to do something to counteract the bias, and give voice to the voiceless. So, with a suddenness that made my head spin, I had a partner in my church mission field, and my mission in society—not to mention a good friend and prayer-partner. God took

Four Plays and a Film Dr. Heidi Janz, writer, academic and documentary co-director

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er identity as a writer became clear for Heidi when she was 14. Her school librarian saw a short story Heidi had written as a Grade 8 student and entered it into a radio station contest. When Heidi won, it was kind of a big deal–and that made it official: Heidi was now a writer.

She laughs as she remembers being into soap operas as a kid; for fun she would create fan fiction–using the TV characters as the basis for her own stories.

Now turning 50 (her “year of Jubilee”, she says), Heidi has done a lot of more serious writing over the years, ABOVE: In a scene from We Regret to Inform... (a National Film Board including academic writing (she has an earned Ph.D. documentary about her life), Dr. Heidi Janz arrives at her office at the U of A. and two post-docs). She also continues to love creative writing, and has written four Fringe plays and is working on another, Showdown on Cripple Creek (“it’s about home health care,” she says with a twinkle in her eye). All of her plays have depicted people with disabilities.

Heidi also co-wrote and co-directed a documentary about her life for the National Film Board of Canada. We Regret to Inform You... is an 11-minute award-winning film that shows the shortcomings of our checkbox society. The film traces the story of Heidi’s denial of a government disability income on the basis of being “too productive.”

The film was an official selection at the DOXA Documentary Film Festival in Vancouver in May 2016, and won an EDA award from the Alliance of Women Film Journalists. Heidi and co-director Eva Colmers recorded an acceptance speech that is worth watching, and it is available online here: https://vimeo.com/167347894 We Regret to Inform You... will be available on the NFB website soon at https://www.nfb.ca/film/we_regret_to_inform_you. TB Come and learn with us!

5 “I really see that a lot of my ministry is education, and not always around disability specifically, but usually around some kind of marginalization.”

a while to answer my prayers for someone in the church to really get why I felt that speaking out against the public validation of Robert Latimer was so important. But, when He finally did answer those prayers, he answered big-time!

A CLEAR CALLING Being a voice for people who don't have a voice, and working against the devaluation of people with disabilities really became my primary calling. In 2008, I became a post-doctoral fellow at the John Dossetor Health Ethics Centre at the University of Alberta and jointly directed a research project on disability ethics. Later, the Faculty of Rehab Medicine hired me to develop a Disability Ethics certificate program.

In many cases, these projects and opportunities seem to have just fallen in my lap: “This is your project – Boom! Goin' to Winnipeg!” Literally.

In 2005, I was invited to apply for a postdoc (which doesn't happen in academia) with a research team at the University of Manitoba that was studying end of life issues affecting vulnerable people. Another thing that generally doesn't happen is for people with disabilities as severe as mine to be able to just pick up and move to a different province. Yet, along with the job, God provided an apartment with 24/7 onsite attendant care! Clearly, God wanted me working on this research team, so He made it happen.

THE CHURCH AS COMMUNITY There is a need for churches to do what Henry Come and learn with us!

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Unrau, my old school principal, did for me in grade school: see the person and their abilities and needs, not just their disabilities. Where a lot of churches go wrong, I think, is they are so focused on trying to serve the needs of the disability that the disability becomes the sum total of the person.

If we recognize that no two able-bodied people in the congregation are alike, why do we assume that two people who have the same disability are going to have the same gifts or needs, even spiritually?

One of the most beautiful things to me about the ministry of Jesus was that he met people where they were. He was more concerned about their internal, spiritual needs than anything external or physical.

It has been a privilege to grow along with Zion. Over the years—out of necessity—I have developed an active prayer life (sometimes more active than other times); I also taught adult Sunday School, and I was a member of the Extended Ministry Council.

My proudest, and most humbling, experience as a disabled member of Zion came in the Spring of 2013, which was, not coincidentally, also one of the scariest and most stressful times of my life.

In May of that year, Alberta Health Services decided that, in an effort to cut costs, it was going to reduce the number of homecare providers in the province from 72 to 13. One of the homecare providers on the chopping-block was Creekside Support Services, the user-run Homecare service provider through which I, and eighteen other individuals with disabilities who live in Creekside Condominiums, manage and receive

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our own homecare (read: personal care) services.

been using human weakness and disability redemptively to accomplish His purposes from the very beginning.

This impending change in homecare would not simply mean our getting a new group of aides; rather, it would mean that we would no longer have any say in where, when, or by whom our personal care would be provided. And, for me, that would mean losing the ability to maintain an active career as either an academic or a playwright. What's more, I knew that this forced change in homecare provider would inevitably lead to a marked decline in the quality of care that I received – and this, in turn, could very easily lead to the hastening of my death.

In Exodus 4, Moses has a conversation with God at the burning bush. When God tells Moses that He's chosen him to deliver His people, Israel, out of slavery in Egypt, Moses' immediate reaction is, essentially, to say to God, “Sorry, Lord, but you've got the wrong guy.” Moses complains that he stutters and stammers, and God replies, “Who made your mouth?”

Moses played what I call the “crip card.” Moses So, as soon as this crisis broke, I put out an urgent declares his disability to God as if he's revealing call for prayer to my Zion family; and they started startling new information about himself that God praying. They also started writing letters to the wasn't aware of. “Look, you really don't want me. I premier and circulating petitions. (Man, I wish my can't do it. You see, I have a disability, a speech Mom had been around to see that!) But the impairment.” I love God's response to main thing they did was pray. And the Moses' big revelation; it's basically: result reads like something out of the “Well, DUH! I'm the one who created “Just like no two Book of Daniel, or Esther, or Acts: you, with a speech impairment! So, able-bodied people in the a miraculous invitation to meet would you please just quit stalling congregation are alike, why with the premier, soon followed already so we can get on with do we assume that two people things??!!” by the miraculous reinstatement of our homecare contract. who have the same disability are Truthfully, I think the reason this I think it's a fair summary to say that God has brought both me and Zion a very long way since my Sunday School days.

going to have the same gifts or needs, even spiritually?”

Speaking more broadly, there is likely some of our theology that still needs to change. I think there is a reluctance to talk about disabilities and illness in the church. It challenges the whole Health and Wealth Gospel.

passage seems so resonant to me is because there have been many, far too many, times in my -Dr. Heidi Janz life when I, like Moses here, have found myself in the position of trying to explain to God that I'm simply not able, or too disabled, to do something that I've clearly sensed Him calling me to do.

I would even say that there is a need to acknowledge some of the really “able-ist” history of the church, and the ongoing able-ist attitudes.

When I go into churches where I am not known – somebody will often come up to me and say, “I am going to pray for your healing.” And I'm like, “Um – so you're going to pray that my field of ministry goes bye-bye?!”

STRENGTH IN WEAKNESS I have learned that there are instances when God not only allows weakness and disability to enter our lives, but actually assigns us weaknesses and disabilities as vehicles through which we can bring Him glory. Such a suggestion seems an abomination to a society which tells us with ever-increasing forcefulness that a life lived with any kind of pain or impairment which diminishes our (perceived) autonomy is a life not worth living. Yet, God has

For example, just over two years ago, I sensed God calling me to take in a seventeen-year-old girl who I'd known since she was four. She was on the verge of quitting high school and I knew that this would be a decision she'd regret for the rest of her life. Yet, the first time I sensed God speaking to me about asking her to move in with me to finish high school and go on to train to become a Health Care Aide, I was like, “Wait a minute, Lord. I CANNOT be hearing you right!

I'm a single crip! She's a kid with complex emotional needs! I'd be way out of my depth!” God's response, “Yes, you will be out of your depth. But you already love her like she was your own. Just keep doing that.

And trust Me for the rest.”

So, at the age of 47, I became a first-time Mom! Now, two years later, she's completed high school and has also completed her Health Care Aide program. Has it always been easy, for either of us? Nope! Has God consistently proven Himself faithful in providing patience, wisdom, and strength? Yup! Come and learn with us!

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(Incidentally, if it's between me and Moses, I think I had the tougher assignment!)

In recent years, I have faced some additional challenges. In the 1990's, a nifty new condition called dysphagia was added to the resumé of things gone (or going) wrong with my body. Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder which causes my throat muscles to malfunction and sends bits of food, drink and saliva down into my lungs on a daily basis.

By 2009, I developed aspiration pneumonia so severe that I almost died. (My swallowing had likely further deteriorated following a violent home invasion in January of 2008, in which I was choked, and very nearly stabbed to death. But that's a topic for another day!) The doctors treating me for pneumonia insisted that I had to have a feedingtube put in to try to prevent a recurrence of pneumonia.

(Much later, I would come to realize that the doctors treating me for pneumonia were a major exception to the norm in that many doctors today would not advocate for such an artificial, life-prolonging, measure for someone with severe disabilities and a history of dysphagia.)

So, after a full month in hospital, I was discharged home with a newly-inserted feeding-tube—and a pretty severe case of self-pity!

Ironically, I had spent the last four years working in the area of Disability Ethics—specifically end-of-life issues affecting people with disabilities. In this capacity, I had read (and written!) countless articles critiquing the mainstream media's assumption that reliance on so-called 'artificial' means of nutrition and hydration (i.e., a feeding-tube) meant that a person had reached end-of-life, and would therefore, necessarily, only experience an ever-

Taylor Alum Making a Difference Now living in Chattanooga, TN, Taylor alumnus David Harrison (’64, BTh) is on a mission to serve the 1 in 5 people who suffer from hearing loss.

He has written Lord, You Know I Can’t Hear! containing practical solutions for those with hearing issues, and is working on a guide for hearing accessibility in the church called the Bill of Rights for Hard of Hearing. He and his wife Cathy (who also studied at CTI) lead a ministry that seeks to alleviate the frustration and isolation that comes with hearing loss.

Learn more at www.LetMyPeopleHear.com

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diminishing quality of life. But somehow, now that I was the one who had a feeding tube, I actually began to internalize the rhetoric that I, myself, had exposed as false. I began to believe that my life (the productive part of it, at least) was nearing its end.

Close friends noticed this abrupt change in my outlook with alarm. One particularly annoying (wise) friend started sending me emails; some were full of encouraging scripture, others contained outrageous, blood-pressure-raising, able-ist articles advocating for the legalization of assisted suicide and euthanasia.

Then, one day I looked up from reading one of those pro-assisted-suicide articles and looked down at my feeding-tube, and it finally dawned on me: This feeding-tube wasn't some last-ditch means by which I could maybe eke out a few more years of life here on earth. Rather, it was a God-ordained weapon that I was to wield in the ongoing battle to preserve lives that our society increasingly labels as not worth living.

After all, there really aren't a lot of us wheelchairusing, feeding-tube wielding warriors, with Ph.D.'s out there!

My prayer for all of us is that God would grant us the grace, the discernment, and the faith to offer up our weaknesses and disabilities, whether they be physical, emotional, or spiritual. Ask Him to transform them into weapons in the daily spiritual battles we face to preserve life and further His Kingdom. TB Dr. Heidi Janz is an Adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Alberta. She is also an award-winning playwright and a lifelong advocate for those with special needs and those who have been marginalized.

She lives in Edmonton with her cat, Awkward.

CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION Coming this fall to the E P Wahl Centre:

Special Needs & the Church A WORKSHOP

www.Taylor-Edu.ca/Events

“Assisted Dying” A PANEL DISCUSSION

for Life-long Kingdom Learning

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Age-Related Disability and Pastoral Care Bringing the presence of Christ to seniors with special needs

by Rev. David Haitel (’13, ‘16)

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aving served as the Pastor of Millwoods Shepherds Care for the past six years, I have found that ministry to seniors and the infirm is deeply fulfilling and rewarding. It is a privilege and an honor to walk with those nearing the end of their lives, bringing the presence of Christ to them.

Those who suffer from dementia and Alzheimer's, whether young or old, are often ignored and treated as if they don't matter.

Many of my most meaningful interactions have been with those who are suffering from these illnesses.

Grieving the loss of independence, the rapid weakening of physical health, the decline of cognitive ability, and the change of relationship to family and friends can lead to feelings of worthlessness and despair. Those are only a few of the myriad of problems our seniors face.

Our population in Canada is aging. In 2011, approximately 5.0 million Canadians were 65 years of age or older; a number that is expected to double in the next 25 years, reaching 10.4 million seniors by 2036. By 2051, about one in four Canadians is expected to be 65 or over. (see http://wellbeing.esdc.gc.ca/misme-iowb/.3ndic.1t.4r@eng.jsp?iid=33) With these demographic changes come countless challenges, which also call for the church to take a strong lead in ministry to seniors and the frail, fragile elderly. The church of Christ is in a unique position to minister to and care for the hurting, marginalized and infirm in our society.

AT THE END OF LIFE, WHO CARES, and HOW? When loving and caring for those with dementia and Alzheimer's, it is important to remember that God loves them and has promised to never leave or forsake them (Deut. 31:6 and Heb. 13:5). Even for those who are unbelievers, God is still working with them (2 Pet. 3:9) and everyone who is among the living has hope (Eccl. 9:4a)!

It is important to realise that we can make a difference in their lives. Whether through worship, providing hospitality, spending time with them, ministering through presence and prayer, using appropriate symbols, suitable physical touch and contact, or volunteering in other creative ways, the Lord can use each one in serving others. They remain alive to God's Holy Spirit in ways that we cannot comprehend. We need to show others God's unconditional love and presence through our communication and presence with them. TB After earning his MDiv in 2013 from Taylor Seminary, Rev. David Haitel (’13, ‘16) re-enroled and just completed his MTS (photo, pg. 20). He is pastor/chaplain at Millwoods Manor and Southside Manor in Edmonton (part of Shepherd’s Care.)

Listen, Talk, Connect: Communing with people living with dementia. www.careuk.com/dementia http://www.medicinenet.com/dementia/article.htm Alzheimer's Disease: www.alzheimer.ca (Alzheimer's Society of Canada) A Caregiver's Guide: http://www.medicinenet.com/alzheimers_disease_ pictures_slideshow/article.htm

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Photos: Christina Kestevan, Kate Cowling and Tom Jones (L-R) pause for a photo during a day of ministry at the Foundation for Down Syndrome in Mexico. The three members of a Calgary church were part of a group of ten that took part in this short-term mission trip.

How Churches Can Make a Difference One Body: all of us, growing and serving together

by Jodi Graff

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he stood at the doorway of the classroom both looking and feeling exhausted. It had been a challenging morning. Most were. Her weary eyes could not be disguised as she watched to see if her son with Down Syndrome would follow the other children to their opening circle time. Ryan just stood there. A teenage boy kindly approached him and helped him find a place.

The mom turned to leave to attend the service, a prayer in her heart. “Lord, I really need to stay in the service today. Please help Ryan. Help him not become overwhelmed and keep in control of his emotions. We desperately need you, Lord!”

She sat down silently in the pew anxiously wondering how the morning would play out.

Another mom came and sat next to her and a hug was exchanged.

The service started and ended without Rita being paged to the grade 1 Sunday school class. A glimmer of hope sparked: We can do this. We are not alone.

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I often find myself in different churches, and each time I enter the sanctuary with anticipation as the first song of praise begins, eagerly scanning the congregation looking for all the VIP's; often, I can't seem to spot them.

I turn around and search the back pews. Nothing.

Finally, my eyes light up. On the far right, a young man with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is quietly twirling a small object in time to the worship chorus.

My heart smiles. Much better. It's a start.

In Alberta, 15.8% of people live with some form of disability (according to Statistics Canada, 2006). That adds up to approximately 410,000 Albertans aged 15 or above. 4.2-million Canadians and (according to the Centres for Disease Control) 53-million Americans live with some form of disability – that’s 1 in 5.

The incidence is similar elsewhere, and I have to wonder: Are these numbers reflected in our congregations? Are people with disabilities being given equal opportunity to live out God's calling and purpose in life alongside other believers?

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GOD’S CALL INTO MINISTRY In 1988, at Calgary's Centre Street Church, God opened the door for me to apply my formal training in Special Education to the spiritual education, care and support of people with disabilities and their families. The leadership of the church recognized the need and offered generous support for implementing a plan of action. The vision was simple and effective: 1. Communicate openly that ALL are welcome; 2. Actively connect each person to a community of belonging and hope; and 3. Engage each person in full participation in the life of the church through growing and serving.

Crafting the vision was the easy part; implementing it took time and effort!

So what does this look like for a congregation? How can we progress as a faith community towards becoming a more inclusive place of belonging, acceptance and participation for all?

Our family moved to the Edmonton area a number of years ago; after I left that position in Calgary, the experience has been invaluable as I have served as a resource to a wide number of churches who seek to be faithful in ministry to those who are often marginalized.

Over the past several years, churches have invited me to support the vision God has entrusted to them, while steadily advocating for people with special needs. I speak out by equipping congregations to address diverse needs in a meaningful, inclusive, and God-directed way. Here are some steps towards

change and inspirational examples of ministry happening in Alberta congregations.

STEP #1: SEE THE NEED The first step for congregations is to recognize there is a need to reach out and embrace those with disabilities into the life of the community! Our brothers and sisters in Christ who live with disabilities have so much to teach their congregations about God. Their presence and participation is essential for the body of Christ to function as a whole. As we journey together, we gain a fresh understanding of love and salvation.

Shortly after Justin's 18th birthday his parents asked to speak with me about an important matter. As we met, it became clear that the couple had put a lot of thought into their request. Softly, but with deep conviction they asked if Justin could be baptised.

“Please consider our request. We know Justin loves God with his whole heart!”

Normally this request would be easily fulfilled; however, in Justin's situation a few more steps needed to be explored.

Justin lives with a degree of Cerebral Palsy that renders him unable to walk, talk, swallow food, and limits his control over his body. His expressed desire for baptism was implied through action. After explaining the situation to the church leadership and board who fully supported this step of faith, we determined the best way forward involved creating a video with Justin, his parents and the pastor.

On the Sunday morning of his baptism, Justin was wheeled onto the church platform by his parents as the video appeared on the screen. It began with the

parents explaining why they wanted Justin to be baptised. “Justin undeniably knows and loves Jesus.

As a believer, this step of obedience (baptism) is one we sincerely believe Justin desires.”

Then a beautiful rendition of the familiar song, “Jesus Loves Me” was played while the camera focused on Justin. Immediately and without hesitation, his entire countenance was transformed!

A broad smile crossed his face…his eyes shone brightly...his arms flailed open wide. It was a compelling demonstration of his spirit undeniably responding to the love of Jesus - God's light and love boldly radiated in a manner that needed no words.

The baptism complete, the congregation rose to their feet, moved in their spirits and encouraged in their faith at what they witnessed: God's work of salvation revealed in simplicity and reverence.

STEP #2: MEET THE NEED It is pure joy to see communities of faith open their hearts and intentionally welcome their members

with disabilities. However, intentionality means we must consider what comes after the initial welcome.

What will one experience inside the walls? Is the facility wheelchair friendly?

Are the ushers educated on how to support people with unique needs ensuring a dignified and respectful encounter?

Will congregants understand when an involuntary noise such as a tic is vocalized?

Beyond the initial greeting, the welcome needs to permeate the inner workings of the church. A sense of belonging is vital in creating a healthy community.

On a Thursday evening people are filing into a room, shedding their warm outer clothing, and preparing for an evening of practice. The group is diversified in age, gender, ethnic background, ability and mobility yet all have a smile on their faces. All have come to rehearse handbells for their next performance in a senior's residence. They begin in prayer; then quickly switch their focus to learning the music together.

How Tom Makes a Difference For years, Tom Jones of Calgary has been raising money for an organization in Mexico called the Foundation for Down Syndrome. He has raised thousands of dollars, and was recently awarded a Diamond Jubilee Medal by Queen Elizabeth II for his work.

Tom knows Down Syndrome well, since he was born with it. When he had the chance to travel with a ministry team to Mexico to visit the work, he jumped at the chance.

Photo: Tom Jones of Calgary traveled to Mexico in 2009 to serve those who were part of the Foundation for Down Syndrome, and others in need. Tom was awarded a Diamond Jubilee Medal by Queen Elizabeth II for his fundraising efforts for this ministry in Mexico.

A team of ten from Calgary included six adults with disabilities. Their small Bible Study group studied the importance of using the gifts God entrusted to each one to serve others, and this mission trip was the logical extension to this learning.

In addition to ministry at the Foundation for Down Syndrome, the team distributed food to the poor at the city dump, served alongside a local church, taught about Canada in area schools, and spent time with people with Cerebral Palsy. The trip was packed with ministry. It was an amazing week of seeing God's Kingdom in another part of the world. This mission trip had a transformative impact on the sending congregation, the team that went, and on the people in Mexico. Eyes were opened to see that, yes, people with disabilities have a lot to offer! The great commission found in Matthew 28:18-20 is for all.

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Photos: The photos accompanying this article were provided by writer Jodi Graff, who accompanied six adults with special needs and three others from her church on a trip to Mexico to serve children and families with special needs. Among the many special moments during this trip were times spent playing in the waves at the ocean. Photos © 2009.

Each has an equal part to play. Each bell, each note, each person is essential in delivering the beautiful harmonies of the arrangement. The audience will be drawn into worship and those in the group with disabilities are one with the choir. It is a picture of true integration and community life at its best.

Jean Vanier, founder of L'Arche, writes, “Communities are truly communities when they open to others, when they remain vulnerable and humble; when the members are growing in love, in compassion and in humility. Communities cease to be such when members close in upon themselves with the certitude that they alone have wisdom and truth and expect everyone to be like them and learn from them. Community is the breaking down of barriers to welcome differences.”

STEP #3: MINISTER TO ONE ANOTHER Is your congregation actively removing barriers so everyone can access all that God desires for His people? This is the third step in the process. We can't stop with welcome and connecting. The church needs to take another step, that of providing meaningful opportunities for spiritual growth (discipleship) and service.

Often churches fall short in their expectations and unintentionally limit people with disabilities.

The Dutch Catholic priest, professor, writer and theologian, Henri Nouwen, challenges our thinking: “The question is not how we help people with disabilities, but a more important question is, how can people with disabilities give their spiritual gifts

to us and call us to love?” This question introduces a fresh perspective and an invitation towards mutual participation in community.

As a church, our community exists in our homes, neighbourhood, places of activity, work and volunteering. The invitation to invest personally in the lives of people with disabilities and their families is putting faith into action. The opportunities are endless and creativity beckons. Share a meal. Talk and listen to one another. Give a smile of encouragement to a mom trying her very best to handle her child's outburst. Provide respite so parents can get a much needed break. Invite partnership in a favorite ministry. Send a note in the mail as a reminder of God's love and presence. Pray.

The results are plentiful: Our lives and relationships are enriched; Our communities become stronger; Our understanding of God and His love expands; Our witness and influence for God yields fruit.

“Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.”

(1 Peter 3:8, NRSV) People and congregations that catch this vision seek to reach out to the marginalized, those who are often forgotten, and are ready to rub shoulders in the pew with more Very Important People! TB Jodi Graff of St. Albert, AB has been an educator, church worker, parent to a child with special needs, Taylor Seminary student, and church consultant. She takes special delight in seeing all members of the community participating in the life of the church.

Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder Educator Karen Sudom offers key insights to help churches respond

by Karen Sudom

I

consider myself “Triple P” when it comes to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). As a Professional, I lead groups for teens with ASD. I also present and lead workshops across Alberta and sometimes beyond. I'm a Parent of three teenagers.

Two are diagnosed with ASD. I complete the hat trick by wearing the ASD label myself as a Person on the spectrum.

Because of this combination, people who support individuals on the Spectrum often ask me questions.

An educational assistant friend passed along some insights I'd shared with her to the special education coordinator in her school district. That resulted in my first invitation to present formally. I invited my mom to my third presentation thinking I might not be asked to do another. I stopped counting at 100.

Participants like hearing from someone who is Autistic, not just knows about it. For my “Test Drive Autism” workshop I created simulations that highlight ASD difficulties.

Evaluations regularly include comments about enjoying my humour. My kids say they laugh so I'll go to the next slide.

met one person with Autism.

Because ASD is an invisible diagnosis, one of the greatest barriers can be getting others to understand and actually believe that a behaviour comes from ASD deficits and not intentionally being obstructive.

For example, the amount of noise at a church potluck means I can't pick out the voice of a specific person for conversation. I'm not personally ignoring anyone: I'm hearing everyone at the same time and my brain gets tired. To manage that sensory overload, I might tune out all voices. Or I might eat in another room by myself. Either option looks rude when you don't understand ASD. I'm passionate about this message. Individuals and families living with ASD can be judged so quickly.

Interrupting is a social skill deficit, not a moral failure.

Not following directions can often be miscommunication or ‘working memory’ issues rather than disobedience or defiance. It is hard to believe “Jesus loves you” when you're continually in trouble for being you.

Autistic people need to hear over and over, “You're not defective, you're delightful.” My The official wording doctor said that to me for the ASD diagnosis when she diagnosed includes phrases like, me with ASD in 2007.

“Restricted, My church says that to repetitive patterns of me in various ways: by behaviour, interests, making a quiet room or activities.” I prefer available during PHOTO: Educator Karen Sudom and her three children; Thanksgiving 2015. to say, “I like things to church functions; by stay the same. It sending an electronic takes a lot of work to manage being me.” version of the Sunday bulletin beforehand so I can prepare myself for changes; by having specific The other key component to ASD is social training for Sunday School teachers about ASD; by communication difficulties. This can range from not inviting me to read scripture again, even when I having functional language to not keeping pace with couldn't finish because the emotions of reading, “He informal conversation. Autism is a spectrum is not here, for He has risen,” were so strong I diagnosis. Think colour wheel variations rather than couldn't say them out loud; by prefacing quiet a linear model (more Autistic «—» less Autistic). If moments in church with a verbal reminder to the you have met one person with Autism, you have

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congregation that some noises are to be expected. Parents with small children also benefit from that! Most ASD adaptations also benefit others.

The two supports I recommend most are time and space:

physical space to be by myself when I need to be

emotional space to not require me to respond like you at the same speed as you;

cognitive space to prepare for change and gather my thoughts after a difficult task;

social space to observe until I am ready to enter with your help.

I usually end my presentations by saying, “Celebrate the small victories. Sometimes they grow to size large.” Churches are noticing that the ASD community is often missing from churches. They are asking, “Why?” and “How can we change?” That is worth celebrating. TB Karen Sudom is a consultant specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorder, working with schools, churches, non-profits and other organizations. She lives in Medicine Hat, AB with her three children.

To find out more about Karen, the work she does and the resources she recommends, visit her website: www.SpectrumES.org

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES There may be no-one better known in Christian circles on the topic of disability than author, radio host, artist and speaker Joni Eareckson-Tada. Her organization Joni and Friends bills itself as an “International Disability Center.” Joni’s website offers a great deal of insight and information; visit www.JoniAndFriends.org For many Christians, there is no finer thinker or writer on the topic of serving people with special needs than Henri Nouwen, the late Harvard professor and Catholic priest. Nouwen’s books, such as Ministry and Spirituality, A Spirituality of Caregiving, and Adam, God’s Beloved (completed just weeks before his death in 1996), have become classics.

Websites that you may find helpful: Henri Nouwen Society henrinouwen.org Jean Vanier www.jean-vanier.org L’Arche www.larche.ca www.larcheusa.org www.larche.org

(L’Arche Canada) (L’Arche USA) (L’Arche International)

Let My People Hear Serving those with hearing impairments; founded by alumni David Harrison (’64) and his wife Cathy (pg.7).

www.LetMyPeopleHear.com Disability Ministry

Another leading voice in this field is Catholic writer Jean Vanier, founder of the L’Arche communities and winner of the 2015 Templeton Prize for Progress in Religion.

DisabilityMinistry.com

Share your favorite writers/resources on our Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/TaylorUpdates

99 Balloons www.99balloons.org

Website of Ryan Wolfe, Developmental Disabilities Pastor at First Christian Church in Canton, Ohio, and consultant with Key Ministry (www.keyministry.org)

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ABOVE: Dr. David Williams (left) stands with Bob Teskey (centre) and Barry Kossowan (right) at the conclusion of the spring meetings of the Taylor Board of Trustees. These were the final board meetings for Bob and Barry, who have each served as Board Chair.

Nearly Two Decades of Service Taylor bids farewell to long-serving Trustees, adds new Board Members

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he Board of Trustees at Taylor College and Seminary frequently (ongoingly) experiences turnover. However, some of the present changes signal a sort of ‘changing of the guard.’

Long-serving trustees Bob Teskey (presently the Chair) and Barry Kossowan (former Chair) are ending their service to Taylor at the end of June. These men began serving in the 1990’s at roughly the same time, and provided essential leadership during some challenging times of transition.

Bob Teskey is a well-known and respected lawyer, a member of the Board of Governors at the University of Alberta, and provides leadership to a wide range of organizations, including Terwillegar Community Church, Canadian Blood Services and the Alberta Diabetes Institute.

Barry Kossowan was a successful business owner, and a passionate advocate for Christian higher education. He is also a member of Terwillegar Community Church, where he now serves as Facility Manager.

The Taylor Board voted in May to appoint a number

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of new trustees. One result of the appointments is that there are almost as many women (5) as men (6) who are voting members, and the new appointments broaden the denominational representation on the board.

The newest board members are two members of the Class of 2012, Stephanie Fehr and Rev. Susan Ormsbee, and Ms. Marita Goltz (who has previously served as a trustee.)

The trustees also voted in favor of the appointment of Gregg Becker of Edmonton as Chair. Gregg is a business consultant and has worked extensively in the area of boards and organizational governance for over a decade. He has an MBA from the University of Western Ontario. TB

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ABOVE: Representatives of the Class of 2016 are joined by continuing students, faculty members and staff as they dedicate a new tree on campus. The Thunderchild Flowering Crabapple tree was the official gift to Taylor from the Class of 2016, and was planted on the west side of Taylor, just outside the Office of the President. April 21, 2016.

Capital Campaign Launched Taylor joins other NAB ministries in a cooperative fundraising effort

T

he Taylor campus has seen some important and overdue improvements over the past five years, but there are two major projects that are well outside the scope of what the school can afford within its budget: an upgrade of Stencel Hall (to improve seating, lighting, sound and accessibility), and the installation of technology to create “smart classrooms� (allowing the classroom experience to be shared with students around the world).

In a landmark decision for all parties involved, the NAB family has pooled its needs and resources to jointly launch a single capital campaign. Over the next three years this campaign seeks to raise approximately $3.3-million dollars, including $470,000 for the aforementioned upgrades at Taylor.

The renovations to Stencel Hall will also significantly

benefit the churches that rent that space from Taylor on a weekely basis, and will help Taylor maximize the rental income from that space in the years to come.

The campaign has been building awareness for over a year, and has now moved into the active phase.

Over the next three years, representatives of the participating agencies will be inviting supporters to participate. Taylor President Dr. David Williams and Becky Hilbich, Director of Development and Church & Alumni Relations, will be writing, calling and meeting with donors.

Across the NAB, there is a strong sense of unity and collaboration; as we work together to raise the funds needed to fulfill our calling, we pray that these efforts will be blessed. TB

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Developing Educational Partnerships in Cameroon

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aylor President Dr. David Williams was back in Cameroon in February, along with Sioux Falls Seminary (SFS) President Greg Henson. They traveled to Cameroon for more meetings in a growing educational partnership.

An intensive class was also added to the itinerary; for Dr. Williams, teaching on Christian Ethics is one of his favorite things to do – but it was the first time he had taught in the tropics.

“I hadn’t really processed just how hot or how humid that would be,” he said. “Five days of teaching from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM with clothes sticking to me everywhere they touched, in a room full of men and women struggling to understand and to be understood, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. What an amazing experience!”

The partnership agreement involves a number of parties, including both seminaries (Taylor and SFS), the NAB Conference, the Cameroon Baptist Convention, and the two CBC seminaries.

The meetings in February identified the priorities that will guide the five-year project and how those priorities would inform the partnership.

Over the coming years, Taylor and SFS will aid in the development of the newly-formed Department of Theological and Christian Education in several ways.

In addition, programs for faculty development at the seminaries in Cameroon will be designed. One such program could be the creation of a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) track for students in Cameroon.

Both Taylor and Sioux Falls Seminary are excited to see what God does over the next five years. Greg Henson of SFS says: “The fact that Taylor and Sioux Falls Seminaries are working together on this project and doing so in partnership with a host of leaders from the CBC is a testament to what can occur when we think first about the Kingdom of God and the mission to which we have collectively been called. TB

Another White Cross Container Shipped The White Cross shipping room at Taylor is empty once again, but it will start filling up again very soon. On June 9, 2016, volunteers helped fill a 40' hi-cube container with over 31,000 lb. of supplies.

These items are bound for hospitals in West Africa, where Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services serves tens of thousands of patients every month. All items have been confirmed by local staff as being needed.

Included with this shipment are such items as:

a stainless steel countertop for a new laboratory at Mbingo Baptist Hospital (counter was removed from a lab here in Edmonton and donated by the contractor who made sure it was complete with sinks, taps, eyewash station, etc.)

20 hospital beds and 31 mattresses

Over 1600 lb. of baby layettes

Over 300 boxes of a wide variety of medical supplies

Plus many items that have become standard in these Photo: Volunteers stop for a coffee break after loading White Cross shipments (rolled bandages, crutches, books, hospital supplies bound for Cameroon at Taylor. June 9, 2016. supplies, linens, etc.)

Our thanks to the many White Cross volunteers who help make this life-saving and life-changing ministry possible! TB Come and learn with us!

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in pictures | Winter 2016 1.

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PHOTOS: 1. Four hundred people gathered for a panel discussion about Islam and Christianity at Taylor in April. | 2. During a visit to the campus, Marlene (Taubensee) Baerg (’80) looks at old yearbooks with friends. Marlene and her husband serve in Mongolia. | 3. Ben Trites of Camp Caroline speaks to delegates at the 2016 THRiVE! retreat (held annually for pastors). This year, almost as many spouses attended as pastors, which greatly added to the experience. | 4. Students line up to sample entries in the annual Chili Cookoff, presented by the Taylor Seminary Students Association. The winner for 2016 was first-year MDiv student Kent Dixon. | 5. Professor of Christian Faith Education Dr. Joyce Bellous speaks at the first Turbulence event. | 6. Dr. Ralph Korner (’82) and Heather Breitkreuz of the E P Wahl Centre make final preparations as the first Turbulence event gets underway. This sold-out event was the first in a new series of training workshops designed to help churches navigate conflicts with grace.

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News and Notes In Sympathy We note with sorrow the passing of Annette vanEnns (’94), who served as a church planter with Northern Canada Evangelical Mission. Her husband Arlyn vanEnns (’94) wrote: “I don’t know of any lady who put on more miles for the Gospel’s sake by bush-plane, small boat, snowmobile and ice road!” Along with photos and memories, Arlyn sent two pages of insights he called What My Annie Taught Me, which included: “Obvious power is usually weaker than subtle strength” and “Jesus wept” not so much because He was Man, but because He is the Saviour.”

Taylor student Rev. Alexander Frimpong who was president of the TSSA (students' association) was forced to cut his studies short and return to Africa when his 14-year old son became seriously ill.

Alexander Jr. passed away of cancer in early April, and Alexander wrote: “We thank Him for the opportunity to parent our son till he died and we are grateful for the opportunity. Hope to be with the Taylor family soon.”

Mrs. Ruth Bienert (nee Peter) ('48), passed away in Portland, OR on May 12, 2015.

Lawrence Zink ('54) passed away on January 21, 2016. He attended Whiteshell Baptist Church in Seven Sisters, MB. Rev. John Wollenberg, father of Mark ('80) and Tim ('77), passed away on January 5, 2016. He pastored a number of NAB churches and was known by many for his service as President of the North American Baptist Pastors Fellowship and as President of the North American Baptist Seminary Alumni.

Births Pastor Stephanie Fehr ('12) (nee Leverette) and her husband Scott have welcomed Margot Waverley Fehr, born early on the morning of February 15.

Stephanie is on leave from her position as Pastor of Worship Arts at Greenfield Community Church.

Naomi Daryl Joy Pedde joined big sister, Lydia and her parents Ryan ('02) and Jessica Pedde on January 7, 2016.

Congratulations to Sheralyn McNalley ('08) (nee Grenier) and her husband Ty on the birth of Lennox Colleen Jane McNalley, born December 13, 2015.

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Alumni News Pastor Norm Bleick ('10) has been installed as the new pastor of Hillview Baptist Church in Edmonton.

He had been pastoring at Parkland Baptist Church in Stony Plain for over five years.

Noel Dwarika ('15) and his wife Melanie have been called to serve as pastor at Delia Christian Fellowship (E-Free) in Delia, AB. Noel has served in various pastoral roles for 11 years.

Myron Krause (’98) has accepted a call to serve in a pastoral role with the with Evangelical Free Church of Lethbridge, leaving his recent role as a prison chaplain. Myron will lead a community engagement initiative that seeks to help members live missionally.

Congratulations to Dr. Joelene Huber (’95) who has earned a diploma in broadcast journalism from the prestigious Monk School of Global Affairs in Toronto. Dr. Huber is a pediatrician who has become popular as a media commentator on health issues. She shared her happy news using the hashtags #LastDegreeOfMyLife and #IsaidThat5DegreesAgo.

Faculty News Dr. Joyce Bellous latest book, Learning Social Literacy (written with Jean M. Clinton, has just been published by Tall Pine Press.

Dr. Randal Rauser’s book God or Godless (co-written with John W. Loftus) has been published in Korean.

The second (small) printing of Dr. Willy Muller's autobiography has almost sold out. With God Through the Years, was published by Taylor as a short-run project–a retirement gift to Dr. Muller; he has since assigned the publishing rights to Taylor.

Great is Thy Faithfulness Taylor's 75th Anniversary virtual choir video, Great is Thy Faithfulness, has been licensed for broadcast in two European countries (the UK and Romania.

The video will be used to fill space between programs.

Alumni Updates We invite you to share your news with us -marriages, moves, babies, careers... we want to note these important events! Please stay in touch by email: alumni@Taylor-Edu.ca. Telephone: 780-431-5200

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in pictures | Grad 2016 1. The family of Stephen Gascon (MDiv) all lend a hand as one of his sons tries on his cap following the 2016 Graduation Ceremony at McKernan Baptist Church. | 2. (R-L) Gregg Garbutt, Heather Hayashi (’16), David Heavenor (’16) and Val Martens were winners of a Sonnenberg Leadership Scholarship, one of the major year-end awards handed out at Grad each year. A fifth scholarship was presented in absentia this year to Sylvia Arbeau. (See the list of scholarship/award winners on pg. 21.) | 3. Dr. John Franke was the guest speaker at the 2016 Graduation Ceremony. His message dealt with Proclaiming the Word (Jesus), and is available online at our website, www.Taylor-Edu.ca/AudioArchives Dr. Franke is a long-time friend of President 1.

Dr. David Williams. | 4. The Taylor Seminary Class of 2016 exits the sanctuary following the ceremony. Christina Ward (MTS) waves to family as she goes by. | 5. Rev. David Haitel (’13, ‘16) is congratulated by his three daughters after graduating with his second Taylor degree in three years. | 6. Valedictorian David Heavenor (MA) stands with his dad, Rick Heavenor (Taylor’s Admissions Counselor) following the service. Thumbs up from current student, Julie Heavenor! | 7. Selfie time! Stephen Gascon (MDiv) pulled out his phone to immortalize the moment by taking a photo with President Dr. David Williams.

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14. The Class of 2016 at Taylor Seminary enters the sanctuary at McKernan Baptist Church at the beginning of the Commencement Ceremony. | 15. Dr. Willy Muller (’46) places his hand over his heart as he acknowledges a standing ovation. Dr. Muller, one of our first students and a long-serving faculty member, was given an honorary Doctor of Divinity by Taylor Seminary. | 16. Dr. Joyce Bellous stands with continuing student Val Martens, a winner of two year-end awards during Commencement. | 17. Pastor Mark Dixon (’16) and Stephen Gascon (’16) share a laugh as they prepare to graduate. | 18. Christina Frank Ward (’16) gets a kiss from her husband, Pastor Eaton Ward. | 19. Heather Hayashi (’16) is congratulated by Taylor prof Dr. Carol Potratz after receiving her MTS degree.

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2016 Scholarships and Academic Awards Canadian Bible Society Award for Public Reading of Scripture: David Heavenor Each year the Canadian Bible Society awards a Bible to a student who has demonstrated excellence in the public reading of Scripture.

Dan Leverette Memorial Scholarship: David Schneider This scholarship is given to a Master of Divinity student committed to the practice of youth ministry and who is preparing for full-time vocational ministry with youth.

Dewey Intercultural Studies Award: Peter Taylor-Visser Former Taylor President Marvin Dewey and his late wife Becky established this scholarship to be awarded to the student who demonstrates competence in and concern for intercultural ministry.

William Sturhahn Preaching Award: Mark Dixon Made possible by the family of Dr. William Sturhahn, this scholarship is for a graduating student who demonstrates special proficiency in preaching.

The Taylor Alumni Association Scholarship: Kimberly Penney This award acknowledges a student who has performed at an exceptional academic level, whose behaviour and conduct are exemplary, and who is seeking placement in full-time vocational ministry.

Doris and Gerald Borchert Scholarship in New Testament Studies: Rosalyn Lo This scholarship is awarded to a second-year student who distinguishes him/herself in New Testament Studies.

Faculty Scholarship: Val Martens This scholarship is awarded to the individual who achieves the highest grade point average during the two semesters of the current academic year.

Sonnenberg Leadership Scholarship: (Five Recipients) Sylvia Arbeau, Greg Garbutt, Heather Hayashi, David Heavenor, Val Martens This scholarship, established by the late Dr. Joseph Sonnenberg (former president), is awarded to a second-year student(s), to recognize outstanding leadership ability.

We are deeply grateful for the friends of the seminary who have made these scholarships and awards possible; thank you for your generosity.

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Alumni Profile - Rick Foster (’83, BTh; ‘10, MTS) Student: Arrived at North American Baptist College (now Taylor) in 1976; most recent Taylor degree was 2010.

Hometown: Onoway, AB (grew up in Manteno, Illinois) Contact Info: OnowayBaptist(at)Xplornet.ca

T

he echoes of July 4, 1976 could still be heard across the land as a young man from Illinois headed north. Rick Foster arrived in Edmonton to attend NABC in the fall of 1976, and this year he will celebrate the 40th anniversary of his arrival in Canada.

Rick (’83, ‘10) and Glenda (’83) recently celebrated the 25th anniversary of their pastoral ministry at the same church in Onoway, a small community rural Alberta.

The church marked the occasion with an event that drew friends and neighbours from a wide area.

Pastor Rick and Glenda Foster enjoy a celebration of their 25th anniversary of “I didn't start with that longevity goal in mind, simply the desire to offer stability to ministry at Onoway Baptist Church, April 10, 2016. Photo Credit: Jayden Sharrun my family, become established in a Of course, Rick’s undergrad experience was community, and to be faithful to the Lord's calling,” memorable in different ways; highlights included Rick says. “In turn, He has been faithful to us.” being part of the basketball team, playing on a band Rick’s first pastoral position came after two years at and singing on the Mixed Team and Choristers under NABC. He served at Austin St. Baptist, Buffalo, NY the direction of Prof. Jim Long. (now Whitehaven Road Baptist on Grand Island) for “Oh, and I can't forget the fifteen months before returning to Edmonton to crushed velvet suits and tuxedos finish school. He earned his BTh in 1983, and after we wore with Mixed Team and accepting the pastorate at Onoway Baptist Church in Choristers!” he laughs.

1991, he began working on his Master of Theology Many of Taylor’s best-known degree. faculty members played a role in Onoway was far enough away from Taylor that it Rick’s education – names like wasn’t easy to move quickly through his program, Follack, Kern, Mayforth, Muller, Paetzel, Page, and online education wasn’t where it is today.

Priestley, Pryzbylski, Ristau, and Waitkus. Many “I worked little by little on that degree until people now serving in church and community graduation in May of 2010,” he says. “ Yes, it took a leadership roles were among his peers. while, which I wouldn't necessarily recommend to “The thing that stands out most for me would be the others.” life-long friendships developed as part of Staying connected to Taylor Seminary for 17 years as student/school life, and getting to know people from he moved through his program provided a chance to all across the U.S. and Canada,” he says. study in the context of active ministry – something Among the other blessings to have come from his that has become much more common today than it Taylor education, Rick lists meeting his wife Glenda was in 1993. and the four children and three grandchildren that “My experience at Taylor helped to shape my have come from that union. scriptural understanding of life and the church. It One of the benefits of lengthy service in a small taught me how to read the Bible from the town is that Rick is a well-connected and trusted perspective of a learner and helped shape a broader leader, engaged in numerous ways in the church and worldview. My time at Taylor challenged me to community, including involvement with the local read, think, and write; opening me up to what I food bank – and even helping drive a school bus on could learn from others who have, or are, walking occasion. Congratulations, Rick and Glenda! TB this journey of faith in Christ.”

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UPCOMING EVENTS Here are some important dates to note, including deadlines and events. Taylor extends a warm welcome to all who can join us for some of our upcoming educational offerings.

Aug. 5: Sept. 1: Sept. 2: Sept. 6: Sept. 6: Oct. 19: Oct. 21-22: Nov. 5: Feb. 8: Feb. 15: Feb. 22: Mar. 17: May 30-June 2:

Deadline for Admissions Application for Taylor Seminary Student Orientation Deadline for Registration for Taylor Seminary Fall Semester Classes Begin!

Welcome Back Lunch (All Students) Church Administrative Professionals Symposium onWORD Conference Overflow (Worship Equipping) Turbulence: Navigating Church Conflicts with Grace Sabbatical Preparation Workshop CAPS Lunch and Learn E.P. Wahl Lectures (Dr. Michael Gorman) THRiVE! 2017

KEEPING COMPANY WITH

GOD

onWORD Conference October 21-22, 2016 The annual onWORD Conference, is artful, thoughtful, meaningful – a fresh encounter with scripture. Featured speaker: Rob Loane (VantagePoint3) LOCATION: McKernan Baptist Church, Edmonton, AB REGISTER ONLINE (after March 15): www.Taylor-Edu.ca/Events

3 2 nd A N N U A L

E.P. Wahl Lectures

March 17, 18, 2017 2016

READING

E.P. Wahl Lectures March 17, 2017

Dr. Michael Gorman’s work on reading the writings of St. Paul ROMANS missionally have generated a great deal of interest and conversation. Taylor is pleased to welcome this esteemed scholar as he explores the Epistle to the Romans through Dr. Michael J. Gorman new eyes. Highly relevant!

The 2017 Wahl Lectures will be recorded and posted online at www.Taylor-Edu.ca/AudioArchives

MISSIONALLY a one-day lecture series featuring

Professor of Biblical Studies and Theology, St. Mary’s Seminary

THRiVE (Camp Caroline) May 30-June 2, 2017

the Wahl Centre at Taylor presents

2 0 1 7 part of the Healthy Pastors Initiative

We invite pastors and spouses to join us for this special retreat at Camp Caroline. THRiVE! offers teaching, discussion and personal reflection on the five key areas that contribute to resilience in ministry.

REGISTER ONLINE: www.Taylor-Edu.ca/Events Come and learn with us!

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ADORATION (2016), by Julianna Christensen (’06, ‘10) Acrylic on BOARD, 16” X 16”

ABOUT THIS IMAGE Adoration was painted based on a mental picture that the artist, Julianna, had during a time of prayer.

She hopes the colours and movement in this piece will lift your spirit.

ABOUT THE ARTIST Julianna Christensen (’06, ‘10) (nee Bienert), a Taylor alumnus from Edmonton, has always loved the visual arts. She began art lessons at age 9 in Brazil and in 2009 she decided to return to this worship form.

Recently Julianna has had the opportunity to use her gift in her work with special needs children.

Last year was a year of firsts. Julianna had her first solo show at West Edmonton Christian Assembly and made her first appearance in Edmonton's Artwalk. Her work can be seen hanging at DECSA Employment Agency and will also be featured in a new show at West Edmonton Christian Assembly titled Songs, Hymns and Spiritual Songs. Samples of Julianna's work can be found at www.facebook.com/rosedoodles

Taylor alumni are invited to submit photographs, paintings and other visual art projects for publication or display on campus. Learn more at www.Taylor-Edu.ca/creative

11525 - 23 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T6J 4T3