ADC Today - Winter 2010

Winter 2010 • Vol. 06, No. 02

Reclaiming DNA

ADC prepares to launch the Charles J. Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care

http://adc.acadiau.ca • adcinfo@acadiau.ca

From The

President Chaplaincy: Not as Simple as it May Look

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hilosopher Alfred North Whitehead said, “The only simplicity to be trusted is the simplicity to be found on the far side of complexity”.

At first glance the whole topic of training people to become chaplains may seem fairly simple. A closer examination of not only the training but also what it takes to be a chaplain is much more complex than most of us realize. And on the far side of coming to terms with all of its complexity, I am sure that there is a simplicity of ministry that honours God. At Acadia Divinity College, we have valued chaplaincy ministry from the beginning. It is cutting edge ministry and it is needed. I have been doing a great deal of thinking lately about chaplains who serve Christ in many settings. Someone recently said to me concerning hospital chaplaincy that it looked pretty simple. Going from patient to patient might get boring they thought. I knew immediately that the person did not have a grasp of the complexity of what it meant to minister in that setting.

“The preparation of those for church-based pastoral ministry must include the development of the person....”

I don’t either, really. I have never been a chaplain. However I have personally been the recipient of the care of a hospital chaplain on a couple of occasions. I know that their ministry is anything but simple. I know that is the case for chaplains who work in the military, the prison and other places where people are vulnerable and have special needs.

The preparation of those for church-based pastoral ministry must include the development of the person as well as their proficiency in the practice of ministry. The focus of theological education for those who will enter the field of chaplaincy ministry is no different.

So…what does a chaplain look like? I want to suggest that you might be surprised by my thoughts and I welcome your feedback.

Four years have gone by since the passing of a pastoral leader in the Baptist Convention who had an exemplary ministry among us. He was passionate about evangelism and wrote regularly to me as the Executive Minister about the lack of baptisms in the Convention churches from one year to the next. He led many people to Christ through his ministry and baptized nearly 1,000 persons over the course of a lifetime of ministry. He planted many churches and much of the early beginnings of Baptists in Newfoundland are attributed to

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Dr. Harry Gardner, ‘77

his labours. At one point he was honoured to receive a Doctor of Divinity from Acadia University. He passed away shortly before his 100th birthday.

I am writing about the Rev. Dr. Freeman Fenerty. He was concerned that pastors were not being shepherds to their people; that they did not know their people. I believe that the secret to his ministry was in his compassion for people. He told me that when he made a hospital visit he often prayed with the patient holding their hand. “I am God’s representative,” he told me.

The love of Christ compels us to serve others. We are His ambassadors and we leave the results to Him. In many settings, chaplains carry on the ministry of Jesus in the power of the Spirit to the glory of God. The training of chaplains at Acadia Divinity College is Christocentric in nature. This means that people are free to serve others regardless of their background of faith or no faith. The chaplain’s grounding is in Christ and His Spirit.

Most often people experience God’s love through the care and compassion of other people. Being there with people at their point of need provides a door for God’s Spirit to bring comfort and love. While there is no mention of the spiritual gift of ears in the New Testament, it is part of being a chaplain. While there is no specific mention of those who are called to be a chaplain in the New Testament, it is for those who are called and gifted to be pastoral in their approach to people.

The people that Freeman Fenerty baptized and the churches he planted were by-products of a ministry that was centred in the pastoral and shepherding care of people. In that sense he was a chaplain.

Most chaplains will not see that kind of fruit for their ministry but the by-product of their ministry will be that people will experience the love of God in Christ and be drawn to Him. They may not even know the source of that love but seeds are being sown.

“Most often people experience God’s love through the care and compassion of other people.”

It sounds simple. But there is much complexity. And on the far side of complexity “there is a simplicity to be trusted”.

Theological education of chaplains at ADC will involve that complexity but I know that on its far side chaplains will emerge with a simplicity of ministry that will bear fruit to God’s glory.

Transforming Love

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- by Shawna Peverill

ark left home at a young age and got mixed up with ‘a lot of different people in a lot of different ways’.

Caught bootlegging and selling drugs, he ended up serving time in a correctional centre. It was inside prison that things changed for Mark when he came face to face with the love of God at a special group counselling session.

“I didn’t know anything about love; I didn’t want anything to do with it because I thought that was for phony people or people that went to church,” says Mark. “I didn’t think I could ever be part of that circle of love, but Charlie invited me into it and I’ve been there ever since.”

“Charlie” - the late Rev. Dr. Charles J. Taylor (’51, ’53, ’85) - spent over 40 years, along with his wife, Charlotte, caring for inmates; men often forgotten by society. He lived out Christ’s commandment to love one another; and it was a transforming love for many.

One of Taylor’s most ground-breaking creations was Kairos Marathons, group counselling sessions where prisoners along with volunteers discussed social and spiritual issues, and supported each other. Today, these marathons take place in penitentiaries across Canada and inmates continue to experience the love of God through these unique gatherings.

Charles J. Taylor

Taylor taught at Acadia Divinity College from 1953 to 2003, and was a pioneer and founder of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) in Canada. The programs he developed helped prepare – and do to this day – students for chaplaincy and pastoral care.

Dr. Dennis Veinotte (’62) was one of those students. Taylor taught the first course he took in CPE and greatly influenced Veinotte’s approach to ministry. After graduating with his Bachelor of Divinity, he pastored several churches, all the while continuing to study and gain CPE experience in hospitals and prisons. In 1984, Veinotte was asked to be the Professor of Clinical Pastoral Education at ADC upon Taylor’s retirement from that position.

“Charlie was the model that I followed”, says Veinotte, who founded the first Pastoral Counselling Education program at ADC. “He saw the need to be qualified and proficient in what he was doing. I felt the same pull. If I wanted to be in ministry I wanted to be trained to the best of my ability.”

Through the leadership of both Taylor and Veinotte, ADC became a national and international leader in prison ministry and pastoral care. However, after the retirement of Veinotte in 2001, this focus began to wane although the College continued to offer the Diploma in Prison Ministry and basic courses in pastoral care.

Nonetheless, Acadia Divinity College has never forgotten the legacy of Taylor and Veinotte, and the importance that chaplaincy and pastoral care plays in the lives of students and the people to which they minister. As a result, this past year, the ADC Board of Trustees revisited the program and, in June, they enthusiastically and unanimously approved the proposal to establish the Charles J. Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care.

“Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care is a growing area of professional ministry”, says Dr. Harry Gardner, President of Acadia Divinity College. “We need trained people using their skills in hospitals and continuing-care facilities, prisons and military settings, and in new areas such as community, industry, and sport.”

The aim of the Taylor Centre is to be a leader in providing training for people called to these specialized ministries, as well as for those who are led into pastoral ministry. The Centre’s motto is “Personal and professional growth, rooted in Biblical truth” and its mission is: The Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care at Acadia Divinity College fosters and promotes clinical and theological excellence in the area of Pastoral Care through personal growth, the building of professional capacities and rigorous theological reflection. The Taylor Centre trains and prepares men and women for pastoral ministry in specialized forms, including hospital chaplaincy, military chaplaincy, prison chaplaincy, and a variety of other caring professions, for which care for the Spirit is of primary importance.

“He lived out Christ’s commandment to love one another; and it was a transforming love for many.”

This past year, with the help of the Christie Fund from First Baptist, Amherst and the Atlantic Baptist Foundation, ADC was able to appoint Dr. Tracy Demmons (’01, ‘02) as the first Director of the Taylor Centre. Demmons, who teaches in the area of pastoral care & counselling, spiritual care and chaplaincy, completed her residency with Capital Health, Halifax, and worked as a hospital chaplain in acute care and psychiatric settings. After completing her Ph.D. at the University of St. Andrews (Scotland), she worked for the United Nations as a Staff Counsellor in Afghanistan.

Since her appointment, the Taylor Centre has begun to take shape. A variety of new courses are being planned. Clinical and ministry placement opportunities for students in > Continued on Page 4

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A Leap of Faith

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she preached, helped organize the “Service to Remember” (recognizing sailors that had died at sea), lead devotions, and participated in sailing exercises.

- by Shawna Peverill

my Tucker stood anxiously at the bottom of the 35foot tower. She was glad the “helicopter skid” was an optional exercise in basic training. But then she heard her instructor yell, “Tucker!”

Minutes later, gathering courage and pushing away her fear of heights, she climbed up the tower again, slid off the helicopter skid, jumped into open air imitating a repel from a helicopter.

“My feet hit the bottom, but I landed on my back,” says Amy. “One of the other recruits stood over me saying, “Tucker are you all right? Tucker are you alive?” I shook for an hour afterward, but I consider it one of the proudest moments of my life.”

Last spring, Amy was posted to 15 Wing Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan, a NATO flying school with over 200 personnel.

Endearingly referred to as ‘madre’, rather than padre, Amy quickly became known for her care and concern for others on base. She attended middle management meetings, visited the ready rooms/schools on base, and even organized a community BBQ each week. But, it was on Friday nights in the mess hall where she spent time really getting to know the personnel as they were winding down after a demanding week of training. This is when she discovered how important it was just to be available and listen.

“Chaplaincy is a ministry of presence”, says Amy. “You have to be ‘real’ and ready at all times; to be present and there for people because of your faith.”

Amy’s skill and confidence have grown tremendously over the past three years. She looks forward to her gradation in May and awaits with great excitement the beginning of her new chapter toward chaplaincy in the military.

From Page 3 > Transforming Love

Third year Master of Divinity student, Amy Tucker, after a successful repel during her basic training with the Canadian Reserves.

Small-framed and standing only 5’4”, this young woman knew she had to complete the demanding training program at CFB Borden. It was all in preparation for her call to ministry.

Amy’s journey to discover her ‘call’ began in 2003 at Crandall University. While volunteering at a church, she realized she had a passion for spiritual care. After graduating and getting married, she prayed for discernment for ministry opportunities. One day, her husband, Master Seaman Paul Tucker, asked, “Why don’t you become a padre?” Immediately a light went on. Amy researched and determined that in order to become a chaplain in the Canadian Forces one must be ordained. By September 2008, she was enrolled in the Master of Divinity program at Acadia Divinity College.

After an exciting and challenging first year of study, Amy applied to the Reserve Entry Scheme Officer program (RESO) designed for those training for chaplaincy in the Canadian Reserves. During her four-week basic training, she and 25 other recruits found themselves jumping off towers, enduring gas mask drills, and sleeping under tarps during field training. The rest of the summer, Amy was posted in CFB Halifax where

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hospital, long-term care and corrections settings are being explored. New connections have been made with the Canadian Association for Spiritual Care (formerly the Canadian Association of Pastoral Practice and Education), the primary professional body for spiritual care givers and chaplains in Canada. A presentation about the Centre was well-received at Oasis 2010, the annual convention of the Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches. Most importantly, interest from students has begun and continues to grow, with several students planning to specialize in spiritual care and chaplaincy.

The Taylor Centre is projected to launch in February 2011 at the annual Simpson Lectures. Through the Centre the students, staff and faculty of ADC are looking forward to a renewed focus on bringing Christ’s healing ministry to the marginalised, the shut-in, and those who face emotional-spiritual crises in our communities. Offering those in need a love that transforms.

Dr. Tracy Demmons in Afghanistan.

God Moments in Jail

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From Pastor to Hospital Chaplain

- by Rev. Wilma Janzen ‘08

n the course of my work as chaplain at Burnside jail (Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility) I encounter many people, staff and offenders. The offenders are very transient as it is a provincial jail. The effect that the chaplain has on the life in the jail is sometimes measured in small moments.

“Thank you for listening!” a shared laugh, a “normal” conversation with an offender, the calling out of “Are you the chaplain, can I talk with you?”, or the request form directed to the chaplain, “I’m concerned about some things in my life and I think the chaplain can help me.” Each of these is an indication that the chaplain’s presence is a normalizing presence in an otherwise abnormal situation – incarceration.

There are encounters when God’s presence is obvious in a person’s life. Philip was at the jail for several months as he awaited trial. He acknowledged he had done wrong, accepted responsibility and was sentenced to federal time. He used his time at Burnside to learn all he could about who Jesus was and what he taught – and how that would make a difference in the way he lived his life from now on. He continues to be engaged in chaplaincy programs at the federal prison. He spoke so intimately of Jesus. “I just love him.” His was a joyful faith in the midst of a joyless environment.

There are moments when I’m not at work, when I hear, “Wilma?” and there’s Rob, looking healthy and smiling. “I saw you and just wanted to tell you I have a good job, the people trust me and things have turned around for me. Thank you for helping me while I was in jail.”

The training I received from ADC was instrumental in preparing me for chaplaincy at the Burnside jail. Every course has contributed to the interaction that I have with staff and offenders. The conversations that I have about theology, however basic, are grounded in the knowledge that I gained from my professors, both in class work and through papers and individual discussions. I continue to use the faculty as resources when I encounter issues with which I know they can help me. My Diploma in Prison Ministry, along with my Supervised Field Education placement in the jail, have both been of invaluable help in my current setting. They truly prepared me for the ministry in which I am engaged.

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- by Rev. George Neily, ’88

y story actually begins with an ending. At the end of June 2008 I concluded my ministry of serving the churches of Bridgetown, Centrelea, and West Dalhousie, Nova Scotia, after a period of 16 years. Before that, following graduation from ADC in May of 1988, I served Jordan Falls United Baptist Church for 4 years.

Retirement, well that meant a whole new beginning for me.

In July of 2008, my wife Jane and I moved west to the beautiful Town of High River, Alberta to be close to our two married sons and three grandsons who live in Calgary. Retirement was great but after six months I knew I was missing ministry.

We were happily involved in the High River Baptist Church teaching Sunday School to grade 4’s and 5’s and a ministry to Seniors, but I sensed God calling me to something else.

The promises of Proverbs 3:5-6 have always guided me through my Christian life and in November 2008 I answered an ad for Spiritual Care Volunteers at the High River Hospital. After meeting the Hospital Chaplain and discussions and prayer I was offered the position of Associate Chaplain, parttime, with my main responsibility to the residents of the Long Term Care Unit of the Hospital.

During my time here I continue to learn so much about hospital chaplaincy through our chaplain who has years of experience as an RN with a BN, Master of Theology, and presently working on her Doctor of Ministry. As continued training, I have taken courses in Bereavement and Palliative Care.

My responsibilities include visitation to residents, providing spiritual care, supporting the Chaplain and sharing Chat with the Chaplain (Bible discussions) responsibilities, Hymn sings, Men’s coffee Break, and supporting families, staff and volunteers.

It is a blessing for me to continue to serve in ministry and to be a part of the holistic healthcare team meeting people where they are at in their faith journey and to share God’s love and compassion through Jesus example.

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Rev. Wilma Janzen graduated from ADC in 2008 with her Master of Divinity along with a Diploma in Prison Ministry. She currently works at Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility as a Chaplain.

Rev. George Neily graduated from ADC in 1988 with a Master of Divinity. He and his wife Jane retired in Alberta, where he serves as Associate Chaplain at High River Hospital.

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Ministry in the Military - by Gordon Poley, ’85

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love the local church. My heart is in the local church. For 25 years I have pastored in local churches of the CABC and yet, for 17 of those years, I served also as a Reservist Chaplain (or Padre) in the Canadian Forces.

For years, both military and civilian clergy would ask me if I would ever go into full-time military chaplaincy. Often with disdain in my voice, I would reply, “I will never go into the Reg Force.” At the time, for me, serving anywhere but the local church was a demotion in ministry. Well, I’ve had to “eat crow” for those immature responses to many who remember my firm conviction of “only the local church.”

I’ve learned my lesson to never say never when God calls you to serve.

God has a great sense of humour and an interesting way of humbling us with our own words. Two years ago, with great apprehension, I signed on the dotted line giving my country “unlimited liability.” It is a term that separates the civilian and reservist from the regular force soldier. It means that my commanding officer can order me into harm’s way.

I often think of my fellow chaplains in theatre ( deployed operations overseas) who daily go “outside the wire” to the FOBs (Forward Observation Bases) to perform their ministry of presence and service to the troops. Belie ve me, our troops who are walking targets in failed nation-states (places of political unrest) ask the big questions of life, “What will happen to me if I die today?”, “Does my life have meaning?”, or “Where is God in all of this?”

The term “unlimited liability” also has a spiritual correlation to me. Didn’t Jesus in the same way give permission to the Father to send him into harm’s way? Doesn’t Jesus himself send us out as lambs to wolves (Luke 10:3)? Doesn’t every pastor at his calling and ordination vow to follow Jesus wherever he leads?

Anyone who has served a congregation knows that there are dangers and minefields in ministry. The only difference is the dangers in pasturing a local church are cloaked with more camouflage and stealth. Regardless of the location of ministry, God calls all of us to put on the Full Armour of God. Why? Because the enemy is real and there are genuine threats. However, regardless of the challenges in every ministry, there is a deep sense of satisfaction in serving others and knowing that you are right where God wants you to be. ______________________________________________________________

Rev. Gordon Poley graduated from ADC in 1985 and for 25 years served several baptist churches in NS & NB. This month he will deploy for eight months to support our troops in Operation Athena (Afghanistan).

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Chaplaincy

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- by Rev. Hank Dixon

hose who bear the mark of pain are never really free.

They owe a debt to the ones who still suffer. This is your beginning…

I don’t know who the author of the above quote is but I do remember the place and time I discovered it; in the Springhill Institution Chapel during the 1980’s while I was serving time.

The memory of that experience has faded somewhat but the words found in the quote have remained. In fact they have grown sharper over the last 11 years as I have served God at both Atlantic Institution and now at Stony Mountain Institution. I never dreamed these simple words would become my call to ministry inside the wall.

Justice, crime, prison, these are words which evoke strong emotions and voices throughout our society; voices that sometimes call for vengeance, other times for justice, and these days loudly for reform. Our society is changing and along with it our prisons and parole system. In the midst of all these voices whether they be victims, offenders or observers, there is the hard reality that pain exists on all sides of the debate. The victim who is forced to live with the physical and emotional scars of an assault, the offender who must face the truth of what they have done and the tough reality of prison and a society that must wrestle with what real justice looks like.

“nine years spent in prison for murder...”

Into this world of pain chaplains are called to minister. Isaiah’s prophesy about Jesus Christ is also a chaplain’s call, “He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners”. It is not the kind of ministry that garners big headlines. In fact some assume it is futile. However that is far from the truth. My life (with nine years spent in prison for murder), transformed by the power of Christ, is but one example of many lives that have been changed through the vision of men and women who have sought to live out Isaiah’s call to bring light into the darkness.

Today, as I walk back into prison I am simply following a long tradition of God’s saints who too have born the mark of pain, are fulfilling their debt to the ones who still suffer, and have heard God whispering, “this is your beginning…” _________________________________________________________________

Rev. Hank Dixon, has taken several courses at ADC. Dr. Charlie Taylor had a significant impact on Hank’s journey to faith and preparation for ministry. He is currently serving as the Protestant Chaplain at Stony Mountain Institution in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Leading Leaders and Discipling Disciples A Story of Marketplace Ministry on the Miramichi

- by Rev. Colin Holmes, ’06

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hile attending Acadia Divinity College in 2005 God put into my heart a desire to reach out in the name of Christ to people in the marketplace.

God did not give me a set of plans nor did he write out a detailed description of what a “marketplace ministry” would look like. However, along the way his challenge became clearer as he placed certain people in my path.

After I graduated, I was called to a youth/young adult ministry that saw a lot of growth – salvation decisions and discipleship were really happening. During that time, I received an invitation to attend a “Maximum Impact Simulcast” at Allison Church, a church known for being on the cutting edge of ministry. It was at this point that my life in ministry took a huge turn.

Believing that discipleship means journeying along with others, I decided to invite business leaders from our church to come along with me. So I hosted a breakfast, presented the vision, and called for a response. Initially it was “NO”. I was crushed, for about 15 seconds or so. These leaders saw the potential of the simulcast. Within seven weeks, we were able to host our first simulcast in Miramichi with 200 in attendance. This was in May of 2007. Since that time, God has taken me to places I never imagined.

In 2008 we started Impact Miramichi, a business leadership organization. Initially we used it in name only as a follow-up to the simulcast by hosting leadership luncheons. At that time I was working from the church. When my ministry at the church ended, I continued the work from my home. Later we moved into an office in the core of the city of Miramichi, provided by a business leader who saw the potential of this ministry. In February of 2009, the fruit of our labour grew deeper as we introduced “New Hope Miramichi” – an outreach and discipleship ministry that brings kingdom influence to the marketplace.

Impact Miramichi and New Hope Miramichi are working together to build bridges to our community. Through leadership development, the simulcast, luncheons, workshops, and mentoring, we have been able to connect with business leaders who might otherwise be leery of the church. Leadership expert, Dr. John Maxwell once said, “We have to gain respect with people in the marketplace before we have the opportunity to have a relationship with them”. In our context, this philosophy has taken folks from being far from God to

connecting with God in a real way. During discipleship we encourage them to become part of a local congregation like the Newcastle United Baptist Church.

It has been my privilege to bring kingdom influence to the marketplace, the place where Jesus would have connected most readily with people whose lives needed to be transformed. ______________________________________________________________

Rev. Colin A. Holmes, graduated from ADC in 2006 with a Master of Divinity and is the Founder and President of Impact Miramichi.

Faculty Corner In September, Dr. Bruce Fawcett, Academic Dean, Director of Doctoral Studies and Associate Professor of Leadership, presented a paper: “Unexpected Grace?: Exploring the Link Between Baptismal Status and Spiritual Practices Among Committed Canadian Baptist Youth” at the annual Symposium of the St. Mary’s Center at St. Deiniol’s Library, Hawarden, Wales. His most recent article (with Leslie Francis and Mandy Robbins) “Imagining Themselves as Ministers: How religiously committed Baptist youth respond to the Revised Payne Index of Ministry Styles (PIMS2)” will appear in the next edition of Research in the Social Scientific Study of Religion. His latest book Psychology and Christian Vocation: applying psychological type theory within the Baptist tradition.is expected to be released in early 2011. _______________________________________________

Dr. Harry Gardner, President of Acadia Divinity College

and Dean of Theology at Acadia University, was elected to a five year term as one of twelve Vice Presidents of the Baptist World Alliance (BWA) this summer during the 20th Baptist World Congress held in Honolulu, Hawaii. In addition, Dr. Gardner will also serve as the Chair of the Ministry Commission of the BWA. _______________________________________________

Danny Zacharias, Lecturer in New Testament and Greek, took part in a panel discussion at Society of Biblical Literature on introductory Hebrew grammars as part of the National Association of Professors of Hebrew annual meeting. There are a few new Hebrew grammars, and Danny will give his personal reflection on using Brian Webster’s “Cambridge Introduction to Biblical Hebrew” at ADC. _______________________________________________ Dr. Andrew MacRae, Professor Emeritus of Evangelism and Mission, received the Barnabas Award, at the annual meeting of the Association for Doctor of Ministry Education (ADME) in Austin, Texas. The award is presented annually to recognize an individual who has provided faithful leadership to a D.Min. program.

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Doctor of Ministry News Fall 2010

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n October 15, 22 new students gathered for their orientation to Acadia Divinity College’s Doctor of Ministry program. The incoming D.Min students are affiliated with several denominations and hail from nearly every Canadian province as well as overseas countries. About half of the students serve as pastors while others are missionaries, university chaplains, hospital chaplains, military chaplains, educators, camp directors, artists, denominational officials, and parachurch leaders. Applications for fall 2011 are now being received.

More information about the program can be found at: http://adc.acadiau.ca/programs/dmin/dmin.php.

Upcoming Doctor of Ministry Courses and Instructors: • Leadership and Strategic Planning for Ministry Advancement – Don Simmonds, serial entrepreneur and ministry CEO • Understanding the Contemporary Canadian Ministry Landscape – Dr. Reg Bibby, Board of Governors Research Chair, University of Lethbridge • Spiritual Formation for Ministry Leaders – Dr. John Sumarah, Professor of Education, Acadia; Spiritual Director • Holy Land Study Tour – Dr. Glenn Wooden, Associate Professor of Old Testament, Acadia • Trends in Contemporary Theology and Their Ministry Implications – Dr. William Brackney, Cherry Distinguished Professor of Theology and Ethics, Acadia • The Bible Under Fire: Analyzing Contemporary Challenges – Dr. Craig Evans, Payzant Distinguished Professor of New Testament, Acadia • Theology, Film, and Television – Dr. Robert K. Johnston and Dr. Catherine

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Barsotti, Professors of Theology and Culture, Fuller Theological Seminary • Theology for Holistic Mission and Ministry – Dr. Ron Sider, Palmer Theological Seminary • Old Testament Theology for Ministry and Research – Dr. Glenn Wooden, Associate Professor of Old Testament, Acadia • Christian Responses to Contemporary Ethical Issues – Dr. William Brackney, Cherry Distinguished Professor of Theology and Ethics, Acadia • Integral Mission: Theology and Praxis – Dr. Rene Padilla, Kairos Foundation, Argentina • Exegesis of 1 Peter for Preaching and Teaching – Dr. Scott Hafeman, Rockefeller Distinguished Professor of New Testament, Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary • Exegesis of Romans for Teaching and Preaching – Dr. James D. G. Dunn, Lightfoot Professor of Divinity, Emeritus, Durham University • Strategic Planning Practicum • Spiritual Formation Practicum

News Thelma Langley celebrates 100th Birthday

2010 Hayward Lectures

On November 4, Thelma Langley celebrated her 100th birthday with many of her friends and family at her home in Wolfville. Mrs. Langley is the wife of the late Dr. Abner Langley, Principal of ADC from 1971 to 1975. Front row L-R: Thelma Langley and Dr. Harold Mitton. Back row: L-R: Dr. Andrew MacRae and Dr. Harry Gardner.

The 2010 Hayward Lectures were delivered by Professor Edith Humphrey, William Orr Professor of New Testament at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Her lectures focused on tradition inside and outside the Bible and how it has shaped Christian faith and life.

The lectures were well attended and generated lively, appreciative discussion. L-R: Professor Edith Humphrey and Dr. Craig Evans, ADC’s Payzant Distinguished Professor of New Testament.

Dr. Janice Zeman reminisces at J.K. Zeman Lecture

Running the Race at ADC

Dr. Janice Zeman, daughter of the late Dr. Jarold Zeman, former ADC Professor of Church History, delivered heart-warming recollections of her father at the bi-annual J.K. Zeman lectures held on October 4 & 5. The Lecture was sponsored by ACBAS – the Acadia Centre for Baptist and Anabaptist Studies. L-R: Dr. Martin Rothkegel (guest lecturer), Dr. Bruce Fawcett, Dr. Harry Gardner, Dr. Janice Zeman, Dr. William Brackney, Dr. Robert Wilson, Dr. Carol Anne Janzen and Dr. Chris Killacky.

This fall, ADC started a weekly running group for students, staff and faculty. “Physical exercise helps the mind as well as providing a healthy alternative to balance sitting in class and studying,” says Dr. Chris Killacky, Director of the Bachelor of Theology and Associate Professor of Theology. L-R: Chad Clements, Adalia Hornsveld, James Dilts, Charlene Reid, Dr. Chris Killacky and Shawna Peverill.

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Continuing Education 2010-2011 J-Term (January 3 – 7) at Acadia Divinity College [PLEASE NOTE: Early registration is required since background readings need to be completed before class.]

Systematic Theology II Dr. Bill Brackney

Course Number: THEO 6213

This is the second course in sequence introducing Christian theology, its nature, method, and function. Major focus for this term will be the doctrines of humanity, sin, salvation, the church, and last things.

Pastoral Care Amidst Crisis

(Critical Incidents & Stress Management)

Dr. Glen Berry

Course Number: PACC 6133

This course is designed for pastoral care givers, including ministry students, chaplains, clergy and others involved in the caring professions, who provide care and support to persons who have been affected by emergency and disaster. Readings, in-class small group work and individual reflection will consider the phases of crisis, the faith community’s role during an emergency situation, common psychosocial and spiritual reactions following disaster and crisis, and the importance of setting limits and practicing self-care for Caregivers. Practical interventions will be taught such as Stress Management, Emotional First Aid, Defusing, and when/how to refer to a professional. These interventions aim to increase coping abilities and psychosocial and spiritual resilience, and decrease stress levels. In addition, an introductory theological reflection will be undertaken, considering theodicy questions of suffering, dialoging with the theology of Henri Nouwen and C.S. Lewis.

Simpson Week (February 7 – 11) at Acadia Divinity College The PSALMS Dr. Glenn Wooden

Course Number: BIBL 7313

The Psalms have been the hymn book of Israel and the Church for millennia. In this course we will examine the various kinds of psalms and explore their use for public, private, and pastoral use in congregations. The course will be both theoretical and experiential.

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Understanding and Caring for Persons with Addictions Dr. Vicki Reid Patton Course Number: PACC 6153

This course will take a practical look at working with the addicted person. It will examine a number of important issues including: toxic shame, unresolved trauma and grief, attachment disorder and family dysfunction, anger and resentment, and the role these issues play in the individual’s need to selfmedicate. The course will also focus on solutions: what it means to live life in balance and how to master skills of self-regulation.

The Global Mission of the Church

(taught in partnership with Canadian Baptist Ministries)

Dr. Terry Smith Rev. Gordon King

Course Number: PRAC 7413

The course is designed to enable the student to look at the global mission of the church from a biblical, historical and contemporary perspective. The focus of the course will be emerging themes in Christian witness in the global South: Peace building and reconciliation, partnerships, integral mission and interfaith relations. Primary source material will include the recent Lausanne III Congress on world Evangelization.

Leadership and Youth Ministry Dr. Bruce Fawcett Course Number: YMIN 6143

In this course you will discover more about your leadership gifts, abilities and calling, reflect on how to help adolescents grow as leaders, and learn more about the leadership arts that will help you deepen and grow a youth ministry.

Spring 2011 – June Youth Ministry Institute: Growing into Leadership and Ministry in Youth Ministry (Prague, Czech Republic) Dr. Steve Griffiths Course Number: YMIN 6163

This course will look at aspects of leadership development as it relates to youth ministry. Students will explore strategies and methods for personal leadership development as well as studying how to develop leadership abilities in volunteer leaders and youth. As the course will involves students from many different countries, sharing of leadership experiences will be a significant component.

ADC in Metro – Winter Term (All Classes run from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.)

Introducing the New Testament 2 Dr. Craig Evans

Discover Your Calling Day for Discovery March 3-4, 2011

Course Number: BIBL 6023

Acadia Divinity College, Wolfville, NS

Time: Mondays, January 10 to April 11 (no classes Feb. 7 & 21) Location: Faith Baptist Church, 299 Stokil Dr., Lower Sackville, NS

Have you been asking yourself, “How do I know if God is calling me into full-time ministry”?

An introduction to the New Testament books from Acts to Revelation in their literary, historical, and cultural framework. Students will explore topics starting with how the Christian church began to what the New Testament teaches regarding God, judgment, and heaven.

How to Study the Bible Dr. Leslie McCurdy

Course Number: IDST 5013

Time: Wednesdays, January 12 - April 13 (no classes on Feb. 9 & 23)Location: Colby Drive Bible Chapel, 131 Colby Dr., Dartmouth, NS

This course on how to interpret the Scriptures seeks to integrate the theory of interpretation (hermeneutics) and the practice of effective Bible study leadership and faithful preaching. Broadly speaking, we will learn how to read, interpret, and apply the Bible. Specific topics include: word studies, reading sentences and paragraphs, appreciating the context of a text, choosing Bible translations, the role of the Holy Spirit’s inspiration, applying the Scripture within the church, and the role of our own cultural context. The course will also consider the variety of literary genres in the Bible from historical narratives to poetry, from letters to apocalyptic.

Introduction to Pastoral Care and Counselling Brian Schrock Course Number: PACC 5013

Time: Thursdays, January 13 to April 14 (no classes on Feb. 11 & 25) Location: Izaak Walton Killam Hospital (IWK), University Avenue, Halifax, NS

“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 ministry. 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. Greg Jones

Born in Moncton, Greg studied at Mount Allison University, Atlantic Baptist College, and Regent College in Vancouver, BC. His first pastorate was in Middle Sackville, NB, In 1993, Greg was called to be Senior Minister of First Moncton United Baptist Church where he pastored for over eight years. In 2002, Greg was called to a dual portfolio with the Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches, serving as Director of Development as well as Regional Minister for Region 6 (Southwest NB).

Pastoral care givers seek to compassionately support and respond to the suffering and everyday distress situations that develop in people’s lives, encouraging and facilitating healing, growth, and change. This introductory course will consider psychological, social, and spiritual responses that may assist pastoral care givers provide this care.

ADC TODAY

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Upcoming Events

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

February 7-9, 2011 Simpson Lectures

Dr. Rod J. K. Wilson President and Professor, Counseling and Psychology at Regent College “Windows into A Christian Understanding of Personal and Professional Identity”

Festival Theatre – Acadia University, Wolfville, NS

7:30 pm each night – No Charge for Lectures

• Monday, February 7 - Personal Window: Is my identity rooted in a clear understanding of grace?

• Tuesday, February 8 - Professional Window: Is my identity rooted in a clear understanding of competence?

• Wednesday, February 9 - Performance Window: Is my identity rooted in a clear understanding of Sabbath?

February 8, 2011 11:00 am - Launch of Charles J. Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care

ADC wishes to invite you to the launch of the Charles J. Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care. Personal and Professional growth, rooted in Biblical truth. Special guests will be present.

Location: Langley Room, ADC 5:00 pm - Alumni and Friends Supper

Wolfville Baptist Church RSVP: trisha.urquhart@acadiau.ca

May 13, 2011 Commissioning Supper and Service Supper - Wheelock Dining Hall – 5:00 pm Service - Wolfville Baptist Church – 7:30 pm

May 15, 2011 Baccalaureate Service – 11:00 am Spring Convocation – 3:00 pm

Visit to Turkey

D

r. Chris Killacky, Associate Professor of Theology at ADC, spent the month of June travelling in western and southern Turkey. Rather than using some of the excellent tour guide options available, he and his family made use of local buses, coaches and boats to visit early historic Christian church sites and meet local people. Travelling through sites in Cappadocia, Konya (Iconium), Derbe, Antalya, Lystra, Miletus, Ephesus, Colossae, Laodicea, Philadelphia, Sardis and Pergamum, Dr. Killacky described the trip as ‘..a hugely devotional time that caused me to reflect upon my own Christianity as well as understand some of the present issues facing the church in Turkey today’.

During his trip there was the unexpected but fascinating opportunity to meet local people who lived in the Fethiye region that saw the population transfer in 1923 of 1.5 million Christian Greeks from Turkey to Greece. Although many of these people are now very old, their children and grandchildren remember the stories of this event that took place, it was claimed, to avoid ethnic attacks upon the minority Christian population. The history behind this and knowledge of these events proved an intriguing area of study as the scarcity of churches, Christian witness, and ministry activity in this region of Turkey today has its roots in the population transfer of 1923.

In addition to visiting historic sites, Dr. Killacky also discovered the two Christian churches in the Fethiye region (a 600km coastal stretch), an Anglican Church and a Baptist Church. Both of these

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churches are pastored by a Baptist pastor who, together with his family, lives on a boat just off shore due to the present difficulty of establishing Christian witness in the region.

It was a joy for him to see how one of these churches had grown to fifty people since the work began six years ago. Much prayer and support is needed for Christian workers who are

Dr. Chris Killacky and his family.

able to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to a region that once saw the Apostle Paul walk through it.

Dr. Killacky has been invited back to the region to do further research and to maintain a link with the christian Church in southern Turkey and hopes again to travel to the area next year.

When asked what the most important part of this trip was, Dr. Killacky says ‘Visiting first hand the region and seeing the reality of Christian witness work in a Muslim country brings home the importance of the work we do at ADC and has given me a lot of new up to date material to bring to my students’.

Leaving a Legacy - by Dr. David Watt, ’62, ’65, ’80, ’99 Director of Development

A

t a recent seminar on planned giving we were reminded of the great opportunity to come alongside people as they decide how to leave a bequest.

It is estimated that in Canada $56 billion is presently designated through wills to spouses, family, friends and charities. There are a variety of reasons that people leave money in their wills to charities. Christians are challenged by their faith to be good stewards of their resources in life and in death. Scripture calls us to provide for our family, to care for the poor and to invest in Kingdom work.

One of the motivations for giving to a particular charity is that their investment is making a significant difference in the lives of people.

Sheldon and Marjorie Fountain established the “Sheldon and Marjorie Fountain Chair of Evangelism and Mission” to train our pastors and Christian leaders to communicate the Good News in relevant and effective ways. Dr. Andrew MacRae has been providing that training for the past thirty years. One of our graduates shared with me recently how he was using the notes from Dr. MacRae’s class to train his people in evangelism. Another church leader reports that baptisms increase when we are intentional about training our people to share their faith.

“...continue to impact the lives of people for years to come?”

The Fountains come from a family of Baptist pastors and leaders that have had an impact on churches and communities throughout Atlantic Canada. Rev. L.J. Tingley, Marjorie’s grandfather, lead many people to faith and built the churches in the St. Margret’s Bay area of Nova Scotia. Sheldon’s brother, Glenn, provided effective pastoral leadership for many years in the Fredericton Junction area in New Brunswick. Their generous gift in establishing the chair to train leaders in evangelism and mission continues to impact the lives of people wherever our graduates serve. Some of the exciting home mission stories are contained in recent issues of ADC TODAY. Our Acadia Partnership program provides an opportunity for you to “leave a legacy” and allow your resources to

continue to impact the lives of people for years to come.

The Fountain Chair is one of nine areas of ministry that you can support with a bequest. Paul shares this financial counsel as he mentors the young pastor Timothy, “Command them [those with resources] to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” (2 Timothy 6:18-19) If you have any questions about how you can become a partner with Acadia Divinity College please phone: 902585-2217 or write to: Acadia Partnership, Acadia Divinity College, Wolfville, N.S. B4P 2R6 or email trisha. urquhart@ acadiau.ca

Alumni News 1957 George HILLIS passed away peacefully with his family at his side on September 17. He graduated from Acadia University with a Bachelor of Divinity and served many churches in the Gaspereau Valley and then Digby, NS.

1968 Doug PORTER, has been called to be the part-time interim pastor at Morristown United Baptist Church, Morristown, NS.

1977 Charlie THOMPSON, has accepted a call to Hartland Baptist Church as the Minister of Church Family Life, Hartland, NB.

1980 Mark LEARY has accepted a call to serve as the Baptist Chaplain of the Saint John Regional Hospital and St. Joseph’s Hospital in Saint John, NB

1981 Rev. Gordon WALKER was called to Jordan Falls Baptist Church, Jordan Falls, NS.

1982 Dennis LEAMONT, has been called to Falmouth United Baptist Church, Falmouth, NS. Paul THOMPSON has resigned from Nackawic Baptist Church, Nackawic, NB and has been called to French Lake Baptist Church, French Lake, NB. Peter SHERWOOD has resigned from Interim Ministry at Greenfield Baptist Church, Greenfield, NS and has been called to Marysville Baptist Church, Fredericton, NB.

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1984 Robert NICKERSON has begun a two year Intentional Interim ministry at Salisbury Baptist Church, Salisbury, NB.

1986 David DUBOIS has resigned from Marysville Baptist Church, Marysville, NB and has accepted a call to First Baptist Charlottetown, Charlottetown PE.

1988 David WELLWOOD, has retired from Burtt’s Corner Baptist Church, Burtt’s Corner, NB.

1989 Jim Rhyno has resigned from the Grand Falls and Ortonville Baptist Churches, NB and has accepted a call to Nackawic Baptist Church, Nackawic, NB.

1991 Matthew LUCAS, completed an intentional interim ministry at East Preston United Baptist Church, East Preston, NS.

1991 & 2000

Church and have accepted a call to Barrington Passage, Barrington, NS.

2003 Ellen HUNT has accepted a call to Upper Vaughan United Baptist Church, Upper Vaughan, NS. Sarah SCOTT, and John, welcome a beautiful daughter Rowan Elizabeth Fletcher, August 19, 2010.

2005 Jonathan LONDON has resigned from Waterville and Victoria Corner Baptist Churches, NB to accept a call to Port Hawkesbury Baptist Church, Port Hawkesbury, NS.

2006 Allison KIRKBRIDE has resigned from Camp Shiktehawk, NB and has been called to Florenceville Baptist Church, Florenceville, NB as Minister of Children and Youth.

2007

Wayne HAGERMAN has accepted a call to be a four month Interim Pastor at Happy Valley Baptist Church, Goose Bay, NL.

Sharon LEIGHTON received her M.A. in History from the University of New Brunswick and is currently residing in Prince Edward Island.

1996

2009

Gordon COOK has resigned from Petitcodiac Baptist Church, Petitcodiac, NB and has been called to Greenwood Drive Baptist Church, Fredericton, NB.

1998 Robin MCCOOMBS has accepted a call to become the parttime Pastor of Congregational Care at Middleton United Baptist Church, Middleton, NS.

2000 Jack and Audrey CARTER have resigned from Digby Neck Second (Little River) United Baptist

Karen DOUCETTE was ordained at Oxford Baptist Church, Oxford, NS on September 25.

Christopher DREW was ordained at West End Baptist Church, Halifax, NS on October 17.

Lynn ERSKINE was ordained at Immanuel Baptist Church, Truro, NS on October 15.

Al FEWKES was ordained at Kennebecasis Baptist Church, Quispamsis, NB on October 17.

Deborah RIPLEY-CARTER was ordained at Windsor United Baptist Church, Windsor, NS on October 16.

Borden SCOTT was ordained at Faith Baptist Church, Sackville, NS on October 3.

2010 Kristen EATON was married to Jacob Price on May 22 in Moncton, NB. Mark SYPHER was ordained at New Minas Baptist Church, New Minas, NS, on November 21.

Current ADC Students

Dave CAWLEY was ordained at New Tusket Baptist Church, Weymouth, NS on September 18.

MACGREGOR, Allison, and Tim, as well as big brother Robbie, are pleased to announce the birth of a beautiful baby girl, Pearl Audrey born on October 11.

Warren and Sarah CLAPHAM were ordained at New Beginnings Ministries, Westphal, NS on November 6.

Emmanuel MUTALE, has completed a five month summer ministry at Tracadie Baptist Church, Monastery, NS.

Dave CUMBY was ordained at Bridgetown Baptist Church, Bridgetown, NS on September 25.

Dan PYKE, has been called to Douglas Baptist Church, Douglas, NB as Youth Pastor.

Geoff DEJONG was ordained at St. Martins Baptist Church, St. Martins, NB on October 3.

Jim SMITH, has been called to serve as the part-time pastor with the Clarence United Baptist Church, Clarence, NS.

ADC Annual Fund

T

he Magi, in Matthew’s account of Jesus’ birth, had an awareness of the future. They traveled a great distance to see the King of the Jews and to offer their treasures in an act of worship. They presented gifts that were “worthy of a King.” The coming of the Christ child opened the way for everyone to experience the present wonder and timeless security of the Kingdom of God. Acadia Divinity College is committed to equipping effective Kingdom leaders for present and future generations. ADC is providing theological education for our time: around the world, around the block, in emergency rooms, prisons, classrooms and churches near you, the message of Jesus is being heard, understood, embraced and shared. We invite you to join with us in this important mission.

The cost of taking theological training “into the world” requires that the Annual Fund goal this year be increased from $310,000 to $340,000.

We are grateful to God for the community of support that has risen up in supporting the ministries of ADC and ask you to prayerfully consider how God may be leading you to support the ADC mission during this time of growth.

The faculty and staff along with the Board of Trustees join me in wishing God’s blessing upon you and your family during this Christmas season.

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Acadia Divinty College Wolfville NS B4P 2R6 http://adc.acadiau.ca

Call: (902) 585-2217 Fax: (902) 585-2233 Email: adcinfo@acadiau.ca

Please accept my gift of $........................... for the ADC Annual Fund.

Please note my change of address.

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Please send me information on the Personally Approved Payment Plan.

Contact me about wills and other gift planning options.

Spending of funds is confined to Board approved programs 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 offical receipt issued for income tax purposes.

THANK YOU For Helping Equip Christian Leaders

ADC TODAY

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Rev. Marlene Knowles Honoured - by Dr. David Watt

B

eautiful Christmas music was playing as Florence and I visited the dentist. The dental hygienist, with reference to her family, passionately commented: “This is my favorite time of the year!” Again, connecting with a childhood friend through email this week brought a response that focused on his Christmas plans – the gathering of family at his home in Ontario.

A word that defines Rev. Marlene Knowles, recipient of the ADC Distinguished Alumni Award this year, is “family”. Marlene is first of all a wife, mother, and grandmother and these roles all play a vital part in her life. However, the idea of family moves in ever widening circles. She has been an active layperson and pastor in several churches over the years, and embraced her church community with the same care and concern that she has for her own family. A deacon at South End Baptist in Dartmouth, where she served for six years, said about her leadership, “Marlene was able to create an atmosphere in the church where people of all ages found real joy in worshipping and serving together.”

Marlene has been a supervisor, mentor, and model for a large number of women in ministry over the years. She has served in a variety of capacities (including Moderator) within the wider Halifax County Association family of churches. She has served faithfully as a creative team member in helping to plan and implement many cooperative home mission events.

The international Christian family has also experienced her warm embrace. She has led mission teams to Europe (Poland) and participated with teams in a variety of countries around the world. Her Christian family connections go all the way to India and presently she serves on the board of Far Corners Ministry (FCM).

ADC is thankful to have Marlene as a part of our family – as a graduate with her Master of Divinity and Master of Theology, as a supervisor to ADC students preparing for ministry, as a member of the Board of Trustees, as a faithful participant and supporter of ADC programs that fulfill our mission of training effective leaders for the church and community. Marlene has been a great ambassador for the College over the years and Dr. Harry Gardner spoke for all of us at the presentation of the Distinguished Alumni Award this past August at Oasis 2010 in Sackville, NB “Marlene, we are proud of you and want you to know that you are very deserving of this award.”

“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)

If undeliverable please return to: Acadia Divinity College 15 University Avenue Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6 41228525

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