ADC Today - Summer 2017

President’s Message

by Dr. Harry Gardner, ’77

Transformation Through Education Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.

Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

- Romans 12:2 I had been asked the question before, but there was a distinctive sincerity in his voice, “Tell me, do you really think people can change?” Often I will respond to a question like that by asking in return, “And, what do you think?” But in this case, I sensed a simple response would suffice. My response was a quiet and confident, “Yes.” Throughout years of ministry, I have seen people change. In my work at Acadia Divinity College (ADC), I have witnessed how education nurtures spiritual and intellectual transformation.

In this edition of ADC Today, you will read about how education can change people’s lives. Recently in our world, we have watched the power of education produce both positive and negative outcomes. News reports bring us the numbing accounts of radicalization of individuals, cultivated by a ruthless educational process that leads them to militant extremism. Alternatively, models of education grounded in the belief that human beings are to be treated with dignity and equality have resulted in the constructive transformation of culture where we see image-bearers working at their best, and the Kingdom comes where God’s will is done on earth.

Evidence abounds of the transforming power of the Spirit of God at work in individuals, communities, and political and social structures through 2

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education. Jesus was a Master Educator who taught in synagogues and fields, on seashores and hillsides. He used illustrations from the world around him to encourage people to think differently about their lives and how they relate to God and others. He taught by word and example, and few who met him went away unchanged.

Acadia Divinity College prepares Christian leaders to bring the hope of transformation through Christ to the people and communities they serve. In order to do this well, leaders must be transformed too. Through the process of theological education, we seek to commission graduates into ministry with renewed hearts and minds.

Learning to preach and lead others in worship as an art begins to emerge for a lifetime of ministry leadership.

In these complex times, the church needs the seminary more than ever to provide a transformation through education that flows into and out of the lives of students, to the churches they lead and the global ministries they engage.

Can people change? Yes, we believe fundamentally they can change. And we are fully committed at Acadia Divinity College to offer education that facilitates the ministry of the Change Agent Himself.

Education is about transformation in the student’s thinking and being as well as skill development. It is about what transpires in classrooms, hallway conversations, chapel services, and community gatherings. It deals with theological reflection, personhood, and practice of leadership. All of these are integral to theological education at ADC. Mentored and taught by a committed faculty, students develop solid biblical knowledge and theological understanding as they engage ancient texts and great thinkers past and present. Time-tested spiritual practices are woven into the students’ lives in the context of demanding ethical issues.

Dr. Harry Gardner is the President and the Abner J. Langley and Harold L. Mitton Professor of Church Leadership of Acadia Divinity College, and the Dean of Theology of Acadia University.

by Dr. Anna Robbins, ‘97

Craving Education We visited the Guatemalan village mid-morning, the children gathering as soon as they heard the bus rumbling over the dirt road. As we entered the school house, laden with paper, pencils, and other school supplies, the children bubbled with excitement. They had a building but no teachers to hold classes. The chance to learn something new through word and experience was precious. One little boy of about 5 or 6 sat down near me. I laid a piece of paper in front of him and held out a crayon. He looked it over with deep fascination. He didn’t know how to hold it or what to do with it. Gently, I showed him. As he made a single, awkward, hesitant line, holding a crayon in his little fist for the first time, he looked up at me with a smile of accomplishment that made me believe he could change the world with that crayon. He was hungry for education.

The look on Leonardo’s face was the look on my face, countless times, as I experienced the ‘ah-ha!’ moments of faith-seeking understanding while sitting in a theology class, studying the Bible, or reflecting on the practical challenges of ministry. I’ve never stopped having them. My education is life-long; whether learning to develop efficiency in the office, attending lectures, or walking in the footsteps of Jesus in the Holy Land. I have opportunities that Leonardo never will have. And, so do most of us. Are we hungry to learn?

Many of us take education for granted.

We have schools, colleges, and universities providing ready access to

libraries and electronic resources that nurture our desire to learn. Can we imagine what it would be like to want desperately to gain knowledge and have no opportunity to do so? With so much available at our fingertips, we forget how fortunate we are and begin to see education as a burden. We learn the minimum of what we are required to learn, and we are glad when our school days, even our seminary days, are over.

There are people and communities around the world, and within Canada, who crave education. They want to learn. They want to grow. They want to hone their skills and prepare to serve God to the best of their ability.

Israel and Palestine During May 2016, a group of students and faculty from Acadia Divinity College travelled to Israel and Palestine. It is part of our educational program to introduce students to the land of the Bible and to open up their understanding of scripture, and the complexities of conflict and reconciliation in the world today.

During that trip, we visited Bethlehem Bible College, an unassuming brick building which sits across the street from a generations-old refugee camp of Palestinians. These refugees are

displaced from their land after the formation of Israel as a modern nation.

Just down the road is a battered wall covered with layers of graffiti, keeping Bethlehem cut off from the surrounding communities and land.

In a place where Christians are a pressured minority, we might think that education is not high on their list of priorities. However, what we encountered was quite the opposite.

Despite the stress of life behind walls, the Christians are using education to reach communities, foster dignity, and share the good news of Christ.

Programs prepare students to become tour guides or to work in media. The media team records programs that are broadcast locally, equipping families with strategies to avoid the violence of intifada. They broadcast more widely via SAT-7 - a Christian satellite television network broadcasting in Arabic, Persian, and Turkish across 22 countries in the Middle East and North Africa, along with 50 countries in Europe - providing education and evangelistic programming. They have just launched an online program that will allow Christians in Gaza to receive theological education. What they are accomplishing under constant pressure is simply astounding. They crave education. … continued on page 4

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Ukraine In October, I travelled to Kiev, Ukraine, to teach a course on Christian Ethics.

I did not expect to meet so many wonderful, smart, professional people so eager and hungry to learn. I did not expect to meet a lawyer, medic, teacher, professor, priest, all craving theological education, which is not widely available at the Master’s level in the post-Soviet context. That classroom was alive! A lecture on just war and pacifism takes on new dimensions when half of your class has travelled from a war zone that day to learn, and they will travel back there to serve that afternoon. The privilege of education is highlighted when you see students reading their textbooks on phones because that’s the only resource they have available. They crave education.

Hong Kong In late Fall 2016, we had a visit from Dr. Fai Luk, President of Bethel Bible 4

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Seminary in Hong Kong, an affiliated institution of ADC in which students in several programs are awarded Acadia University degrees. Dr. Luk reported on the success of one of their programs that seeks to equip leaders from mainland China with graduatelevel theological education. There is a deep hunger for learning in a context where there is only one graduate-level seminary in the whole of the country.

They crave education.

Many students at Acadia Divinity College make great sacrifices for their theological education. Most recognize it as a great privilege to study theology and receive education to equip them for their call to ministry. ADC is feeding the educationally hungry at home and in many places around the world through our onsite, offsite, and online programs, courses, and lectures. It is our calling to provide seminary education that equips people to serve Christ and his church in the world today.

Education is the key to sustainable ministry. Although Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, the world is in constant flux. Continuing to learn helps us to go ever deeper into our faith and to understand how to communicate faith in an ever-changing context.

So I wonder, when was your last ‘ahha!’ moment? When did you last learn something that delighted you so much that you too had Leonardo’s smile on your face? What steps can you take this year to ensure you are a life-long learner who craves education? Are you hungry? The table is set and waiting: You are invited to the feast!

Dr. Anna Robbins is Vice-President of Acadia Divinity College, and the Professor of Theology, Culture and Ethics, Director of Doctoral Studies, and Director of the Andrew D. MacRae Centre for Christian Faith and Culture.

by Dr. Danny Zacharias, ‘07

Technology and Education: Challenges and Opportunities The advent of technology and the world wide web has significantly changed the landscape of education.

Encyclopedias once sold door to door are now replaced by Wikipedia.

Trips to the local public library are now superseded by a Google search or by asking Siri. However, there are aspects of the Information Age that are lamentable, chief among those being the amount of misinformation available at the click of a button.

For education, the effect of technology and the Information Age has meant a profound shift in how students view their professors. Before the internet, the teacher was considered to be the bastion of knowledge and was often the sole vehicle which introduced students to new ideas. Professors were one voice out of a privileged

ONLINE

few that engaged with students and imparted knowledge. Technology has now produced a cacophony of voices clamoring for the attention of the student, some very informative and others horribly mistaken. In the midst of this noise of opinion, professors seek to still speak meaningfully to their students.

norm is now for the lone individual to sit in front of a laptop screen, passively absorbing whatever is coming through YouTube or the next TED talk.

The role of the professor has changed because of technology. We no longer simply inform students; we arm them to seek out and evaluate sources of information so that they can separate the wheat from the chaff.

Acadia Divinity College is keenly aware of the opportunities that technology is bringing to education. Many of our courses are accessible through virtual seats so that people at a distance can be part of our weekly residential courses. And, our new ADC Go courses combine the convenience of online learning with the educational experience of face-to-face interaction with professor and peers on a weekly basis. These offerings leverage the best of technology while maintaining our values as an institution and the opportunity for discussion and community.

Technology has brought a dizzying array of information, but it has also caused isolation. Whereas learning was once primarily done in community, the

COURSES

Ministry will continue to be done face to face, and as we prepare students to be on mission with God wherever they are, we believe they can only be adequately equipped in a community of learning that sees one another and interacts in real time.

Dr. Danny Zacharias is the Assistant Professor of New Testament Studies, Director of Hayward Lectures, and the Director of Distance Education at Acadia Divinity College.

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Dr. Andrew MacRae joined Acadia Divinity College in 1980 as Chair of Evangelism and Mission, and was Principal of Acadia Divinity College between 1985 and 1998.

He continued to serve ADC until 2014.

Theology of Acadia University. Within months, the College underwent a review of its accredited status by an examining team from the Association of Theological Schools. The College received accreditation for five years, the longest term available at the time and a strong affirmation of the high academic standing of the College.

Remembering the Reverend

Dr. Andrew D. MacRae 1933-2016 Devoted to family. Passionate about evangelism and pastoral ministry.

A deeply committed servant of God. These are the words that most frequently come to mind when remembering our friend and colleague, Dr. Andrew D. MacRae. Andrew was born in Lasswade, Scotland, near Edinburgh and with the early encouragement of his pastor, he became a street evangelist as a teenager. Ordained in 1957, Dr. MacRae was called to a pastoral ministry in Scotland that focussed on urban ministry. He was appointed General Secretary and Superintendent of the Baptist Union of Scotland in 1966, providing leadership and pastoral care to pastors and churches. Dr. MacRae served extensively in Europe and the Soviet Bloc, working with the Baptist World Alliance and also preaching, teaching, and leading conferences in more than 50 countries on every 6

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continent. His leadership led to the introduction of the Evangelism and Education Division of the Baptist World Alliance. In recognition of his work, Dr. MacRae received a Doctor of Divinity, honoris causa, from Campbellsville University in Kentucky.

Dr. MacRae’s road to Acadia Divinity College began in 1978 with an unexpected phone call from the College, inviting him to an interview for a position as a member of faculty.

It was almost two years before he was persuaded to move to Wolfville with his wife, Jean, and two children, Findlay and Fiona. Dr. MacRae began his service at ADC by establishing the first Chair of evangelism and mission in Canada, the Sheldon and Marjorie Fountain Chair of Evangelism and Mission, and in 1983 became its first occupant. After much deliberation, in 1985, he accepted the position of Principal of ADC and Dean of

During his tenure, Dr. MacRae travelled the country, teaching and preaching in churches in every province, building relationships with Baptists across Canada. It became apparent to Dr. MacRae that God had taken him around the world for a purpose; by affiliating schools in Nigeria and Hong Kong, he led Acadia University into a new concept of an expanded international reach. Dr. MacRae introduced the Doctor of Ministry (DMin) program at ADC, now one of Canada’s largest DMin programs, enrolling students internationally from many denominations. He was key in launching the Lay Pastor’s Program, a curriculum designed to meet the needs of the smaller churches, as well as the Lifestyle Training Schools to prepare ordinary Christians to share their faith. His door was always open to students, and alumni remember his passion in the classroom, sparkling wit and involvement in student life. Perhaps Dr. MacRae’s most significant contribution to the long-term future of the College was the Living Legacy fundraising campaign that strengthened the endowment for student bursaries and the College’s financial position. Every step of the way, Jean ministered by his side with kindness and gracious hospitality to ADC faculty, staff, and students.

Andrew and Jean with their extended family on their 50th wedding anniversary.

In 2007, Dr. Andrew MacRae and his wife, Jean, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Dr. MacRae retired in 1998, after 13 years as ADC’s longest serving Principal. His leadership was recognized by Acadia University through the bestowing of a Doctor of Divinity, honoris causa, in 2004.

In retirement, he served as a pastor, taught evangelism, and, after a brief absence from the College, returned to direct the Doctor of Ministry program. Until March 2014, he served as Senior Consultant to the Doctor of Ministry Program, Life and Ministry Coach, and Liaison to Hong Kong Ministries. Dr. MacRae’s connection with Acadia Divinity College continued as the Sheldon and Marjorie Fountain Professor Emeritus of Evangelism and Mission.

In honour of his valuable leadership at Acadia Divinity College, and in recognition of his global impact and lifelong commitment to evangelism and mission, The Andrew D. MacRae Centre for Christian Faith and Culture was established in 2016.

In addition to his many accomplishments, Dr. MacRae will perhaps be most remembered as a deeply caring and humble Christian man with a great sense of humour.

He was a true servant of God who touched so many lives.

The church needs to respond to an ever-changing world. Addressing the complicated issues that emerge from all directions requires knowledge, wisdom, engaged theological thinking, and skill in applying biblical principles to our contemporary culture. The Andrew D. MacRae Centre for Christian Faith and Culture will be ADC’s focus for helping students and the wider church engage with people and issues in meaningful, thoughtful, relevant, and transformative ways. The Centre will accomplish this in three specific areas: 1. Resources - The Centre will create, collect, and distribute a wide range of articles and various resources to better inform and equip Christians to engage with issues of faith and culture.

2. Education - The Centre will launch new courses and degree specializations to prepare practitioners and academics to lead the church in an everchanging world.

3. Research - The Centre will be a hub of research and publishing as well as a forum for engaging Christian ethics and other issues that emerge as we experience rapid growth in technology, shifting cultural values, and new global realities. http://www.acadiadiv.ca/andrew-d-macrae-centre-for-christian-faith-and-culture Summer 2017

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Colloquium on Research into Faith-Based Interventions with Ex-Offenders National Conference of Community Chaplaincies — which motivated us to convene and host an international Colloquium on Research into FaithBased Interventions with Ex-Offenders in the Fall of 2016.

Over 20 people participated in the Colloquium including: Seated, L to R: Sarah Anderson, University of Glasgow; Alison Urie, Vox Liminis; Matt Wall, Community Chaplaincy Association, UK; Sheila MacCrimmon, Colloquium Facilitator; Stacie Ogg, Office of the Correctional Investigator.

Standing, L to R: Jane Dominey, University of Cambridge; Richard Stansfield, Rutgers University; Stephen McMullin, ADC; Andrew McWhinnie, McWhinnie Consulting; Eileen Henderson, Mennonite Central Committee (Ontario); Lorraine Street, ADC; Clarence DeSchiffart, Concilio Prison Ministry; Tom Beckner, Bridges of Canada; Christina Dunfield, Mennonite Central Committee (Atlantic Region); Hugh Kierkegaard, Correctional Service Canada; Carol Anne Janzen, ADC; Bruce Archibald, Dalhousie University

The Colloquium on Research into Faith-Based Interventions with ExOffenders, sponsored by the Charles J. Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care, Acadia Divinity College, took place from September 27 to 29, 2016 at Acadia University.

As many readers of ADC Today will know, Acadia Divinity College has a long and rich history of inspiring and equipping Christians to respond to the imperative in Matthew 25:31-46 – the followers of Jesus are called to “come to those in prison.”

Recently, through one of its Centres of Excellence — the Charles J. Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care — the College has taken a leading role in seeking to support the work of faith-based organizations that assist people trying to refrain from criminal acts and to successfully reintegrate into the community after being in prison.

The Taylor Centre was a sponsor, organizer, and host of the 2013

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The Colloquium, held at Acadia, brought together twenty people, including government representatives from Correctional Service Canada and the Office of the Correctional Investigator; representatives of the Mennonite Central Committee, Community Chaplaincy Association of the UK, Circles of Support and Accountability, and Bridges of Canada, all faith-based organizations working with ex-offenders; and researchers in criminology from Saint Mary’s University, Dalhousie University, Rutgers University (US), the University of Western Oregon (US), the University of Cambridge (UK), and the University of Glasgow (UK).

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first gathering of its kind to focus specifically on research into work that faith communities are doing to help people who have been released from incarceration successfully re-enter and re-integrate into the broader community. Given the large numbers of incarcerated individuals, and the challenges they face post-incarceration to find work, accommodation, health care, and support for their efforts to live crime-free, this work is both urgent for the individuals and their families, and of significant importance to all members of the community.

Remembering Dr. Tracy vom Hagen While the passing of Tracy vom Hagen (née Demmons) on September 13, 2016, deeply saddened the Acadia Divinity College family, we thank God for the life of this remarkable young woman.

Tracy first came to ADC as a student, earning a Master of Arts (Theology) with Distinction in 2004. During her studies at Acadia, she also completed four units of Clinical Pastoral Education with each unit consisting of 400 hours of instruction or practicum. All the while, she was living with, and rising above, the effects of Neurofibromatosis type 2, a disorder characterized by the growth of noncancerous tumors throughout the nervous system.

Surgery to remove tumors on her brain stem affected Tracy’s hearing, ending her ability to answer her calling as a chaplain. Rather than dwell on her hearing loss, Tracy listened with an open heart and recognized God’s hand at work in her life. She turned towards an academic approach to chaplaincy, studying at the venerable University of St. Andrews, Scotland, where she completed a dissertation on the knowledge of God and people with intellectual disabilities.

Participants at the Colloquium focussed on questions related to the role of faith and belief both in an individual’s rehabilitation and reintegration, and in the motivation of volunteers/agencies working in helping capacities. Colloquium participants welcomed the leading role that Acadia Divinity College is taking in this work and strongly encouraged its continuation—in creating and hosting a publicly accessible database

As she neared the end of her doctoral program, Tracy accepted an internship with the United Nations Critical Incident and Stress Management Unit in New York conducting training for UN support staff in psychosocial support. She then spent 18 months in Afghanistan as a staff counsellor providing psychological and spiritual support to UN staff working under extreme duress. Her health finally necessitated a return to Canada.

In February 2011, ADC formally launched the Charles J. Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care, appointing Dr. Tracy Demmons as its first Director. In three brief years, Tracy, interrupted by several serious operations, worked with ADC to define the mission and vision of the Taylor Centre and re-connected ADC with the chaplaincy world in Canada.

With her vibrant personality and tenacity in teaching and counselling despite her physical limitations, Tracy inspired and touched the lives of students in profound ways. In 2015, she was honoured by the Acadia Divinity College Alumni Association with its Distinguished Service Award – the youngest recipient of this award.

of research and related materials; in becoming an international hub for resources and networking; and in developing new research projects with practical goals. Our ultimate goal is to help people change old patterns and to flourish, and to help the Christian community, as well as the wider community, to engage in the task of reconciliation and rehabilitation, as spelled out by the apostle, Paul, in his address to the Corinthians:

“Give whatever you can, take that step out in faith, and God will do the rest.”

Dr. Tracy vom Hagen Tracy believed that God works wonders with whatever you give Him. This was certainly demonstrated in her own life. Acadia Divinity College will long remember Tracy’s indomitable spirit, positive outlook on life, and deep faith in a loving God.

All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. - 2 Cor 5:18-19 Summer 2017

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News FA C U LT Y

Dr. Blythe is a popular preacher, speaker, and teacher in the UK and Europe. He served in Glasgow, Scotland as Minister of Springburn Baptist Church (19891994), and then as Youth Minister (1994-2000) and Team Leader/Senior Minister (2000-2005) of Kirkintilloch Baptist Church.

Stuart Blythe to Occupy the John Gladstone Chair of Preaching and Worship Acadia Divinity College is pleased to announce the appointment of Rev. Dr. Stuart Blythe as the Associate Professor in the John Gladstone Chair of Preaching and Worship, to begin on September 25, 2017.

Dr. Blythe’s academic career began at the Scottish Baptist College in Glasgow in 2005, where he served as a Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, and was the Acting Principal in 2013-2014. He is a Fellow of the Academy of Higher Education in the UK. Since 2014, Dr. Blythe has been the Rector of the International Baptist Theological Study Centre and a member of the Faculty of Theology at Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam.

Dr. Blythe holds two degrees in preaching and homiletics. His two theses are: “The Place and Function of Preaching in the Church’s Mission” (Master of Theology, Spurgeon’s College/University of Wales, 2003) and “Open Air Peaching as Radical Street Performance” (PhD, University of Edinburgh, 2009).

Since 2011, Dr. Blythe has earned a Post Graduate Certificate in Teaching and a Master of Education in Enhanced Educational Practice.

Dr. Blythe is married to Susanne, and they have two adult children.

Dr. Dorothy Hunse Dr. Dorothy Hunse has been appointed by the Board of Trustees as the Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care. She began her service on August 1, 2017.

Since 2004, Dorothy has served parttime at McMaster Divinity College.

She taught several courses including Dancing with Mortals: Ministry in the Face of Death and Grief, Foundations for Effective Ministry, Spiritual Life of the Ministering Person, and Transformative Leaders, and she held the positions of Acting Director of Ministry Foundation, Ministry Reflection Seminar Advisor, 10

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Ministry Formation Program Assistant, and Ministry Formation Teaching Assistant.

Dorothy has pastoral experience at Queen St, Baptist Church in St. Catharines, Ontario, as Youth Leader (1997-1998) and Associate Pastor (19982005). She was the Multi-Faith Chaplain at Hospice Niagara, St. Catharines, Ontario, serving occasionally between 2009 and 2013, and full time between 2013 and 2016. In addition, Dorothy has presented to educational institutions and local churches on the topics of spiritual care, care of the dying, grief, and church renewal in lecture, workshop, and retreat formats.

Dorothy is twice a graduate of McMaster Divinity College, having earned her PhD (Christian Theology) in 2014 and her Master of Divinity in 1998, receiving the Principal’s Gold Medal. During her MDiv studies, she completed a Pastoral Counselling Education Unit in 1997. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts (Psychology) from Brock University (1989). Her doctoral dissertation is entitled “Intimacy with God: A Reorienting Pastoral Theological Reflection upon Church Decline”.

Dr. Hunse is married to Cliff.

Retirement of Dr. William H. Brackney On July 1, 2017, Dr. William H. Brackney retired after eleven years of service as the Dr. Millard R. Cherry Distinguished Professor of Christian Thought and Ethics as well as the

Dr. John Stewart The College is grateful for Dr. John Stewart, Visiting Professor of Pastoral Care and Counselling between February 2015 and June 2017. John brought his rich experience in teaching and scholarship in the field of Counselling Psychology to ADC. For nearly 20 years, he served the University of New Brunswick, and in 2011, the UNB conferred the distinction Professor Emeritus in Education.

Dr. Harry Gardner Dr. Harry Gardner, ’77, is serving a six-year term (2012-2018) on the Board of Commissioners, Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada. In 2016, he was elected as the Board Chair for a two-year term.

Dr. Anna Robbins Dr. Anna Robbins,, ’97, was promoted to Professor of Theology, Culture and Ethics effective July 1, 2017. Anna will continue to serve as the Vice-President, Director of Doctoral Studies, and the Director of the Andrew D. MacRae Centre for Christian Faith and Culture.

Director of the Acadia Centre for Baptist and Anabaptist Studies. Recently, Acadia University conferred the distinction of Professor Emeritus on Dr. Brackney, recognizing his distinguished academic career and exemplary service to the College and University.

Dr. Brackney will continue part-time as the Distinguished Research Professor of Christian Thought until December 31, 2017. Effective January 1, 2018, he will occupy the Pioneer MacDonald Chair of Baptist Theology and Ethics at Carey Theological College in Vancouver.

The Beatty Ryckman Trust supports the Professor of Pastoral Care Dr. Harry Gardner recently announced a major gift to the College that will provide further development of the pastoral care curriculum at the College.

The Beatty Ryckman Trust has committed $20,000 per year for five years to support the new position of Professor of Pastoral Care at ADC. The Trust will also match donations and pledges received by the College over the same five-year period, to a maximum of $30,000 per year.

Dr. Gardner remarked, "Acadia Divinity College is deeply grateful for the support of The Beatty Ryckman Trust and their significant role in providing the resources to call a new Professor of Pastoral Care. We are delighted with the initial response from friends and alumni of Acadia Divinity College; we have received a lead gift of $50,000 towards this matching grant as well as additional donations totaling $4,000.“ The Professor of Pastoral Care will train students for pastoral care ministry in the contemporary church and society, as well as contribute more broadly to the practical ministry program. With this new faculty position, the College will develop fresh approaches to the teaching and practice of pastoral care appropriate to diverse contexts, including churches old and new, health care facilities, correctional institutions, military, businesses, and sport.

A spokesperson from the Trust stated, “The Beatty Ryckman Trust is very pleased to support the work of Acadia Divinity College in providing quality pastoral education. We hope that sufficient funds will be raised to match the Trust’s offer of additional funding in the years to come. We are confident that the work being done by Acadia is consistent with the vision of the co-founder of the Trust, the late Rev. William Leach. We look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with the College.”

About The Beatty Ryckman Trust Established by the late Rev. William Leach and Mrs. Virginia (Beatty) Leach of Toronto, The Beatty Ryckman Trust is dedicated to supporting those who equip and train clergy for self-knowledge and personal wellness. Since 2010, The Beatty Ryckman Trust has been an annual supporter of the ministry of the Charles J. Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care of the College.

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by Rev. LeQuita H. Porter

East Preston Empowerment Academy Initiatives for Adults Initially, an Adult Learning Program was offered, and then the Academy expanded to include a preparation course for the General Education Diploma (GED) Exam and a Trade Apprenticeship Program entitled the EPEA Pathways Initiative, preparing tradespeople to qualify for Red-Seal Certification with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA). The course curriculum includes instruction in communications and mathematics, along with several professional development seminars.

Initiatives for Youth Rev. LeQuita Porter, Senior Pastor of the East Preston United Baptist Church, is the President of the Board of the East Preston Empowerment Academy.

East Preston United Baptist Church believes in the importance of education, and in September 2014, the East Preston Empowerment Academy (EPEA) was founded as the Church’s ‘labour of love’. The foundational scripture is:

Understanding is a wellspring of life…to those who have it.

- Proverbs 16:22b

The Partners Primarily funded by the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education, the Black Educators Association, the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency, and the East Preston United Baptist Church, as well as contributions of time and resources from private individuals, students attend EPEA free of charge.

The Need

The Focus

Many African Nova Scotians in East Preston had not engaged in formal education for many years. They had not completed high school or pursued higher education because of family and work needs as well as other obstacles. In response to this, EPEA was established to equip community members with the necessary skills, tools, and confidence to lead productive and meaningful lives.

EPEA’s focus is on #InvestingInMinds and #EmpoweringLives by assisting people in upgrading their skills and qualifications for future employment and entrepreneurial pursuits. The instructors encourage and prepare students to seek the highest level of education possible, regardless of their lack of past accomplishments or other barriers.

EPEA recently added an academic enrichment component for East Preston youth. These youths have low reported test scores and achievement levels, and few attend university. A weekly tutoring service and career counselling service have now been established, and the Academy is in the process of developing Career Day, where interested youth will accompany professionals to their offices. The goal is to positively intervene in the lives of youth, and to support them in pursuing non-traditional occupations and careers, and other entrepreneurial ventures.

Other Programs After discovering the low voting rate, EPEA created an electronic voting program to assist residents to vote online. Computers were provided, community members were registered with the support of the Halifax Regional Municipality Elections Office, and volunteers were trained to lead people through the voting process. … continued on page 13

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Because of this, many voted for the first time in their lives!

A highly effective legal information session was also held in collaboration with the Halifax law firm of Stewart McKelvey. Lawyers from top law firms and the provincial government presented on the different law careers and discussed various legal matters that affect East Preston.

The Results Many residents of East Preston have now embraced the importance and necessity of education. They demonstrate a commitment to study and a diligence to work through complex problems to achieve educational excellence. The student response has been highly indicative of the needs in the community, and EPEA plans to continue to expand its reach to provide the kind of education that people really need.

The East Preston Empowerment Academy has been an amazing walk of faith. God’s hand is seen moving within the student body, and throughout the community, as people are empowered to be the absolute best they can be!

Members of the EPEA Board include Rev. LeQuita H. Porter (President, EPEA Board), Elder Dr. Wanda Thomas Bernard (Vice-President, EPEA Board), Candace Thomas (Stewart McKelvey Law, Board Member), Elder Dr. Wayne Adams (Board Member), and William Porter (Advisory Board Member & Mathematics/Pathways Instructor).

Rev. LeQuita H. Porter

is Senior Pastor of the East Preston United Baptist Church in East Preston, NS. Rev. Porter is currently a Doctor of Ministry student at Acadia Divinity College.

Rev. Elias Mutale, a SIM Canada (Serving in Mission) missionary (seated, far left) recently took part in a seminar on refugee care. About the seminar, one participant said, "Today a shift has taken place in my heart."

A Place to Belong: Helping newcomers feel at home The life of an immigrant in a new country can be difficult. Newcomers often feel out of place as they adjust to their new life, often making language and cultural errors.

Some may even feel like strangers or fugitives.

Is there a biblical imperative to care for immigrants and the displaced?

Leviticus 19:34 has the answer.

“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.”

Newcomers can bring both economic and spiritual value to their new home country. Jeremiah 29:7 suggests that the newcomer search for safety and stability in their new home, which can often produce excellent residents.

“Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. If it prospers, you too will prosper.”

So, what can your church do to make a newcomer feel more at home?

Here are a few easy initiatives for you and your church to consider: 1. Collect clothes, furniture, and other household items.

2. Assist with daily routines, such as shopping and navigating public transit systems.

3. Host a recreational event at a local gym or community centre and gear it towards newcomers.

Have interpreters available and be prepared to welcome children and families.

Welcoming the stranger among us can help open the doors of our churches to those looking for a helping hand, and a place to belong (Hebrews 13:2, Matthew 25:35). For some communities, initiatives like these can be the making of a church plant.

Rev. Dr. Elias Mutale (pictured above: front row, far left) is a missionary with SIM Canada (Serving in Mission).

He is an alumnus of Acadia Divinity College, having completed three degrees, including the Doctor of Ministry program.

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Rick Tobias: Recipient of the Doctor of Divinity His Remarkable Response to Poverty Dr. Rick Tobias, one of Canada’s bestknown advocates for low-income and marginalized people, was granted an honorary Doctor of Divinity by Acadia University during the Faculty of Theology and Faculty of Arts Convocation ceremony on Sunday, May 14, 2017.

For more than 35 years, Rick Tobias has encouraged and inspired people living in poverty to recognize their worth and to realize their potential while also challenging church communities, business and professional leaders, and elected officials to understand their roles in responding to human need. As an instigator of pioneering initiatives, he opened a centre for youth on the streets, created employment programs, opened a health care centre, built a computer literacy facility and program for school children, and introduced a community development model while expanding the ministry into other neighbourhoods.

A native of Saint John, New Brunswick, Rick is a two-time graduate of Acadia University, completing a Bachelor of Arts (’76) and a Master of Divinity (’81).

Upon graduation, Rick returned to Saint John where he founded Baptist Inner City Ministries, leading city churches to connect with people who experienced poverty and its effects. He then studied and taught urban mission through the Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education (SCUPE) in Chicago.

In 1983 he began his ministry at the Yonge Street Mission in Toronto, serving first through opening the Evergreen Centre for Street Youth and

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from 1989-2012 as President and CEO. With his leadership in demonstrating love, peace, and justice to people living with economic, social and spiritual poverty, Rick brought radical change to established ways of serving those in need, and the Yonge Street Mission became a leading urban ministry in North America. Rick's sincere desire is that Yonge Street Mission will not only serve its community, but also transfer its knowledge to new leaders and organizations, so they can also change their communities.

Rick’s significant contribution has been recognized by several institutions, including the awarding of honorary degrees by McMaster University, Humber College, and York University.

It is most fitting that Acadia University, his own alma mater, recognized the extraordinary impact that he has made in our country by challenging and changing the face of poverty and marginalization for thousands upon thousands of Canadians, for this generation, and the next.

Across Canada, Rick has shaped the emotional and spiritual response to poverty, neutralizing fears and prejudices on all sides. His belief that each person is created in the image of God has been foundational to his work. His conviction about the worth of every person, and the commonality among them, has been instrumental in creating inclusive communities, regardless of status, wealth, or power.

Rick clears common ground that connects people to people, in helping communities break the cycle of poverty.

He says, “I did not deliberately

set out to serve people who were impoverished and kept at the margins. But each new set of relationships, each sermon researched, each new attempt to understand Scripture, nurtured my conviction that people who are poor are a high priority for the Creator, and that people of faith must confront poverty.”

On May 14, 2017, Dr. Rick Tobias, a graduate of Acadia Divinity College‘s Master of Divinity program, received an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Acadia University.

2017

Commissioning & Convocation 1 ●

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1 On Friday, May 12, 2017, the faculty and graduands of Acadia Divinity College participated in the 56th Annual Commissioning Service which was ●

held at Wolfville Baptist Church.

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2 At the Commissioning Supper, Bachelor of Theology graduand Sharon White (left) was presented with the Special Service Award by Dr. Carol Anne ● 4 ●

Janzen, Dean of Students.

3 During the Commissioning Service, David Fields, a Doctor of Ministry graduand, gave the Reflections of a Graduand. Dave was also the recipient ●

of the MacRae Prize for the best Doctor of Ministry thesis, given in honour of Dr. Andrew MacRae, long-time Director of Doctoral Studies. Dave’s family joined him from British Columbia: Pictured with Dave are his wife Kathryn, his mother Cheryl, and his two sons, Connor and Adam.

4 During the Commissioning Supper, Dr. Terry LeBlanc, Founding Chair and Current Director of NAIITS, offered a special blessing to the leaving class. ●

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6 ●

5 ●

7 ●

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8 ●

5 After years of commuting between Moncton and Wolfville, Dorin Seicaru ●

(seen here at the Commissioning Service) graduated with a Master of Divinity from Acadia.

6 During the 56th Annual Commissioning Service, Libby Burnham, ●

Chancellor of Acadia University, brought greetings to the leaving class of Acadia Divinity College.

7 Dr. Peter Holmes, Minister of the Congregation at Yorkminster Park Baptist ●

Church, Toronto, Acadia alumnus (2006) and Fellow of Acadia Divinity College, gave the Annual John Gladstone Sermon at the Commissioning Service.

8 During the Commissioning Service, the mentors and supervisors of ADC ●

graduands are invited to participate in the laying on of hands. Seen here, left to right, Dr. Leslie McCurdy, and Tim Higgs, who graduated with a Master of Divinity degree.

9 Special music was provided at the Commissioning Service by the West End ●

Baptist Choir from Halifax, NS. Susan MacKinnon led the choir and played the piano throughout the Service.

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9 ●

10 ●

11 ●

12 ●

13 ●

14 ● 10 This year, ADC set a new mark in history with the first graduate of its partnership ●

with NAIITS: An Indigenous Learning Community. David Skene graduated with an MA (Theology) in Indigenous Community Development, a program almost entirely indigenously taught by NAIITS scholars. A memorable moment was captured at the Commissioning Service when David and his wife, Liz, were blanketed. Seen left to right: Dr. Danny Zacharias, Dr. Harry Gardner, David Skene, Liz Skene, Dr. Anna Robbins, and Dr. Terry LeBlanc.

11 On May 14, Joseph Millington graduated with a Master of Arts (Theology) with a ●

specialization in New Testament.

12 Master of Divinity graduand, Annie de Lamirande (right) seen here at Acadia ●

Divinity College’s Annual Commissioning Service on May 12.

● 15

13 Friends Susan DeMont (left), a Master of Divinity student, and Samantha Hicks ●

(right), a Bachelor of Theology graduand, celebrating after the Commissioning Service.

14 Dr. Carol Anne Janzen, the Dean of Students, Director of the Mentored Ministry ●

program, and Director of Charles J. Taylor Centre for Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care at Acadia Divinity College, enjoying time with some of her students before Convocation on May 14.

15 Bachelor of Theology students preparing for the Convocation processional. From ●

left to right: Candice Main, Steven Townsend, Samantha Hicks, Sharon White, Marie McCallum and Anna (Lai Han) Leung.

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16 ●

17 ●

18 ● 19 ●

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16 Master of Divinity graduate, Keith Blair, celebrates with classmates as they walk ●

toward Convocation Hall. From left to right: Jennifer Smith, Randy Stanton, Robin Burley, Keith Blair and Martin (Ming Fat) Choi. Photo credit: Shawna Peverill.

17 Graduand Grace Han received her Master of Divinity degree on May 14. ● 18 On May 14, Rev. Rick Tobias (centre), ADC alumnus and Community Advocate of ●

the Yonge Street Mission in Toronto, ON, received an honorary Doctor of Divinity from Acadia University. Also shown, Dr. Anna Robbins, Vice-President, ADC, and Dr. Harry Gardner, President, ADC. Photo credit: Shawna Peverill.

19 Robin Burley, Master of Divinity graduand, enjoying the processional march to ●

Convocation Hall at Acadia University.

20 Doctor of Ministry graduands in the processional march to Acadia University. From ●

left to right: David Fields, Michael Ghiz, and John Schaufele. Photo credit: Shawna Peverill.

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21 ●

24 ●

22 ●

23 ●

21 Acadia Divinity College’s ”Class of 2017” in front of ●

Manning Memorial Chapel after Convocation on May 14.

25 ●

22 Master of Divinity graduate, Martin (Ming Fat) Choi ●

(right), speaking with Ray Ivany, President of Acadia University, after receiving the University Silver Medal in Theology. Martin also received the ADC President’s Award. Photo credit: Dan Callis.

23 On May 14, Acadia University conferred the distinction ●

of Professor Emeritus on Dr. William Brackney, recognizing his distinguished academic career and exemplary service to the College and University. Photo credit: Dan Callis.

24 Jennifer Smith, excited for Convocation to begin, received ●

her Master of Arts (Theology) in Evangelism on May 14. Jennifer also completed her Acadia Bachelor of Theology in 2014.

Photo credit: Shawna Peverill.

25 Dr. Rick Tobias being awarded an honorary Doctor of ●

Divinity by Acadia University.

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First Graduate of the Master of Arts (Theology) in Indigenous Community Development A Conversation with David Skene On May 14, 2017, David Skene became the first graduate of the Master of Arts (Theology) in Indigenous Community Development program; a partnership between the North American Institute for Indigenous Theological Studies (NAIITS) and Acadia Divinity College (ADC). Recently, we asked David to share with us his role with the Global Youth Volunteer Network and his experience at ADC.

David Skene (centre) is the first graduate of the partnership between the North American Institute for Indigenous Theological Studies (NAIITS) and Acadia. He graduated with an MA (Theology) in Indigenous Community Development. Also shown, Dr. Terry LeBlanc (left), founder of NAIITS, and Dr. Danny Zacharias (right), Assistant Professor of New Testament Studies at ADC, who also occasionally teaches for NAIITS.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I come from a long line of Métis descendants on my mother’s side and Scottish descent on my father’s side.

I am a citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario and a council member for the Grand River Métis Council. I have been married to Liz Becker for 31 years, and we presently live in Kitchener, Ontario.

For 21 years, I have served as the founding director of Global Youth Volunteer Network (GYVN), an organization that provides opportunity for youth to connect social justice education with action.

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ADC Today

We have facilitated more than 5,000 high school and university students on international short-term learning experiences. Two years ago, we started a local Indigenous community development project called Wisahkotewinowak, an Ojibway word meaning ‘where the fire has gone through and burnt everything, and new shoots come up from the ground’. The project focuses on Indigenous land-based learning for youth and young adults. In the summer, I can be found managing the Wisahkotewinowak community garden where we grow food, traditional medicines and teas, and discuss ways to secure Indigenous foods.

What have you gained from your education through the NAIITSADC partnership?

I have gained a new appreciation for the biblical creation story. For Indigenous people, the creation story is the root of all other knowledge.

Having spent most of my life hearing and reading the biblical creation story in a linear hierarchical way, I had begun to lose interest in its meaning. Studying the story through an Indigenous perspective has brought new life to the passages. This fresh understanding has transformed my life - I understand the symbiotic relationship between myself and the land and the profound connection between the two.

How will your MA (Theology) in Indigenous Community Development assist you in your role at the GYVN? The study and work in Indigenous Community Development allowed me to implement what I was learning with what I was doing. My greatest takeaway from my time studying with NAIITS-ADC partnership was the indigenization of my faith and my work as a community developer. This is something I had wanted in my life for a long time and am grateful to have found. In my work in the community, the question I most hear from Indigenous academics and service providers is, “How do we indigenize our work, our universities, our healing?” I think the partnership between NAIITS and ADC is a great example of how we can open the doors to indigenizing our faith communities.

Acadia Divinity College congratulates Colonel (Rev.) Barbara Putnam ‘95 dangerous deployments and at home, reassuring them that they are “wearing God's armour, the armour of faith and truth and righteousness." The Canadian Armed Forces are blessed with the service of Col. Putnam, and Acadia Divinity College is blessed to call her an alumna!

About Chaplaincy in the Canadian Armed Forces

Barbara Putnam, a Chaplain with the Canadian Armed Forces since 2000, was recently promoted Colonel and appointed Director of Chaplaincy Operations in the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service (RCChS). She is the first Baptist Chaplain and first woman to hold this rank and appointment in the RCChS. Col. Putnam’s military service includes another “first” – her promotion to Lt. Col. in 2012 was the first time in nearly 50 years that a Baptist Chaplain received senior rank in the Chaplaincy branch. At that time, she also served as the Principal Protestant Chaplain for the Canadian Armed Forces and Deputy Director of Chaplain Services, where she was responsible for chaplain recruiting, education, training and policy. In 2013, she moved to the role as the Command Chaplain of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

After graduating from Acadia Divinity College and Acadia University with a Master of Divinity in 1995, Barb, a

native of Saint John, New Brunswick, served churches in the Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada. Her calling led her to the Canadian Armed Forces in 2000, and throughout her military service, she has been posted to CFB Petawawa, CFB Gagetown, and CFB Borden. She was deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan, in 2003 with a National Command Element, Brigade Headquarters staff and soldiers from the 3 RCR Battalion Group to form rotation zero of Operation ATHENA, Canada’s first contribution to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

In 2012, Col. Putnam was honoured with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Canadian Decoration for 12 years of service to the Canadian Armed Forces.

Col. Putnam and her husband, Rev. Brad Putnam ’95, currently live and work in Ottawa.

Col. Putnam has ministered to Canadian Forces personnel both in

The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service contributes to the operational effectiveness of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) by supporting the moral and spiritual well-being of military personnel and their families in all aspects of their lives, during conflict and peacetime. Chaplains minister to the needs of all members of the CAF and their families, whether they attend church or are of the same religion whether they have any spiritual beliefs at all.

CAF chaplains have dual accountability, to ecclesiastical and military authorities. As faith group leaders, chaplains come under the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of their denominations and faith groups. As commissioned officers, they are subject to the code of service discipline and are responsible to their military superiors. The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service is headed by a Chaplain General who advises the Chief of the Defence Staff and reports administratively to the Chief of Military Personnel.

Source: Government of Canada, Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces

Summer 2017

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News A L U M N I

1976 - Brian MacArthur completed his ministry at Bridgewater Baptist Church, NS, on June 30, 2017.

Baptist Chaplain and first woman to hold this rank and appointment in the RCChS. (You can read more about Barbara on page 21.)

1987 - Mark McKim has resigned from First Baptist Church, Regina, SK, and has accepted a call to First Baptist Church, St. Marys, ON.

2002 - Jack and Audrey Carter have completed their ministry at Chelsea Baptist Church, NS.

1988 - Alan Orser has completed his

accepted a call to serve at Clyde River Baptist Church, PE.

ministry at Uniacke Baptist Church, Mount Uniacke, NS.

1988 and 2014 - Steve Hopper has completed his ministry at Liverpool and Brooklyn Baptist Churches, NS, and has accepted a call to Centreville Baptist Church, NS.

1989 - Jim Rhyno has completed his ministry at Nackawic Baptist Church, NB.

2002 and 2007 - Garth MacKay has

2003 - Rick Small has completed his

2006 and 2007 Daniel Zacharias was ordained on November 15, 2016, at New Minas Baptist Church, NS.

ministry at Tiverton Baptist Church, NS, and has accepted a call to serve at New Ross Baptist Church, NS.

2007 - James Hammond has completed

2004 - Michael Cannell has completed

his ministry as Associate Pastor of Lower Coverdale Baptist Church, NB.

his ministry at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, NS.

2004 - Jason Hinsdale has completed

1991 - Richard Warner has completed his his ministry at Kingsboro Baptist Church, Souris, PE and has accepted a call to ministry at Kemptville Baptist Church, NS. Marysville Baptist Church, Fredericton, NB. 1992 and 1997 - Pauline Coffin has 2004 - Nancy Murphy has completed accepted a call to Spryfield Christian her ministry as Associate Pastor of Community Church, NS. Brunswick Street Baptist Church, 1994 - Peter Sherwood has retired from Fredericton, NB. Marysville Baptist Church, Fredericton, NB. 2004 - Greg Porter has completed his ministry at Hartland Baptist Church, NB, 1995 - Barbara Putnam was promoted and has accepted a call to serve as Camp to Colonel and appointed Director of Director of Camp Pagweak, NS. Chaplaincy Operations in the Royal Canadian Chaplain Service (RCChS) of the 2005 - Thelma McLeod has recently Canadian Armed Forces. She is the first announced her retirement from Bethany 22 ADC Today Memorial Baptist Church, NS.

2007 - Tim MacKinnon has completed his ministry at Salisbury Baptist Church, NB, and has been called to Wayburn, SK.

2008 - Chuck McGuire has completed his ministry at Murray River Baptist Church, PE, and has accepted a call to Bedeque Baptist Church, PE.

2008 - Laura Sherwood has retired from Marysville Baptist Church, Fredericton, NB. 2009 - David Cumby has been called to serve as Interim Pastor at Uniacke Baptist Church, Mount Uniacke, NS.

2009 - Seth and Vanessa Moore have accepted a call to serve as co-Pastors of Margaretsville Baptist Church, NS.

2015 - Isaac Russell was ordained on October 23, 2016, at Berwick Baptist Church, NS. Isaac has completed his ministry at Berwick and has been called as the Connections Pastor at New Hope Wesleyan, Kentville, NS. 2015 - Alexander Scott was ordained on September 18, 2016, at Kingsboro Baptist Church, Souris, PE.

2009 and 2012 Chad Clements, and his wife, Sarah, welcomed a son, Mathis, on June 16, 2017.

A little brother for their two daughters, Adeline and Eloise.

2010 - Kristen Price was ordained on October 23, 2016, at Bridgewater Baptist Church, NS. Kristen and her husband, Jacob, a Master of Divinity student at Acadia Divinity College, have completed their ministry as co-Associate Pastors of Bridgewater Baptist Church.

2011 and 2012 - Dan Pyke has completed his ministry as Associate Pastor of Douglas Baptist Church, NB, and has accepted a call to serve as Associate Pastor of Grand Bay Baptist Church, NB.

2015 - Brian Stockford was ordained at

Current Students Joseph Chiasson has completed his ministry as part-time Senior Pastor of Westport Baptist Church, NS. Spencer Conway recently won the firstyear tuition grand prize to Acadia based on his spoken word poetry.

ADC Remembers

2016 - Heather Card was ordained on

1952 - Donald Irving McClare passed away on April 22, 2017, at the age of 93. He served in several pastorates throughout the Maritime Provinces. Most recently, Donald kept busy writing reminiscences of the McClare family and updating the family genealogy. Last year, one of his stories was published in "Our Canada" magazine.

September 25, 2016, at Mount Denson Baptist Church, NS.

1961 - Lloyd Leadbeater passed away

Kennebecasis Baptist Church, Quispamsis, NB, on October 2, 2016.

2015 - Josh Dorey has completed his ministry at Lakeville Corner Baptist Church, Clarks Corner, NB.

2016 - Kayla and Evan Colford have been called to serve as co-Pastors at Berwick Baptist Church, NS. Kayla and Evan are also currently completing their Master of Arts (Theology) degrees at Acadia Divinity College.

on September 5, 2016. Lloyd was a veteran of World War II. He was a minister of the Christian Missionary Alliance and several Baptist Churches throughout the Maritime Provinces and in Ontario. After his retirement, he continued his ministry as a chaplain.

2016 - Christoph Deutschmann and his 1966 - Catherine Ruth McGorman wife, Amy, welcomed a baby boy, Alois Neil, passed away on March 24, 2017. Catherine 2013 - James Smith was ordained on on December 31, 2016. was a Community Health Nurse, and she October 30, 2016, at Wentworth Baptist also studied at Acadia Divinity College.

Church, Westchester, Wentworth, Millvale 2016 - Shawn Tait has accepted a call to Catherine worked as a nurse in New and Central New Annan Baptist Churches, NS. Sussex Baptist Church, NB. Brunswick, and was a missionary nurse in Bolivia, South America, with Canadian 2014 and 2017 - Jennifer Smith was 2016 - Natasha Davidson has been Baptist Ministries for 38 years. ordained on October 16, 2016, at Windsor called to serve as Pastor of Children and Baptist Church, NS. She has recently Family Ministries at First Baptist Church, 1982 - Kevin Quast passed away on May accepted a call to Wolfville Baptist Church, New Glasgow, NS. 25, 2017. Kevin studied at Acadia Divinity NS, as Minister of Christian Education and College in the 1980s. He impacted and Community Outreach.

2017 - Sarah Garnett has accepted a influenced countless lives during call to serve as Associate Pastor of Youth & the years he taught and ministered in 2015 - Kyle Carter was ordained on Family at Midland Baptist Church, NB. several churches.

August 28, 2016, at New Beginnings Ministries, Dartmouth, NS. Kyle is a 2017 - Jonathan Mills will be ending his Duty Chaplain for the Ontario Ministry ministry in Rwanda with Canadian Baptist of Community Safety and Correctional Ministries on September 30, 2017.

Services.

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Now, more than ever...

Four Strategic Priorities For the next three years, ADC will focus on four strategic priorities to ensure our graduates have maximum impact today and in the future.

1. The College Building - Refurbishing the facility 2. Key Academic Chairs - Ensuring quality instruction through endowments 1. The Abner J. Langley and Harold L. Mitton - Chair of Church Leadership 2. The Sheldon and Marjorie Fountain - Chair of Evangelism and Mission 3. The Thomas B. McDormand, Charles J. Taylor and Dennis M. Veinotte - Chair of Pastoral Care 4. The John Gladstone - Chair of Preaching and Worship

3. Scholarships and Bursaries - Supporting students to respond to God’s call 4. The Andrew D. MacRae Centre for Christian Faith and Culture - Going public with the Gospel

Update on Giving as of March 31, 2017 Priority

Opening Balance July 31, 2014

The College Building

Total Gifts and Pledges since August 1, 2014

Total Balance

Target Amount

$481,238.71

$481,238.71

$1.5 million

Key Academic Chairs Langley-Mitton

$505,928.69

$19,528.77

$525,457.46

$2.5 million

Fountain

$435,519.00

$200,000.00

$635,519.00

$2.5 million

McDormand-Taylor-Veinotte

$140,668.13

$80,390.00

$221,058.13

$2.5 million

$1,085,012.81

$1,601,200.00

$2,686,212.81

$2.5 million

$1,397,794.75

$1,397,794.75

$1.0 million

$258,721.72

$258,721.72

$0.5 million

Gladstone Scholarships and Bursaries The MacRae Centre 24

ADC Today

Acadia Divinity College: Campus View Looking Southeast. Existing Campus.

Acadia Divinity College: Architectural rendering after renovations.

The College Building We need a strong home base.

Acadia Divinity College must maintain a highly functional facility to continue to provide students with excellent learning spaces as well as exposing them to the resources of a contemporary university setting.

The current building was constructed in 1970 and occupies a prime location on campus. It has served the College well for nearly 50 years, and now critical renovations and refurbishment must occur to sustain an effective presence on the campus of Acadia University.

Two detailed engineering reports have reached the same conclusion: The College building needs significant refurbishment to keep it structurally sound and useful.

The need is urgent and timely. By acting now, the value of the current building will be utilized and preserved while extending its lifespan. This is a cost-effective

approach that will empower future theological education while linking new students to the strength of the College’s history and traditions.

We need to renew the College building, to have a suitable and adequate facility for training the next generation for ministry. Acadia Divinity College touches the lives of many – including those who have never set foot on the Acadia University campus. The reach of the College is wide, with our graduates serving people and communities, locally, nationally, and internationally. For our churches, alumni, and friends, the College building presents an opportunity to ensure theological education continues to be available to those who respond to God’s call to ministry.

Acadia Divinity College is seeking to raise $1.5 million to refurbish the College

building. We are asking individuals, churches, and foundations to participate in this project, with the goal that the needed gifts and pledges will be secured

by April 1, 2018. We hope to celebrate this achievement in conjunction with the College’s 50th anniversary. Plan to join us for a sod-turning ceremony in August 2018, during the Annual Assembly (Oasis) of the Canadian Baptists of Atlantic Canada.

We invite you to join us in this vital project. Success will ensure that a high standard of theological education will continue to be available in Atlantic Canada to students from nearby and around the world.

To learn more about this critical strategic priority, visit www.acadiadiv.ca/thebuilding.

Summer 2017

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ADC chapel named The Sarah Daley Nickerson Chapel On Monday, August 8, 2016, the Rev. Dr. Harry Gardner, President of Acadia Divinity College and the Dean of Theology of Acadia University, officiated at the Service of Dedication and Naming for The Sarah Daley Nickerson Chapel.

From left to right: Lora-Beth Trail, longtime friend; Julie (Acadia 1984) & Kent Nickerson (Acadia 1986), cousin; Katherine Nickerson, sister, Dr. Granville Nickerson (Acadia 1942), father; Isaac Conte, son; Anastasia MacMillan, granddaughter; Phaedra Babineau, daughter; and Lily MacMillan, granddaughter. Photo credit: Peter Oleskevich.

This special event was in response to a memorial gift by Dr. Granville H. Nickerson, Sarah’s father, Acadia Class of 1942, and a native of Nova Scotia.

The memorial plaque, which hangs near the entrance to the chapel in Acadia Divinity College, includes a childhood picture of Sarah, duplicated from an original portrait painted by the artist Madame Anna de Romer.

The plaque contains the following inscription: In Loving Memory Sarah Daley Nickerson 1953-2012 A brilliant child and adult gifted in music and friendship A follower of Our Lord Jesus Christ Remembered forever by her loving family The greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 13:13

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The naming of the Chapel was witnessed by several members of the Nickerson family from British Columbia, Ontario, and Nova Scotia. Also in attendance was Dr. Harold Mitton, the third Principal of Acadia Divinity College, a fellow Acadia classmate and friend of Dr. Nickerson more than 70 years ago.

Greetings were shared by a number of attendees. As well, a note from the Chancellor of Acadia University, Libby Burnham, was read: I want to join the Acadia community in expressing thanks to Dr. Granville Nickerson for this generous contribution to Acadia Divinity College. Dr. Nickerson has a long history of supporting our wonderful University, and his continued commitment is greatly appreciated. The Divinity College holds a prominent place in our history as well as on the present campus.

Left to Right: Dr. Harold Mitton (Acadia 1944, 1946), Dr. Granville H. Nickerson (Acadia 1942), and Dr. Harry Gardner (Acadia 1977).

Photo credit: Peter Oleskevich.

Granville H. Nickerson, M.D., C.M. Dr. Granville H. Nickerson was a dedicated Acadia student, earning the coveted Cox Cup and Medal for his outstanding record in intercollegiate athletics, other extracurricular activities, and scholarship.

Following his Bachelor of Arts at Acadia University, he attended medical school at McGill University, graduating in 1945, and a Diploma in Pediatrics in 1950. He was named a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians the following year. In 1951, he pioneered

the successful treatment of children with tubercular meningitis, a previously fatal disease in children.

He had a distinguished career in pediatrics and education, including an appointment as Teaching Fellow at Harvard University and twenty-five years of continuous post-graduate teaching at McGill University.

He served as a physician at the Montréal Children’s Hospital, and was Pediatrician-in-Chief at the Royal Victoria Hospital for eleven years. He was a consultant to the Montréal Neurological Institute and a part-time medical health officer to the Town of Mount Royal, where he initiated numerous valuable health programs.

Dr. Nickerson also devoted his energies to his country, his community, and his church. He was a reserve member of the Royal Canadian Army Medical Corps (1944-1945) and a member of the Royal Canadian Navy Reserve (1950-1953), sailing on the HMCS Magnificent. He served as a Councillor for the Town of Mount Royal, was an elder in United Churches of Canada (1968-1991), and sang in church choirs for more than 50 years.

The Nickerson Family Legacy of Giving The Nickerson family began their relationship with Acadia nearly 90 years ago.

Dr. Nickerson’s late parents, Freda Edith (Cox) and Hubert Granville Nickerson, residents of Liverpool, Nova Scotia, gave to Acadia after the destructive fire of University Hall in 1926. They were deeply moved by the appeal of Dr. Frederic Patterson, University President between 1923 and 1948. At the time, they had $500 in their bank account, and Hubert gave it all to Dr. Patterson

Left to Right: Evan Colford (Acadia 2016), Kayla Colford (Acadia 2016), Dr. Granville Nickerson (Acadia 1942), Christoph Deutschmann (Acadia 2016), and Joseph Green (Acadia 2016). Photo credit: Peter Oleskevich.

with this admonition, “Who knows but someday I may have children attend Acadia.”

Eventually, four of their five children attended and graduated from Acadia over a period of 13 years: • Mary: Bachelor of Arts 1939, Bachelor of Education 1940 • Granville: Bachelor of Arts 1942 • Dorothy: Bachelor of Arts 1944 • Ronald: Bachelor of Arts 1949

graduates who attended the Chapel Naming Service: Evan Colford, Kayla Colford, Christoph Deutschmann, and Joseph Green.

In 2016, Dr. Nickerson gave another memorial gift of $250,000 to Acadia Divinity College in memory of his daughter, Sarah. This donation will help fund one of the College’s strategic priorities to refurbish the College building to keep it structurally sound and useful for future generations of students.

Acadia Divinity College is deeply indebted to Dr. Granville Nickerson for his ongoing contributions to the training of Christian leaders. In 1997, Dr. Nickerson and his late wife, Mary Louise, established a bursary through a trust fund in memory of his parents.

This bursary has supported more than 30 students, including four recent Summer 2017

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Holmes and Stirling appointed Lifetime Fellows of ADC “This is a momentous occasion for us,” said President of Acadia Divinity College, Dr. Harry Gardner, following the appointments of the Rev. Dr. Peter Holmes and the Rev. Dr. Andrew Stirling as Lifetime Fellows of the College. Dr. Gardner stated, “Dr. Holmes and Dr. Stirling are two fine servants of our Lord. We look forward to continued affiliation with them as Fellows of Acadia Divinity College.”

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were often invited to teach, lecture, or act as advisors regarding academic conduct. In Oxbridge communities, such as the Ancient universities of Paris, Oxford, and Cambridge, Fellows were commonly known as “dons”.

The ‘Lifetime’ title, which both Stirling and Holmes received, remains to this day the highest distinction for College Fellows, standing above the designations of ‘visiting’, or ‘sometime’

famous words of Winston Churchill at the opening of his eponymous institute at Cambridge: “I trust and believe that this College, this seed that we have sown, will grow to shelter and nurture generations who may add most notably to the strength and happiness of our people, and to the knowledge and peaceful progress of the world.” He spoke graciously of the bond of the Holy Spirit he feels present whenever he returns to Acadia.

Both Fellows, who are long-time friends, serve well-known churches Holmes echoed the in Downtown Toronto: sentiment. “I consider Holmes as Minister of the relationship the Congregation at between the divinity Yorkminster Park Baptist academy and the Church and Stirling Church to be of the as Senior Minister utmost importance to of Timothy Eaton the Kingdom of God. Memorial Church. An And so, in the hope event to celebrate their that my serving as a appointments was held Lifetime Fellow can aid On November 24, 2016, the Rev. Dr. Peter Holmes (left) and the Rev. Dr. on November 24, 2016, at in sustaining Acadia Andrew Stirling (right) became Lifetime Fellows of Acadia Divinity College.

The YORK Club in Toronto.

Divinity College’s It was a fitting venue for the commitment to the Fellows of a College. Previously, Acadia Church, I gratefully accept this honour.” leadership boards of both churches to Divinity College recognized William H. recognize Holmes and Stirling for their Brackney and Alan P.F. Sell (deceased exceptional work in ministry and their With these appointments, both February 7, 2016) as Lifetime Fellows of Stirling and Holmes will be afforded longstanding commitment to Acadia. the College.

Both men graduated from the Doctor a continuing presence and influence of Ministry program at ADC, and their at Acadia Divinity College. Both have ministries have been distinguished by Holmes said he was “humbled” and been guest speakers in the past. Most their exceptional preaching “deeply moved” by the kindness of the recently, Holmes gave the Annual and teaching.

Board’s decision to hold a reception John Gladstone Sermon at the in their honour, but that it was “the Commissioning Service on May 12 and people of Yorkminster Park and those Historically, ‘Fellows’ of early Baptist Stirling taught a course focused on who serve alongside me” to whom he institutions were either elected, preaching and worship between May gave all the credit. “There are countless 29 and June 2. or nominated, by the faculty of a faithful people who daily serve the respective governing body – the Lord without any recognition or earliest instance being at the Among those present for the honour,” said Holmes. Ultimately, he College of Rhode Island (now Brown ceremony was the Chancellor of Acadia said the award helped him recognize University). The practice imitated the University, Libby Burnham. Both of the “how dependent I am upon the service Fellows’ spouses, Marial Stirling and academic institutions of Harvard, and dedication of others.”

Yale, and Princeton, where Fellows Janet Holmes, were also acknowledged were awarded special academic by their husbands for their love privileges within the University and In his comments, Stirling and support. acknowledged ADC by quoting the ADC Today

News A D C

17th International Believers' Church Conference More than 40 people gathered on June 22-25, 2016 at Acadia University for the 17th International Believers’ Church Conference, marking the renewal of the Conference series that originated in 1967. With the theme "The Tendency Toward Separation", conference papers ranged from broad historical, theological, and sociological presentations to specific denominational and regional case studies. The conference hosted several distinguished presenters from around the world, including the keynote speaker Prof. Eileen Barker of the London School of Economics. Read more about this conference at www.acadiadiv.ca/blog/believers-church.

Acadia Centre for Baptist and Anabaptist Studies The Acadia Centre for Baptist and Anabaptist Studies recently completed a book from the Old First Church Conference in 2015 entitled, Maritime Baptist Old First Churches: Narratives & Prospects. It was edited by William H. Brackney with Evan L. Colford and co-published with the Editorial Committee of the CBAC Historical Committee.

Hayward Lectures 2016 Acadia Divinity College was pleased to welcome Dr. John Walton, Professor of Old Testament from Wheaton College, as the guest lecturer for the 2016 Hayward Lectures. Both Dr. Walton’s evening lectures entitled ‘Engaging Genesis Today: New Light on Biblical Origins’ and the talk back session were well attended, both in person and via live stream. The recordings of the evening lectures are available to view at www.acadiadiv.ca/hayward-2016.

President of Bethel Bible Seminary, Dr. Fai Luk On October 31 and November 1, 2016, Acadia Divinity College welcomed the President of Bethel Bible Seminary, Dr. Fai Luk, to campus to meet with faculty, staff and students. Bethel Bible Seminary, located in Hong Kong, was affiliated in 1997, through Acadia Divinity College, to Acadia University for the awarding of Master of Divinity, Master of Arts (Theology), and Master of Theological Studies degrees.

Simpson Lectures 2017 The 2017 Simpson Lectures were very memorable, and not just because of the extreme weather. While record snowfalls forced the cancellation of many sessions, thanks to live streaming we had great online audiences and lots of discussion for each of the lectures and workshops. Dr. Rod Casey of Bethel Seminary, United States, delivered lectures entitled ‘Learner-Sensitive Preaching: Enhancing the Clarity and Relevance of Sermons for an Emerging Generation’. Recordings of the lectures can be found online at www.acadiadiv.ca/simpson-2017.

Summer 2017

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by Samantha West, ‘15

Seminary or Cemetery?

Do we still need theological education?

There are now more than 46 billion webpages and over 2 million mobile applications or apps. This Information Age is marked by overwhelming options, a glut of free resources, opinion pieces, and even fake news.

Never before have so many people accessed so much information, creating the impression that everything you need to know is only a Google search away.

Academic institutions are wrestling with this misconception as they seek to add value within a complex and increasingly competitive marketplace.

Seminaries, in particular, are looking for innovative ways to equip those called to ministry while maintaining their commitment to rigorous preparation and discipleship. Pastor and editor Skye Jethani writes provocatively: “I think it's interesting that we've been moaning about the declining biblical literacy of evangelicals, while at the same time the demand for theological education by church leaders is softening. How are we going to properly educate those in the pews if those in the pulpit are more likely to have a degree in business or marketing than theology or Bible?”

Most of the students coming to Acadia Divinity College (ADC) do not have theological training, although many

have already worked in ministry. In fact, it is often ministry service that creates the desire for formal education.

For example, first-year Master of Divinity (MDiv) student, Paul Hatfield, ministered in Japan for more than 15 years before coming to seminary.

He describes that in his first year he is “… learning even more about God, His ways, and His Kingdom. I feel very thankful that this time has allowed me, and I do believe my whole family, to grow closer to God.” Similarly, Melanie Cox (’16) arrived at ADC after ministry work with Catch the Fire UK. Even though her denomination does not require formal training, Melanie felt called to higher education and wanted to stretch her faith further. She says, “I am a fan of strong accountability, and the standards of an MDiv set the bar high.

Vocational Ministry is a very vulnerable calling, and we need to be willing to continue to grow in solid theology and biblical teaching.”

growth. It is impossible to understand this without experiencing it, as the Executive Director of ATS describes: “About the time that a student thinks that seminary is a church, he is confronted with a discouraging grade and discovers that he is in school. About the time that a seminary student is convinced that seminary is only a school, she is overpowered by some text of discussion or lecture that touches her soul, and she experiences in school what only church has done in her life previously.”

Theological education is a refining experience but also one that goes beyond the individual. The goal must always be transformed lives leading to transformed communities. We cannot fully prepare students for wherever God may lead them, but we can foster a servant’s heart and mind and a desire to see others in the church and our neighbourhoods living more fully for His Kingdom.

Acadia Divinity College, as well as other schools accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada (ATS), truly provides a unique experience of learning and community, dedicated to practical, theological, and spiritual

Samantha West recently completed her service at Acadia Divinity College as Recruitment Coordinator and has begun serving as the Chaplain of Windsor Elms Village in Falmouth, NS. She is a graduate of the College’s Master of Divinity program.

Intentions of Theological Education The following was taken from the 2014 edition of the Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) Guide to Theological Education.

Theological education has four intentions: 1. Intellectual exploration of Scripture and tradition 2. Integration of other arts and sciences with the substance of faith 3. Application of learning through active ministry in a congregation or community 4. Increase in spiritual understanding and devotion to God 30

ADC Today

Upcoming Events All-ADC Retreat for Alumni, Students, Faculty, and Staff Friday, September 8, 2017, 9 am to 4:30 pm (8:30 am for registration) New Minas Baptist Church Speaker: Phil Reinders Registration is required by August 30. Contact Eveline DeSchiffart at eveline.deschiffart@acadiau.ca Hayward Lectures October 16-18, 2017 - 7:00 pm KC Irving Auditorium, Acadia University or live online Keynote Speaker: Oliver O’Donovan Live stream available. Register: www.acadiadiv.ca/hayward Simpson Lectures February 12-14, 2018 - 7:00 pm Fountain Commons, Acadia University or live online Watch for further details: www.acadiadiv.ca/simpson Commissioning Supper and Service Friday, May 11, 2018 Supper: Wheelock Dining Hall, Acadia University - 5:00 pm Service: Wolfville Baptist Church - 7:30 pm Register: www.acadiadiv.ca/commissioning Acadia University’s Baccalaureate Service & Convocation Baccalaureate - Sunday, May 13, 2018 – 10:30 am Convocation - Sunday, May 13, 2018 – 3:00 pm Convocation Hall, Acadia University http://convocation.acadiau.ca

Upcoming ADC Courses J-Term – January 2-5, 2018 CHAP 5033 Introduction to Prison Ministry Dr. Carol Anne Janzen (graduate-level only) Simpson Week - February 12-16, 2018 BIBL 6513 New Testament Community Models Dr. Danny Zacharias (graduate-level only) LEDR 6073 & LEDR 3073 Leadership that Advances the Mission Rev. Kirby Spivey Reading Week - February 19-23, 2018 EVAN 6023 & EVAN 3023 Bringing Renewal to Established Congregations Dr. Stephen McMullin PACC 7233 & PACC 4233 Loss, Grief & Death Dr. Dorothy Hunse

Summer 2017

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2016 Alumni Distinguished Service Award

In August 2016, Rev. Lennett Anderson (Acadia 2000) was presented with the Alumni Distinguished Service Award

by Dr. Harry Gardner, President.

Photo credit: Troy Wilson.

On August 26, 2016, Acadia Divinity College proudly presented the 2016 Alumni Distinguished Service Award to Rev. Lennett Anderson during the ADC Friends and Alumni Supper held during Oasis in Moncton, New Brunswick.

Rev. Anderson, a Class of 2000 graduate of the Master of Divinity program and recipient of the University Silver Medal in Theology, was ordained in 2001. He has served as Senior Pastor of Emmanuel Baptist Church, in Upper Hammonds Plains, Nova Scotia, since 1999. Maclean’s news magazine named him as “one of five Canadian pastors who are breathing new life into their communities”.

With three other pastors from the African Nova Scotia community, Rev. Anderson created “Save our Sons, Save our Sisters Rites of Passage Youth Mentorship and Empowerment Program”, an initiative that received the Nova Scotia Minister of Justice’s Award for Leadership in Community Crime Prevention Award.

A retired commissioned Officer in the Canadian Forces, Rev. Anderson has been recognized with the Medal of Excellence from the Navy League

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

of Canada, the Canadian Forces Decoration Medal, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Citizenship and an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from St. Thomas Christian College.

Wherever he preaches God’s messages of healing and hope for a better tomorrow, Pastor Anderson inspires and encourages. His passion for community is evident through his contributions as consultant for the Halifax Regional School Board on leadership and race relations, as a member of the Halifax Regional Municipality Chief of Police Roundtable on Diversity and Race Relations, as Moderator of the African United Baptist Association of Nova Scotia, and as a board member of the Nova Scotia Chapter of the Children’s Wish Foundation.

Acadia Divinity College recognized and honoured Rev. Anderson’s commitment to “serving his generation with Godly purpose” by proudly presenting him with the 2016 ADC Alumni Distinguished Service Award.

For a full interview with Rev. Anderson, visit www.acadiadiv.ca/blog/2016distringuished-alumni.