Conne ions. Celebrating Excellence: Convocation 2009 Highlights. also: Board of Governors Report Asian Centre Update Student/Alumni News

Transcription

1 Conne ions k n o x co l l e g e Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ volume 16, issue 2 s u m m e r 2009 Celebrating Excellence: Convocation 2009 Highlights also: Board of Governors Report Asian Centre Update Student/Alumni News

2 principal s message identity, mission, values: Timeless themes remain unchanged J. Dorcas Gordon Ihave just returned from Matanzas, Cuba and a conference celebrating the 80 th Anniversary of the 1929 Hispano-American Evangelical Congress of Havana. This Congress brought together, for the first time, representatives of missionary movements and Latin American church leaders. Those gathered focused on building up a church specific to the context in which it existed, responsive in each particular situation to the service of God. Three key topics foundational to that first Congress identity, unity and mission were again pivotal to the 2009 conference. Identity, unity, mission 80 years ago, 100 years ago, now in the 21 st century! How much these themes have been on my mind since my return. Knox College is 165 years old. What does identity, unity, mission mean for us as we prepare students for ministry in the 21 st century? During the past year we have redeveloped our mission and identity statement. You will find it on the next page. As a college community the Board of Governors, Faculty, graduates, students and staff we worked hard to find words authentic to who we are and what we are called to do. Our identity and mission situate us within the PCC, the Toronto School of Theology, and the Association of Theological Schools, establishing the centrality of partnership and cooperation for the work we do. We also name the world-wide associations that broaden our calling, that keep us from becoming isolated, that remind us how much we have to learn from, and how much we need to share resources with others who carry out similar work in many parts of the world. Our mission statement seeks to say, in a very concrete way, what we do we are in the work of education, work that speaks of formation for ministry, ministry that is personally reflective, skills-related, as well as theologically informed. Our call to be educators places us in the world, and requires a Faculty that is committed to a vocation of teaching and research. It reminds us that our strength lies in our unity with local and global partners. Identity Mission Values: How will we, at Knox, live out who we say we are and what we are called to do? We have identified aspects of that calling for which we will be held accountable, beginning with a statement acknowledging our reliance upon the Triune God. From that starting point we commit ourselves to certain practices that provide us with a framework: leadership that serves, relationships of trust and respect, learning as reflective practice, honoring a prophetic voice, offering hospitality. In Cuba, as participants thought through their commitments for the next 80 years, theological education was named again and again as a critical component for the future theological education for ordained ministers and for laity that is ecumenical and engaged fully with the world that God loves. As I write these words for ConneXions, the College is beginning to get ready for another academic year. Today I signed a welcome back letter that will soon go out to students; Faculty has approved a large list of new admissions; our bursary committee has met and begun to respond to financial requests. Each in its own way reminds me of the day-to-day rhythm of a theological school. We have this ministry a treasure in clay jars so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. In friendship, J. Dorcas Gordon Principal Look for Korean translation of the Principal s Message on page 17 and Chinese translation on page connexions summer, 2009 Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ knox college

3 Faces up front KNOX COLLEGE Identity, Mission and Values Susan Sheridan Examine your spirituality in relation to the violence around you. see story page 15 Identity Statement: Knox College is a theological school of The Presbyterian Church in Canada, a federated College of the University of Toronto, and a founding member of The Toronto School of Theology. As a seminary of the Reformed tradition, it has ecumenical relationships with the World Alliance of Reformed Churches, World Council of Churches, The Canadian Council of Churches, as well as partnerships with various seminaries in the global community. Knox holds its accreditation through the Association of Theological Schools. Mission Statement: Knox College educates women and men for faithful and creative Christian ministries and scholarship through its teaching, research and global partnerships. Values: In light of our Identity and Mission Statements, trusting in God, sustained by the Spirit, with Jesus Christ as our helper, Knox College will: 1. Demonstrate the following practices in the exercise of its vocation: Leadership that serves Relationships of trust and respect Learning as reflective practice Honoring a prophetic voice Offering hospitality 2. Through its Faculty: Prepare ordained and lay congregational and pastoral leaders who will improve the quality of religious and public life through their work in communities of faith, both within Canada and globally Be an effective resource by making its research available to The Presbyterian Church in Canada and the broader public of Canadian society Individually, and through membership in the Toronto School of Theology, continue a strong commitment to critical reflection and scholarly research on the Christian ministry, faith, history and traditions 3. Value excellence in its academic programs and centres, and focus its resources accordingly 4. Be an active partner within the Toronto School of Theology and the University of Toronto, providing a reformed voice for ecumenical and Christian theological education 5. Promote effective partnerships with The Presbyterian Church in Canada, Canadian public life and global partners as integral to the strengthening of its mission 6. Live deeply into the challenges and opportunities of what it means to be a multicultural community of faith 7. Through its residence, offer hospitality to students who are Presbyterian and those who are part of the diversity of the University of Toronto 8. Commit itself to ongoing and comprehensive evaluation of all aspects of its work and witness cover story In this issue Alan Beaton Looking forward to 2019! see story page 6 Brian Irwin After the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, almost nothing in Biblical Studies would remain the same. see ad on page 9 Convocation 2009 Highlights see story page 4 Principal s Message...2 Convocation 2009 Highlights Alumni News Board of Governors Dinner...8 Board Convener s Message...9 Asian Centre Update Caven Library Update...13 Student News...14 Principal s Message Translation Calendar of Events...19 knox college Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ summer, 2009 connexions 3

4 Celebrating Excellence: Convocation 2009 Highlights Knox 09 and Lay Ed 09 Grads celebrating at the annual KEGA Reunion Luncheon Knox College s Lay Education Class of 09 Dr. E. Louise Williams addresses Convocation as guest speaker Knox 60+ year Grads at the KEGA Reunion Luncheon (left to right): Bill Adamson 48, Ken McMillan 42, Stuart Coles 42 and Reay Duke 45 Members of the Knox College Board of Governors Donna Wells and In Taik Chang 4 connexions summer, 2009 Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ knox college

5 Hyun Ja Park proudly shows off her Certificate in Christian Faith & Life I, as Principal Gordon looks on Irene & Don Carmen, former Knox Professor Helen Goggin and Janet Wardlaw enjoy some time together at the annual Board of Governors Dinner 40-year Grads reminiscing on the Chapel steps with their wives: Clive & Donna Simpson, Kenneth & Carole Innes, Earlby & Esther Coulter Knox 09 Grads Brad Blaikie and Jacqui Foxall are all smiles before the ceremony Flory Disu celebrates her Lay Ed Certificate with friends and family Hyung Jun Ahn receiving his Master of Divinity Degree Knox College Gold Medal recipient, Eun-Ju Chung 2009 Honorary DD recipients, David Kettle and Margaret Henderson Michael Walker holds up his Master of Theological Studies Degree for all to see A proud moment for Elaine Anderson knox college Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ summer, 2009 connexions 5

6 knox ALUMNI NEWS Principal s Reunion Year Dinner 1969 s graduating class was small in size, but large in spirit as was shown by those able to return to Knox for a great night of laughter and stories about life at Knox and Ewart Colleges 40 years ago! On Tuesday, May 12 th Principal Gordon hosted the popular Reunion Dinner honouring the Grads present and their partners. 40 year Grads Clive Simpson, Ken Innes and Earlby Coulter; 50 year Grads Alan Beaton, John Hibbs, Alex McCombie, Doug Miles and Don Smith; and 60 year plus Grads Bill Adamson, Reay Duke, Charlotte Farris, Jim Farris, James Grant and Joe McLelland. Toasts were made and stories of absent classmates were fondly told alongside tales from school days and the early years of ministry. All Smiles: Knox Reunion Grads and friends fill the cloister pre-dinner knoxfra Dinner plans taking shape The Knox Former Residents Association (knoxfra) is moving forward with their efforts to rekindle connections with residents from the 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond! The Executive is working to build up its contact list and is excited to have discovered that there are two Am I glad I was able to go? Facebook groups dedicated to the Knox College Residence (Knox People are Awesome & Knox College Residence Alumni)! We invite folks to join the Facebook community and renew acquaintances with former housemates. Plans are taking shape for smaller It was wonderful to mark the 50 th anniversary of our Knox College Class of 59, and to greet old classmates at this year s Principal s dinner at the College on May 12. It was good to see Don Smith, John Hibbs, Alex McCombie, and Bruce Miles looking so well, and to renew our friendship and share recollections of the good old days, Don s timely photos really helped to jog our ancient memories! Special thanks to Dorcas and her staff for arranging this evening of delicious food, fine wine, and good fellowship. Thanks also to Michelle Kim for sending the formal and informal pictures taken. To answer my opening question, YES, I am happy I was able to have been there, thanks to my son and driver, Jim, who also enjoyed the evening. I am sure we are all looking forward to 2019, and to hearing the story of the train in the Quadrangle! I m already looking forward to 2019 and hoping those unable to attend our 50 th can make it! Alan Beaton, 59 Grad and more intimate knoxfra events throughout the year to complement the Annual Dinner (happening on Saturday, November 14 th, 2009) beginning with: KNOX NIGHT AT THE MOVIES Join knoxfra & kca for an outdoor screening of CASABLANCA Tuesday, September 15 th (rain or shine) Movie will begin at dusk, arrive anytime after 7pm! This event is designed to give former residents an opportunity to visit the College and to let residents current and former share stories about the place that means so much to so many. This event will be held in the south quad so seating will be limited to a first come, first served basis. Bring a blanket or your lawn chair (we will have some chairs and tables set up) and snacks will be available for purchase! 6 connexions summer, 2009 Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ knox college

7 knox ALUMNI NEWS Pre-Convocation Workshop: Spirituality and Service At this spring s Convocation, Knox College continued to celebrate The Order of Diaconal Ministries 100 th Anniversary by inviting Deaconess Louise E. Williams, President Emeritus of the diakonia lda to speak. Deaconess Williams holds a Master s degree in Religious Studies and a Doctor of Divinity Honoris Causa from Wartburg Seminary, Dubuque, Iowa. She has written studies series and articles for the Lutheran Women s Missionary League Quarterly, many in the area of Spirituality. This year s workshop focused on the area of Spirituality and Service. Through music and pictures Louise led the assembled group through a powerful illustration of the meaning KEGA Reunion Year Luncheon The Knox Ewart Graduate Association was delighted to host the annual kega Reunion Luncheon at Convocation this year. The 2009 Graduates were welcomed into their alumni/ae association with a rousing round of applause from the Knox and Ewart reunion classes of 1999, 1984, 1969, 1959, 1949 (and earlier). it was great to see the many generations of Knox students talking and laughing together. kega President Katie Campion noted how it was great to see the many generations of Knox students talking and laughing together. This Luncheon is a great opportunity for the Reunion Grads to be welcomed back to the College and have a chance to wander the halls again and meet up with old friends to talk about life since their own Convocation! and interpretation of A Spirituality of Christian Service. The photos she had assembled from her travels were Deaconesses gather to celebrate the milestone together particularly moving as they illustrated people engaged in humble service throughout the world. 25 year Reunion Grads: (left to right) Mark Gaskin, Martin Kreplin, Dwight Nelson, Martin Wehrmann and Rick Horst left: Knox Grad Bob Geddes, Convocation speaker Dr. E. Louise Williams, Principal Gordon with husband Noel. right: KEGA President Katie Campion, Honorary DD recipient Marg Henderson, Clara Henderson and Knox Professor Bradley McLean knox college Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ summer, 2009 connexions 7

8 knox news Board of Governors Dinner It was a very special night for both the Bailey family and the College Director of Development Lisa Watson The Dining Hall was abuzz with excitement and fellowship at this year s Board of Governors Dinner. This event celebrated the generous and dedicated work of the Board, including retiring Members: In Taik Chang, Carol Westcott and Brenda Adamson. Also present at this year s gathering were many friends of the College including Knox Grad 51 The Rev. Dr. Albert Bailey and two of his children, son Jay and daughter Susan (both Ewart graduates). The Albert & Evelyn Bailey Fund for Future Directions in Christian Education was established this year by friends and family of Dr. Bailey and his wife Evelyn on the occasion of their 65 th Wedding Anniversary, to recognize their more than 55 years of ministry and service to God. Both Albert and Evelyn have had a lifelong commitment to Christian Education and this fund will ensure that students will continue to study and research in this area in future. It was a very special night for both the Bailey family and the College as the first award from this fund was being presented by Dr. Bailey himself to inaugural recipient Jacquelyn Foxall, says Director of Development Lisa Watson. This is a very generous gift to the College and to our students. To have the faith and incredible support of donors such as the Baileys truly is a wonderful gift. Inaugural recipient of The Albert & Evelyn Bailey Scholarship, Jacqui Foxall with the Baileys, Jay, Albert and Sue. Mrs. Bailey was sadly unable to attend. Ian & Joan Watson, with Katie Campion at the Board of Governors Dinner 8 connexions summer, 2009 Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ knox college

9 message from Convener of the board Board representation from East to West John Matheson Convener of the Board, Knox College Spring is always an exciting time for the Board of Governors of the College. At the May Board meeting we were pleased to approve the class of 2009 for graduation. This is perhaps one of the most enjoyable and meaningful tasks that we, as a Board, undertake. The core work of the College is to educate women and men for faithful and creative Christian ministries and scholarship and it is something that we, as a Board of Governors are proud to say Knox is doing well. This spring, the Board approved a new Identity, Mission and Values Statement for the College which Principal Gordon mentioned earlier in the newsletter. Also the 2009 General Assembly approved the College s request to have Board representation that more accurately reflects our student body to have voices from the East Coast and from the West who will participate in the decision-making processes of the College. I am pleased to announce that Mr. James MacConnell has been elected to our Board for a three-year term. I speak on behalf of all of the Board when I say that we look forward to working with him and having the East Coast represented on the Board at Knox College. We plan to have Western Canada representation in next year s Board appointments. THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS invites nominations of candidates for the degree Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa) The criteria and process are available at Deadline for receipt of written nominations is November 15, 2009 The Dead Sea Scrolls are coming save the date: Saturday, October 24, 2009 Join us at KNOX COLLEGE! This exciting event hosts Dr. Eileen Schuller as she discusses the Scrolls and their importance to Reformed Christians. Then, head to the Royal Ontario Museum (rom) to see them firsthand. three packages to choose from: Lecture, rom admission, afternoon discussion: $65 All of the above plus lunch after the lecture: $85 Become a Dead Sea Scrolls Patron: $150 Photo courtesy of the Israel Antiquities Authority. Send to: Honorary Degree Committee, Knox College 59 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 2E6 For further information, contact Lorna Prideaux Tel: or knoxprinc.assistant@utoronto.ca for more information: web: knox.college@utoronto.ca phone: To Receive Your Official Invitation, Call or Us Today! SPACE IS LIMITED. knox college Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ summer, 2009 connexions 9

10 ASIAN CENTRE UPDATE Asian Centre News The first event of the fall semester is the annual Asian Centre Welcoming Party for new and returning students of the College. At 4:00 p.m. on September 15 th there will be an International Worship Service in the chapel for all Knox students, Faculty and staff. Worship will be led by members of the various national groups that make up the Knox student body and students will be recognized at the international buffet meal shared together after. The Director of the Asian Centre, Professor Nam Soon Song, is on Sabbatical leave for the fall term. During her absence her duties will be shared by other members of the College Faculty. Principal Gordon will join her in September when together they will visit seminaries in Japan, Taiwan, Korea and China. On June 30 th the College said good-bye to Kathleen Gibson, C0-Director of Reader Services in the Caven Library. Up until her retirement Kathleen supplied us with information on publications on Asian subjects, and gave us counsel on works to be considered in doing Asian and other research. She will be greatly missed. English Classes for Non-Native English Speaking TST Students Knox College will be offering a 72-hour non-credit program to be held on Monday evenings during the Fall/Winter semesters. The course is designed to help ESL students in a variety of academic contexts with: speaking skills and pronunciation reading skills and vocabulary-building for both academic purposes as well as programspecific terminology from theological texts writing skills, including developing a thesis and communicating effectively with faculty, etc. When: Monday evenings, 6:00 9:00 p.m., beginning September 14th, 2009 WheRE: Knox College For more information, visit Members of the Asian Council enjoying the sunshine 10 connexions summer, 2009 Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ knox college

11 ASIAN CENTRE UPDATE Crossing Cultures Together V Competent Leadership in a Diverse and Changing World: Moving from Mono-cultural, to Multi-cultural to Inter-cultural Churches n By Katharine Masterton, Program Coordinator for Justice Ministries, The PCC The Centre for Asian-Canadian Theology and Ministry at Knox College hosts Crossing Cultures Together (CCT), a place for listening and sharing, where Presbyterians can discuss the opportunities and challenges faced by our changing church. This year s event was jointly sponsored by the Asian Centre, the Centre for Continuing Education and the Life and Mission Agency s Justice Ministries. This year s workshop (May 25 26) was led by The Rev. Eric Law, an ordained Episcopalian priest who works with churches in Canada and the U.S. striving to become more inclusive communities. He is also founder of the Kaleidoscope Institute a not-forprofit organization providing training on competent leadership in a diverse and changing world. Rev. Law has published a number of books including: Sacred Acts, Holy Change: Faithful Diversity & Practical Transformation; The Bush Was Blazing But Not Consumed; and The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb: A Spirituality for Leadership in a Multicultural Community. Approximately 70 Presbyterians from across Canada attended this year s workshop. The planning team hoped that this workshop would facilitate discussion of what is cultural inclusiveness; how might we better and more fully embrace the diversity in our churches; and provide participants with practical skills to facilitate this work in their own churches. The Reverend Eric Law facilitates a discussion on cultural inclusiveness Participants learned that one rule of respectful communication is to know ourselves: what are our gifts, challenges and perspectives? How does our personal and cultural background influence how we interact with and perceive others? We learned about mutual invitation a communication tool that focuses on building trust between people through intentional and respectful listening. During one small group discussion, participants reflected on hopes for the day. I was deeply touched by one participant who said she wished to become a better vessel for God. Her words were a powerful reminder to me that to each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7). Through the Spirit, God gives each person unique gifts, and our community is made more whole when these gifts are shared. I am thankful to all the attendees who are working in their own congregations to build a more inclusive church. knox college Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ summer, 2009 connexions 11

12 ASIAN CENTRE UPDATE Jacob s School Life Knox College s Master of Divinity student Jacob Ju-haeng Lee, has been studying abroad in Korea as an exchange student for two terms from September 2008 to June He writes about his experience here. with God and neglect social issues and ethics. So, to me, it seems that the time has arrived for the Korean church to reflect on its critics voice. This being said, outside of school I have been enjoying traditional Korean foods and culture based on Korean thoughts, which are making me healthier, both bodily and spiritually. In particular, I give thanks to God for providing me with this opportunity to spend more time with my elderly parents. I have enjoyed studying in Korea and experiencing this country s Christianity and culture. In closing, I pray always for the professors, staff and students of Knox that they may continue to have grace and peace blessed by God. When I started to study theology, I asked myself who am I? as an essential question. Even though I know we are all one in God as the Ultimate Truth, I wanted to know myself better as a Korean, through academic study. My main motivation to undertake this exchange was based on having grown up in Korea, spending more than 30 years living there and knowing primarily Korean thoughts and its church. To better understand the Korean church, I took two courses: The History of the Korean Church and Korean Church and Culture. Through my studies, I made what I consider to be a remarkable discovery. Early Korean Christianity, at the end of the 19 th century, was oriented to help Koreans during the invasion of Japan and to protect the King of Korea. In other words, the early Christians played an important role as leaders dealing with social and political problems in Korea at that time. According to the recent survey of Global Research in Korea, however, many Koreans no longer put their confidence in the Korean church, meaning that the Korean church is losing society s trust because of its lack of public responsibility ethics. This is the result of people holding images of God based on traditional creeds and beliefs that emphasize a personal relationship Jacob s School Life Korean Translation 저는 Knox 에서 M.Div 과정에있으며, 일년동안 ( ) 한국의장로교신학교에서교환학생으로공부중에있는이주행 (Jacob Lee) 입니다. 저는신학을공부하면서 나는누구인가? 라는본질적인질문을하곤하였습니다. 비록우리모두는하나님안에서한형제자매라는사실을인정할지라도, 한국인으로서한국전통문화와교회에서 30 년이상뿌리를두었던제자신을좀더체계적으로알고싶었습니다. 이것이제가한국에서공부를시작하게된동기이며목적입니다. 저는지난한학기동안 한국교회사 와 교회와문화 과목들을통해서한국의기독교역사를공부할수있는기회를가졌습니다. 특별히주목했던점은, 19 세기말한국에수용된초기기독교는일본의침략에맞선애국및충군의신앙으로한국사회에서기독교의사회책임윤리를온전히수행하였다는것입니다. 그러나최근 기윤실의교회신뢰도여론조사결과 ( ) 에의하면, 한국인 10 명중 8 명이기독교를불신한다는것입니다. 이에대해한신학자는, 기독교가사회책임윤리를등한시한결과라고말합니다. 즉, 교회가사회로부터신뢰를잃은가장큰이유중하나는시대착오적인전통적교리와신조에갖혀있는하나님의이미지집착에기인된것이라고지적합니다. 이와같은교회의불신에대해교회안과밖에서애정어린비판과자성의목소리가높아가고있습니다. 한편, 학교밖에서는한국문화의옷을입은한국적기독교의뿌리와성장과정등을살펴보려는노력을하고있습니다. 특별히하나님께감사한것은한국의전통음식, 즉청국장, 얼큰한찌개, 파전, 바지락칼국수등을마음껏즐길수있다는것입니다. 한국적인문화와음식을통해한국의기 ( 정신 ) 을받으면서, 저자신이좀더영적으로육적으로건강해질수있는시간들을보내고있습니다. 특별히나이드신부모님과가까이서함께할수있는시간들은저에게커다란축복입니다. 앞으로남은한학기동안도계속해서교육전도사로서의교회사역을통해교회내에서많은것을배우고경험하고자합니다. 또한한국의문화와전통사상그리고이를근거로한한국적기독교에대해더많은공부와경험들을하고자합니다. 끝으로낙스의모든교수님과교직원그리고신학생들에게다가오는한해에도주님의은혜와평강이함께하기를기도합니다. 12 connexions summer, 2009 Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ knox college

13 Caven Library update We ll miss you, Kathleen! Kathleen Gibson Caven Library s Reader Services Librarian, Retired After 31 years as Caven Library s Reader Services Librarian, Kathleen Gibson retired from Knox College on June 30, June was a poignant month for Kathleen as she found herself tidying up a lifetime of projects and saying farewell with friends, family and colleagues to what had, very simply, been almost a home away from home for her. Her time at the College began long before her employment did, and some would say it was meant to be both her Mother and her Great Aunt were Ewart College Graduates and her father, a well-known minister in the PCC! Kathleen graduated from Knox College with her M.Div. in 1973 and so, was familiar both with College life and the library stacks, by the time she joined as staff. At the College s farewell party Kathleen recounted some of her memories of the decades spent within the school s walls. She said that it was her work with students that she will miss most helping first years grapple with early assignments and orienting them to the collection she herself helped to shape over the years, and providing resources so that graduating students might dig more deeply into their final assignments and thesis papers. When asked what was the first thing she was going to do in retirement, Kathleen said paint my house and celebrate a very special Canada Day with my family. Knowing how much she adores her beautiful 1 year old granddaughter, it s likely easy to say, Kathleen s days will be spent with a whole new, and blessed, form of mentoring of young minds! Kathleen also said that she will miss walking into the morning s amberlight in the Library and greeting the many folks on the wall she has known over her years at the College. A great source of pride for Kathleen has been the library s vast collection, to which she has had the pleasure to add over the years. When asked if there was a book she d always wished she had purchased, she quickly responded that no, she couldn t really think of one. She thanked the many donors who had so generously contributed to the College s book buying fund over the years. It is safe to say, book buying was a great passion for Kathleen and the College is very thankful for her dedication and commitment to the many classes of students she has helped throughout the last 31 years! Kathleen, your friendly smile and incredibly vast knowledge of the Caven Library and its theological resources will be missed enjoy your retirement! The M&T Society s John Read and Sun Hee Park presented Kathleen with parting gifts at the last Community Supper of the school year knox college Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ summer, 2009 connexions 13

14 knox student news M&T Update As incoming President of the Mission & Theological Society, I am looking forward to welcoming the new and returning students back to the College this fall. As the new school year approaches, the M&T Executive realize the importance of recapturing the values that the first-century church upheld and the power of creating Christian community. Thus, we have chosen Acts 2:42 49 as inspiration for the year and Come Gather at Our Table as our slogan. We hope to see Knox students actively developing fellowship and applying their faith and knowledge to their lives through worship, learning and service in their community. I also encourage everyone to continue to support Knox s students prayerfully, so that we may grow into the full potential of what God has prepared in Christ Jesus. John Park, President, M&T Society Back row (left to right): Liz Brewer, John Park, Sun Hee Park, Marian Raynard Front row (left to right): Bruce McAnsh, Angie Song, Linda Patton-Cowie, John Read, Jay Song KCA names new Executive for The school year has ended and the kca said goodbye to some of its members, now considered knoxfra at our formal in April. It was a wonderful party held in the Dining Hall and Rotunda and it was at this event that the new kca Executive was named for the school year it is my pleasure to introduce myself, Stephanie Wilson, as President to you. As the regular school year ended many residents headed away from Knox some graduated from their undergraduate, graduate, or professional programs, while others have traveled across Canada or abroad for summer jobs and studies. Those of us remaining in the residence for the summer are keeping busy with courses and research here at U of T, as well as making new friends with the temporary summer residents. The new Executive members of the kca have not rested on our laurels during the summer months. Plans for a new kca website are in the works, as are KCA Executive (left to right): Santiago De Lope, Stephanie Wilson, Joey Chen, Laura Grace Conlon, Laura Lee, Dave Stanley plans for the resident Orientation week taking place the week of September 14 th. In addition to myself, the new kca Executive includes: Vice President James Juras, Treasurer Karen Holdren, House Convenor Pierre Mailly, and Communications Officer Carmen Chartard-Houlden. In September, we ll be looking for residents to fill the positions of social convenor and sports coordinator. I am excited to be representing the residents for this year and look forward to reporting in on our activities in the months ahead! Stephanie Wilson, kca President 14 connexions summer, 2009 Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ knox college

15 EWART CENTRE FOR LAY EDUCATION Ewart Centre offers new programs The Ewart Centre continues to offer programs and courses for the laity that enhance their under-standing of the Christian Tradition in these changing times, and helps develop their leadership skills in the church by connecting Christian faith and Christian living. This past year we ve made a few changes. We have begun to offer the Certificate in Christian Faith and Life online rather than here on campus a big shift that our students have been anticipating and seem to enjoy! We are now excited to announce another shift to our program. The Ewart Centre is now offering a Mini Series focused on the matter of Spirituality as it relates to the Christian tradition and today s culture. This Mini Series will take place over the next two years during the fall and winter semesters and EWART CENTRE FOR LAY EDUCATION will focus on violence, politics, sexuality and economics. This series will provide laity with a focused program of study that allows them to continue to grow in faith and understanding. To kick-off this new program we welcome The Reverend Dr. Nick Athanasiadis, minister of Leaside Presbyterian Church in Toronto. His SPIRITUALITY Focusing on Christian tradition and today s culture MINI LECTURE SERIES Spirituality & Violence instructor: The Rev. Dr. Nicholas Athanasiadis time: Mondays: 6:00 9:00 p.m. dates: October 5, 19, 26 & November 2 location: Knox College cost: $80 for more information: please contact Susan Sheridan phone: knox.ewart@utoronto.ca web: four-week series focuses on Spirituality and Violence two words that don t seem to belong together. Classes will be held on October 5, 19, 26 and November 2, 2009 from 6 9:00 p.m. at Knox College. Please visit our website to register! Ewart Centre Courses: Certificate in Christian Faith and Life I b a s i c co u r s e : Religious Diversity in our Neighbourhood d a t e : Sept. 14 to Oct. 19, 2009 i n s t r u c t o r: Andrew Irvine e l e c t i ve c o u r s e: From then Until Now: The Church over Two Millennia d a t e : Nov. 2 to Dec. 7, 2009 i n s t r u c t o r: David Robinson Certificate in Christian Faith and Life II e l e c t i ve co u r s e : Evil Suffering and the Love of God d a t e : September 14 to October 19, 2009 i n s t r u c t o r: Bryan Jeong Guk Lee b a s i c co u r s e : Amos a Social Prophet for Our Time d a t e : Nov. 2 to Dec. 7, 2009 i n s t r u c t o r: Brian Irwin knox college Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ summer, 2009 connexions 15

16 knox news the Centre for Clergy Care & Congregational Health By press time, our first Centre event on the west coast will have just finished. Starting Well at the Vancouver School of Theology kick-starts our vision of regionalizing our events for clergy. We also celebrate that we are being asked to provide programming for events across Canada. In April, Andrew Irvine was the plenary speaker for the BC Lutheran Synod addressing issues of self care. In May, he met with elders from the Peace River Presbytery in Alberta on the topic of Leading in Troubled Times. These are indeed interesting times as we work to expand our events regionally and at the same time are faced with low registrations. We are not alone in this as others offering continuing education are experiencing similar realities. The current economic climate and other factors can result in self care being an early casualty. Sadly, clergy neglecting themselves in turn impacts others. This re-affirms for us the need to continue doing what we do while continually discerning best practices. We look forward to many things Andrew s event with the Synod of the Atlantic Provinces in September, Making the Most of Retirement from November 4 th 6 th at Crieff Hills Community, and continued research on the ever evolving context of ministry in Canada. For more information, visit us at our website CONTINUING EDUCATION Knox College Fall 2009 The Charles H. MacDonald Memorial Lectureship Healing and Reconciliation with Aboriginal Peoples guest lecturer: Lori Ransom date: Wednesday October 14th, 2009 time: 1:30 4:30 p.m. cost: free, please rsvp The Chris Vais Memorial Lectureship The Resurrection of the Dead guest lecturer: Stanley Walters date: Saturday October 17th, 2009 time: 10:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. cost: free, please rsvp for more information: web: phone: Knox College Choir The Reunion Did you sing in the Choir? Tour the country with Professor John Derksen? Wish you could do it just one more time? If you sang in the Choir between , join us for a one-night-only tour back through time and help us celebrate Professor John Derksen s retirement! re h e a r s a l: Tuesday December 1 2 p.m. re c e p t i o n: Tuesday December 1 5 p.m. p e r f o r m a n c e : Wednesday, December 2 7:30 p.m. Please rsvp to Professor Derksen by October 15 th at knox.college@utoronto.ca For more information, please call connexions summer, 2009 Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ knox college

17 PRINCIPAL S MESSAGE KOREAN TRANSLATION 학장의메시지 저는큐바의 Matanzas 에서열린 the Hispano-American Evangelical Congress of Havana (1929 년 6 월 ) 의 80 주년을맞이하는컨퍼런스에서막돌아왔습니다 년 Congress 는처음으로선교운동의대표들과라틴계미국교회들의리더들을초청했습니다. 그곳에모였던참석자들은교회가속해있는환경과실정에맞게하나님을섬기는교회를어떻게세우는가하는데초점을맞추었습니다. 첫 Congress 의기반을세운세주제가 2009 년컨퍼런스에도중요한위치를차지했습니다 정체성, 일치그리고선교. 정체성, 일치, 선교 80 년전, 100 년전, 21 세기에있는현재! 제가돌아온이후로이주제들이얼마나많이제마음속에남아있는지요. 낙스신학교는 165 년의역사를갖고있습니다. 21 세기의목회를위한학생들을준비시키는우리에게정체성, 일치, 선교는무엇을뜻할까요? 지난해에우리는우리의선교와정체성에대한성명서를다시만들었습니다. 다음페이지에여러분들은그것을발견할것입니다. 대학이라는공동체로써 the Board of Governors, 교수진, 졸업생들, 학생들그리고직원들 우리는우리가누구이고, 무엇을위해부름을받았는가에대한우리나름대로의고유한표현을찾으려고열심히노력하였습니다. 우리의정체성은캐나다장로교, 토론토신학대학, 그리고신학교학회에속해있으면서, 같이협력하고, 파트너로써일을하는것에중점을두고있습니다. 우리는세계적인단체와연결을맺으면서우리의소명을넓히고, 고립되지않고, 또한얼마나배울것이많은가를다시생각해보며, 또한세계의각처에서비슷한일을하는다른이들과우리의자원을나누는것이얼마나필요한가를깨닫게됩니다. 우리의 Mission Statement 는아주구체적인방법으로우리가하고있는일들이무엇인가를표현하려고합니다 우리는교육의일을하고있고, 그일은목회를위한형성과정을다루고있고, 목회라고하는것은개인적인성찰과, 기술을습득하는것과, 또한신학적으로교육을받는것입니다. 교육가로써부름을받았다고하는것은이세상에서독특한위치를차지하게하고, 교수진들은열심히가르치고연구하는부르심에헌신하는것을그들의소명으로받아들이고있습니다. 우리의힘은지역사회와글로벌파트너와의일치를이루는데있다는것을다시한번새삼깨닫습니다. 정체성 선교 가치관 : 낙스에서우리는어떻게우리가누구이고무엇을위해소명을받았다고하는것을실제로실천하며살아갈것인가? 우리가책임을져야할소명의여러면들을확인하였습니다. 제일처음으로삼위일체하나님에게온전히의지한다는것을인정하는것입니다. 그것을시작으로우리에게틀을줄수있는몇가지실천사항들에대해우리의헌신을다짐합니다 : 섬기는리더십믿고존경하는관계성생각하고실천하는배움선지자의소리를존중하는것친절을베푸는것 큐바에서참석자들이다음 80 년에대한그들의헌신을생각하면서, 계속해서떠오르는것이미래에는신학교육이아주중요한역할을감당해야한다는것이었습니다 안수를받은목사나평신도들에대한신학교육이이루어지고그럼으로하나님께서사랑하시는세상에에큐메니칼한정신으로참여하는것입니다. 제가이글을 ConneXions 을위해쓰고있는동안, 학교는또다른한해를위해준비를시작하고있습니다. 오늘저는돌아오는학생들에게환영하는편지를써서곧보낼것입니다 ; 교수진은새로입학하는많은학생들의명단을통과시켰습니다 ; 재정지원위원회는재정적인도움요청에대한조처를취하고있습니다. 나름대로곳곳에서신학교의하루하루의삶의리듬을보여주고있습니다. 우리는이사역을갖고있습니다 우리가이보배를질그릇에가졌으니이는능력의심히큰것이하나님께있고우리에게있지아니함을알게하려함이라. 참된우정속에서 도커스고든학장 knox college Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ summer, 2009 connexions 17

18 PRINCIPAL S MESSAGE CHINESE TRANSLATION 院長的話 我最近出席於古巴孟坦沙 (Matanzas, Cuba) 舉行的第八十屆美洲拉丁裔夏灣拿福音會議 原來遠自一九二九年, 來自全球各國的宣教團體及拉丁美洲各教會領袖在夏灣拿舉行首次會議, 商討要成立一所教會機構, 推廣神國事工, 並就拉丁美洲所處的獨特環境, 所可能出現的衝擊, 提出對策 當年首屆會議提出三大綱領 : 身份認同, 合一及差傳 ; 同樣這三大綱領也是本年會議的關注重點 身份認同, 合一及差傳 : 今日我們已踏入廿一世紀, 這三項在八十年前, 一百年前所提出的綱領, 在我回來加拿大這段日子中, 仍在我腦海中引起很大的迴響 諾克斯神學院在一百六十五年前創立 在培育廿一世紀的神學生上, 身份認同, 合一及差傳, 對我們的意義在那裡呢? 過去一年, 我們重新釐定學院的宗旨及我們身份歸宗的立場 ; 在本文的下半部, 你將會讀到這兩項宣言較詳盡的描述 作為大學的成員學院, 校董會 教授團 畢業校友 學生及職員 我們均盡心竭力去表達我們是誰及闡明我們的使命 要表達我們的身份及使命, 莫過於指出我們是加拿大長老會聯會 多倫多神學教育聯會及北美洲神學院聯合協會之成員 ; 透過這些協作伙伴, 我們彼此合作, 推動神學教育 除了本土合作伙伴外, 我們也與全球各地的神學機構有聯繫 ; 這樣一來, 我們便不會自我孤立 ; 當我們接觸外界, 我們便知道, 不足要學習的仍有很多 跟志同道合的神學機構合作, 讓彼此的資源, 得到更充份的運用 我們的使命宣言也清楚昭示, 神學教育便是我們使命所在 : 在各個侍奉領域上我們要培育神學生有充足操練 個人靈命得到成長, 並且不能忽略的, 便是神學知識上得到堅實的教導 作為神學教育的學術機構, 立足於今天世界中, 我們的教授團隊必須致力教學及作學術研究 這提醒我們要固守我們的強處, 要跟本地及環球的伙伴保持合一團結 身份認同 使命 價值 : 在本神學院我們如何活出身份及實踐我們所承諾的使命呢? 在宣言中, 我們開宗明義標示出我們仰賴三位一體的真神 ; 從這個起點, 我們承諾遵行以下的諾言, 作為奮鬥目標 : 培育領袖侍奉神國建立彼此信任尊重的關係在學習中砥礪成長按正意作神的使者發言傳遞友愛和睦 在古巴期間, 與會者探討未來八十年的使命委身, 神學教育被公認為開拓未來使命的關鍵事工 具體來說是培育聖職人員及平信徒, 以致他們在普世福音擴展事工上可以充份參與 當我執筆書寫本期 院長的話 時, 學院正預備迎接新學年的開始 我剛好發出了一封函件歡迎各位同學即將踏入新的學年, 相信大家很快將會收到 負責招生的教授們, 已審批一系列的入學通知書 ; 我們的助學金委員會也已開會, 商討同學的申請 凡此種種均提醒我, 神學院在學年中不同階段的工作 我們的神學事工 是擁有屬靈氣質的寶物, 正如經上所記 : 我們這職分 這寶貝放在瓦器裡, 要顯明這莫大的能力, 是出於神, 不是出於我們 主內哥頓多加上諾克斯神學院院長 18 connexions summer, 2009 Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ knox college

19 ALUMNI NEWS & NOTES Calendar of Events Calvin by the Book To September 4 th at the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, 120 St. George St. An exhibition of rare books to commemorate the 500 th Anniversary of John Calvin s birth. Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Visit exhibitions/current.html or call for more information. Asian Centre Welcoming Party September 15 th begins with an International Worship service at 4:oo p.m. in the chapel All Knox students, faculty and staff are invited. Worship will be led by members of the various national groups that make up the Knox student body. Knox Night at the Movies September 15 th movie begins at dusk; arrive anytime after 7:00 p.m. Join knoxfra and the kca for an outdoor screening of Casablanca (rain or shine) The Dead Sea Scrolls October 24 th at Knox College & the Royal Ontario Museum For more information, visit our website at: or call Asian Centre s Celebration Thanksgiving October 28 th at Knox Presbyterian Church, Spadina Rd. The international community will gather to hear Asian Council Chairman Rev. In Kee Kim. Alumni News & Notes Rev. Corey Ball, KNOX 08 has been called to Knox Presbyterian Church, Uptergrove Rev. Young-ki Eun, KNOX 01 has been certified as Associate Supervisor from The Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (acpe). revyeun@gmail.com Rev. Jacqui Foxall, KNOX 09 has been called to Knox Presbyterian Church, Oakville Rev. Jennifer Geddes, KNOX 08 has been called to St. Andrew s Presbyterian Church, Victoria Rev. Courtney Morris, KNOX 08 has been called to St. Andrew s Presbyterian Church, Coldwater Rev. Inseob David Won, KNOX 07 has been ordained at Toronto Korean Presbyterian Church WANTED!! Keep in touch with your fellow Knox residents! Send us your comments and address to: knox.college@utoronto.ca and see what s happening with your old roommates and friends. knox college Preparing faithful servants of Jesus Christ summer, 2009 connexions 19

20 KNOX College Please return this form to: KNOX COLLEGE Development Office 59 St. George Street Toronto, ON M5J 2X2 ConneXions is published twice yearly for graduates and friends of Knox College and KNOXFRA (Knox Former Residents Association). Knox College is a seminary of The Presbyterian Church in Canada. Visit KNOX on the Internet at: Knox College respects your privacy. We do not rent, trade or sell our mailing lists. If you do not wish to receive this publication, please contact us at or knox.college@utoronto.ca. Editor: Lisa Watson Director of Development The Vision of Knox College Knox College is called by God to prepare faithful servants of Jesus Christ who will be equipped to lead the church to: engage the realities of the world for which Christ died nurture personal and collective growth integrate theology, faith and ministry Photo Credits: David Hall, Michael Joshua, Michelle Kim, Jay Song, Lisa Watson, Joyce Wong SHARE YOUR NEWS! Your former classmates and roommates want to know what s new with you! We welcome news of grads, friends and former residents. Please take a moment to complete and submit the form below. Name: Graduation Year: Address: Street Address: Phone Number: News & Notes: Return Address: Knox College 59 St. George Street Toronto, ON M5S 2E6 Publications Mail Poste-publications Publ. Agreement #