Upcoming events.

Westar Conference
May
29

Westar Conference

Idolatry is not about worshipping physical idols; idolatry is about worshipping false idols. It is about valuing above all what should be valued least of all. Idolatry is about worshipping money over justice, valuing power over responsibility, and praising lies despite the need for truth. Idolatry is human deception, and it is found in our collective cultural histories from biblical times to the present setting in America. Insight into idolatry and its abuse of power is important to understand because such insight, in biblical terms, is related to justice, and justice is an action that requires the truth.

In person and livestream portions

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Spiritual Care in Long Term Care - Module 3
May
30

Spiritual Care in Long Term Care - Module 3

This course offers practical skills and theoretical insights tailored to the unique challenges of this environment. New students are welcome to join for Module Three without first completing Module One or Two. Sessions will cover topics including strategies for working with residents, engaging family members, collaborating with healthcare teams, and navigating sensitive end-of-life issues.

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Creative Ways 2025
Jun
1

Creative Ways 2025

Our keynote speaker, Adrian Jacobs, Senior Leader for Indigenous Justice and Reconciliation, will share the story of the 18 year justice journey that is gaining traction in Ontario and Manitoba.

The day will also feature Teresa Howe and Jess Brand from InDwell, exploring faith-based responses to housing challenges, and The Dr. Rev. J. Mark Lewis, sharing how St. Paul’s in Hamilton is transforming lives through affordable housing and community care.

Not only will you hear amazing stories of churches repurposing buildings and seeking to respond tangibly to justice issues but also embracing transformative prayer practices through 24/7 prayer.

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Embracing Aging as Culmination - Annual Spirituality & Aging Seminar
Jun
6

Embracing Aging as Culmination - Annual Spirituality & Aging Seminar

Spirituality and aging expert Carol Orsborn (PhD) speaks to a new generation coming into age with honesty, passion, and grace. Inspired by her reflections and the wisdom of elders from a spectrum of eras and traditions, she shows us how to grow courageously into a new season of life in a society that undervalues age.

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We Need To Listen
Jun
12

We Need To Listen

Join us for "We Need To Listen" where participants will find:

- support and encouragement
- accountability and celebration
- ideas and strategies

…and most of all, a community of people passionate about sharing the Good News of Jesus with the world but sometimes feel alone doing it.

Ministry Forum is delighted to host an online space that will strive to be safe as modelled and facilitated by its hosts where ministry leaders will gather with almost no agenda and where everything is on the table and tangents are welcomed.

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Iona Community Lecture 2025
Jun
13

Iona Community Lecture 2025

ONLINE

In this lecture, GK Experience will delve into their long-term relational youth work approach. They will share how they support brilliant young people who face unfair barriers due to poverty, inequality, and injustice in Glasgow. Unpacking their ethos, they will demonstrate how they actively challenge harmful assumptions. Assumptions that disregard, stigmatise, and label young people as no-hopers and troublemakers. Instead, GK envisions these same young people as Scotland’s next generation of leaders.

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Strong Roots: Contemplative Prayer & Practice Certificate
Jun
14

Strong Roots: Contemplative Prayer & Practice Certificate

In these challenging times, finding peace and calm can be difficult—it takes intention, and it takes practice. Strong Roots is a contemplative prayer and practice certificate designed to help you deepen your spiritual life, cultivate focus and resiliency, and draw from both ancient and modern traditions of Christian contemplation.

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Fostering Hope in a Divided World
Jun
15

Fostering Hope in a Divided World

  • Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Winnipeg (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Now in its seventh iteration, the biennial conference will address such challenging questions as, what conceptions of hope encourage and sustain collective action? How do we recognize the gravity of challenges before humanity while working toward a more positive collective future? What understandings of hope can we draw upon to meet the most pressing demands of our time? These topics will be addressed within the framework of our 2025 theme, Fostering Hope in a Divided World.

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John Bell at Five Oaks
Jun
20

John Bell at Five Oaks

It is late in the day that the Christian churches have become concerned about the state of the earth. Reparation is one thing, but befriending it is vital, as the earth is a friend of God and a forum of worship older than the Bible. This retreat explores how we respect and sustain our habitat.

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Spiritual Care in Long Term Care - Module 3
Jun
27

Spiritual Care in Long Term Care - Module 3

This course offers practical skills and theoretical insights tailored to the unique challenges of this environment. New students are welcome to join for Module Three without first completing Module One or Two. Sessions will cover topics including strategies for working with residents, engaging family members, collaborating with healthcare teams, and navigating sensitive end-of-life issues.

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Trauma-Informed Practice: Fundamental Concepts for Complex Workplaces
Jul
16

Trauma-Informed Practice: Fundamental Concepts for Complex Workplaces

Our first in a series of webinars made possible by funds from the Lilly Grant Foundation.

Trauma-Informed Practice from TEND Academy

Supporting people with complex needs can be challenging. Providing responsive and compassionate service is only possible when we recognize the pervasive impact that trauma can have on a person’s life and the way they engage with the world. When we reframe our perspective from “what is wrong with you” to “what happened to you,” we help to create an atmosphere of safety, trust, and collaboration. 

In this setting, we empower the people we serve, those we work alongside, and ourselves to fully engage with the services we provide. 

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Into the Fray: A Call to be Repairers of the Breach
Jul
17

Into the Fray: A Call to be Repairers of the Breach

Rev. Dr. Joni Sancken and celebrated textile artist Thomas Roach for an evening of exploration into how rips and tears—physical and metaphorical—can be opportunities for newness and beauty born of the Holy Spirit.

In a time of polarization and fear, conflict transformation is an essential tool for any leader’s toolbox. It offers a way to take differences, even deep splits, and turn them into constructive solutions that reduce trauma. As in preaching, conflict transformation gives us the chance to turn towards God while grappling with difficult topics.

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Known & Unknown: Ministry Leadership in Liminal Time
Aug
25
to Aug 27

Known & Unknown: Ministry Leadership in Liminal Time

  • St Andrew's Wesley United Church (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Some call this is a ‘liminal season’ — a time when individuals and institutions are struggling with surprising forces inside and out, often experiencing disorientation, disengagement, and disenchantment. Leadership in ministry today requires dexterity in navigating the ‘known and the unknown’ of this time.

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The Art of Transitional Ministry Part 2
Oct
9

The Art of Transitional Ministry Part 2

This 7-week synchronous class beginning on Thursday, October 9, 2025 will meet for 3 hours each week, plus additional time in a cohort group to share case studies. Cohort group and facilitators will coach through strategies for real, on-the-ground situations. Students will complete the class with a greater understanding of systems, processes of change and with a plan to engage in the next steps of ministry. 

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Church Mental Health Summit
Oct
10

Church Mental Health Summit

Mental health is a growing concern in many congregations, yet many ministry leaders feel under-equipped to offer meaningful support. The Church Mental Health Summit is a free, one-day online event designed to provide practical tools and faith-rooted resources for churches engaging with mental health care.

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Theology Beer Camp 2025
Oct
16
to Oct 18

Theology Beer Camp 2025

Theology Beer Camp is a unique three-day conference that brings together of theology nerds and craft beer for a blend of intellectual engagement, community building, and fun. Organized by Homebrewed Christianity, this event features a lineup of well-known podcasters, scholars, and theology enthusiasts who come together to "nerd out" on theological topics while enjoying loads of fun activities.

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ReVision: What Do We Do With Christianity?
Oct
26

ReVision: What Do We Do With Christianity?

In times of uncertainty, we are invited to see with new eyes. 

Look to the Christian contemplative tradition for wisdom to help meet this moment with clarity, courage, and compassion. Join us for ReVision: What Do We Do With Christianity?, a three-day gathering—in-person in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and online—hosted by the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC).  

An invitation to see with new eyes, ReVision is an opportunity to ask honest questions and engage Christianity as a living tradition still unfolding. 

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Spiritual Care in Long Term Care - Module 3
May
23

Spiritual Care in Long Term Care - Module 3

This course offers practical skills and theoretical insights tailored to the unique challenges of this environment. New students are welcome to join for Module Three without first completing Module One or Two. Sessions will cover topics including strategies for working with residents, engaging family members, collaborating with healthcare teams, and navigating sensitive end-of-life issues

View Event →
Reconciliation Studies
May
22

Reconciliation Studies

This transformative experience is designed to address the need for quality preparation in reconciling relationships, particularly within the Canadian context. The tour’s curriculum is developed in collaboration with Indigenous faculty, neighbours, and friends, ensuring a respectful, enriching, and authentic approach to reconciliation.

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Ministry Mental Health Summit
May
20
to May 21

Ministry Mental Health Summit

Hosted by Shalem Mental Health Network, the summit features renowned keynote speakers including Dr. Curt Thompson, Kay Warren, Dr. Hillary McBride, and Professor John Swinton. Through a combination of keynote addresses, workshops, and panel discussions, participants will explore how congregations can be places where those facing mental health challenges experience genuine belonging and purpose.

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Understanding Conflict Foundations
May
19

Understanding Conflict Foundations

This highly interactive and educational workshop invites you to consider the building blocks that create conflict and those that assist or detract in conflict's resolution. The workshop includes reflection, conversation, and exercises as conflicts are studied and models for addressing conflicts are considered. Significant time will be given to skill building for effective speaking and effective listening. This foundational workshop is valuable for all individuals; case studies will apply conflict principles to a variety of settings including the workplace and the community.

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Remembering the Body: Preaching that Affirms Sexuality - Book Launch
May
14

Remembering the Body: Preaching that Affirms Sexuality - Book Launch

Celebrate the launch of The Rev. Dr. Sarah Travis’ latest book, Remembering the Body: Preaching that Affirms Sexuality. This event will be taking place before Convocation at Knox College on May 14th at 10:00 AM in Classroom 4. A panel discussion will also take place, featuring the Rev. Konnie Vissers, the Rev. Karen Pozios and Pastor Peter Haresnape. Refreshments will be served following the launch.

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Reimagining Church, Land & Community
May
13

Reimagining Church, Land & Community

This two-day gathering brings together church and denominational leaders, urban planners, architects, social-purpose developers, researchers, and government partners to explore innovative approaches to church properties. As more congregations face decisions about redevelopment, this event provides space for meaningful dialogue on how faith communities can repurpose land and buildings for justice, sustainability, and community flourishing.

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Clergy Day: Adaptive Leadership Workshop
May
12

Clergy Day: Adaptive Leadership Workshop

This one-day, in-person workshop will help ordained ministers explore the adaptive challenges that are facing the church, and equip them with new leadership skills to address these challenges. All in-service ordained ministers in the Synod Southwestern Ontario are invited to participate. There is no cost to attend, and lunch will be provided.

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Solace Comtemplative Retreat
May
9
to May 10

Solace Comtemplative Retreat

  • Crieff Hills Retreat Centre (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

In need of some solace? Looking for comfort and consolation in these overwhelming times? Come away for a time of rest at Crieff Hills retreat centre and regenerative farm. 
This contemplative retreat is facilitated by Beth Anne Fisher, with a combination of structured sessions, individual quiet time, and free time to rest, explore the Crieff Hills property, and connect with other retreatants. Space is limited to 12 guests. 
Cost includes 2 nights’ accommodation, 5 farm-fresh meals, retreat programming and access to the Crieff Hills grounds. A Saturday-only option is available for those not staying over and just attending for the day (3 farm-fresh meals included)

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We Need To Listen
May
1

We Need To Listen

Join us for "We Need To Listen" where participants will find:

- support and encouragement
- accountability and celebration
- ideas and strategies

…and most of all, a community of people passionate about sharing the Good News of Jesus with the world but sometimes feel alone doing it.

Ministry Forum is delighted to host an online space that will strive to be safe as modelled and facilitated by its hosts where ministry leaders will gather with almost no agenda and where everything is on the table and tangents are welcomed.

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Orange Conference
Apr
29

Orange Conference

A wildly practical and inspirational three-day event for future thinking family ministry leaders.

Join the annual event that launches teams of kids ministry and youth ministry leaders into brighter future recharged and overflowing with real tools they can use they very next week. In three exciting days, you’ll fill your notebook while a vibrant community fills your soul. Discover one thing every church can do to change everything for the next generation.

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Spirituality Retreat with Rev. Kathy Fraser
Apr
24
to Apr 25

Spirituality Retreat with Rev. Kathy Fraser

Join the "Flashes of Beauty and Moments of Meaning" Spirituality Retreat at Camp Kintail to find peace for your heart and soul. Engage in deep conversations, reflection, and creativity while exploring sacred writings and participating in prayer, music, and movement.

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Jubilee 2025 – Book Study
Apr
22

Jubilee 2025 – Book Study

Jubilee Book Study - The Serviceberry; Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer 

Dive into a transformative journey with our book study on The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer. This engaging series intersects with the themes of Jubilee 2025, exploring the profound connections between economy, ecological debt, and Indigenous traditions. From the gift economy to the principles of "storing our meat in the bellies of our brothers," we will delve into alternative economic models that promote sustainability and community. With Indigenous guest speakers, we will examine how these concepts resonate within the Canadian context, addressing contemporary issues such as tariffs and economic justice. Let's learn together how to foster a more equitable and reciprocal relationship with the land and each other. 

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Paul the Pharisee - 5 Week Online Lenten Class
Apr
10

Paul the Pharisee - 5 Week Online Lenten Class

Join us for a transformative 5-week Lenten journey on "Paul the Pharisee: Faith and Politics in a Divided World." This course examines the Apostle Paul as a Pharisee deeply engaged with the turbulent political and religious landscape of his time.

Through the lens of his letters and historical context, we will explore Paul’s understanding of Jesus’ Life-Vision, his interpretation of the Execution-and-Resurrection, and their implications for nonviolence and faithful resistance against empire. Each week, we will delve into a specific aspect of Paul’s theology and legacy, reflecting on its relevance for our own age of autocracy and political turmoil.

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Climate Change Faith & Culture
Apr
4

Climate Change Faith & Culture

An inspiring evening with acclaimed climate scientist and writer Dr. Katharine Hayhoe as she explores the critical connection between faith and climate action. In this thought-provoking presentation, Dr. Hayhoe will discuss how personal beliefs, science, and policy must come together to drive meaningful change—both individually and systemically.

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We Need To Listen
Apr
3

We Need To Listen

Join us for "We Need To Listen" where participants will find:

- support and encouragement
- accountability and celebration
- ideas and strategies

…and most of all, a community of people passionate about sharing the Good News of Jesus with the world but sometimes feel alone doing it.

Ministry Forum is delighted to host an online space that will strive to be safe as modelled and facilitated by its hosts where ministry leaders will gather with almost no agenda and where everything is on the table and tangents are welcomed.

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The Meaningful Inclusion of Children in Worship: Theology and Practice
Apr
2

The Meaningful Inclusion of Children in Worship: Theology and Practice

Corporate worship is the work and the joy of the people of God, and when the body of Christ gathers, we are incomplete without the active presence and meaningful participation of children and youth. What can this engagement look like (feel like, sound like, smell like, taste like) in liturgy, and why does it matter to the formation of people of all ages? Canon Wendy Claire Barrie will lead this webinar exploring the theological whys and practical hows of incorporating children and youth into congregational worship.

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How The Side Hustle Is Changing The Face Of Pastoring
Apr
1

How The Side Hustle Is Changing The Face Of Pastoring

Most of our churches and denominations were designed with the expectation of a full-time pastor as the norm. For many generations it was possible for a church with just a few dozen people to fully support a minister and their family. Not anymore. In this talk, Karl Vaters, from Helping Small Churches Thrive, will share eight adjustments that congregations and pastors must seriously consider in the new reality of a side-hustle world.

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STUCK: An Evening and Workshop with Todd Ferguson
Mar
30
to Mar 31

STUCK: An Evening and Workshop with Todd Ferguson

Do you feel stuck in ministry today?

Gather with colleagues and the guy who wrote the book on that feeling - Dr. Todd W. Ferguson, sociologist, pastor, and author of Stuck: Why Clergy Are Alienated from Their Calling, Congregation, and Career... and What To Do About It. Through his groundbreaking research and firsthand experience, Dr. Ferguson explores why so many clergy feel trapped in their ministries—not because of burnout or a loss of faith, but due to systemic challenges within the profession.

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Tending Tomorrow: Canadian Women Homileticians Reflect on the Future of Preaching in Canada
Mar
27

Tending Tomorrow: Canadian Women Homileticians Reflect on the Future of Preaching in Canada

Women are stepping into their calling to proclaim the Gospel, find their unique voice and embrace the future of preaching! If you’re a clergy, student, or simply passionate about the art of preaching, hearing from those who are leading the way can inspire and guide your growth.

This spring, join us for Tending Tomorrow, a full-day event that brings together four leading Canadian women homileticians as they reflect on the current state of preaching in Canada and imagine bold, hope-filled directions for the future.

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Virtual Meet-up with Intercultural Liaison: Pablo Kim Sun
Mar
26

Virtual Meet-up with Intercultural Liaison: Pablo Kim Sun

Virtual meet and greet with the new PCC Intercultural Liaison, Pablo Kim Sun! Pablo will share the vision behind his new role, discuss how churches engage inter-culturally across four key levels, and more. He will also introduce the Intercultural Development Inventory, a helpful tool we plan to launch this Spring in collaboration with the Tyndale Intercultural Ministries Centre, designed to support churches on their journey to becoming vibrant, intercultural communities.

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The Bible Course
Mar
20

The Bible Course

Ministry leaders, this series is meant to complement your ministry context's exploration of the Bible.

Participants who have taken the course have grown in confidence in studying the Bible and finish it seeking more opportunities to go deeper. We'd love if you were to offer this opportunity to your congregations and contexts as a way of supporting your ministry. Feel free to join in or not. No pressure. Let Ministry Forum take the planning and leading off your shoulders this Winter. 

We look forward to having a diverse group of participants. This will be an opportunity to meet others across Canada who are passionate about learning more about the Bible and growing in their walk with God in Christ Jesus.

Join The Rev. John Borthwick, Director of the Centre of Lifelong Learning at Knox College as he facilitates this eight-session course online this winter.

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Leading Prayer in Worship
Mar
19

Leading Prayer in Worship

Have you ever been uncertain about how to lead prayer in worship? Have you ever wondered about the words you are using? This online study will help you understand the purpose of various prayers in worship, and also help you develop your own ministry of leading in prayer. Through this series participants will consider prayers of invocation, adoration, and confession, together with specific themes in prayer.

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We Need To Listen
Mar
13

We Need To Listen

Join us for "We Need To Listen" where participants will find:

- support and encouragement
- accountability and celebration
- ideas and strategies

…and most of all, a community of people passionate about sharing the Good News of Jesus with the world but sometimes feel alone doing it.

Ministry Forum is delighted to host an online space that will strive to be safe as modelled and facilitated by its hosts where ministry leaders will gather with almost no agenda and where everything is on the table and tangents are welcomed.

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Crafting an Easter Sermon You Can't Wait to Preach
Mar
10

Crafting an Easter Sermon You Can't Wait to Preach

Apply Backstory Preaching’s foundational sermon prep framework to crafting sermons throughout the Easter season you believe in and can’t wait to preach. In this process, rooted in prayer and practical tools, you will discover a framework you can rely on week after week to prepare sermons more efficiently and with more joy. You will discover how to experience sermon prep as a spiritual respite, versus as a purely academic exercise. 

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Back to the Garden: Growing Hope in a Time of Climate Change
Mar
6

Back to the Garden: Growing Hope in a Time of Climate Change

As climate change makes itself felt in many ways, anxiety levels are rising in people of all ages. Join our very own Konnie Vissers, PCC minister, scholar, and founder of The Children’s Garden Collective, as she discusses the role local congregations can play in environmental education, fostering the growth and nourishment of children in this time of eco-anxiety, and finding theological hope through gardening.

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Gather 25
Feb
28
to Mar 1

Gather 25

Gather25 is an unprecedented 25-hour global broadcast event telling the inspiring stories of the global Church, by the global Church.

This is an unprecedented moment in history where technology can connect to Jesus followers from almost every nation, every denomination, and every generation.

Jesus followers in churches, campuses, arenas, and living rooms–from every continent and denomination–will join together across every time zone to watch the Gather25 broadcast that is free to everyone, everywhere.

For 25 hours, Gather25 is inviting believers across the world to pray, repent, worship, and discover how the love of Jesus is transforming the world through everyday people.

This is what Gather25 is all about.

Register to watch the live broadcast: gather25.com

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