
Upcoming events.

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.

Orientation, Disorientation, Reorientation: Navigating Lament and Hope in a World Turned Upside Down
Panelists Paul Okoye, Dr. Kim Penner, Rev. Dr. Hyung Jin (Pablo) Kim Sun, and Leah Reesor-Keller will guide us through a rich conversation from the vantage points of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Organizational Change; and Theology. Each will speak from their own disciplinary and lived experience, naming the disorienting realities we face and lifting up where they see hope emerging.

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.

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.

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.

PRISM 2025 Stewards of the Story: In Giving We Receive
A prism separates light into its constituent colors, making it possible to analyze and reflect the light. PRISM events, held annually, perform the same function for topics in church leadership, Christian Education, and faith formation. Each PRISM event focuses on one topic, dividing it into constituent parts with innovative and informative workshops, enriching keynotes, thinking theologically about ministry, and the gift of learning from one another participants will analyze the topic and then synthesize new ideas, models, and approaches. PRISM equips and empowers leaders to serve the church faithfully. PRISM is designed for everyone involved within congregations

Becoming Ourselves with AI: A conversation about change, faith, and possibility
Join us for a thoughtful and down-to-earth conversation about AI: what it is changing, what still matters, and how we can faithfully show up in this moment. This session is not a tech tutorial. It is an invitation to pause and reflect on our relationship with a technology that is already shaping our lives, work, and faith communities.

The Farminary's 10th Anniversary
The event includes time on the farm, time with one another, and time with some of the brightest minds continuing to shape conversations related to ecology and theology, food justice, sabbath, and more, including Willie Jennings, Barbara Brown Taylor, Jeff Chu, Michael Twitty, Tiya Myles, and Heber Brown, among others.

Known & Unknown: Ministry Leadership in Liminal Time
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.

The Process of Aging and Implications for Ministry
Participants will explore how ageism, both personal and systemic, impacts the way we understand and support older adults. Together, the group will examine how congregations, senior-care organizations, families, and caregivers can challenge ageist assumptions and adapt to the diverse needs of aging populations with dignity, equity, and creativity.

Stewardship Kaleidoscope: Annual Conference
Stewardship Kaleidoscope is an annual conference offering excellent plenary speakers, informative workshop leaders, provocative worship experiences, and incredible networking opportunities for all passionate about stewardship and generosity. Drawing leaders from across the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA), the Lutheran Church (ELCA), and other ecumenical partners, Stewardship Kaleidoscope is designed to help participants explore stewardship in its many colorful dimensions!

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.

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.

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.

Uncertain Times: Developing the Theological and Ministry Skills We Need
Join in person or via Zoom as attendees think about these challenging topics. Once again this year, the conference will take place over two days in the Ottawa area for those wishing to join in person. Attendees will hear from theme speakers Rev. Dr. Catherine Faith MacLean and Rev. Dr. Jesse Zink, with workshops led by Rev. Doug Throop, Rev. Stéphane Vermette, Rev. Jenni Leslie and Rev. Daniel Addai Fobi, and Becca Whitla.

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.

Faithful Imagining
The leading online event tailored for Transitional/Interim Leadership professionals. Experience practitioner-led programming similar to an in-person conference—without the travel expenses! Connect with this year’s Keynote Speakers, Rev. Cameron Trimble and Rev. Diane Kenaston, network with fellow attendees, and participate in three concurrent workshop sessions—all from the comfort of your home or office.

Jesus: The Most Interesting Word We Have for the World
Jesus: The Most Interesting Word We Have for the World
What does it mean to bear witness to Jesus in a world hungry for something real?
In an age of skepticism and spiritual searching, how can we share the difference Jesus makes—not just in belief, but in the fabric of everyday life?

Fostering Hope in a Divided World
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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Preaching Collective Weekly
Join fellow preachers for an open, encouraging, and collaborative space to reflect on the lectionary texts for next week. These one-hour Zoom gatherings are designed to help you spark ideas, deepen your scriptural engagement, and support one another in the work of sermon preparation.

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.

Wildlife Photo Exhibit and Sale with The Rev. Dr. Richard Topping
Richard Topping is coming to Crieff Hills just before Assembly and offering two events: a photography show and sale in Dove House and an education event

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Nailing it: How We Become True Leaders
Nicole Massie Martin will help attendees understand how to nail outdated models of leadership to the cross, and what it will take to replace them with Biblical ones.

Equip and Encourage 2025
A conference focused on equipping, encouragement and renewal. Through scriptural teaching, vibrant worship, reflection in the arts, be renewed for ministry.

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.

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.

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.

Solace Comtemplative Retreat
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)

Preaching Collective Weekly
Join fellow preachers for an open, encouraging, and collaborative space to reflect on the lectionary texts for the upcoming Sunday. These one-hour Zoom gatherings are designed to help you spark ideas, deepen your scriptural engagement, and support one another in the work of sermon preparation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.