Message from Intercultural Liaison Rev. Dr. Pablo Kim Sun
This episode of the Ministry Forum Podcast features a special recast of a sermon by Rev. Dr. Pablo Kim Sun, the Intercultural Liaison for the Presbyterian Church in Canada. His message, originally delivered during an ecumenical service at Knox College, explores mutual engagement and epistemological humility in an ecumenical context.
Pablo shares his personal journey across various denominations—including Presbyterian, Baptist, Mennonite, Catholic, and Christian Reformed traditions—which shaped his perspective on Christian unity. He emphasizes the importance of approaching different theological traditions with openness and curiosity rather than defensiveness. Using the biblical story of Peter and Cornelius from Acts 10, he illustrates how God calls believers to humility, mutual transformation, and deeper relationships beyond denominational boundaries.
Conversation with Recently Retired Ministers
In this episode of the Ministry Forum Podcast, Rev. John Borthwick sits down with three retired Presbyterian ministers—Rev. Scott Sinclair, Rev. Duncan Jeffrey, and Rev. Mark Gaskin—for a candid conversation about life in ministry and the transition into retirement. Recorded live at the Sumac Centre, they reflect on the joys and challenges of pastoral work, how ministry has evolved over the years, and what they’ve learned along the way. From worship planning to pastoral care (and even the art of a good church sandwich), this discussion is full of wisdom, humor, and honest insights. Whether you’re just starting out in ministry, nearing retirement, or somewhere in between, this episode offers encouragement and practical advice for the road ahead.
Chat with ChatGPT about the Presbyterian Church in Canada
In this unique episode of the Ministry Forum Podcast, John Borthwick engages in a fascinating conversation with ChatGPT, an AI developed by OpenAI. Together, they explore key issues facing the Presbyterian Church in Canada, including membership decline, ministry leadership challenges, reconciliation efforts, and the future of the denomination. ChatGPT shares insights on adaptive leadership, clergy wellness, theological education, and how congregations can navigate a rapidly changing cultural and spiritual landscape. This thought-provoking discussion offers fresh perspectives on ministry in a post-Christendom era, blending humor, innovation, and a hopeful outlook.
Interview with Dr. Stuart Macdonald, Professor of Church and Society at Knox College on his book, Leaving Christianity
In this episode of the Ministry Forum Podcast, John Borthwick speaks with The Reverend Dr. Stuart Macdonald, professor of Church and Society at Knox College, about the changing landscape of Christianity in Canada. They discuss the historical trends that led to declining church membership, the challenges of ministry in a post-Christendom era, and the importance of fostering faith formation over cultural nostalgia. Dr. Macdonald shares insights from his books, Leaving Christianity and his upcoming Traditions and Tension, offering a critical yet hopeful perspective on how the church can adapt to cultural shifts with clarity, imagination, and a renewed focus on discipleship.
Interview with Knox College Principal Ernest van Eck
John Borthwick sits down with Knox College's Principal, Rev. Dr. Ernest van Eck, for a fascinating conversation about his journey from a small mining town in South Africa to becoming the principal of Knox College. Ernest shares stories from his days as an aspiring CPA (yes, you read that right!), his athletic accomplishments, and how a last-minute calling to ministry led him down a completely different path.
My Lifelong Learning Story - John Borthwick
In this very first episode of the Ministry Forum Podcast, Rev. John Borthwick, Director of the Center for Lifelong Learning at Knox College, takes us on a personal journey through his somewhat unexpected path into ministry. You’ll hear how a curious kid obsessed with history (and Dungeons & Dragons!) found himself navigating university, working in surprising places like a bingo hall, and ultimately feeling that unmistakable nudge toward ministry – despite his best efforts to resist it!