Celebrating Rachel Kennedy-Proctor: Hope and Bold Leadership for the Future Church

It’s been a joy to have Rachel Kennedy-Proctor as part of the Ministry Forum team this year. As an intern and youth leader, Rachel has brought a deep sense of authenticity, pastoral imagination, and courage to her work. Her voice resonates with the thoughtful honesty of someone rooted in faith and open to change—a gift to all of us navigating the evolving landscape of church life in Canada.

Rachel just finished her final year at Knox College, discerning a call to ministry that embraces both vulnerability and vision. Whether preaching, podcasting, or mentoring youth, she models the kind of leadership that listens deeply and speaks prophetically—never shying away from the tough questions but always pointing us toward hope. We’ve been encouraged by her wisdom, challenged by her insights, and inspired by her heart for the Church’s future.

Over the past year, Rachel has contributed meaningfully to the Ministry Forum community. If you haven’t yet read or listened, we hope you’ll take the time to engage with her reflections:

Articles from Rachel

• Imagining the Church Beyond Decline
  A reflection on the rhetoric of church decline, growth and hope (or lack of it) within the PCC. Rachel challenges us to see decline as an opportunity for honesty and also deep transformation.

• I Wanna Be Where My Feet Are
  Reflecting on the last three years of her seminary journey, Rachel considers “what’s next?” but also takes time to ground herself (and us) in being in the moment, being literally where our feet are right now.

Podcast Episodes Featuring Rachel

• Rachel Kenned-Proctor: Discerning Your Call to Ministry (Season 1, Episode 7)
  Rachel opens up about the leap of faith she took leaving her secure teaching job to follow a call into ministry. With humour and humility, she invites readers to consider what courage looks like when God leads us into unknown places.

• Interview with Author, Theologian, and Influencer Brian Recker (Season 2, Episode 8)
  Rachel takes the lead as guest host in this thought-provoking conversation with Brian Recker. Together they explore deconstruction, queer inclusion, and what it means to follow Jesus beyond institutional boundaries.

We’re so grateful for Rachel and all she’s brought to our community. Keep watching—we’re excited to see where she lands next - this is just the beginning of her story!