Congratulations to our graduating class of 2020!!!
Today marks the official conferral of degrees for our graduates and we couldn’t be more excited for them.
This year has looked much different than usual, we had planned to celebrate in person at our Convocation Ceremony originally set for today, May 19th. We look forward to when we can all be together again at a new date, tentatively set for the Fall.
In the meantime, get to know a little bit about our grads and leave your congratulations on our Facebook post.
CLASS OF 2020
Mike Ariza
Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies
How did you come to MDC?
I came to MDC to do Baptist History and Thought as a requirement for my ordination with CBOQ. I decided to stay and pursue a higher seminary training.
What was the most important thing you learned from your time at MDC?
The sacredness of the Scripture, discipline in studying the Bible and a biblical based ministry.
What’s next?
I am working on my Master of Theological Studies and looking forward to be back to ministry once I finished.
Karl Leslie Armstrong
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
How did you come to MDC?
I came here from Nova Scotia back in September of 2013 after completing my MA from Acadia Divinity College (Acadia University) earlier that spring.
What was the most important thing you learned from your time at MDC?
How to think critically and communicate effectively.
What’s next?
I am still hoping for more teaching opportunities, but in the meantime, I am working with the Admissions team at MDC on a part-time basis, helping out with my family business back in NS, and finishing up some publications, including a forthcoming monograph with T&T Clark/Bloomsbury Publishing.
Paul Bates
Doctor of Practical Theology
How did you come to MDC?
I began studying my MTS degree while I was Dean of Business at McMaster. Then transferred to MDC Faculty, taught while studying for my doctorate.
What’s the most important thing you learned at MDC?
Learning to apply theological concepts and values to all my work.
What’s next?
Going forward: Semi-retirement, together with sessional instruction, writing and consulting.
Very proud to be a graduand of MDC.
Dustin Guy Burlet
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
How did you come to MDC?
I came to MDC from a faculty position at Peace River Bible Institute in Sexsmith, AB. I was encouraged to complete my terminal degree through my mentor and friend, Dr. Gus Konkel.
What’s the most important thing you learned during your time at MDC?
The most important thing that I learned throughout my time at MDC is the importance of community. The body of Christ is essential for growth.
What’s next?
My wife and family and I are in the midst of job searching–though my wife has full-time employment, we are looking to move closer to family (in the prairie provinces of Canada). But what I am perhaps most excited about after graduation is publishing my dissertation!
Braden Campbell
Master of Divinity
How did you come to MDC? What was the most important thing you gained from your time at MDC? What’s next?
I came from Ajax, Ontario into the MDiv program from the CBOQ’s Leadership and Pastoral Training Program, and before that, from the Classical Theatre program at George Brown College. Although I initially began with an aim towards military chaplaincy, during my years at MDC that goal shifted towards preaching and evangelism. McMaster, above all, helped me to realize that the call to pastoral ministry is both a great mercy and vast responsibility, at the heart of which is the regular exposition of the Scriptures and the repeated, passionate proclamation of the gospel.
Heather Card
Doctor of Practical Theology
How did you come to MDC?
I originally came to MDC in the MTS program. But it was the persistent encouragement from a faculty member that encouraged me to continue my research about board governance at the doctoral level.
What is the most important thing you learned at MDC?
One of the most significant things I learned at MDC was the importance of taking time for spiritual retreat to intentionally reflect on where God was leading. This is a practice that is still a significant part of my life.
What’s next?
I’m now serving as the president of Five Smooth Stones Consulting, a ministry that resources and serves the governing boards of churches and Christian ministries.
Denise Fan
Master of Divinity
How did you come to MDC?
I am from Hong Kong. I lived in Halifax Nova Scotia for 8 years before moving to Toronto for the seminary degree.
What is the most important thing you learned at MDC?
The most important thing I learned in the last 4 years is to be aware of my relationship with the Word. To me, a transformative reading of the Word requires active listening, contemplation, and conversation with the Divine. Unlike the spiritual books, the Word is not to be skimmed through and left unprocessed. The Word is to be read from a devoted heart.
What’s next?
God is gracious that He has put me in a pastoral position in Mississauga. In all my “knowing, being, and doing,” my heart is delighted to see how God has affirmed and used my gifts in ministry, while at the same time humbled me to trust and submit to His strength everyday. I am excited to journey with Father, despite what challenges ministry may bring about. Glory to God!
Nicholas Findlay
Master of Theological Studies
How did you come to MDC?
I came to MDC after completing my Bachelor of Child and Youth Care at Humber College and recognizing a personal interest in providing counselling and spiritual care.
What was the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
I believe the most important thing I learned at MDC was the benefit of wrestling with the tension between various factors rather than simply assuming certain positions are correct. It becomes challenging and uncomfortable at times, but I find it is essential to maintain this outlook in order to grow.
What’s next?
Now that I have finished my time at MDC, I am interested in becoming a member of the CRPO and looking for employment as a psychotherapist.
Ben Froese
Master of Theological Studies
How did you come to MDC?
My wife and I moved to Hamilton from Kamloops, BC in the summer of 2018 in order for me to start studying at MDC.
What is the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
I learned so many significant things, so it is hard to choose just one. Perhaps learning to read, analyze and interpret the New Testament in its original Greek language, as this is something that I know I would have never learned outside of the seminary context.
What’s next?
I am currently looking for looking for a job in pastoral ministry. I hope to take all that I’ve gained from my time at MDC and use it to help build up the church and to serve God’s kingdom purposes!
Mandy Head
Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies
How did you come to MDC?
I came to MDC as a Pathways Student.
What is the most important thing you’ve learned during your time at MDC?
To extend myself grace.
What’s next?
Continuing to complete the MTS Program at MDC.
Kehua (Ken) Huang
Master of Theological Studies
How did you come to MDC?
I had been living in Hamilton more than fourteen years and graduated from the business school of McMaster University before I came to MDC. However, I did not really know much about MDC until a few PhD students studying at MDC came to my home church in Hamilton. All of them had demonstrated a great faith in Jesus Christ and wealthy biblical and theological knowledge, which impressed me so much. So, when I was looking for a seminary to attend, I decided to apply to MDC after exploring MDC’s programs a bit more.
What was the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
The most important thing I learned from my time at MDC was the attitude of the professors of MDC of valuing and treating the words of God very seriously and faithfully with caring hearts.
What’s next?
During my second year at MDC, I started planting a Chinese church in Brantford ON. Considering the small population of local Chinese Canadians, I am expecting to establish a small Chinese church there. While I am going to continue the church planting ministry in Brantford, I am looking for a part-time pastoral job in another church in and around the greater Hamilton area.
Edwin Moses Jacob
Master of Theological Studies
How did you come to MDC?
I came to MDC from India, based on my brother’s recommendation.
What was the most important thing you gained from your time at MDC?
At MDC I realized that there exist multiple perspective to many of spiritual concepts I have learnt from childhood. It is at MDC I began to appreciate the need to scrutinize my worldview.
What’s next?
I am looking for Missional or NGO opportunities in Asia or Canada.
Jennifer Brown Jones
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
How did you come to MDC?
I came to MDC from Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL.
What is the most important thing you learned from your time at MDC?
The most valuable thing that I learned in my time at MDC was how to better integrate various theological disciplines into my research and personal life. The interdisciplinary aspects of the program stretched me outside of my comfort zone, encouraging me to think more holistically about both my academic work and my own spiritual journey, integrating the contributions from a variety of disciplines and voices.
What’s next?
Our family moved to Utah after my coursework to take advantage of a number of opportunities for our special needs son. We intend to stay here, so I will primarily be serving in our church and by teaching online. In addition to teaching and leading small groups in our local church, I have recently been hired to teach Old Testament in Liberty University’s online PhD in Biblical Exposition. I also will be teaching MDiv coursework for Liberty and undergraduate courses for Ecclesia College.
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
I came from New Jersey, USA.
I especially gained skills on thinking, writing, and researching.
I am teaching in New Testament studies, particularly in Greek. And I am furthering my writing and publishing. I continue to reside in New Jersey with my wife and son.
Tat Yu Lam
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
How did you come to MDC?
I came from Evangel Seminary in Hong Kong.
What is the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
“ . . . I have learned the secret of contentment, whether I go satisfied or hungry, have plenty or nothing. I am able to do all things through the one (Jesus Christ) who strengthens me. – Phil 4:12b-13 NET
What’s next?
I hope to find a job in which I can continue to do research and teach God’s word to his people.
Lloyd R. Lindsay
Master of Theological Studies
How did you come to MDC?
As I was enrolled in the Christian & Missionary Alliance Pathways School of Ministry Graduate Stream, I became associated with MDC automatically because they are the academic sponsor of the Graduate Stream. Once I completed the Pathways program, it was an easy transition into regular studies in the MTS program.
What was the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
It is not just a question of having gained enhanced biblical and theological understanding, although that is certainly the case. No, I think the personal and academic growth in more fundamental than that. I find myself far more aware of not so much what I think theologically, but HOW I think theologically.
What’s next?
I already serve as Lead Pastor of a small congregation in Acton Ontario. I expect to continue in that role for the foreseeable future. There is a possibility of continued studies at MDC, but I seek to discern God’s direction in the matter.
Chiaen Liu
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
How did you come to MDC?
I am from Taiwan. Previous school was China Evangelical Seminary.
What is the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
The most important thing I learned at MDC is to be trained to pay more attention to the methodology in order to give more solid evidence while analyzing the text.
What’s next?
I am now working at China Evangelical Seminary in Taiwan as a member of the faculty.
Dan Martin
Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies
How did you come to MDC?
I came to McMaster Divinity College because it is the accredited school that is the academic partner with Pathways School of Ministry which I have completed my MTS certificate through.
What is the most important thing you learned from your time at MDC?
I have learned to view ministry as less of a thing I do FOR God and more of a thing I do WITH God. God invites me to partner with His ministry and it is a joy that I get to share. I have been learning that this partnership is with the ministry of the Son, to the Father, by the Holy Spirit.
What’s next?
I plan to complete my MTS degree at McMaster part time continuing this fall.
Rev. Benjamin J. Montoya
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
How did you come to be at MDC?
I came from the US.
What was the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
I learned the importance, responsibility, and joy of making a scholarly contribution after earning this degree and doing so with a view to using scholarship as a means of Christian worship.
What’s next?
I am job searching.
Howard Hon-Wa Ngan
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
How did you come to be at MDC?
I am from Markham, Ontario. I graduated from Tyndale Seminary with an MDiv in 2006 before coming to MDC.
What was the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
I learned that pastoral theology highlights the necessity to speak into the complexity of life.
What’s next?
I moved to Ottawa to serve as Senior Pastor at Ottawa Chinese Alliance Church where I hope to contribute to ongoing scholarship and teaching.
Patricia Paddey
Master of Theological Studies
How did you come to be at MDC?
While I live in Mississauga, ON, I was born and raised in Hamilton. I came to McMaster Divinity College on the recommendation of my then pastor.
What is the most important thing you learned during your time at MDC?
An absolute conviction of God’s great love for me, and for every person he has created.
What’s next?
As a writer and communications consultant, I always considered my studies an important step in deepening my faith, furthering my understanding, and informing my writing. They have done all that and more and I will be forever grateful!
Matthew George Rowley
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
How did you come to MDC?
I came from Alberta, on the advice of Don McNaughton, a graduate of the school and my counselling professor. I came from Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary.
What is the most important thing you learned or gained from MDC?
I gained a much deeper appreciation for the rich history of the Christian Church in Canada. My time at MDC taught me to value to truth of God’s Word and to respect the old paths of the historic Christian faith. Canada is blessed with a rich history of people who love the Lord and who have served Him faithfully.
What’s next?
I have become senior pastor at Cremona Country Fellowship, and I have also become the president of Training Leaders International Canada, a missionary teaching organization.
Bryan Stephens
Master of Arts (Christian Studies)
How did you come to MDC?
I came from my hometown of Phoenix, Arizona and my undergraduate at Arizona Christian University to McMaster Divinity College in 2017.
What was the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
Though I anticipated there would be great faculty at McMaster Divinity College, I did not anticipate how much I would enjoy learning and growing spiritually and theologically under the faculty who taught interdisciplinary classes.
What’s next?
I am continuing my studies at McMaster Divinity College, completing a PhD Christian Theology (Biblical Studies) in New Testament.
Isaac Alex Yoryor
Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies
How did you come to MDC?
I came from Philpott Memorial Church.
What was the most important thing you learned or gained from your time at MDC?
I acquired a Spiritual disciplined-mind, and what it takes to be a caring person and a caring Pastor/Minister
What’s next?
I would love to obtain my MTS!! I have already started an online ministry, The Gartave Outreach Ministry, that will be officially launched soon!
Not Pictured:
Elizabeth Anderson
Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies
Seunghoon Baik
Master of Arts (Christian Studies)
Steve Barabash
Master of Theological Studies
Christopher Clements
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
Lois Dix
Master of Theological Studies
Sharlene Henderson
Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies
Grant Hyndman
Master of Arts (Christian Studies)
Mark Jurgens
Master of Theological Studies
Caleb Lambshead
Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies
Rudie Lemus
Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies
Diane McBeth
Master of Theological Studies
John Morkel
Master of Theological Studies
Christopher Stevens
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
Phillip Strickland
Doctor of Philosophy (Christian Theology)
Jared Taylor
Master of Theological Studies
Charissa Yavtucovich
Graduate Certificate of Christian Studies