It is with recognition of God’s faithfulness and deep appreciation that McMaster Divinity College announces the retirement of The Rev. Dr. Michael Knowles at the end of the 2023-24 academic year. Dr. Knowles is MDC’s longest-serving faculty member. At the time of his retirement, he will have completed 27 years as a faculty member at McMaster Divinity College.
Following undergraduate studies in Victoria and Québec City, Dr. Knowles completed a MDiv (1982) and a ThD in New Testament (1991) at Wycliffe College in Toronto. Ordained in the Anglican Church of Canada, Dr. Knowles was Assistant Director of the Wycliffe College Institute of Evangelism between 1991 and 1997.
Dr. Knowles joined MDC in July of 1997 as Associate Professor and was awarded the George Franklin Hurlburt Chair of Preaching. In 2009, Michael was promoted to Professor of Preaching, the title he holds today. Throughout his tenure, he has taught more than 71 different courses and supervised 42 student theses, including 20 doctoral dissertations. He is also the author of five books, ranging from Jeremiah in Matthew’s Gospel to, most recently, Third Voice: Preaching Resurrection, as well as editing two others.
Dr. Knowles’s passion and commitment to his role as Professor is evident in the classroom, but he has also distinguished himself by taking a genuine interest in the lives of his colleagues and students. Whether offering guidance on classroom assignments, mentoring, or simply engaging in thoughtful conversation, Michael creates a warm and supportive environment that extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. His impact on both the intellectual and personal development of our academic community has been immeasurable. While he will be greatly missed, Dr. Knowles leaves behind a legacy that will continue to impact us for years to come.
On February 6, 2024, Michael will give his final Chapel address in his role at MDC, with a reception to follow in Cullen Hall. We invite you to join us in person or online for this special service. A formal retirement celebration of Dr. Knowles’s years of service will be held later in the term.
Please join us in expressing our deepest gratitude to Dr. Michael Knowles for 27 years of teaching ministry and in wishing him a fulfilling and well-deserved retirement.
