the bridge spring 2015

o. 1, N -6 S5 p. rl ino gV /Summer 2015

learning togetherpublished by Taylor College and Seminary

PartnershipTaylor, Sioux Falls and the NAB form

partnership with Cameroon, pg. 5

Alumni ProfileJosh Imboden (09), pg. 6

Welcome Back!Carol Potratz Returns to Taylor, pg. 3

75th AnniversaryBanquet, Devotional, Video, pg. 9, 14, 15

published by Taylor College and Seminary

PartnershipTaylor, Sioux Falls and the NAB form

partnership with Cameroon, pg. 5

Alumni ProfileJosh Imboden (09), pg. 6

Welcome Back!Carol Potratz Returns to Taylor, pg. 3

75th AnniversaryBanquet, Devotional, Video, pg. 9, 14, 15

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5.

As I sit in my hotel room on Carol will be our institutional liaison specifically tasked

Saturday afternoon, July 4th, I with connecting our educational initiatives to the wide

am struck by the fact that variety of ministry contexts with which she interacts.

tomorrow morning I complete Keeping ministry training closely connected to ministry

my fourth Triennial Conference on the street is essential for effective preparation.

since coming to Taylor. Carol will play a key role in that for the faculty.

These 11 years have seen a lot of In this edition of the Bridge you will also find an article

dramatic changes not only at on a renewed and expanded partnership between

Taylor but in the NAB Taylor and the Cameroon Baptist Theological

Conference and across North America. Change is often Seminary. This decade-long partnership is not only

hard but nevertheless my heart is full of anticipation being brought to the forefront of our ministry but also

as to what God is doing. Two of our theological claims expanded to include the whole of the Cameroon

are that God is in charge and that God is good. The Baptist Convention. The expanded vision has also

difficult task of discipleship is to find the good in the brought together other NAB partners to do together

change that God brings to us. what none of us can do by ourselves. Finally, you will

find an update on our celebration of the 75th Taylors annual experience of change, our graduation

anniversary of Taylor and the upcoming fall events.ceremony, was a blessed experience again this year.

We have such a rich history of outstanding students

and it is always a joy to celebrate the completion of

what, for some, is a long and difficult journey.

Students work so hard and accomplish so much. The

2015 Commencement Ceremony was especially joyful

in that we celebrated the life of ministry and service of

Carol Potratz with an honorary doctorate. What a

special time that was!

Dr. Potratz will be returning to Taylor in a faculty role.

And, besides returning to the classroom she will take

on the responsibilities of Director of Supervised David Williams, Ph.D.Ministry. This position is important in part because

President, Taylor College and Seminarybesides supervising our current ministry students,

The changes that we are experiencing across North

America point to a deep stirring of Gods Spirit in our

midst. For those of us at Triennial this year, I think that

stirring is almost palpable as together we embrace

Gods call on our lives to join God on mission. There

are so many good things that God is doing. I am

privileged to be along for the ride.

Shalom!

A Note from the President

Attentive readers will recognize that this edition of The Bridge is later than usual. Normally

completed and mailed in early June, this issue was competing for time and attention with

some very exciting other projects that you will read about in the pages ahead.

The continuing celebration of Taylors first 75 years has included the production of a music

video featuring a virtual choir and the publishing of a devotional book, and these two

projects were to debut at the Triennial of the NAB Conference in July 2015. These alumni-

created projects were enthusiastically received, and I hope you will also judge them

worthy of your time and attention. (You can read more about these projects in this issue.)

In the case of the devotional book, Strength for Today, we continue to solicit

contributions. Indeed, I find myself pleading for people to write! There seems to be a

sense of modesty that leads people to defer to others. I understand that, of course, but

that doesnt help finish the project!

Think about the lessons God has been teaching you: could you take some time to write a

few short reflections about those insights that can be shared with others? Please drop us

a line or visit our website for more information; I really hope to hear from you.

Tim Willson

Editor, The Bridgeth

P.S. For more on our 75 Anniversary, be sure to visit www.Taylor-Edu.ca/75.

Vol. 56, No. 1,

Spring/Summer 2015

Published by

Taylor College and Seminary

to communicate with students, alumni,

friends and supporters.

Editor: Tim Willson

[email protected]

Taylor College and Seminary

11525 - 23 Avenue NW

Edmonton, AB T6J 4T3

Cover: Tim Willson

Come and learn with us!

1.780.431.5200 | www.Taylor-Edu.ca | www.TaylorSeminary.ca

hen Carol Potratz ended her term of service

as an NAB missionary to Japan, there were Wmany suggestions for what to do next. Widely Dr. David Williams, president of Taylor, believes Carol known and loved as an educator, cross-cultural is ideally suited for this new role.ministry specialist, and as a church and

Carols passion for ministry coupled with her denominational leader, many doors were open.

appreciation for the way high quality seminary

education can support and help sustain that ministry

is a perfect blend for what Taylor needs. She brings

extensive ministry experience

with a love for lifelong learning

as well as a passion for Taylor

to be all that we can be for the

sake of the gospel., he says.

Carol is excited about the

opportunity. Asked why she

chose Taylor when there were

numerous doors open to her,

she says that she clearly Given Dr. Muller's sensed Gods leading forthcoming retirement something that was confirmed this summer, as one of her through numerous friends who duties, Carol will be taking joined her in praying about it.over supervision of the

If there had even been one of Field Education and

them who sensed any Internship program which

hesitation I would have said no Dr. Muller has so capably

to Taylor, she says, but every developed and led for us,

one of them affirmed that this wrote Dr. Korner.

was Gods leading.Field Education has long

Anyone who knows Carol well been a hallmark of a Taylor

knows her primary life objective Seminary education,

is "to know Christ and make him ensuring that students have

known" to all age groups. She has done this practical experience and are engaged in contextual

consistently in her life through her ministry and learning (i.e., gaining their formal education in

educational roles. tandem with ministry experience and the

Educated at Upper Iowa University in Fayette, Iowa mentorship of ministry practitioners). Dr. Willy

and at Sioux Falls Seminary in South Dakota, she has Muller, who stepped out of retirement a number of

been active in ministry for decades. She is perhaps years ago to serve his alma mater as Director of

best-known as a missionary to Japan; her service Field Education, turned 90 in July, and will retire

there from 1973 through 1975 was profoundly (again!!) in August 2015.

important in shaping her faith and ministry The new position created for Carol Potratz includes

perspective, and gave her a deep and lasting love for all of the current Field Education responsibilities but

Japan and its people. She served in numerous other builds on them to include a broader area and the

educational and ministry roles over the years, then position has been re-named as Director of

returned to Japan in 2010 to serve at the Tsu English Supervised Ministry.

Centre on Japan's East Coast.

our seminary curriculum might better serve ministry

professionals.

So it was with great joy that the Taylor community

learned in April that Carol had accepted a faculty

position at Taylor

Seminary. Academic Dean

Dr. Ralph Korner made the

announcement,

confirming that she will

serve in a Core Faculty

position as Director of

Supervised Ministry and

Associate Professor of

Intercultural Studies.

This broadening includes the We look forward to

task of exploring with ministry supervisors ways that the way she will bring her rich experiences of cross

Carol Potratz Returns to TaylorFormer Missionary Joins the Taylor Seminary Facultyby Tim Willson

3


1.780.431.5200 | www.Taylor-Edu.ca

The newly-minted Dr. Carol Potratz stands with her long-time

friend and colleague Dr. Willy Muller at the 35th Taylor

Seminary Graduation Ceremony, May 3, 2015. Carol has been

named as Dr. Mullers replacement in an expanded role.

TB

TB

4



cultural ministry into service in the classroom as

well.

honoured to be following him in this new expanded

role at Taylor. She will begin her duties two weeks

before Dr. Muller officially retires to allow time to Another of Carol's defining roles over the years was make the transition smooth. her tenure as Associate Dean of Students at Taylor,

then known as North American Baptist College. She Among Carol's first scheduled events in her new role

also taught Christian Education at that time, and was will be to participate in the retirement celebration

able to mentor many students who now serve in a for her old friend. Taylor will hold a special

wide variety of ministries around the world. celebration for Dr. Muller's retirement in September

Everywhere she travels, Carol eagerly seeks out please check the website for dates and times, and

these former students and rejoices with them at plan to commemorate this extraordinary alumnus

how God is using them. and faculty member and his lifetime of faithful

service. Carol is a life-long friend of Dr. Muller, and is TB

at Taylor as we look back on our history. The idea of ne of the major 75th Anniversary projects for

theological education in this prairie town was bold Taylor College and Seminary is the Oand audacious in 1940, and the institution survived development of a soon-to-be-published devotional

many challenges to its existence over the years. book titled Strength for Today & Bright Hope for

More importantly, generations of lives, and whole Tomorrow.

churches and ministries, have been transformed by Current and former students, faculty and other

what God has done through this educational friends and supporters of Taylor (including pastors)

ministry.have been submitting

More than 100 devotional contributions, and 30 of these daily

contributions have come in so far, readings have been compiled into a

and we continue to invite the Taylor sampler version of the final project.

community to be part of this effort. This sampler was released at the

A package of information will be NAB Triennial Conference in

sent to anyone who is willing to Sacramento, CA in July; the final

share a life lesson or a reflection on 365-day version of the project is

a significant passage of scripture. scheduled to be released in 2016.

Submissions can be made through a Among the writers featured in the

webpage that will be provided 30-day sampler (pictured at right)

when you contact us.are Dr. Werner Waitkus, Dr. Edna

Please consider writing for this Grenz, Dr. Tim Schroeder, Sheryl

book! There is a significant blessing Grunwald, Norm Poehlke, Dr. Carol

for others as we share what God Potratz, and many others.

has taught us, and there is a great The underlying theme of these daily

blessing for each writer as we go reflections is one of celebration in

through the exercise of clearly particular, a celebration of Gods

expressing these insights.faithfulness. The theme song for Taylor

We are also hoping that individuals and churches during this 75th Anniversary year is Great is Thy

will purchase multiple copies of Strength for Today Faithfulness, and the title of the book is taken from

to share with others; we know that the collective verse two:

wisdom of this community will be a tremendous Strength for today, and bright hope for tomorrow,

blessing, and a great legacy of this 75th Anniversary Blessings all mine with ten thousand beside.

celebration. This hymn perfectly expresses the sense of gratitude

TB

Devotional Book to be PublishedTaylor alumni, students, faculty and friends contribute daily readings

Strength for Today is a forth

coming

devotional book featuring c

ontributions

from alumni, students, facu

lty (past

and present), and friends o

f Taylor. This

30-day sampler version is n

ow available.

5TB



Just one example of your success is the number of aylor Seminary honored incoming (and

past students who continue to connect with you as a returning) faculty member Carol Potratz in the Tvalued friend, mentor and ministry partner. In your Spring of 2015 with an honorary doctoral

travels around the worldon virtually every degree.

continentyou receive a warm welcome from those Carol arrived at Taylor back when it was called

who are following in your footsteps as joy-filled North American Baptist College in 1989 to take up

disciple-makers.responsibilities as Associate Dean of Students and

For over 40 years, you have devoted yourself to Assistant Professor. She quickly formed deep

service, especially to the North American Baptist connections with students and with church leaders

Conference, and in so doing you across the region, and continues to

have earned the friendship and play a role as mentor and friend with

admiration of thousands of your many of those students.

fellow believers.Her career has included various roles

For your lifelong commitment to in education and in church and

transformational education, your denominational leadership, but one

dedication to life-long learning, your defining role in her life is that of

tireless commitment to young missionary to Japan from 1973-1975,

people, your faithfulness in living and from 2009-2014. Her service as a

out your mission to know Christ missionary officially ended on July 4,

and to make Him known and for 2015, when she was formally de-

your outstanding example of cross-commissioned during the NAB

cultural ministry and service, Taylor Triennial in Sacramento, CA. She

Seminary is proud to confer upon returns to Taylor as Director of

you the degree of Doctor of Divinity, Supervised Ministry in August.

honoris causa.Taylor conferred an honorary Doctor

Carol was clearly moved by the of Divinity degree at the 2015

honor, wiping tears from her eyes Commencement Ceremony, at which

and struggling for words in her Carol was the featured speaker.

response. In a perfectly-fitting

gesture, Carol responded in the custom of her

beloved Japan with a deep bow; then, Academic

Dean Dr. Ralph Korner responded in kindCarol Potratz, throughout your career you have

exemplified a passion for learning and teaching.

From one of your first teaching positions at Collegio

Americano in Mexico, to your role as Associate Dean

and faculty member here at Taylor (then called

North American Baptist College), to your recent

posting as a missionary to Japan, you have

demonstrated a contagious enthusiasm for the work

of Christian education.

In your ministry, you have served in a variety of

educational contexts and in churches across

denominational lines. You have been a living

example of Taylors mission statement, to develop

Christ-minded leaders who make a difference in the

world.

As part of his remarks, President Dr.

David Williams read the citation which accompanied

the diploma:. TB

Major Honor for Carol Potratz at GradDoctor of Divinity (honoris causa) presented by Taylor Seminaryby Tim Willson

Dr. Carol J. Potratz

TB

closing, it created a sense of resentment and osh Imboden looks great smiling as always,

bitterness to those of us attending in the early days and filled with enthusiasm. At the NAB Triennial Jof that final school year. We wanted to see Taylor Conference in Sacramento (in his old hometown), he

University College thrive and grow but felt left in the took time to share some updates and memories.

dark with information about what was really going On his new position in youth ministry in Michigan:

on. Looking back, we know that there werent many I just moved to Canton, MI and am Director of Youth answers at the time, things were unfolding quickly Ministries at First Presbyterian Church of Plymouth. I and constantly changing. As we lived out our last am going on my twelfth year of doing youth year at Taylor, we wanted to make it as special as ministry. Though the core issues that teenagers deal possible on and off campus. Everything we as a with havent really changed throughout the years, student body did was to create memories that how they are presented to them is. Through the would last a lifetime and leave a legacy, and we world of cyberbullying, sexting and social media shared the experience of that challenging final year: ruling their lives, as well as a growing pressure to first-year, second-year, third-year and fourth-year perform academically at students all finishing such a high level, together. Those who teenagers are seeking attended Taylor ways to escape the University College in the pressure of life and final days all have often turn to unhealthy special fond memories ways to cope. As a youth of the school and special pastor, I have to find friendships that will creative ways to reach never be broken. Even teenagers outside the though spread walls of our church and throughout the world, online. It drives me to many of us still stay find new ways to reach connected with each students where they are other through social at and in the digital media and texting. world. The possibilities

On coming to terms with of what we can do in ministry are limitless

the closure of the undergraduate programs at Taylor hindered only by our imagination!

in 2009:On some of his favorite memories from Taylor:

I had a heavy heart leaving Taylor University College During my two years at Taylor University, I was lucky when it closed but I took a Middle School Pastor job enough to play Futsal (a form of indoor soccer) as back in California where I was from and attended a the goal keeper. Both years we finished third in our local University to graduate with a degree in division. The guys on our team created a special Christian Leadership. To this day, I refer to Taylor as bond where many of us are still friends today. We my University, not the other one.travelled throughout Northern Alberta playing

On how Taylor shaped him spiritually:soccer. (There was a game where as a goal keeper, I

Taylor pushed me to dig deeper in my own spiritual had a shutout and a goal in the same game!)

journey. The professors and chapel program made On the challenges suffered as a result of the

me (and others) think outside of my comfort zone of unexpected closure of the University College:

what I was used to in churches growing up. The closing set many of us back years on our Professors such as Tyler Williams and Keir Hammer education, with some like myself nearly starting our and our chapel director Drikkie Wolmarans pushed bachelors degree completely over. When hearing us to dig deeper and to think of our faith from new early talk and rumours of Taylor University College perspectives. TB

6



Alumni Profile - Josh ImbodenStudent: Taylor University College, 2007-2009 (Religion and Theology)

Hometown: Sacramento, CA

Current Hometown: Canton, MI

Josh Imboden (09), July 4, 2015, Sacramento, CA.

7Come and learn with us!


ABOVE: Dr. Johnson Nseimboh (08) tours the campus of Cameroon Baptist Theological Seminary (CBTS) with members of the visiting NAB

team, including Dr. David Williams (centre left). CBTS, located in Ndu, Cameroon, has a

student body of over 300.

Greg Henson of Sioux Falls Seminary (left) and

Partnership with Cameroon RenewedTaylor President reports on a landmark trip as part of NAB Delegationby Dr. David Williams

he work of theological education in Cameroon institution. Johnson graduated from Taylor in 2008 Tand in North America stands to be significantly with his MDiv, and spent time working on his DMin strengthened through a renewed partnership that at Sioux Falls Seminary before returning to his family

has been taking shape in 2015. Taylor Seminary, and his calling in Cameroon. After some unexpected

Sioux Falls Seminary and Cameroon Baptist developments at CBTS, Johnson found himself

Theological Seminary (CBTS) have been involved in invited to take over the reins of leadership. In that

partnership discussions with the North American regard, his journey and my own have much in

Baptist Conference and the Cameroon Baptist common.

Convention. These organizations already have much A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY AT THE RIGHT TIMEin common, including a shared history and many

A partnership agreement between Taylor and CBTS, personal relationships, but some new possibilities

signed almost a decade ago, was dormant in recent have the potential to build on this foundation in

years. As Taylor went through a process of renewal, significant new ways.

it became clear that God was leading us to reassess I was privileged to spend time on the CBTS campus and strengthen that agreement. It was quickly earlier this year, and especially honored to spend apparent that there was an opportunity to expand time with Taylor alumnus Johnson Nsiemboh shortly our original vision to something even more after his appointment to the presidency of that

TB

8substantial and comprehensive. The

new possibilities include the work of the

broader Cameroon Baptist Convention

and the North American Baptist

Conference, as well as our sister

seminary in South Dakota, Sioux Falls

Seminary.

Working together our intent is to

deepen and broaden the scope of

theological education across the CBC.

This will certainly include strengthening

the work of the CBCs two seminaries

(CBTS Ndu and Cameroon Baptist

Seminary Kumba) in important ways,

such as upgrading of the credentials of

some of the current faculty, exploring

together best practices regarding

curriculum development and

pedagogical issues, and providing an

increase in faculty capacity for the

current curriculum needs. We are also

committed to increasing administrative

capacity as well as building a system for

continuing education and life-long

learning for lay people as well as those

already engaged in pastoral ministry

across the Cameroon Baptist

Convention.

But this project isn't just about

Cameroon and Gods work there. Taylor

and the other parts of the NAB family

will benefit greatly as we provide

opportunities for both faculty and

students to get firsthand experience in

teaching and learning in a context in

which we are a cultural minority. As

many of you know, international

experiences change you. We believe

that such experiences will have

dramatic impact on our own teaching,

curriculum development, and learning, partnership for the Kingdom.and they will help us better prepare our students for

We are blessed to have such a strong heritage of ministry in our own pluralistic and intercultural

international partnership. I was not only encouraged context.

but deeply impacted by what I learned of about that As announced at the NAB Triennial Conference in heritage in my recent trip. I am confident that God is Sacramento in July 2015, a joint capital campaign in going to continue to bless that faithful historic work support of this initiative (and others) is being in ways that we can now only imagine. launched by the NAB Conference called NAB on

MISSION. We have an important part in this project Dr. David Williams has been the President of Taylor since 2008.

He also serves as Professor of Theology and Ethics.so watch for further details to be announced in the

months ahead. We believe that much good will

come through the work that is done together in

TB

TOP: Dr. Johnson Nseimboh (08) with a 75th Anniversary touque a special

reminder of the snowy winters he spent in Edmonton. Johnson recently became

President of Cameroon Baptist Theological Seminary.

BOTTOM: Johnson (centre) stands with members of the visiting NAB team,

including David Williams (left), Greg Henson of Sioux Falls Seminary (centre left),

Dan Hamil (centre right), and Norm Poehlke (82) (right).

TB

9



Taylor Students Follow an Ancient PathInternational study includes the biblical practice of pilgrimageby Dr. Allan Effa

joined me for a portion of the ancient Dpilgrim Way of St. James in northern

Spain. Three cycled and six walked the 310

km. from Len to Santiago de Compostela,

arriving in time for the pilgrim mass on

Pentecost Sunday where they joined

Christians from all corners of the globe in a

multi-lingual service of celebration. This was

the experiential learning component of a

course on Experiencing Pilgrimage as a

Spiritual Practice.

Each day involved 18 26 km of travel with

ample time to drink in the beautiful scenery

of Galicia and to walk humbly with our

God. Students were encouraged to engage

other pilgrims in spiritual conversations

along the way. Many fruitful talks and acts of

service opened up hearts and deepened eating, drinking, visiting and sleeping. It was like all

relationships with pilgrims that they shared meals the clutter of our over-programmed lives got

and rooms with on the journey. Allan reports that it washed away and we could be fully present to God

was an enriching way to learn together and reflect and to others. The team discovered that the

theologically as a class, while we walked, ate experience of pilgrimage is more about the journey

together, and pondered deep questions before than the actual destination. TB

drifting to sleep in our bunk beds at night. Each new Dr. Allan Effa is the Ray and Edith DeNeui Professor of

day presented us with the simple agenda of walking, Intercultural Studies at Taylor Seminary.

uring the month of May, eight students

Dr. Allan Effa (79) (top left) with his students in front of the Santiago

Cathedral in Spain at the end of their pilgrimmage (clockwise): Val Krinke,

Roger Lindenbach, Verlyn Wilson, Anne

Bellamy, Karen Effa.

Vivienne Garbutt and Greg Garbutt,

Cathy Becker and

Great is Thy Faithfulness seen by thousands

A virtual choir of alumni from around the world praises together

Over a period of several months, Taylor alumni from a number of countries on

three continents participated in a virtual choir project. Singing to a common

background recording, these alumni were recorded singing the theme song of

Taylors 75th Anniversary year, Great is Thy Faithfulness.

Dr. Willy Muller, who graduated in 1946, and alumni from almost every

decade since (with the exception of the 1960s, as it turned out) took part,

along with current student Clarijane Belliones. Alfred Yau (91) from Australia

and Laura Russell (14) from Argentina sent in video recordings via FTP, and a

recording from Africa came home with Taylor President Dr. David Williams

following his trip to Cameroon in early 2015. Joel Tolhurst (04) of Rosewood

Pictures and Taylors Tim Willson then blended these bits of video together.

The video debuted at the NAB Triennial Conference in California in July, and

has already been seen by thousands online. To get a copy on DVD, send your

request to [email protected]. You can view it on Taylors YouTube channel

(www.YouTube.com/AllThingsTaylor) or by using this link:

https://youtu.be/gGhLNxLg-Q8

GREATIS THY

Faithfulness

13.

10.

9.

10in pictures | Grad 2015

13.

2.

12.

8.7.

3. 6.5.4.

1.

1. Emma Tjongarero (MAICS) gives Taylor President Dr. David Williams a high five as the Class of 2015 leaves the sanctuary

following the Commencement Service. Emma planted a church among Namibian immigrants while studying at Taylor. | 2. Tim

Foster (MDiv) looks on as his daughter (foreground) dances at the close of the 2015 Grad Banquet. He was active in pastoral

ministry in BC and Saskatchewan during his student years. | 3. Matt Garvin (MTS) shares a hug with Dr. David Williams; the two

have worked together often as part of their work with Fusion. | 4. Academic Dean Dr. Ralph Korner (82) and Prof. Len Thompson

ham it up. | 5. After graduating with two degrees, Amica Beulshausen (MDiv and MAICS-TESOL) shares a hug with her dad, Pastor

Hans-Juergen Beulshausen. | 6. Moses Choi (MAICS) is hooded by the Chair of the Board of Trustees, Bob Teskey, just before

crossing the stage as Rick Heavenor looks on. Following graduation, Moses began serving aboriginal youth in downtown

Edmonton. | 7. Linda Poelzer (MDiv) and Megan Jackins (MDiv) offered a tribute to the faculty during the Grad Banquet. | 8.

Kathy Brown (MDiv) and Rachel de Waal (MDiv) with Dr. Allan Effa (79), Professor of Intercultural Studies. | 9. Bruce Walker

(MDiv) receives his degree and stands as his tassel is turned by Dr. Williams. | 10. Jon Pettinger (MDiv), who is a pastor in Melville,

SK, delivers the Valedictory Address. | 11. Dave Fero (MTS) brought his bluegrass band to the grad banquet to provide the musical

entertainment. | 12. Noel Dwarika (MTS) has been in pastoral

ministry for 15 years. 13. Junior Figueiredo (MDiv), stands

with his wife Jenise and other members of his family. Junior

serves as Pastor of Media and Creative Arts at Gateway

Alliance Church in Edmonton.

11.

11



2015 Scholarships and Academic Awards

Faculty Scholarship: Keith Boschman

This scholarship is awarded to the full-time degree student who achieves the

highest grade point average during the current academic year.

The Taylor Alumni Association Scholarship: Mark Dixon

This award acknowledges a student who has performed at an exceptional

academic level, whose behaviour and conduct are exemplary, and who is

seeking placement in full-time vocational ministry.

Doris and Gerald Borchert Scholarship in New Testament Studies:

Val Martens

This scholarship is awarded to a second-year student who

distinguishes her/himself in New Testament Studies.

Dewey Intercultural Studies Award: Duane Sims

Former Taylor President Marvin Dewey and his late wife Becky established this

scholarship to be awarded to the student who demonstrates competence in

and concern for intercultural ministry.

Sonnenberg Leadership Scholarship: (Four Recipients)

Amica Beulshausen, Alexander Frimpong, Matt Garvin, Emma Tjongarero

This scholarship, established by the late Dr. Joseph Sonnenberg (former

president), is awarded to a second-year student(s), to recognize outstanding

leadership ability.

William Sturhahn Preaching Award: Jon Pettinger

Made possible by the family of Dr. William Sturhahn, this scholarship is for a

graduating student who demonstrates special proficiency in preaching.

Dan Leverette Memorial Scholarship: Rachel de Waal

This scholarship is given to a Master of Divinity student committed to the

practice of youth ministry and who is preparing for full-time vocational

ministry with youth.

Canadian Bible Society Award for Public Reading of Scripture: Megan Jackins

Each year the Canadian Bible Society awards a Bible to a graduating student

who has demonstrated excellence in the public reading of Scripture.

We are deeply grateful for the friends of the seminary who have made these

scholarships and awards possible; thank you for your generosity.

Master of Divinity

14. Rachel de Waal (MDiv), who flew in from New York for the ceremony, kicks

off her high heels and runs to the platform after being announced as the winner

of a year-end scholarship (see list below). | 15. Vic Lehman ('81) is recognized

during the Taylor Seminary Graduation Ceremony. He was one of the two first

graduates from Taylor's new MDiv program in 1981, along with classmate Tim

Schroeder. This was the 35th Graduation Ceremony of Taylor Seminary (including

EBS and NABDS). | 16. Duane Sims (MAICS) and Emma Tjongarero (MAICS), with

a friend from their church. | 17. Linda Poelzer (MDiv), who heads up a

motorcycle ministry, left on a cross-Canada bike trip shortly after graduating. |

18. Phillip Whatman (MDiv) is hooded by Bob Teskey, Chair of the Taylor Board.

Phillip comes from an Anabaptist tradition, and loved the diversity he found at

15.

16.

17.

18.

14.

12in pictures | Spring 2015

6.

5.

3.

4.

2.

PHOTOS: 1. Dr. David Williams shares details about some

of the recent developments at Taylor during the NAB

Triennial Conference in Sacramento, CA in July 2015. |

2, 3. A time of sharing around the campfire is the perfect

way to end Day Three of THRiVE 2015, a retreat for pastors

and spouses held . | 4. Plastic sheeting

and warning tape surround the work being done to remove

asbestos and replace the aged heating/AC systems at Benke

Hall on the Taylor campus. 5. Marita Goltz admires

pottery created by Edith Sinnema of Edmonton. This bowl

was given to Marita by the Board of Trustees as she

completed her service on the Board. | 6. Dr. Joyce Bellous

shares a laugh with Emma Tjongarero (15) at the 2015

Sydneys, the annual faux award show that the Taylor

Seminary Students Association stages every spring.

at Camp Caroline

|

1.





working part time for two non-profit organizations

over the computer. I am married, and live in North

Branch, MN.

In SympathyFaculty and Staff NewsBarbara Sonnenberg (nee Dr. Muller RetirementHerrmann), who was a student

in the first year of this Dr. Willy Muller (46), who turned 90 in early July,

institution's existence in 1940, is about to retire. A long-serving faculty member,

passed away on June 12, 2015. Dr. Muller has been associated with Taylor for most

Born in 1921, she became a of our 75 year history; he arrived as a teenager

student in the fall of 1940. Her from Saskatchewan in 1942. Dr. Muller has been

family includes numerous alumni of Taylor. We also serving as our interim Director of Field Education;

mourn (and celebrate) with the families of these his final day is August 28th, and a retirement

other alumni: celebration will take place in September.

(Contact us for details if interested.)Elizabeth Wolff (nee Gerhardt, '58) passed away

Dec. 4, 2014 at the age of 78. Liz attended Central New Board Members

Baptist Church in Edmonton.Taylor welcomed three new board members on

Ron Fierbach ('65) passed away in Kelowna, BC July 1st and we said goodbye to one retiring trustee

on Feb. 22, 2014.(Marita Goltz; see pg.12). The new trustees are:

Rev. Gerhard Poschwatta ('65) of Kelowna, BC Rev. Alan Powell ('80, NABC) ('84 and '89

passed away Dec. 6, 2014.NABDS), lead pastor of Trochu Baptist Church

Albert Gogel ('52) of Kelowna, BC passed away Chaplain Kathy Spate of Calgary

December 28, 2014.Lori Schmidt of Edmonton

Holy MatrimonyCampus News

Emma Tjongarero ('15) New Sidewalk to Conservatory of Music

and Seth Antwi of South Instructors and students at the Conservatory of Africa were married soon

Music at Taylor after Emma's graduation were rejoicing from Taylor in May.as a new

sidewalk was Births finally able to Nick Thiessen (12) and his wife Amy welcomed be added to their second daughter, Adaline Ingrid Ann, born on Muller Hall. June 24. The long-awaited concrete walkway links the

Peter Downing (13) and his wife Isabelle had their parking lot to the main entrance and will be well-

second son Gavin, born on June 4, 2015. A big used, as the Conservatory is filled to capacity.

brother for Keagan! Pete announced the birth on

Re-Designed MTS Program a Big Hithis Facebook page: The eagle has landed.

Enrolment in the re-designed MTS program jumped Welcome to the world Gavin Leo Downing!!! We

sharply after the new flexible program design was love you. Thank you Jesus!

made public in late spring. The program focuses on Shannon Dimanis, who served as assistant to the

outcomes rather than on specific courses, giving president a few years ago, and her husband Jim

students the opportunity to tailor their studies have welcomed their first child. Evan Peter Dimanis

around their own personal research interests.was born April 10; the family lives in Ontario.

ERRATUMAlumni News

From Ms. Peggy Meisch ('66-'68):

The fact that I am typing this is the result of a

miracle! An aneurysm burst in my brain stem. After

5 weeks in a coma, in which I also suffered 5 strokes

and two severe staph infections, I am back home,

News and Notes

We invite you to share your news with us --

marriages, moves, babies, careers... we want to note

these important events! Please stay in touch by email:

[email protected]. Telephone: 780-431-5200

Alumni Updates

13



CTI | NABC | NABDS/ EBS | TAYLOR

2015:

a time

to celebrate

75th Anniversary Celebrations

Taylor is celebrating throughout 2015.

Founded in 1940 as the Christian Training

Institute, it became North American Baptist

College and later Taylor.

So far, our celebrations have included a

birthday party, a special Chapel service, a

rook tournament, a commemorative tree-

planting, the development of a devotional

book and the filming of a virtual choir.

The final event will be our 75th Anniversary

Banquet on October 24, 2015. We would

love to have you join us!

www.Taylor-Edu.ca/7575th Anniversary event details,

Join us and share your memories and comments!

articles, photos, and more.

Top Left: Dr. Jim Leverette speaking at Taylors 75th

Birthday Party, January 2, 2015. Top Right: Dr. Dick Paetzel

speaking at a commemorative chapel service. Middle Left:

Andrea Schroth at one of the less serious 75th Anniversary

events the Rook Tournament. Bottom Left: Meta Sudfeld

reacts to a play during the Rook Tournament. Middle Right:

Dr. Willy Muller (46) helps plant commemorative maple

tree during the Spring Board Meetings at Taylor.

14

UPCOMING EVENTSTaylor extends a warm welcome to all who can join us for some of our many upcoming

events especially on October 24th for our 75th Anniversary Banquet!

Canadian singer/songwriter Steve Bell and former Taylor

faculty member Dr. Benno Przybylski will be featured at the

upcoming onWORD Conference. This annual Bible conference

is intended to be a fresh encounter with Scripture with the

people, places, events and themes of the Bible.

LOCATION: Taylor College and Seminary, 11525 23 Avenue, in the old gymnasium

October 23-24, 2015 | onWORD Conference

LOCATION: West Meadows Baptist Church

REGISTER (after Aug. 15):

Join us for a night of celebration and remembrance, with Dr.

Benno Przybylski and others! This will be a great evening

together, with members of the Taylor community from all

eras: CTI, NABC, NABDS/EBS and Taylor.


DATES/LOCATIONS:

October 14 in Kelowna | October 15 in Richmond

October 30 in Winnipeg | November 1 in Swan River


Dr. Norman Wirzba, who grew up in Alberta, returns to his home

province from his teaching post at Duke University for a one-day

lecture series on Sabbath Rest.

The 2016 Wahl Lectures will be recorded and made available on our website at

www.Taylor-Edu.ca/AudioArchives

REGISTER (after Nov. 15):

An exceptional retreat for pastors and spouses life-giving, insightful, refreshing.

REGISTER (after Dec. 15):

www.Taylor-Edu.ca/Events





October 24, 2015 | 75th Anniversary Banquet

75th Anniversary Regional Gatherings (BC and Manitoba)

March 18, 2016 | E.P. Wahl Lectures

May 17-20, 2016 | THRiVE (Camp Caroline)

15



CTI | NABC | NABDS/ EBS | TAYLOR

Taylor alumni are invited to submit photographs, paintings and other visual art projects

for publication or display on campus. Learn more at www.Taylor-Edu.ca/creative

Woman Healed (2008), Barbara Februar

Acrylic and in on canvas

on permanent display at Taylor

11525 - 23 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB T6J 4T3

ABOUT THIS IMAGE

Woman Healed is one of seven paintings in a series called Healing and Resurrection by artist Barbara Februar now

on permanent display at Taylor. This image depicts the story of the woman with an uncontrollable hemorrhage

(Mark 5). In this scene, the woman stands in stained garments near her house as Jesus speaks healing words:

Go in peace and be freed from your suffering. This image also appears in the forthcoming Taylor devotional book

Strength for Today.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Barbara Februar has worked as a fashion illustrator, art director, textile designer, visual artist and art teacher for

more than thirty years but did not begin painting acrylics on canvas until 2002. Her work has appeared in many

publications and can be found in private and corporate collections in Europe and North America. Barbaras work

often engages themes of faith. Born in Hamburg, Germany, Barbara Februar now lives in Kelowna, BC.

the bridge spring 2015

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