Ministry Forum Podcast

S2E12: Inter-Mission Experiences Panel Discussion

Rev. John Borthwick is joined by ministry leaders Gale Macdonald, Meg Patterson, Matthew Brough, and Matthew Sams to discuss their personal experiences with the Presbyterian Church in Canada’s Intermission policy—a 10-week paid leave available every five years for rest and renewal.
Each guest shares how they discovered the policy, what motivated them to take it, how they prepared, and what they experienced during their time away. They reflect on challenges such as feeling guilty, setting boundaries with their congregations, and overcoming the initial difficulty of truly resting. Despite diverse ministry contexts, all found the intermission deeply rejuvenating and ultimately beneficial not just for themselves, but also for their congregations.

S2E11:Interview with 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.

S2E10 Interview with Canadian Council of Churches President, and Former PCC moderator The Rev. Amanda Currie

In this episode of the Ministry Forum Podcast, Rev. John Borthwick sits down with Rev. Amanda Currie, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Canada and current President of the Canadian Council of Churches. They explore the significance of ecumenism, the role of the CCC in fostering unity among diverse Christian traditions, and how churches can work together despite theological and historical differences. Amanda shares her personal journey of living out ecumenism daily, reflections on church unity, and insights into what the future of the Christian church might look like. Whether you're passionate about interchurch collaboration or just curious about how denominations navigate their differences, this episode offers a thoughtful and inspiring conversation.

S2E9: Interview with recently retired ministers (The Sumac Crew)

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.

S2E8: Interview with Theologian, Writer and Influencer, Brian Recker

In this episode of the Ministry Forum Podcast, guest host Rachel Kennedy-Proctor sits down with Brian Recker and Rev. John Borthwick to discuss faith, deconstruction, and what it means to follow Jesus outside of traditional evangelical spaces. Brian shares his journey from being a pastor to rethinking his beliefs, navigating shifts in theology, and building a platform that fosters inclusive conversations about faith. Together, they explore the challenges of evolving spiritually, the future of the church, and the importance of authenticity in ministry. Whether you're questioning, reconstructing, or simply curious, this conversation offers thought-provoking insights and encouragement for your own faith journey.

S2E7: Interview with The Rev. Dr. P.A. (Sandy) McDonald

Rev. John Borthwick sits down with The Rev. Dr. P.A. Sandy MacDonald, a Knox College alumnus, former Moderator of the General Assembly of The Presbyterian Church in Canada, and a minister whose remarkable 56-year pastorate at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, exemplifies a life of steadfast faith and service.
Sandy reflects on his rural upbringing near Stratford, Ontario, his early passion for church music as an organist, and his theological journey through Knox College. He candidly shares how his career unfolded, beginning with an Ordained Missionary appointment that he never left—a rare, lifelong commitment to one congregation.

S2E6: Interview with ChatGPT on the PCC

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.

S2E5: 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.

S2E4: Re-”Casting” Dr. Brian Irwin’s Book, After Dispensationalism - Book Conversation and Convocation Book Launch

In this episode of the Ministry Forum Podcast, brings together highlights from a series of conversations with Dr. Irwin, including excerpts from his formal book launch and a lively discussion with Knox alumni, colleagues, and friends.
Dr. Irwin’s book takes a deep dive into dispensationalism, a theological framework that has shaped how many Christians interpret scripture and think about the end times. Whether you’re curious about dispensationalism, intrigued by the challenge of interpreting apocalyptic literature, or simply seeking encouragement in ministry, this episode is an engaging and thought-provoking listen.

Bonus Episode: Two Rivers Church Podcast - “Strays, Orphans, and Exiles Part 2

This is part two of John's conversation with Two Rivers Church, looking at how Ministry Forum is supporting church leaders, where the new leaders are coming from, and how the definition of what church is in the 21st century is changing.