2025 Convocation Ceremonies — May 13, 2025

Celebrating the distinguished class of 2025!

The Vancouver School of Theology is delighted to confirm that its 2025 Convocation Ceremonies will be conducted at Christ Church Cathedral, May 13, beginning at 7 pm.

This year’s Convocation Ceremonies will include over 30 graduates of VST’s degree, certificate, and diploma programs. In addition to the graduates, various student award recipients will also be announced and celebrated. The Convocation Address will be given by Rev. Dr. John Swinton, Professor in Practical Theology and Pastoral Care, and Chair in Divinity and Religious Studies at King’s College, University of Aberdeen.

Two Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degrees will be awarded—one to Mr. Philip Murray, Leader for Spiritual Health at Vancouver Coastal Health, and another to Mr. Bruce Curtis, Leader in human rights advocacy and restorative justice in the Comox Valley. The Rev. Amanda Ruston, winner of the President’s 2025 Thoughtful, Engaged, and Generous (TEG) Christian Leader Award will also be acknowledged.

The 2025 Vancouver School of Theology Convocation Ceremonies will be presided over by Chancellor Catherine Evans and VST President and Vice-Chancellor, Rev. Dr. Richard R. Topping. An update on the activities of the school and prospects for the future will be offered by the President. Students and faculty will conduct the service and there will be special music provided by VST’s Musician-in-Residence, Mr. Lonnie Delisle.

Christ Church Cathedral is located at 690 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC. Parking is available in the Park Place at 666 Burrard Street. Please see www.thecathedral.ca/programs/plan-your-visit for detailed parking information, including the discount code.

Convocation proceedings will also be live-streamed at vst.edu/convocation. In addition to the platform party, friends, and family of the graduates, the public is most welcome to attend and celebrate this year’s graduating class. A reception will follow immediately after the ceremonies.