New Keynote Speaker for Chancellor’s Dinner
Due to an emerging priority representing the Haisla Nation Chief Councilor Crystal Smith, the original speaker for VST’s annual Chancellor’s Dinner will not be available this year.
VST is honoured to confirm that The Rev. Dr. Raymond Aldred will be this year’s keynote speaker at the 2019 Chancellor’s Dinner.
Dr. Aldred is the director of the Indigenous Studies Program at the Vancouver School of Theology whose mission is to partner with the Indigenous Church around theological education.
Ray is also the leader of The Teaching House That Moves Around (THTMA), an internationally recognized initiative that addresses the need for truth, reconciliation and healing among indigenous peoples, and to foster greater understanding for all societies. The THTMA involves intensive on-site with indigenous communities across North America, from Hawaii to the Pacific Northwest in the USA, and across Canada’s provinces and territories. Launching of the THTMA initiative came as a result of a $400,000 grant secured by Dr. Aldred and VST from the Henry Luce Foundation, a leading funding source for innovative approaches to theological education.
An integral component of the Indigenous Studies Program at VST is the commitment to help develop indigenous clergy and leaders, for indigenous communities, and done primarily by indigenous theological experts. Each year under Dr. Aldred’s leadership, VST hosts the Indigenous Summer School, drawing faculty and participants for intensive dialogue and training on prevailing issues, and leading towards formal academic accreditation, as well as providing insightful professional and continuing education.
Dr. Aldred will speak on the findings arising from these initiatives, and the way forward with theological education as a bridge to community development and healthier nations.