What We Do

Welcome to the Ministry Forum, where faith, community, and leadership converge. We are a vibrant and inclusive online platform hosted by Knox College, University of Toronto, dedicated to serving current and aspiring Christian ministry leaders. Our community is as diverse as the ministries we represent, encompassing students, alumni, pastors, psychotherapists, chaplains, and those passionate about spreading the Good News in whatever ministry context they find themselves.

Our identity is rooted in the belief that ministry is not a solitary journey; it's a collective effort. We are a fellowship that values authenticity, fosters connections, and celebrates diversity. Here, you'll find a safe space to explore, share, and grow in your faith, leadership, and ministry.

Our inspiration comes from Scripture

Fear not, I will not

leave you alone.

Who We Are

At Ministry Forum, our mission is to empower ministry leaders to thrive. We do this by curating valuable resources, facilitating thought-provoking discussions, and offering spaces to gather both online and in person. Through recommended reading, podcasts, the curation of lifelong learning opportunities, and much more, we hope to provide our community with a wealth of insights to enhance their ministry.

We also believe in the power of personal connection. Our Director, John, would welcome the opportunity to talk with you about your ministry context. With 25 years of ministry experience himself, he strives to be a good listener, a trusted advisor, and someone who values maintaining confidentiality. We also believe that Ministry Forum will thrive in the community that surrounds it - to that end, we need your suggestions, ideas, and expertise to shape our content and priorities.

Our Vision

Our vision is simple yet profound: to ensure no ministry leader feels alone in their journey. Inspired by the words, "Fear not, I will not leave you alone," we are here for you, every step of the way. We envision a vibrant community where ministry leaders think deeply, live authentically, and lead courageously, guided by a shared commitment to spreading the Good News.

About Knox College

Knox College is a Christian theological school in the Reformed Protestant tradition which offers academic degree programs at the post-baccalaureate level. A seminary of The Presbyterian Church in Canada, Knox is a federated College of the University of Toronto, and a founding member of the Toronto School of Theology.

About the Director,
John Borthwick

John Borthwick leads Ministry Forum as the Director of the Centre for Lifelong Learning at Knox College. John knows intimately the ups and downs of congregational ministry. Having served in congregational ministry for 25 years, John has lived it and, as he would say at times, just survived and often thrived in this unique and challenging role. He is passionate about supporting ministry leaders as they answer the call to serve. During COVID-19, John responded to the needs he witnessed among his colleagues and friends by creating The Abbey, a virtual space for community and learning. He intends to translate his recent experience on a much larger scale as he stewards Ministry Forum. John looks forward to being available to ministry leaders - reach out to him today!

About Our Interns

Rachel Kennedy-Proctor | Ba., BEd, Master of Divinity Student

My name is Rachel Kennedy-Proctor, and I am heading into my third and final year as an MDiv student at Knox College. I am eager to search for a call in the coming year for congregational ministry and am looking forward to the year ahead with Ministry Forum! I have a background in Teacher Education and spent a short time teaching grades 4-10 core French but found that I couldn't ignore God's call any longer (the guy is quite persistent!) I have spent many years (almost all of them) involved in ministry at my home church and in the community. I have a passion for Children and Youth and creating spaces where they feel valued, supported, and loved to be themselves. The future of the Church is changing as we navigate this new world, and I am honoured and privileged that God has called me at such a time as this. Looking forward to being part of the Ministry Forum Community!

Sara Traficante | B.Mus. M.Mus., Master of Psychospiritual Studies Student

Sara Traficante is thrilled to be a student in the MPS program at Knox College, nurturing her interests in spiritually integrated psychotherapy, spiritual care, and theology. Sara has 20-years- experience in the classical music industry, performing and teaching across Canada as a flutist. Her devotion to Christian service has been fostered for the past 12 years at Central Presbyterian Church (Hamilton), in children and youth programs, adult discipleship, music and choir, and with a special focus in social justice ministry.

Read articles from Presbyterian Connection and Vocations featuring Ministry Forum and Director, John Borthwick.

Find All Articles Here

In the Press

From Our Community

"The Ministry Forum has been a welcome dialogue partner and space for resources. I have found the weekly emails helpful in keeping new and interesting topics with a Canadian Presbyterian focus on my radar. It has highlighted a number of resources and opportunities for engagement that were previously unknown to me. For example, I have been exploring transitional/interim ministry training and was keen to see the weekly Ministry Forum email highlight an opportunity for training in this area that I was not familiar with. In a season of ministry that continues to feel lonely and isolating, it is helpful to have a space for engagement and Rev. John as a dialogue partner. I am grateful for this new endeavour and look forward to additional learning and support opportunities.”
“I want to begin the year by affirming what a positive addition MF has been to us in ministry. I have found the program's direction and attitude of (joyous) openness to new ideas stimulates creativity, the sense of concern for our well-being is welcome, and the possibilities for continued learning is exciting. Weekly info bursts would probably be sufficient for most of us in ministry to take time (make time) to read the posts and thoughtfully respond. More often than that tends to make me less likely to read and just pass over, if I am hard pressed, and when are most of us not hard-pressed? If the content is fresh and focused, we'll read it I believe.”
"Thank you for a wonderful beginning with Ministry Forum and the Centre for Lifelong Learning at Knox College. It is great to have a connection with Knox that is focused full time on ministry. It is very helpful to have someone/somewhere to ask questions and receive answers whose actual role is to do that and at the same time who has the connections necessary to find out what one wants to know. I have enjoyed advance notice of what is happening at Knox and elsewhere in Canada etc regarding topics of interest to ministers. Thank you. Continued information on what is happening at Knox and elsewhere especially regarding opportunities for practical learning much appreciated. Looking forward to 2024 with Ministry Forum and the Centre."
"I have appreciated the exploratory and collaborative approach you've taken during these inaugural months. I'm assuming that you have been testing the waters and learning the best ways of matching the passions and resources of the college to the needs of those you seek to serve."
"The work that John is doing at building relationships between Knox College and the Church is both unique for theological colleges and invaluable. As a skilled listener, it is obvious that John is in dialogue with Church leaders and seeking to respond to the expressed interests and needs of the Church by providing the content and resources that people are actually asking for. His spirit of openness and hospitality lays the foundation for everything else. He says often that we are not alone - both his engagement and that of the Principal makes one feel that the College is in the mix with us."
"I am glad to know that the Ministry Forum is working on resources for lay leaders who feel called to lead worship. I was sure nervous the first time I did that, but now I welcome the challenge and the wonderful learning that comes with researching and writing a sermon. I endorse and encourage this timely and important work, and will certainly share it with others"
"I am appreciating the information you are sending and I'm excited to see how the next phase unfolds."
"I just got around to digesting this email now and I wanted to say “thank you.” As I work my way back from burn out, I’ve been finding sermon writing the hardest piece (at times). I took a quick look at the Zateo website and felt, hopeful. I’d never heard of them but they look like a really useful resource. I’m really appreciative once again of what ministry forum is doing for us as clergy. Not sure how much feedback you’re getting, but please know it’s making a difference."
“Thank you for all these resources. Again, thank you for your support and leading the church forward. I am sure I will reach out to you again for help or ideas.”
"It was my great pleasure and joy to meet you at General Assembly. Although we did not share much of our life stories, just knowing that you are real and who you are was great. :) And I am very grateful for what you are doing. Just wanted to express my gratitude. Thank you so much and I will try to see you more on Ministry Forum meetings."
"Again, many thanks. Glad to have a mentor I can reach out to!"
"Just knowing you're there is a support, my brother!"
"You’re doing a good job John. I like your many opportunities for learning that go beyond the traditional PCC."
"Wow John!!! so much more than I could have imagined. Thank you, thank you!"
"Great issue, John. So much good and useful stuff here."
"You are clearly working very hard to help church leaders thrive and I commend Knox College for this important ministry."
"This was a pleasure to read, John. Thank you for the encouragement and resources"
"Thanks for raising an important issue."
"Thank you for all you're doing! Just knowing you're there is a support, my brother!"
"You are posting great stuff! Keep it up"
"…you deserve a standing ovation for this e-mail!"
"John- btw the ministry forum site is fantastic! It is the Amazon of the continuing education world. Well done!"
"Just a note of thanks for your time the other week with our Presbytery. Your tone saved the day and was welcome information for several who were not yet aware of your work. Blessings as you continue this important ministry to assist preachers and lay leadership."
"John Borthwick, Director of Ministry Forum, leads with empathy and wisdom. He's not just knowledgeable; he's approachable and sincerely invested in the growth of those around him. John's approach to guiding pastors, lay leaders, and church staff is genuine, he excels in nurturing a sense of fulfillment and joy for ministry, always conscious of a leader's mental and spiritual well-being. With 25 years of hands-on ministry experience, John knows the day-to-day grind of pastoral leadership and brings valuable resources, support, and compassion to those serving congregations across Canada. John has a knack for creating connections across his community, leading to collaboration, support and friendships for those who come to him for advice. Rather than propping himself up, John is quick to connect with others and elevate someone else's skill set for mutual success. There's a humility in John's leadership style that resonates deeply. He leads with competency and takes his commitments seriously while always willing to lend a hand, teach, and give grace to those he works alongside. This has made him a trusted mentor and source of constant support for his team members. Under his leadership, Ministry Forum is growing as a dynamic and inclusive online platform, serving a diverse Christian community. John's ability to offer practical resources, support, and a compassionate ear makes him an integral part of Ministry Forum's success. Under John's leadership, growth is not just about managing a platform; it's about nurturing a thriving community that makes a real difference in the lives of those it serves."
“Thanks for the good work and the support you offer. I’ve passed on resources to folks in my congregation, and appreciate your highlighting things that are available!”
“I wanted to let you know how much I enjoy reading your weekly emails, which are always filled with useful information and written in such an inspiring way. Thank you for all that you do!”

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How to get started

Getting started with Ministry Forum is easy. Begin by exploring our website, subscribing to our weekly email, following us on Facebook and Instagram, and discovering the rich array of resources available. Whether you're a student, pastor, lay leader, counsellor, or someone curious about Christian ministry, you'll find valuable content to fuel your journey.

Join us in this exciting venture of growth, learning, and community-building, and together, let's THRIVE in our ministry and faith journeys.

What We Do

Our inspiration comes from Scripture

Fear not, I will not

leave you alone.

Who We Are

Our Vision

About Knox College

About the Director,
John Borthwick

About Our Interns

In the Press

"I have appreciated the exploratory and collaborative approach you've taken during these inaugural months. I'm assuming that you have been testing the waters and learning the best ways of matching the passions and resources of the college to the needs of those you seek to serve."

"I am appreciating the information you are sending and I'm excited to see how the next phase unfolds."

“Thank you for all these resources. Again, thank you for your support and leading the church forward. I am sure I will reach out to you again for help or ideas.”

"Again, many thanks. Glad to have a mentor I can reach out to!"

"Just knowing you're there is a support, my brother!"

"You’re doing a good job John. I like your many opportunities for learning that go beyond the traditional PCC."

"Wow John!!! so much more than I could have imagined. Thank you, thank you!"

"Great issue, John. So much good and useful stuff here."

"You are clearly working very hard to help church leaders thrive and I commend Knox College for this important ministry."

"This was a pleasure to read, John. Thank you for the encouragement and resources"

"Thanks for raising an important issue."

"Thank you for all you're doing! Just knowing you're there is a support, my brother!"

"You are posting great stuff! Keep it up"

"…you deserve a standing ovation for this e-mail!"

"John- btw the ministry forum site is fantastic! It is the Amazon of the continuing education world. Well done!"

"Just a note of thanks for your time the other week with our Presbytery. Your tone saved the day and was welcome information for several who were not yet aware of your work. Blessings as you continue this important ministry to assist preachers and lay leadership."

“Thanks for the good work and the support you offer. I’ve passed on resources to folks in my congregation, and appreciate your highlighting things that are available!”

“I wanted to let you know how much I enjoy reading your weekly emails, which are always filled with useful information and written in such an inspiring way. Thank you for all that you do!”

How to get started

Search Ministry Forum

You are Not Alone

Contact John

Supported by Knox College

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Content Disclaimer

What We Do

Our inspiration comes from Scripture

Fear not, I will not

leave you alone.

Who We Are

Our Vision

About Knox College

About the Director,John Borthwick

About Our Interns

In the Press

How to get started

Search Ministry Forum

You are Not Alone

Contact John

Supported by Knox College

About

Menu

Content Disclaimer

About the Director,
John Borthwick