This Learning Hub course will be located in Kelowna, BC. Accommodation, and some meals, will be provided through the Lilly Endowment Pathways Project support of this course. Travel subsidies will also be available. The usual VST course registration fee will apply. Auditors are welcome but are not eligible for the travel or accommodation subsidies. In …
View course details “Where Theology Meets the Soil: Experiential Learning in the Okanagan”

This course explores biblical views on and responses to material poverty. We will examine the nature and dimensions of economic inequality in the biblical world and how that reality is addressed by various parts of Scripture, from the Law and Prophets to the Gospels and Epistles. We also will explore the scope and causes of …
View course details “Bible and Poverty”

This course focuses on practical and theological foundations for engaging authentically and meaningfully with communities where life experiences, identities, and/or demographic characteristics reveal a social divide that can preclude others (and ourselves) from recognizing their full humanity.  Readings and other course content integrate literature from social science, practical theology, and personal narratives of experience.  The …
View course details “Pastoral Care with Marginalized Communities”

This 6-week online certificate introduces you to fundamental Asset-Based and Community-Led Development (ABCD) theories and principles. You will learn tools to support communities to organize themselves to discover, connect and mobilize their strengths for change. In addition, you will be able to reflect on the outside institutions’ role in supporting community development projects to avoid …
View course details “Asset-Based and Community-Led Development Principles”

Facilitator: Wellington Sousa This 6-week online certificate introduces you to fundamental Asset-Based and Community-Led Development (ABCD) theories and principles. You will learn tools to support communities to organize themselves to discover, connect and mobilize their strengths for change. In addition, you will be able to reflect on the outside institutions’ role in supporting community development …
View course details “Asset-Based and Community-Led Development Principles–Online”

xplore Howard Thurman’s life and contemplative witness and what it might mean for us in today’s challenging world. In the contemplation of the earth, I know I am surrounded by the love of God. — Howard Thurman Centered on Thurman’s writing in Jesus and the Disinherited, this is a special opportunity to experience Thurman’s enduring …
View course details “HOWARD THURMAN: The Writing of Jesus and the Disinherited; a Retreat Day led by Lerita Coleman Brown”

Cultivate a rural ministry of hope and discipleship. What you’ll learn If you live and serve in a rural community, you know that your challenges are different from those in urban or suburban contexts. And all too often, ministry resources that have been created for for urban and suburban churches just don’t make sense in …
View course details “Rediscovering Hope: Encouragement for Rural Ministry”

Are you a church leader interested in engaging your congregation in actions to address poverty? Join Shaun Groves and Compassion Canada in this two-day workshop to build knowledge and skill to lead conversations and initiatives about poverty in your community. Based on the book Eyes to See by Compassion Canada. This workshop will be offered …
View course details “Eyes to See: Engaging Faith Communities in Poverty Dialogue and Action”