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The latest news from LTS!
Reimagining Leadership in a Shrinking Church
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Exploring new vision and practical renewal through a workshop tour.
Across Canada, churches of every tradition are facing a changing reality: smaller congregations, fewer resources, and an urgent need for renewed imagination. In response, Rev. Dr. William H. Harrison, President of Lutheran Theological Seminary, Saskatoon, is offering a timely resource for reflection and renewal through his new book, Leadership in a Shrinking Church: Finding New Vision in Unlikely Places.
In this compelling work, Harrison explores one of the most urgent realities facing Christian communities today: the decline in church membership and institutional strength. Yet rather than treating this as a crisis to be fixed, he invites leaders to discern how God might be at work precisely within that shrinking space. What if the Church’s renewal lies not in expansion, but in faithfulness, focus, and transformation?
Rather than treating decline as a crisis, Harrison invites leaders to explore how God’s transforming work continues to unfold—often within smaller, humbler, and more faithful communities.
From lecture to workshop: engaging the real work of leadership
Following well-attended sessions in Saskatoon, Regina, and Winnipeg, Harrison’s next workshop will take place in Kelowna in December, with additional events planned in Alberta and British Columbia in 2026.
Each gathering is designed not as a lecture but as a guided workshop—a chance for clergy, lay leaders, and congregational members to engage with the book’s ideas in practical, context-specific ways. Participants are invited to reflect on their own ministries, identify their core mission, and explore how to focus on what truly matters in this season of change.
“Leadership in a shrinking church,” Harrison writes, “means learning to see God’s transformation in places we never expected—and to trust that smaller does not mean lesser.”
Shared purpose, shared vision
As president of one of the schools within the Saskatoon Theological Union, Harrison brings a deeply ecumenical perspective to the conversation. Drawing on years of experience in theology, ethics, and pastoral leadership, he offers both academic insight and practical tools for discernment.
His workshops are meant to help communities move from anxiety about growth to renewed clarity about calling—inviting all who attend to consider how their faith can remain vibrant, even in a changing landscape.
Join the conversation
If you are a member, lay leader, or pastor of a congregation seeking fresh perspective for ministry, consider joining one of President Harrison’s upcoming workshop evenings. Together, participants are discovering that decline need not mean despair, and that the gospel continues to inspire transformation in the most unlikely places.
Purchase the book:
https://www.amazon.ca/Leadership-Shrinking-Church-Finding-Unlikely/dp/1640657177
Saskatoon Theological Union Board Update
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Lutheran Theological Seminary and St. Andrew's College Announce a New Chapter in Shared Ministry and Theological Education
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Lutheran Theological Seminary and St. Andrew's College Announce a New Chapter in Shared Ministry and Theological Education
The Boards of St. Andrew's College (SAC) and Lutheran Theological Seminary (LTS) have affirmed their intention to move forward together into a new model of theological education and shared ministry.
This decision reflects years of collaboration, conversation, and discernment between the two institutions. As each school continues to be deeply rooted in their own denominational tradition, both share a longstanding commitment to theological education, leadership formation, academic excellence, and service to church and wider society.
The vision emerging from this work is grounded in the belief that theological education is strengthened when institutions work together in pursuit of a common mission. By building on existing relationships and shared ministries, LTS and SAC seek to create a vibrant and sustainable future for theological education across western and northern Canada.
“It gives me great joy to share that LTS is choosing to move into deeper union with our SAC partners,” said Rev. Dr. William H. Harrison, President of LTS. “The decision to grow into one is born of love between us and of belief that we have a common mission: serving God by fostering lay and ordained leadership in western and northern Canada, in our denominations and beyond.”
“It is with deep gratitude and conviction,” said Dea. Dr. Richard Manley-Tannis, Principal of St. Andrew’s College, “that I celebrate that the Board of Regents has decided to step into a new chapter of shared ministry and theological education with LTS. This decision is rooted in trust, discernment, and our longstanding partnership. This moment reflects our common calling to form leaders and serve the Church and world with courage, imagination, and hope for generations to come.”
In the months ahead, work will continue on refining governance structures, academic planning, and organizational arrangements. As this work progresses, both institutions remain committed to open communication with students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, church partners, and other stakeholders.
The College of Emmanuel & St. Chad continues its own discernment process and remains a partner within the Saskatoon Theological Union. We are grateful for our longstanding relationship and look forward to continued conversations in the weeks ahead.
Throughout this work, the focus remains unchanged: preparing leaders for ministry, supporting churches and communities, and strengthening theological education for generations to come.
Newest Issue of Consensus Available Online
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The most recent issue of Consensus: A Canadian Journal of Public Theology, which is co-produced by LTS and Martin Luther University College, is now available online:
https://scholars.wlu.ca/consensus/
The issue commemorates the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and engages Lutheran perspectives on the Nicene Creed.
The Rev. Dr. Kyle Schiefelbein-Guerrero, LTS Grace Professor of Leadership, serves as the journal co-editor and authored the issue’s Foreword. Both he and The Rev. Dr. Kayko Driedger Hesslein, LTS William Hordern Professor of Theology, contributed sermons for Holy Trinity Sunday, following the Trinitarian nature of the Creed.
The Summer 2026 issue will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the ordination of women in Canadian Lutheranism. If you are interested in writing an article, please contact Prof. Schiefelbein-Guerrero (
STU Employment Opportunity: Administration & Advancement Officer
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Are you a friendly, detail-oriented professional with a background in finance or donor relations? Do you enjoy the collaborative spirit of non-profit work? Are you looking for a flexible, values-based workplace where your contributions truly matter?
If so, we invite you to consider joining our team in Saskatoon.
Who We Are
The Saskatoon Theological Union (STU) is a unique partnership of three theological schools: Lutheran Theological Seminary Saskatoon, St. Andrew’s College (United Church of Canada), and the College of Emmanuel & St. Chad (Anglican Church of Canada). Together, we provide ecumenical theological education in the heart of the Canadian Prairies.
We share resources, collaborate on academic programs, and support a diverse community of students, staff, and faculty who are preparing for ministry, leadership, and service in the church and the world. Rooted in our Christian traditions, the STU values inclusion, innovation, and faithful engagement with the challenges of our time.
What You Will Do
In this dual-role position, the Administration and Advancement Officer (A&AO) will contribute to both the financial administration and donor stewardship efforts of the STU and its three member colleges. You will play a key role in ensuring data accuracy, supporting reporting processes, and fostering meaningful relationships with donors and alum.
What You Will Bring
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Experience with financial systems or donor management databases
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- A collaborative, adaptable mindset and the ability to work independently
- A commitment to confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information
Why Join Us?
- Make a meaningful impact in theological education and community life
- Access opportunities for learning and professional development
- Enjoy flexibility and work-life balance
- Join a welcoming team that values diversity, collaboration, and innovation
- Shape your workday with a high degree of autonomy and purpose
Required Application Documents
- A detailed résumé or curriculum vitae
- A cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience
- Copies of relevant degrees, certificates, and/or diplomas
Send Applications to:
Mrs. Kristi Baxter, CFO, Saskatoon Theological Union
Application Deadline: Monday, August 25th, 2025
We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide three references, including at least one former direct supervisor.
All applications will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Start date will be as soon as possible.
To view the full position description, please click here: