World Class Christian Education Conference Gathers Over 45 Experts in Vancouver

The Promise of Christian Education: Past, Present, and Future gathered educators, leaders, and theologians worldwide to explore Christian education from its roots in Jesus’ ministry to today’s challenges like AI, reconciliation, and teaching in diverse classrooms. Hosted by the Centre for Christian Engagement, St. Mark’s College at UBC, the conference offered insights on teaching the Christian faith from elementary to university levels, highlighting its enduring importance in a changing world and the Catholic Church’s long-standing leadership in education.

Three keynote sessions served as anchors for the event. 

Dr. Margaret MacDonald from Saint Mary’s University opened with an exploration of how early Christians passed on their faith through intergenerational, everyday experiences alongside formal education. Emphasizing family life, mentoring, and community practices, it called for a broader understanding of religious education rooted in daily living, tradition, and prayer.

Dr. Samuel D. Rocha from UBC continued with a challenge for attendees to reimagine Christian education not as withdrawal from the world, but as love for the world. Drawing from John’s Gospel, he urged educators to teach in a spirit of engagement, not fear.

Fr. Stan Chu Ilo (DePaul University) closed with a lecture that emphasized how Catholic education can cultivate a transformative praxis of hope, grounded in justice, healing, and social friendship. Drawing from stories across Canada, Uganda, Nigeria, and Kenya, he highlighted how Catholic education fosters inclusive spaces that promote new worldviews, solidarity, and human dignity.

The conference also featured a special panel of Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities in Canada (ACCUC) presidents discussing “The Future of Catholic Higher Education in Canada: Risks & Opportunities,” moderated by St. Mark’s & Corpus Christi College President Dr. Gerry Turcotte, with speakers Dr. Christine Schintgen (Our Lady Seat of Wisdom College), Dr. Peter Meehan (St. Jerome’s University), and Dr. Carl Still (St. Thomas More College). 

For more information on the conference, visit the CCE website (The Promise of Christian Education Conference 2025) or contact [email protected]