Minister Ian Wilgus

Dear Friends of Greenbank and Seagrave United Church, I am so honoured to be able to grow in ministry with you all. I recently graduated from Emmanuel College with my Masters of Divinity this May, and am excited to begin the next stage of my ministry journey with this congregation. In my studies I loved exploring alternative forms of worship, anti-racist and affirming preaching, Biblical interpretation, effective leadership and governance, and feminist and disability theology. I also served on the Spiritual Life Team in the 2021-2022 academic year, where we all had the chance to plan the weekly Christian and interfaith services for Emmanuel.

Previously, I had studied Political Science and History. I particularly enjoyed studying Canadian (specifically Indigenous) politics, and the way that History is commemorated. I also worked in the Government Relations and Advocacy department at March of Dimes Canada. The organization successfully advocated for a robust Accessible Canada Act while I worked there.

I strive to embody the teachings of Jesus the radical in my actions. It leads me to care for our planet, love my neighbours, and to advocate for social policies that affirm the dignity of all God’s beloved creation, and ensure that all humans can flourish. And it leads me to strive to live out love in the world. Jesus is a central pillar to the rest of my faith and will be central to my ministry. His ministry revealed God’s love. As my mentor said: “Jesus is the closest we have to the heartbeat of God."

I also love bad humour, and comedy shows (such as the Vicar of Dibly and Schitt's Creek), and I adore my Bedlington Terrier Sprout, who I hope you will get to meet. As the hymn “We are Pilgrims” says, I hope to be able to walk through this journey with these vibrant congregations. I sincerely hope that you will allow me to serve with you, and to hold the Christ light for one another in times of need. I am particularly excited to be able to support all of your social justice and affirming work, develop engaging worship with you all, and able to get to know, and develop connections with each and every one of you.

Sincerely,

Ian Wilgus