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As a young student in South Korea, YoungJae Lee was unsure where her journey in faith would lead her.

Having graduated from the Bachelor of Theology program at SungKongHoe University, she now finds herself in her first year of the Master of Divinity program at the Montreal Diocesan Theological College, ready to embrace a new chapter in her life.

Raised in a vibrant Anglican community, YoungJae spent four years serving her community, where her passion for ministry blossomed. However, her quest for understanding didn’t stop there. Drawn by a calling to explore the rich diversity of the global church, she ventured to Japan and the United States for further studies and internships. It was in Winnipeg that she discovered her vocation to serve within a church community that reflects the living body of Christ, unified through its beautiful diversity.

“While I’ve thought about my vocation since I was young, it took me time to find where God is leading me, and this question will continue with my life,” YoungJae reflects. “I found that I feel the greatest joy in welcoming people and seeing them unite in the church—people from different backgrounds but sharing one bread and one cup. During my studies, I found that it is my calling and desire to care for and serve the people and the community gathered in the name of Christ.

Her decision to come to Montreal was inspired by a conversation with her friend Juyoung, who is now in his second year at Dio. “He shared with me the transformative experiences he was having in the Master of Divinity program,” she recalls. “I learned that this program not only focuses on theological education but also emphasizes the importance of engaging with different denominational practices and histories.”

Despite my initial hesitations—concerns about my language skills and academic readiness—the supportive leadership of Dr. Alyson Huntly, the recently retired director of United Church Studies, along with Principal Reverend Jesse Zink, provided the reassurance I needed to take this leap of faith,” she says. “With the guidance of the kind faculty and staff, including Jero Meléndez and Joelle Patton, I felt welcomed into a community that genuinely cares for its members.

What truly stands out for YoungJae at the Montreal Diocesan Theological College is the strong sense of community. “The weekday community meals, especially on Wednesdays and Fridays, have been a source of joy for me,” she shares. “Sitting around the table with students from various traditions, sharing ideas and experiences, reminds me of the richness that diversity brings to our faith.”

As she navigates her first semester, YoungJae is excited to adjust to life in a new country, which is far from her own and characterised by different traditions, histories, and languages. She expresses hope for her future while deepening her understanding of ministry.

“I thank God for leading me to Montreal,” she states. “I am grateful for the generosity and support of this community, which has made my studies possible. While I’m still praying about what my future will look like, I hope to contribute to a Canadian church ministry after graduation.”