Migration, Secularism, and Public Space in a Changing Global City
Wednesday, May 6 to Tuesday, May 13
Montreal is one of North America’s most vibrant and complex urban centers, shaped by migration, cultural diversity, and Québec’s distinctive model of state secularism. This one‑week, in‑person intensive invites students to explore how Christianity is lived out as a diverse global faith within a city that functions as a living laboratory of religious change.
Through classroom sessions, guided field observations, site visits, and conversations with local leaders, students will encounter a wide range of Christian expressions—from historic congregations to immigrant‑founded churches and new mission initiatives. The course highlights how Christian communities navigate secular public policy, engage social challenges, inhabit public spaces, and contribute to Montreal’s evolving religious landscape.
Designed for ministry students and clergy seeking continuing education, the course equips participants with practical theological insight, contextual awareness, and intercultural competence for ministry in changing urban environments across North America.
Instructor: Dr. Glenn Smith is a leading Canadian educator in urban theology and mission. He serves as Director of the Master of Theological Studies (Practical Theology) program at The Presbyterian College, Montreal, and has taught for decades in institutions across Québec, Canada, and the Francophone world. Formerly Executive Director of Christian Direction, he has contributed extensively to urban ministry, theological education, and Protestant education in Québec and has authored major works on urban mission and Christianity in Quebec, including Christianity in the City of Montreal (Bloomsbury, 2025).
The Rev. Dr. Jesse Zink is Principal of Montreal Dio and canon theologian in the Anglican Diocese of Montreal. A scholar of world Christianity and Anglicanism, his research and writing focus on global Christian movements, mission, and ecclesiology. His books include Christianity and Catastrophe in South Sudan and Backpacking through the Anglican Communion: A Search for Unity.
FEES
Student Rate : $1000 (Non-MST students taking it for credit)
Regular: $ 600 (for auditors)
This course may be taken for 3 academic credits, with credit transferable to a student’s home institution.
It may also be taken on a continuing education basis.