Commonwealth Conference

About The Event

The Commonwealth Conference is a one-day gathering devoted to the practical challenges and opportunities facing Christian ministry in Canada.

On Saturday, November 28, 2026, ministers, church officers, seminarians, educators, denominational representatives, and ministry leaders will gather at Learning Centre Ontario at Reformed Book Services in Brantford, Ontario for substantive discussion, shared learning, and practical cooperation.

This inaugural conference will focus on two areas that have significant implications for the long-term health of ministry in Canada:

• Pastoral Formation: Strengthening the path from theological education and preparation for ministry to faithful pastoral service.

• Pensions & Benefits: Considering how churches can better provide sustainable long-term support for ministers and their families.

Through moderated panel discussions, conversation with experienced leaders from across Canadian churches and institutions, and practical workshops, the conference will move beyond identifying problems toward considering what churches and institutions can accomplish together.

Who Should Attend?

The Commonwealth Conference is especially intended for those involved in preparing, calling, supporting, or serving alongside ministers in Canada, including:

• Pastors, elders, deacons, and other church officers

• Seminarians and men preparing for pastoral ministry

• Seminary professors, educators, and institutional leaders

• Denominational and ministry representatives

• Those involved in church administration, pensions, benefits, and ministerial support

• Interested laypeople concerned about the long-term strength of Canadian ministry

Whether you are already serving in ministry, preparing for it, or responsible for supporting those who do, the conference provides an opportunity to learn from others facing the same questions and to contribute to practical conversations about the future of ministry in Canada.

Conference Speakers & Participants

The conference brings together pastors, theologians, educators, administrators, and professionals with experience in theological education, pastoral formation, church leadership, pensions, benefits, and ministry support.

Participants include:

• Rev. Dr. David Van Brugge

• Rev. Dr. Brian Najapfour

• Rev. Dr. Reuben Bredenhof

• Ken Vander Molen

• Rev. Ben Westerveld

• Wade vanBostelen

• Corey Yedneroz

• Gwen Pifer

• Rev. Dr. Lyndon Jost

The day runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and includes panel discussions, a moderated roundtable, and focused workshops designed to identify practical opportunities for continued cooperation beyond the conference itself.

Hosted by Learning Centre Ontario and Reformed Book Services in collaboration with the Commonwealth Conference organizers.