Dr. John H. Wilkinson Installed as Tyndale University College & Seminary’s 8th Chancellor
Dr. Wilkinson was installed as Tyndale’s 8th Chancellor during the 2015 Fall Graduation ceremony. He follows Dr. Stephanie Ling, who served faithfully as Chancellor since 2012. Dr. Wilkinson is no stranger to Tyndale, having served in various positions, including faculty and dean, during his 25-year tenure.
“[Dr. Wilkinson] and his wife Trish bring a love for this place and a deep commitment to Christian higher education,” said Dr. Gary Nelson, President of Tyndale University College & Seminary, as he introduced the new Chancellor. “He is known by many as the ‘godfather of youth ministry’. You only have to mention his name to youth pastors and they smile knowing that at some point his message, his teaching, his encouragement and the people that he influenced have touched them in some way.”
Dr. Wilkinson currently serves as the Executive Coach and Strategist of Youth Unlimited as well as for the Eastern Region of Youth for Christ Canada. He designed one of the first youth ministry degree programs in a graduate school of theology in North America. His work in children and youth camping is “legendary”, as Dr. Nelson puts it, in his role as the first General Director of two influential summer camps in Ontario: Muskoka Woods Sports Resort and Canadian Keswick Youth Camp.
“Through programs of empowerment and programs of engagement, youth have found a place, they have found possibilities and they have found a faith in Jesus Christ,” said Dr. Nelson.
After the litany and commitment of affirmation, Dr. Wilkinson delivered the Graduation Address: “An Amazing Tomorrow.” He encouraged the graduates and the Tyndale community by citing examples from his own journey and the story of Joshua to speak on themes such as patience, trusting God and thankfulness.
“God surprises us with the release of his power in the face of life’s challenges relating to health, relationships, economics or the culture of the day,” Dr. Wilkinson said. “Make a difference in the world by trusting God for an amazing tomorrow and by acting on what He would direct you to do.”
Listen to Dr. Wilkinson's full Graduation Address below.
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