A Milestone for Tyndale University College & Seminary
The Campus Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony marked a milestone for Tyndale University College & Seminary in our new home. Tyndale welcomed The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, The Honourable David Zimmer, MPP for Willowdale and Mr. David Shiner, Councillor, Ward 24, to the ceremony. Tyndale was honoured to be joined by representatives from the Sisters of St. Joseph, CS&P Architects, Eastern Construction, and Morrison Hershfield as well as board members, students, faculty and staff. The ceremony was opened with a prayer by Reverend Dr. Harding Ng [MDiv 1989], Senior Pastor of the Toronto Christian Community Church.
The guests congratulated Tyndale on the official opening of its new campus on Bayview Avenue. The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell thanked Tyndale for preserving “one of the hidden architectural gems of our city.” She acknowledged the Sisters of St. Joseph who formerly called the beautiful building and property home and encouraged Tyndale students to look to the Sisters’ historic service in Toronto for inspiration. “No campus, no matter how beautiful, is complete without its students. Students will grow and stretch their intellect, they will make friendships that will sustain them throughout their careers and they will grow confident, as thinkers and leaders.” She spoke on Tyndale’s legacy, saying, “Tyndale has advanced our understanding of theology and faith, and I know you have sent thoughtful leaders into the world who have dedicated their lives to the service of others.”
The cutting of a ribbon signifies a fresh start. The red ribbon stretched across our entrance signified the building was ready to be presented to the world for the glory of God. The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell joined Dr. Gary V. Nelson, President of Tyndale, and Chancellor Dr. Stephanie Ling in officially cutting the ribbon. Three different scissors were used, symbolizing important aspects of the Tyndale community. To honour Tyndale’s history, The Lieutenant Governor cut the ribbon with the same scissors used to open the McNicol Library at Toronto Bible College in 1960. Chancellor Ling used everyday scissors to demonstrate how Tyndale alumni, students, faculty and staff are everyday people, who, are making a significant difference through the Tyndale experience. To represent God’s shaping of our lives, President Nelson cut the ribbon with garden shears.
“This is one of the most beautiful sacred spaces in the city,” said Dr. Nelson. “We’re thankful the Sisters of St. Joseph value a theology of architecture and space. They built this magnificent chapel and motherhouse which we now call Tyndale University College & Tyndale Seminary. God has brought us to this place for this time and the future with a great call and a great sense of mission.”
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