One of the issues repeatedly raised by sources interviewed for this
series of articles is their contention that debate has been discouraged.
As one former faculty member argues, the perception seems to be that “to
ask questions is to question the will of God.”
Three people showed ChristianWeek numerous letters where they have raised issues about Master’s College and Seminary (MCS), but to which they believe they have not received
satisfactory responses. These letters were variously addressed to Evon Horton, president of the college; Rick Hilsden, chair of the board of governors; members of the board of governors; and William D. Morrow, general superintendent of the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC).
Cal Morgan, a 1958 EPBC graduate from Port Hope, Ontario, maintains his concerns were not taken seriously by the denomination.
?I want to be recognized as objecting to the process of what happened—that’s what upset me the most,? he says. Morgan is troubled that alumni were not consulted and no town hall meetings were held to hear various constituents’ views on dismantling the former Eastern Pentecostal Bible College (EPBC). ?The grassroots and laypeople had no voice,? he says.
Patrick McManus says he was motivated to ask for answers because of the loss of faculty. Between 1998 and 2003, at least 25 faculty and key staff members left the school, either due to resignations or dismissals. McManus graduated with highest honours from EPBC/MCS in 2002, was student council president and valedictorian.
He argues that students—whom he points out fund the school through tuition—were not involved in dialogue about the proposed changes.
?I don’t disagree with the need for change, but it could have been done much more democratically, and during a five or 10 year plan,? McManus says. ?This is not like a business corporation instituting change—we are a church. I believe many people have been unnecessarily hurt in the process, and I’m not aware of anyone seeking to make reparation of wrongs or mend any broken relationships.?
McManus is currently studying theology at Wycliffe College in Toronto, but is no longer planning to seek credentials with the PAOC.
Bonita Abrams, a mature student who took a leave of absence from her career to obtain a degree at MCS, graduated in April with highest honours. Abrams praises the faculty and the theological education she received at the college.
?But on the downside, it troubled me that whenever I asked questions of the leadership, I perceived a real sense of disapproval,? she says.
?My problem is with the process, the way people have been treated and the lack of communication,? she adds. ?People should be allowed to ask questions and disagree without fear of reprisal.?
In a lengthy open letter posted in January on PAOC Talk, an unofficial computer chat board of about 200 PAOC ministers nationwide, Abrams outlined her concerns and urged credential holders to ask questions.
In April, PAOC Talk was discontinued by its founder and moderator, Donald Rogers. At the Eastern Ontario district meeting held soon afterwards, a resolution was passed which expressed appreciation to Rogers for his wisdom in discontinuing the Internet discussion group.
The resolution states that although PAOC Talk started ?as a valid forum for Pentecostal pastors to exchange helpful and edifying information,? it had ?apparently departed from its initial purposes and functions.? The district conference added the admonition that ?credential holders wishing to initiate or subscribe to similar mail-lists be encouraged to consider the Scriptural admonitions to engage in conversation that is edifying and honourable.?
A new Internet discussion group called Pentecostal Pastors Canada was started shortly afterward by moderators Dale Sanger and Murray Lincoln.
Wendy Elaine Nelles is a writer and editor in Toronto.
