Global Christianity in Montreal
Montreal is one of North America’s most dynamic and complex urban centers, shaped by migration, cultural diversity, and Quebec’s unique model of state secularism. This one-week intensive in-person course invites students to explore how Christianity is lived out as a diverse global faith within a city that serves as a living laboratory of religious change.
Through classroom lectures, guided field observations, site visits, and interviews with local leaders, students will explore a wide range of Christian expressions—from historic congregations to churches founded by immigrants, as well as new missionary initiatives. The course highlights how Christian communities adapt to secular public policies, address social challenges, engage in the public sphere, and contribute to the evolving religious landscape of Montreal.
Designed for theology students and members of the clergy seeking continuing education, this course equips participants with the practical theological perspective, contextual awareness, and intercultural skills necessary to carry out their ministry in changing urban environments across North America.
Dr Glenn Smith
Glenn Smith is the director of the Master’s program in Theological Studies (Practical Theology) at the Presbyterian College and has been teaching for decades at various institutions in Quebec, Canada, and throughout the French-speaking world. Glenn is one of Canada’s leading educators in urban theology and mission. As the former executive director of Christian Direction, he has made significant contributions to urban ministry, theological education, and Protestant teaching in Quebec. He is the author of major works on urban mission and Christianity in Quebec, notably Christianity in the City of Montreal (Bloomsbury, 2025).
Dr Jesse Zink
Jesse Zink is the director of Montreal Dio and a canon-theologian in the Anglican Diocese of Montreal. A specialist in global Christianity and Anglicanism, his research and writings focus on global Christian movements, mission, and ecclesiology. His publications include Christianity and Catastrophe in South Sudan and Backpacking through the Anglican Communion: A Search for Unity.
For more information, please contact Dr. Glenn Smith at [email protected].