Alicia teaches an theological studies class
a student conducts from behind a pulpit during a devotional

Grebel Fund - Theological Studies

In the Master of Theological Studies program this year, students are finding that the person sitting in the neighbouring seat is a new Canadian.

Students born in such diverse places as Jamaica, Korea, China, Colombia, Ukraine, and Myanmar add their valuable perspectives to our class discussions. Students in their twenties, their forties, and their sixties study Old Testament together. Students of different genders, sexual orientations, and socio-economic status bring their perspectives to pastoral care. 

We also have a range of denominations represented, from Mennonite to Pentecostal, to Orthodox, Anglican, and Baptist. We are glad to be studying together in an academic neighbourhood that is rich in diversity!

- Carol Penner, Director of Theological Studies

$78,327 Awarded to 23 MTS students.
9 Students participated in supervised experiences in ministry.
7 Students presented major research projects.

"The MTS program has collectively shaped an inspiring community of faith and learning." - Christa Van Daele, MTS Student.

Support Theological Studies

Your support for theMaster of Theological Studies program will make it possible to:

  • Provide funds for Full-Time Scholarship awards
  • Fund mentorship and leadership training for students in the ministry option
  • Support networking opportunities for students
  • Bring in guest lecturers
  • Reach our departmental goal of $10,000

This year's goal is $380,000

Your donation helps fund scholarships, resources, and mentorship for the next generation of theological and community leaders.

Donate Online

Donate online using a Credit Card through the University of Waterloo Donation page.

  • Simply select the fund at Grebel you wish to support and fill in your details.
  • Your receipt for online donations will come from the University of Waterloo.

Questions?

To learn more about how your gift to Theological Studies will impact Grebel students, contact Chris Brnjas, Director of Development.
519-885-0220 x24381

MTS alumni are living out their vocations and making an impact in their community –

as pastors, lay ministers, chaplains, spiritual directors, doctors, executive directors, musicians, scholars, authors, and business owners.

Sarah Weber gives a speech from behind a pulpit
Monday, November 10, 2025

Practical Placements in Ministry Settings

Students in the Applied Studies stream of the Master of Theological Studies degree at Grebel find Supervised Experience in Ministry (SEM) courses to be highly rewarding aspects of the curriculum. With two required placements, students explore ministry in a practical setting. Under the guidance of a local supervisor, students set learning goals, develop a reading list, and write a summative paper.

Adrian Jacobs in TS 733
Wednesday, June 19, 2024

Indigenous Voices Essential to Theological Studies

Grebel's Master of Theological Studies program is careful to include indigenous perspectives in the curriculum. This is part of the College’s commitment to following Call to Action #60 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that addresses theological schools and “the need to respect Indigenous spirituality in its own right.” In particular, courses like TS 732 - “Theologies of the Global South,” and TS 733 - “Indigenous Theologies and Methods” explore Indigenous theologies with attention to experience, history, the nature of the spiritual, key figures, and important themes. MTS students who have taken these courses reflected on some of their key learnings.