The Toronto Mennonite Theological Centre (TMTC) has named Jonathan Seiling as the first recipient of the A. James Reimer Award. This annual award was established in recognition of Professor Reimer, Founding Director of TMTC, and his longstanding commitment to theological education at Conrad Grebel University College and the Toronto School of Theology (TST).
Seiling is currently pursuing a doctorate in theology (ThD), specializing in the area of modern church history. He is analyzing the influence of German idealist philosophy on Russian Orthodoxy in the 20th-Century, with a particular focus on the work of theologian Sergei Bulgakov. Prior to his arrival at TST in 2003, Seiling earned a Master of Theological Studies degree from Conrad Grebel University College. His undergraduate degree is an Honours BA in Religious Studies from the University of Waterloo, conferred in 1998.
Reimer himself is delighted that Seiling has won the Reimer Award. Reimer commented:
I've had him as a student for both undergraduate and graduate studies. Jonathan has a sharp intellect, is full of imaginative curiosity, has traveled widely, especially in Russia and has a deep commitment to the Mennonite Church along with his ecumenical interests.
This award was established in 2002 by a gift from Alan Armstrong (’94) and Marlys Neufeldt (’95), both alumni of Conrad Grebel, currently living in California. Alan, who was Reimer’s student, noted:
Jim helped me re-understand biblical texts and church dogma in ways that continue to inspire and strengthen me and my faith.
The award supports TST doctoral students of Mennonite identity who associate with TMTC — a graduate teaching and research centre of Conrad Grebel University College, affiliated with TST on the campus of the University of Toronto. TMTC is supported by seven other Mennonite Church and educational agencies who sit on an advisory board.