2025 Casey & Beverly McKibbon Pastoral Development Award Recipients
The Casey and Beverly McKibbon Pastoral Development Award supports innovative pastoral initiatives that foster healing, justice, and community care. “Pastoral development” celebrates the transformative power of ministry—where creativity, compassion, and spiritual leadership come together to uplift communities. Whether through advocacy, healing, outreach, or sacred care, these projects embody faith in action.
This year, we received an inspiring array of submissions from clergy across Canada, each reflecting deep compassion, creativity, and commitment to community care. The selection process was both humbling and energizing, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to every applicant who shared their ministry and vision with us.
Though the following recipients are listed in no particular order, we wholeheartedly recognize and commend each of them for their exceptional dedication to their communities, the impactful ministries they have created, and the projects they have proposed. Their work is a testament to the power of faith in action.
Rev. Samantha Kutoway – North Grenville, ON
We’re proud to support Empowering Our Village with a $1,000 grant. This 6-week series equips parents and caregivers of youth in Grades 7–12 with mental health tools, expert guidance, and peer support. Samantha’s ministry fosters resilience and connection for families facing poverty, trauma, and isolation—offering both practical resources and spiritual care.
Rev. Tara Johnston – Niagara, ON
A grant of $500 will assist Pins for Palestine, a creative fundraising initiative that raises awareness and support for humanitarian efforts in Gaza. Tara’s ministry combines art, advocacy, and interfaith solidarity to promote peace and compassion through handmade pins and storytelling.
Rev. Michelle-Dawn Meghie – Mississauga, ON
We’re honoured to contribute $500 to the Rest. Reclaim. Rise. Retreat, a healing space for Black women in ministry. Through rest, reflection, and spiritual renewal, this retreat offers a vital sanctuary for those who give so much to others—centering joy, resilience, and liberation.
Rev. Amanda Zuke – Sault Ste. Marie, ON
We’re pleased to invest $500 in the Out of the Closet Clothing Swap, a gender-affirming, inclusive event that provides clothing and community for LGBTQ+ individuals. This ministry fosters dignity, self-expression, and belonging in a safe and celebratory environment.
Rev. Julie Charland – Casselman, ON
We’re also pleased to award $500 to support Birthday Kits for the Casselman Food Bank. These kits—filled with cake mix, candles, and party supplies—bring joy and dignity to families experiencing food insecurity, reminding every child they are seen, celebrated, and cherished.
Rev. Gail Fricker – Stratford, ON
We’re proud to back the Crosswalk Healing Ministry with $500, which offers prayer, presence, and pastoral care in urban spaces. Gail’s ministry meets people where they are—bringing spiritual support to sidewalks, parks, and street corners.
Rev. Robert Chaffey – Hastings County, ON
A grant of $500 will strengthen Rural Food Bank Outreach, a ministry that connects isolated communities with essential resources. Robert’s work ensures no one is left behind due to geography or access barriers.
Rev. Mike Mundell – Kingston, ON
We’re excited to support Battersea Food & Shelter Support with $500, a grassroots initiative offering meals, clothing, and shelter to those in need. Mike’s ministry is a lifeline for vulnerable individuals in his rural community.
Rev. John Crocker – Parry Sound, ON
This $500 award will help fund Intergenerational Community Meals at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. This initiative brings together youth and elders for shared meals, storytelling, and connection—fostering belonging and spiritual care across generations.
Rev. Amanda Jewell – North Bay, ON
We’re pleased to contribute $250 to the creation of an Indigenous Healing Garden, a sacred space for reflection, ceremony, and community gathering. Amanda’s ministry honours Indigenous traditions and fosters reconciliation through land-based healing.
Rev. Laurie Rupert – Calgary, AB
We’re pleased to contribute $250 to BB4CK School Lunch Support, a partnership with Brown Bagging for Calgary Kids to ensure no child goes hungry at school. Laurie’s ministry helps nourish bodies and spirits—one lunch at a time.
We congratulate each of these recipients. Their unwavering dedication to their communities and the remarkable positive impact they are making through their projects are truly inspiring and deserving of the highest commendation.
Want to Support a Recipient Directly?
If you feel inspired by any of these incredible ministries and would like to personally support a recipient—whether through a donation, partnership, or other means—please reach out to robb@clergysupportchurch.ca. I’ll be happy to facilitate an introduction and help you connect with the recipient whose work resonates with you most.
