Mentorship across borders

Following your call and gaining the tools to lead in ministry is not a simple task. For those navigating this process in a language other than their first, the challenge can feel even greater. At the Vancouver School of Theology, learners come from many denominations and faith traditions, creating conversations across diverse perspectives. Much of the learning happens through dialogue with people shaped by different theological and cultural experiences, with voices coming from Indonesia to Africa, from Turtle Island to South America. In this setting, Rev. Katrina Vigen reflects on her experiences mentoring students in the Field Education program.

“I feel that my whole life has equipped me with gifts to encourage others. I have always felt a call to be a mentor. My parents are educators, and teaching and mentoring have been a big part of my life,” she says. For Katrina, education has not only been shaped in classrooms but also through the experience of living across different cultures. “I was born in Madagascar and have also lived in Asia. I worked as an English teacher in Hong Kong before migrating to Canada ten years ago. In my work mentoring students—especially those from other countries—I find that meaningful relationships naturally develop. We share experiences that are significant parts of their home countries, bringing new insights and teachings into our congregations.”

Adjusting to a new country and culture can be particularly demanding for newcomers. In this context, Katrina observes that Field Education has a significant pastoral care component, with mentors often becoming trusted allies in students’ growth, confidence, and formation. “During their placements, they have the opportunity to experience the reality of ministry in a changing church. They are able to have enriching and honest conversations where frankness creates space for growth. This gives them the time and support to try, to ask questions, and to step forward in a safe environment.” But mentoring, Katrina emphasizes, is rarely done alone. It is often supported by the congregation, who participate in the shared work of learning, adapting, and nurturing future leaders.

“Sometimes I feel like I am just the one who signs the forms and papers, but in reality, the role is shared with the congregation. They are deeply committed to helping participants embrace their gifts and develop new skills. They support them in a very heartwarming way. We do ministry together.”

The years of learning and preparation to become a faith leader are not simple. Studies inside and outside the classroom, experiential formation, and navigating life balance are challenges that many faith leaders would resonate with. Reflecting on her own journey, Katrina remembers mentors who helped her shape her perspective to become a future faith leader.

“I had mentors who gave me lessons that went beyond the formal requirements—opportunities that empowered me as a leader. They taught me to embrace vulnerability in leadership, and I now make sure to give those I mentor the same space to show their gifts and to always give things a try.”

As she smiles, recalling with tenderness in her eyes, Katrina thinks of everyone she has had the privilege to walk alongside. These memories take her back to the time of her ordination and her move to Canada. She reflects on all that she learned and the ways she adapted to this new context with gratitude, affirming that God gave her the gifts to guide a wide range of people.

“I think all my life experiences have given me insight into what those I mentor are going through. From building confidence in English as a second language, as I once did, to drawing on my days as an English teacher in Hong Kong while supporting students with their English pieces. From encouraging them to share the beauty of their own traditions within our congregation to navigating culture shock together, I learn about myself both as a person and as someone in ministry while mentoring. We always grow together through our relationships.”

Katrina’s reflections remind us that mentoring is not merely about teaching skills or checking boxes—it is the meeting of journeys, where confidence is nurtured through the experiences we share with one another. In a church that is evolving to become more welcoming and diverse, these moments of convergence take on even greater significance. When our paths and gifts come together, they spark courage, hope, and transformation, reminding us that true mentorship flourishes across borders.