Rev. Tom Hubschmid grew up on a small ranch in Alberta, where he learned faith in Christ in a non-Anglican church. He loved looking after dogs and cows and learning western leathercraft from his father, a custom saddle maker. Later, he took a huge interest in literature, philosophy, and theology, which led him through an English degree in Calgary, to a PhD in Theological Studies at the University of Toronto. In Toronto, he met his wife Tania Blokhuis. They live in Ottawa.
While studying theology and philosophy, Tom discerned a call to ordained parish ministry. He brings to his preaching and leadership a passion for understanding the scriptures and interpreting them in a way that is relatable, powerful, and life-giving. He believes strongly that the possibility of belief in Jesus rests entirely on the Holy Spirit’s active impact on people’s lives. Wrestling with the scriptures, contemplative prayer, and receiving the sacraments (baptism and communion) are the ordinary ways he sees the Spirit actively drawing himself and others to Jesus. He promotes a deep relationship with God through Christ that is transformative for all who deal with despair, suffering, or shame. The result of deep Christian faith, he observes, is a life more connected to God, oneself, others, and the created world.
Rev. Tom is also passionate about local agriculture and takes an active interest in horsemanship. He will soon defend his PhD thesis in Theological Studies entitled God Only Knows: Truth and Prayer According to Mark McIntosh and Michel Henry. He loves to sit down with people and talk about matters of faith and searching.