Knox College announces the recipients for the degree Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa) for 2025
Principal Ernest van Eck and the Knox College Board of Governors are pleased to announce The Rev. Gordon Beaton, John Matheson and The Rev. Glen Soderholm as recipients of the degree Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa) for 2025. Knox College will confer the degree at this year’s Convocation service, on May 14, 2pm in the Knox College Chapel.
Rev. Gordon Beaton
Rev. Gordon Beaton’s ministry, spanning over six decades, has been characterized by thoughtfulness, creativity, and dedication to both his congregations and the broader community. After graduating from Knox College in 1963, Gordon served in various congregations across Canada, including Aurora, Brandon, Hamilton, Lethbridge, Listowel, Sault Ste. Marie, Scarborough, and Toronto. He is known for his insightful sermons, in-depth Bible studies, and excellent pastoral care. Gordon’s influence, however, was not limited to the church. While in Listowel, he became involved in public life, successfully running for school board trustee, where he advocated for better resources and support for local schools, often organizing public meetings for community input.
Gordon’s personal life mirrored his commitment to care and service. He and his first wife, Beverley, adopted a child each year from the Toronto Star’s “Child of the Week” program for five years, and they were also foster parents to over eight children. After Beverley’s sudden death, Gordon raised their children as a single parent, later marrying Elizabeth and blending their families.
Gordon’s long-lasting impact on the Presbyterian Church in Canada is evident not only in his leadership and care within his congregations but also in his active and compassionate engagement with the wider community. His devotion to faith, family, and public service has left a lasting legacy of spiritual leadership and personal sacrifice.
Mr. John Matheson
John Matheson is a dedicated and innovative leader within the Presbyterian Church in Canada, bringing a wealth of strategic planning, financial expertise, and organizational insight to various church roles. A qualified Chartered Accountant, John has shared his skills generously, offering leadership, counselling, and mentoring to church staff, elders, and members. He is deeply involved with St. Andrew’s Church, Toronto where he serves as an elder who has been a member and chairperson of the Board of Managers and Heritage Trust, and as a Representative Elder to the Presbytery of East Toronto. Having served for over 20 years on Presbytery, John is a trusted advisor and a wise voice on matters of business and ministry.
John’s commitment to the church goes beyond administration and finance. He has actively supported church programs, notably St. Andrew’s Out of the Cold initiative. His leadership style is characterized by competence, good humour, and a strong vision for the church’s future. He has served at the national church where he is particularly known for his mentorship of younger leaders, encouraging their involvement and supporting their growth. Knox College was blessed to have John on its Board of Governors from 2004 to 2010. He served faithfully on various committees while on the Board and was the Convenor for two years, as well as the Chair of the Re:forming Tomorrow Capital Campaign. He returned later to serve as a Public Member and was a valued member of the Building Task Group.
His leadership, integrity, and dedication make John a vital servant of the church, always striving to help the Presbyterian Church in Canada thrive through innovative, compassionate, and sustainable ministries.
Rev. Glen Soderholm
Rev. Glen Soderholm has spent his ministry pioneering creative, mission-driven approaches to worship and community building within the Presbyterian Church in Canada. After graduating from Knox College in 1991, Glen served in various congregations, including a decade at St. David’s, Campbellville and Nassagaweya Presbyterian Churches, where he helped them evolve into self-sustaining, independent entities. In 2012 he formed a new missional faith community – Two Rivers Church in Guelph. His vision was to create a vibrant, worshipping community deeply rooted in the city’s downtown. Starting with a small group meeting in his living room, Two Rivers has grown into a network of “living rooms,” emphasizing local connections and inclusive, innovative worship. This model challenges traditional church structures and offers a glimpse of future church communities.
In addition to his pastoral work, Glen has contributed to the wider church through music and education, with a particular focus on faith-based music. He has led worship at events like Canada Youth and General Assembly, and his “Moveable Feast Resources” have provided valuable workshops across the denomination. Though recently retired, Glen remains active by participating in national and presbytery-level initiatives. His approach to ministry is grounded in a deep spirituality, ongoing learning, and a passion for creating faith communities that are relevant and adaptable to the changing landscape of Canadian society. Glen’s innovative leadership continues to be a blessing to the Presbyterian Church in Canada.