On March 2, 2026, students from Catholic Pacific College and Trinity Western University gathered in the DeVries Auditorium for a night of ecumenical dialogue between Catholic and Protestant traditions to foster Christian unity. Hosted by TWUSA and CPCSA, this event served as a space for students to hear theological topics in a respectful and open environment, allowing them to reflect on their own beliefs and the beliefs of those in other Christian traditions. 

The dialogue had a panel of four theology professors: Dr. Craig Allert and Dr. Kent Clarke of TWU and Dr. David Henderson and Dr. Andrew Kaethler of CPC. Each professor talked about their own perspectives rooted in their respective traditions and offered students a few insights on how Catholic and Protestant theology intersect and differ on various issues of faith. 

Topics throughout the evening were centered on three aspects of the Christian faith: sacramentality, spirituality and salvation. The panelists discussed what it means to be “saved” from both Catholic and Protestant viewpoints. The discussion then carried on to baptism, where the professors looked at when a person should be baptized according to their respective denomination. 

The Eucharist was another topic that brought up similarities and differences in understanding the presence of Christ in communal bread and wine. The panel then engaged in the topic of Scripture, looking at how Catholics and Protestants approach interpretation, the role of tradition and the importance of context in understanding God’s Word. Following the panel discussion, students were invited to directly ask the professors questions. The Q&A session became a fruitful exchange where students sought to explore and understand differences and agreements in faith. 

The night ended beautifully, with all the attendees joining together to sing the Doxology. This shared worship experience created a sense of unity among all Christians present. Despite the differences in theology, practice and authority, all present were united in their devotion to Christ.

Events like this bring out the importance of ecumenical dialogue between Christians of various denominations on campus.

Although both Catholicism and Protestantism have doctrinal differences, open conversation that comes from a place of understanding, respect and curiosity can bring unity to the body of Christ.

The ecumenical dialogue at the DeVries Centre Auditorium brought both the CPC and TWU communities together and fostered meaningful engagement across both Christian traditions.