St. Andrew’s College is delighted to announce the appointment of Rev. Dr. OhWang Kwon as the McDougald Professor of Theological Ethics, beginning in Fall 2026. 

Rev. Dr. Kwon brings extensive pastoral, theological, and intercultural experience to this position. Born and raised in South Korea, he has served congregations in South Korea, the United States, and Canada. He currently ministers with the United Churches of Big Valley, Erskine, and Stettler in Alberta. 

His scholarship and ministry explore the relationship between theology and the social and cultural questions facing the church today. His work has given particular attention to justice, citizenship, solidarity, intercultural ministry, ecumenism, and the experiences of Korean communities within The United Church of Canada. 

As McDougald Professor of Theological Ethics, Rev. Dr. Kwon will teach and conduct research in theological ethics while contributing to the formation of students preparing to serve the church and wider community. 

His appointment comes at an important moment in the life of St. Andrew’s College. As St. Andrew’s works closely with Lutheran Theological Seminary to develop a new model of shared theological education, Rev. Dr. Kwon will help shape a learning community rooted in  ecumenical partnership, strong theological formation, and service to the church. 

“Dr. Kwon brings a grounded and practical perspective to Christian ethics at a time of cultural transition in Canada,” said Dr. Bernon Lee. “Theological studies here will be enriched by his expertise. I look forward to years of productive collaboration with Dr. Kwon.”

Rev. Dr. Kwon shared his enthusiasm for the position: 

“I am deeply grateful for this wonderful opportunity to engage in theological research, teach and learn, and cultivate spiritual leadership together. 

“My primary area of study is theological ethics, which bridges diverse theological traditions and practices. Throughout my academic journey, the central themes of theological ethics, such as justice, citizenship, and solidarity, have drawn my attention. In particular, I have been interested in promoting dialogue among diverse theological traditions, including recent theological movements. As an ordained minister, I have also been deeply involved in congregational ministry for many years. 

“Drawing on this knowledge and experience, I hope to be a theological bridge that humbly connects diverse theological traditions and practices in various contexts, including the Canadian Prairies. By fostering respectful and constructive dialogue, we can enrich one another, broaden our theological perspectives, and contribute to The United Church of Canada and the wider community.” 

Rev. Dr. Kwon’s vision resonates deeply with the mission of St. Andrew’s College: theological education that joins scholarship with practice, encourages respectful dialogue, and equips leaders to serve both church and community. 

We are grateful for the wisdom, experience, and theological imagination he will bring to St. Andrew’s College. Please join us in welcoming Rev. Dr. OhWang Kwon to the SAC community. 

The McDougald Professorship supports teaching and scholarship in theological ethics, helping prepare leaders for ministry in a changing church and society.