AST Mourns Former President, the Rev. Dr. Eric Beresford

The Rev. Dr. Linda Yates, Chair of the Board of Governors, and the Rev. Dr. Heather McCance, President of Atlantic School of Theology express the University's deep sorrow on the sudden passing of the Rev. Canon Dr. Eric Beresford.

Chair Linda Yates shared that "I first worked with Eric Beresford during my time as President of the AST Alumni Association at its inception. He was keen for AST to remain connected and supportive of alumni through this new organization. He was interested in all things ecclesial and theological. Eric had a wonderful, ironic sense of humour. He was President of AST for ten years. The Board of Atlantic School of Theology appreciates his positive contributions to the life and work of the school. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and, in particular, to his spouse Janet, who was a valued presence at the university during Eric’s time as President.

The Rev. Beresford served as AST president for a 10-year period from 2004 to 2014. During his tenure, he was recognized by the board for his exemplary work in building external relationships and “putting AST on the map.” He worked closely and effectively with the three founding partners and denominations (Anglican, Roman Catholic and United Church of Canada) of AST and with Saint Mary’s University. He laid a solid foundation for the further advancement of AST. He also earned the reputation for being a fine preacher and theological reflector, thoughtfully and faithfully relating the gospel to contemporary life. His leadership sought to strengthen and cultivate positive community relations. An advocate of the spiritual and theological connections with art and music, he strongly supported AST's ventures into a new arts and theology initiative that included a sacred music concert series and an art show series. He was also very supportive of the now-defunct Canadian Centre for Ethics in Public Affairs which was of particular interest to him, since ethics and theology was one of his special fields of study. Prior to his departure from AST, he led the university through an extensive discernment process that prayerfully reflected on the question “Where is the Spirit Leading AST? The entire AST community was invited to participate individually, in small groups, and in plenary sessions, over a period of five months. A deep affirmation of core elements of AST's vocation came out of this process and informed a new strategic plan.

"Eric has always been passionate about Atlantic School of Theology and committed to the work of theological education. His contributions to the work of this university in the ten years he served here as president are too many to number,” said AST president Heather McCance. “He was also a personal friend, and I will miss him. I ask all to join me in praying for his spouse Janet Marshall, their children and grandchildren, and all who love him. May he rest in peace and rise in glory."