Who we Are
The Arthur Turner Training School (ATTS) is a theological college in the Anglican Diocese of the Arctic. Founded in 1970 by Bishop D.B. Marsh. the school trains northern people, both lay and ordained, for the ministry of Christ's Church here in the Canadian north.
In recent years, we have noticed that there has been a need to shift our educational model. In response to that, we are launching our exciting new Deacon training program in January 2023!
This certificate prepares students to become ordained Deacons.
If you would like to know more about what Deacons do, click here!
Program Information
This program allows you to train for ministry while you remain at home with family and community. It is different than other programs in that it is outcome-based designed specifically to meet the needs of our people. Classes are taken online one afternoon or evening each week, with one trip to a regional hub (like Iqaluit or Yellowknife) each Fall or Spring. There is no personal cost to the student.
It is offered in English (beginning in January 2023) and Inuktitut (scheduled to begin in September 2023). It is structured in 6 modules*. 3 are entirely online while the other three have online and in-person components. One may become a licensed red ribbon lay reader on completion of Module 4 and an Ordained Deacon after finishing Module 6.
The in-person component occurs in a central location where you will be flown to and from the community by funding, financial aid and scholarships that have been awarded to the Diocese for this purpose. Accommodations, meals and course materials will also be provided.
More information about the modules
The students will use Populi, a Learning Management System that will be your one-stop shop for everything that you will require for this training program. Whether you are looking for the zoom link for your class that afternoon, need to submit an evaluation or contact your instructor, Populi is the place to go!
Does technology scare you a bit? Do not worry! For assistance, please contact Archdeacon Alexander at atts.admin@arcticnet.org or at (867) 873-5432, extension 5.
(*periods of study like terms or semesters in the South.)
Meet Your Instructors
The Rt. Rev. Joey Royal (Primary Instructor in English)
The Rev. Ann Martha Keenainak (Secondary Instructor in English, Primary Inuktitut Instructor)
Discernment Team
Not sure if this is for you? Let us help!
We have Examining Chaplains who will help you figure out if this is what God is calling you to do. Upon receipt of your application, you with your Examining chaplain will figure out through a discussion based on an assessment tool called "Nurturing Faithful Leaders," whether this program is the right fit for you. You will also select a Sponsor, someone who can pray with you and support you through this process.
Examining Chaplains
The Venerable Alexander R. Pryor (Executive Archdeacon of The Arctic)
The Rev. Ann Martha Keenainak (see photo above)
Inquiry Form
Once you fill out the Inquiry room, you will receive an e-mail that prompts you to fill out your application. Please complete your application by clicking the Submit button for it to be processed.
The Work of a Deacon
According to the Book of Common Prayer:
- To serve and support the ministries of Word and Sacrament by distributing communion (for instance, bringing communion to the homes of those who are sick) and reading the Scriptures (especially to those who can't read them for themselves)
- To instruct young people in the faith
- To seek out all those in need in the community, that the church may relieve those needs
- To preach and baptize, if necessary.
The BAS puts it in an even more straight-forward manner:
God now calls you to a special ministry of servanthood, directly under the authority of your bishop. In the name of Jesus Christ, you are to serve all people, particularly the poor, the weak, the sick, and the lonely. ... At all times, your life and teaching are to show Christ's people that in serving the helpless they are serving Christ himself.