After five years as associate chaplain at the University of Toronto Scarborough campus, Leonard Clarke Jr, is leaving ECUT for a position at Yonge Street Mission as of May 1, 2022. We’re grateful for Leonard’s commitment to supporting student spiritual well-being, for being a welcoming and inclusive Christian presence, and for sharing his warmth and friendliness on campus. Over these years Leonard worked many extra hours, offering time and care for UTSC students who were struggling with their identities, particularly those who were recognizing their identity as LGBTQI2S+ and who sought him out as a safe person to talk to.
Leonard recently offered an online reflection for St. Andrew’s church Lent series. He spoke about community as whole-heartedness, acceptance, healing and belonging. “Community is finding who you are, joining others, and using this recognition to bring change to the world.” Thanks, Leonard, for bringing these gifts and this wisdom to your campus chaplaincy work with ECUT!
We will miss Leonard, but know that his gifts will be put to good use at Yonge Street Mission and are sending him all the best in his new role.