Jean Stairs

Jean Stairs is the 10th theologian and the first woman to serve as Principal of Queen's Theological College. She is Associate Professor of the Practice of Ministry (Field Education, Homiletics and Pastoral Care). Born and raised in Ottawa, Jean Stairs moved to Hamilton, Ontario to obtain a Bachelor of Music degree from McMaster University and a Master of Divinity degree from McMaster Divinity College. Following several years of pastoral ministry, she completed a Doctor of Ministry degree from...See more

Jean Stairs is the 10th theologian and the first woman to serve as Principal of Queen's Theological College. She is Associate Professor of the Practice of Ministry (Field Education, Homiletics and Pastoral Care). Born and raised in Ottawa, Jean Stairs moved to Hamilton, Ontario to obtain a Bachelor of Music degree from McMaster University and a Master of Divinity degree from McMaster Divinity College. Following several years of pastoral ministry, she completed a Doctor of Ministry degree from the University of Toronto and the University of St. Michael's College, Toronto School of Theology. Among her works are the books "Listening for the Soul: Pastoral Care and Spiritual Direction" (Fortress Press, 2000) and "Be My Companion: A Study of Spiritual Direction" (Image Press, 1982). In addition, she has published numerous articles and chapters in books, including "Dancing on the Edge" in "Gathered by the River: Reflections and Essays of Women Doing Ministry" (Artemis Enterprises, 1994). Dr. Stairs belongs to The Association of Practical Theology, The Society for Pastoral Theology, The Canadian Theological SOciety, The Association for Theological Field Education, and the Canadian Society for the Study of Religion. In October 2000, Dr. Stairs delivered the prestigious "Chancellor's Lectures" for the Annual Conference at Queen's Theological College (Kingston, ON) on the theme of her recent book "Listening for the Soul". Jean Stairs's interests include gardening, preserving (jams/pickles), journaling, cycling, swimming, singing as a solist and in her church choir, and long country walks with her miniature schnauzer "Cady". See less