The Rev. Dr. Robert J. Bernhardt
Minster of Chalmers Church from 1971-2004.
Ordained in 1965, Bob served the congregation of St. Andrew's Church, Biggar, Saskatchewan, before coming to Chalmers. His vision of ministry always included a significant place for service in the wider Christian world and in the local community. During his years at Chalmers that was reflected in such things as participating in the work of the Canadian Bible Society, pastoral care at Macassa Lodge, hosting a community program on Cable TV, writing a monthly column entitled "Presbyterian Comment" in The Christian Courier, and in many years of service as a Director of Dawn Patrol Group Homes. Bob retired as Minister of Chalmers Church on September 30, 2004.
In 1996 he completed the Doctor of Ministry degree program at Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. That program allowed him to explore issues of the church and contemporary culture. His doctoral project, "Mobilizing For Mission: Rejuvenating A Traditional Congregation" explored some of the challenges to healthy change that are encountered in the Christian community.
In retirement Bob and his wife Jan expect to continue to live in Hamilton. Bob looks forward to doing some writing and he will continue his work with computers and the Internet. He will also continue to serve as Secretary to the Priscilla and Stanford Reid Trust for Presbyterian and Reformed theological education in Canada.
