Christians in the City of Montréal

Monréal’s relationship with Christianity remains an enigma. In this important monograph, Glenn Smith – whose practical theology has been for decades grounded in Montréal – gives a convincing account of the complexities of Christians presence in the economic capital of Québec. Drawing on Charles Taylor’s philosophy, he demonstrates how Christians did not disappear from the urban stage, but instead innovate and transform to thrive in a secular city. * Frédéric Dejean, Université du Québec à Montréal, Canada *
Glenn Smith provides a profound and well-contextualised exploration of Christianity in Montréal, intricately weaving together historical perspectives, sociological insights, and personal experiences of faith. This book acts as a crucial resource for understanding how Christianity interacts with urban secularism, cultural diversity, and shifting social perceptions. It is a compelling read for academics, church leaders, and anyone interested in the future of faith within the urban landscape. * Rev. Dr. Guichun Jun, Oxford Centre for Mission Studies, UK *
We, who live in Montréal, are all daily aware of its diversity. This new book gives us an interesting new angle on this: how this diversity has evolved over time. We gain fresh insight when we see the city in the diachronic dimension. I am glad to see an engagement with my reflections of the past years for my city. We urgently need to have this story told. * Charles Taylor, McGill University, Canada *
Montréal was long rooted in Christendom but now breathes a culture trending far from those roots. However, Smith’s extensive knowledge of Catholics, Orthodox, mainline Protestants and evangelicals detects vibrant Christian minorities in the urban culture. A magisterial illustration of a constantly adapting Christian presence through history along with mission strategy. Montréal’s mix of languages, cultures and church forms is unique but takeaways are many. * Richard Lougheed, École de Théologie Évangélique de Montréal, Canada *
This book displays mastery of the theoretical offerings of Charles Taylor and others, coupled with a relentless commitment to local particularities. The result is a vivid, kaleidoscopic, engaging and persuasive portrait of Monréal, where the challenges of Western civilization are vigorously embodied. Smith completes this portrait with theologically wise counsel for how Christians can adopt a Gospel posture toward the reality he lovingly describes. * Rev. Dr. Karen Petersen Finch, The Presbyterian College, Canada *
Glenn Smith was one of the first Christian leaders to welcome me to Monréal a decade ago, offering a wealth of information regarding the city and its churches. His research is robust, his faith is practiced in real life, and his passion for the work of God in the neighbourhoods of Monréal spurs me on. His insights will be invaluable to any church participating in God’s mission here. * Rev. Patti Miller, Evangel Pentecostal Church, Canada *
I have appreciated Glenn Smith’s insights for years, and he has been an important influence in my own understanding of urban mission. Christians in the City of Montréal masterfully summarizes years of acquired wisdom. Blending history, theology, and urban studies, this insightful work shows us how to see a city the way God sees it. * Bishop Thomas Dowd, Sault Sainte Marie, Canada *