by Alexandra Peters, J.D. Candidate 2027, University of Manitoba Faculty of Law
INTRODUCTION
The Christian Legal Institute (CLI) Capstone & Reunion takes place directly after the conclusion of the CLF National Conference (to read more about that event, see here). CLI alumni gather for sessions and mentorship programming designed to solidify and build on the foundations laid during the prior days of the Conference and our experiences at the CLI.
This was my first time at the National Conference, and while I thoroughly enjoyed my debut and the opportunity to connect with Christian lawyers across generations, it was especially wonderful to be amongst so many familiar faces at the Capstone.
ACADEMIC SESSIONS
The CLI alumni were treated to four sessions on a variety of topics.
First, Geoffrey Trotter shared how to honour our many commitments – law, family, church, and community – in a godly way. He advised that the key to finding joy and peace is to understand that the same God who created us to be lawyers also created us to live in families, churches, and communities. God’s call is not undivided. While it can feel like our commitments add up to more than 100%, our God is not a taskmaster, but a loving Father who understands our every need and faithfully provides. God views us as whole people, and we should do the same. So, while seasons of life may demand different things, trusting in the sovereignty of God will bring us peace and assurance that He holds tomorrow. We are more precious than sparrows! (Matthew 10:31).
Next, Gwendoline Allison provided an update on sexual exploitation laws in Canada and the work being done to protect those exploited in systems of prostitution and human trafficking. This is a sobering topic. She explained that while there have been positive developments, such as the Supreme Court upholding legal protections in the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act (PCEPA), more work is needed to ensure that all those exploited may live in safety and peace.
She was joined by Lia Milousis for Q&A, and together they encouraged us to consider how we as individuals might contribute to cultural change, as the goal is a society where no one is bought or sold.
In the afternoon, André Schutten taught a session entitled “A Christian Perspective on Freedom of Religion—or (Why) Should Christians Defend Heretics?”
Groups were formed and tasked with considering arguments for and against defending freedom of religion, from both Christian and secular viewpoints.
We discovered that there are many reasons to robustly protect freedom of religion for religious and conscientious beliefs of all kinds, but that, for us as Christians in law, some of the best reasons come from our own faith commitments. God desires for us to come to Him freely, therefore the space to work out our salvation (Phil. 2:12) must be protected.
Finally, Vivian Clemence led a special leadership training workshop and roundtable discussion, equipping student leaders to act confidently as Ministers of Justice in their schools and to be a blessing of light in dark places, with the promise of God’s leading and presence. Campus ministry is critical to welcoming Christian voices in the legal sphere and allows those who might not have otherwise encountered the Christian faith to be introduced to the love and hope of Christ.
The academic sessions were a beautiful refresher and taste of what we receive at the CLI. They provided an opportunity to wrestle together with serious questions facing Christians in law, surrounded by peers facing the same struggles and mentors who can encourage us in our race. However, the sweetest part of experiencing the National Conference and CLI Capstone, at least to me, is how deeply they renew and restore my hope, pointing me back to Christ and His redemptive work.
PERSONAL REFLECTION
I have often heard “hope” described at CLF events using a metaphor: hope is a candle. We use it, through the provision of Christ, to light up the dark. Further, when joined with other candles, a constellation is created that cannot be denied.
My hope was dim before I engaged with CLF. In law, we are charged with some of the most pressing problems faced by individuals, the church, and society.
Discouragement easily creeps in and shadows the mind and spirit. In my second year of law school, I found myself deeply clouded and disenchanted with people, the church, and the law. The Preacher says it better than I could: “What is crooked cannot be made straight, and what is lacking cannot be counted” (Eccl. 1:15). Indeed, life and law can feel like vanity, and striving after wind threatens the fire. There is nothing new under the sun!
But, by God’s grace, CLF continually stokes the flame of my candle, and National events like the Conference and Capstone pour gasoline over it. Primarily, CLF helps to refocus my attention on the One above the sun, and I am encouraged in so many ways.
First, CLF provides me with a community within my law school that understands the tension – and also the deep interconnection – between law and faith. I have an opportunity to encourage students who are just starting out, and I am encouraged by them. This is not simply finding a community of people who are identical to me – actually, this could not be further from the truth. We do not enjoy the false comfort of groupthink. Rather, our diverse community is united by a love of Christ and each other, and the current of faith accelerates the friendships that are built there.
“... the sweetest part of experiencing the National Conference and CLI Capstone, at least to me, is how deeply they renew and restore my hope, pointing me back to Christ and His redemptive work.”
I should note that, due to CLF’s generous sponsorships this year, three students from Robson Hall were able to attend. I am so glad that we were all able to receive training, mentorship, and alignment at the Conference, for a three-braided cord is not easily broken (Eccl. 4:12). And how blessed are we that others have gone before us, into whose footsteps we are woven?
Secondly, CLF provides me with an example of Christ-centred advocacy and practice. I had the opportunity to connect with lawyers across a wide variety of practice areas and at various stages of their careers. I received practical advice in a Christ-centred context to avoid burnout, relational strife, and stress. I also (re)connected with law students from across Canada, at this critical stage before we enter our careers.
The stress of law school and even networking, at least for me, is that it can feel like a constant interview. But at CLF, we get to be people, not interviewees. While, of course, I will always strive to give CLF my best, I walk into these events knowing I am among friends – no, family. In what other professional context do I receive one-on-one prayer half an hour into a conference? Where else in the profession do I laugh so hard with my colleagues? Where else in the profession does the communal praise of over 100 reach the heavens?
“... our diverse community is united by a love of Christ and each other, and the current of faith accelerates the friendships that are built there.”
CONCLUSION
In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul implores the believers in Corinth to imitate him, as he imitates Christ. CLF provides me with many examples to imitate, in all areas of law and walks of life. Law is challenging – there’s no doubt about that – and life can be even harder. CLF teaches me how to navigate both with Christ as my anchor, surrounded by others seeking to do the very same.
Alexandra Peters is a 2027 J.D. Candidate at Robson Hall, University of Manitoba. Alex currently serves as an Exec for her local CLF Chapter and is completing a Fall Internship with the CLF. She has volunteered in numerous roles at her law school, including as Co-chair of the Academic Committee, the Social Committee, and with Pro Bono Students Canada. Alex's articles will commence in 2027 at Smith Neufeld Jodoin LLP in her hometown Steinbach, Manitoba, a leading rural firm.
In her free time, Alex enjoys musicals, literature, and going for walks with her husband.
Special thanks to Elsie Abang and Shubila K Photography for photographing this event.