Credentials

The Clergy Support Memorial Church Board was pleased to certify the Rev. Karen DeBortoli to the office of Appointed Designated Minister- Counselling Ministry in June 2023. She is a powerhouse, and we welcome her extensive knowledge, experience and faith to our clergy.

Academic Credentials

• Canadian Ministers Institute. July 2023
• Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) from Trinity College, University of Toronto, 1994
• Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from Dalhousie University Law School, Halifax, 1999
• Called to the Ontario Bar, 2001

Pastoral care

Rev. Karen is a dedicated and compassionate individual who has a deep commitment to community service and helping others. She actively contributes to various charitable organizations, including the Canadian Cancer Society, the Salvation Army, and Toronto Cat Rescue. Karen’s empathetic nature and social activism are reflected in her past board position as Treasurer with George Herman House, where she provided support for women with mental health issues, and in her involvement with her company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) and Women’s Resource groups.

Rev. Karen’s experience as a public speaker is extensive, having addressed audiences on various topics and served as a reader at her local church. Her ability to connect with people and make them feel welcomed is a testament to her compassionate nature. She believes in respecting and celebrating people’s spirituality and diversity, especially during significant life events, and is committed to providing ceremonial services that are meaningful and inclusive.

Personal Growth

Rev. Karen is constantly seeking personal growth and self-improvement. She sets annual goals for herself, such as reading a certain number of books or learning new skills like crocheting. Her recent reads include “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig, “Hagitude – Reimagining the Second Half of Life” by Sharon Blackie, and “Codependent no More” by Melanie Beattie. Karen also values professional development, taking recertification courses for her job and participating in training on topics such as bystander intervention and gender inclusion.

Rev. Karen finds spirituality not just within the walls of a church but also in nature and everyday actions. She believes in a higher power and an afterlife and finds peace in moments spent outdoors, listening to the wind, watching birds and animals, and simply breathing. Her exposure to various faiths during her travels, such as participating in Iftar meals during Ramadan in Turkey, has broadened her perspective and deepened her respect for different religious traditions.

Closing Thoughts

Karen is by her own admission nerdy and funny. Her dedication to supporting her community and respecting individual needs and wishes make her a trustworthy and empathetic presence.