Study With Us Theology | Worship | Unity | Mission
A Message from the Dean Revd Dr Andrew Emerton
O
ne of the things that I am often struck by as Dean is the sense of energy and life that marks St Mellitus College. My hope is that by reading this prospectus, you will not only find out about the programmes we offer, but also get a sense of our vision and values as you explore whether you want to join us. From the very start we have been committed to developing a College where theology is taken seriously, but where it is set within the context of worship and prayer, and is fully engaged in the interaction with missional leadership and ministry practice. Our approach has been to offer creative training patterns which have the flexibility to fit around busy lifestyles. We are passionate about the unity of the church and expect the presence and power of the Holy Spirit to be at work in our life together. We focus on leadership development and spiritual formation and put the shaping of Christian character at the heart of our training. The College endeavours to play its part in the revitalisation and flourishing of the church in this nation and the wider world, seeking to inspire and invest in lay people and ordinands who are serving in a hugely diverse range of contexts. The quality and diversity of the people attending St Mellitus enriches our community life, with students coming from different backgrounds, church cultures and traditions but who nevertheless are all sharing and learning together, committed to the same goal, longing to serve and proclaim Christ and present a coherent witness in a changing world.
Whether you are wanting to engage in undergraduate or postgraduate study or are training for ordination, youth ministry, licensed lay ministry, whether you are a church planter, pioneer or parish-focused, our hope is that you will be equipped while with us, not simply to complete an academic qualification, but to grow in your relationship with God, deepen your understanding of faith, and your ability to communicate that faith to others. We hope you will flourish as a disciple of Christ as you minister in whatever sphere and context you are called to. As you pray, worship and learn with others in the community, you will have the opportunity to develop friendships and networks which will help sustain your future ministry and long-term commitment to the Gospel. Visitors to the College often comment on the sense of hope and inspiration they experience when with us. Our vision is to train people who will be passionate about the Good News of the Gospel, who are called to serve Jesus Christ, are energised by the life of the Spirit and are committed to the unity of the church in the world. There is one promise in the Anglican ordination service that strikes a chord every time I read it. It is the call to ‘endeavour to fashion your own life and that of your household according to the way of Christ, that you may be a pattern and example to Christ’s people’. My prayer is that this will be an ever-growing reality within the life of students and staff at St Mellitus College, whether lay or ordained.
Our desire is to continue to follow God’s call Our model of training, whatever programme faithfully and I hope that you might consider joining you follow, combines theology with practice, us on that journey. enabling students to be deeply rooted in their local communities and effectively reflect on the interplay between theological study and the praxis of ministry, bringing what they learn in the classroom and applying it directly to their workplaces, churches and communities, and vice versa. We are privileged to have a very strongstaff team, who embody academic and administrative excellence and are driven by the mission of the church.
3
Welcome to St Mellitus College Introducing St Mellitus College St Mellitus College is widely thought to be one of the most innovative and exciting places to study theology and to explore ministry and mission in the UK.
Our Story Named after the first Bishop of London, whose territory covered London and Essex, the College was founded in 2007 by the Bishops of London and Chelmsford. It emerged from the coming together of two institutions – North Thames Ministerial Training Course (NTMTC), based in the dioceses of London and Chelmsford, and St Paul’s Theological Centre (SPTC), which grew out of Holy Trinity Brompton. Today, we offer training opportunities in London, Chelmsford, the North West the South West and the East Midlands.
Our Vision and Values St Mellitus College is dedicated to providing theology in the context of worship, unity and mission, and helping Christians explore their faith more deeply. It combines academic excellence, a focus on missional leadership, the shaping of Christian character and the flexibility to fit around busy lifestyles.
4
Contents
07 Why Study Theology? 09 Facts & Stats 11 Student Story: Sam 13 Helpful Information 14 Introductory & Undergraduate Programmes 20 Postgraduate Programmes 22 Ordination Training 24 Licensed Lay Ministry 25 Study With Us 28 Centres 30 Community & Support 33 Alumni Story: Jessie
5
Why Study Theology? Dr Jane Williams is Assistant Dean and Tutor and Lecturer in Systematic Theology at St Mellitus College. In this article, she reflects on the importance of studying theology. Words Jane Williams Photo Mark Pape All Christians are theologians – we speak to God and expect God to speak to us. But if we are to share our faith in Jesus with people who do not yet know him, we need to be confident in our belief and deeply-rooted in our life of prayer and our understanding of the Bible. We study theology in order to equip ourselves to live our lives with God and share our faith. Studying theology is a bold enterprise – after all, we are exploring the nature of the living God. So theology should be studied with expectation and with awe. Since it is God we are talking about, it is not surprising that the more we study, the bigger and more exciting God gets. Some people have been afraid that if they study theology their faith will be undermined, but the opposite is the case. A faith that cannot be examined cannot be trusted and cannot be shared, whereas a faith that is explored prayerfully and in good company gets richer and richer. As we study theology, we find ourselves resourced and challenged by the faith, understanding and prayer of those who have gone before us. But we live in a culture that increasingly does not know God, does not know that human beings are loved and called to live transformed lives, in the likeness of Jesus Christ, and in the power of the Holy Spirit. This is a message of such good news that we must equip ourselves to share it. We have the privilege of living in the Spirit because others have shared their faith with us. Now it is our turn. God’s Church and God’s world need theologians on fire with the knowledge and love of God, and skilled at helping people to see God at work in our world. Why study theology? In order to love God more deeply and share God’s love with others.
7
Facts & Stats 5 centres – London, Chelmsford, North West, South West, East Midlands Founded in
2007 by the Bishops of London and Chelmsford
Our North West centre was established in
2013
Our South West centre was established in
2017
Our East Midlands centre was established in Over
2019
650 students
Students range from There are
18 – 73 in age
16 theological specialisms amongst the staff team
2 languages on offer – Hebrew and New Testament Greek Students from over
35 dioceses
Online resources and over
10,000 books across our libraries
9
Student Story: Sam Sam Durdant-Hollamby is an ordinand studying at St Mellitus College, North West. Below, he answers a few questions. Words Sam Durdant-Hollamby Photo Mark Pape
Tell us a bit about yourself My name is Sam and I’m 30 years old. I’m married with two young kids and we live in the beautiful city of Chester. I grew up in Kent and at nineteen I moved north to do a degree. I studied drama and went on from university to get a job as a youth and drama worker and then assistant pastor at a local church. I enjoy anything relating to sport, theatre and food. I am currently open to ideas as to how one might successfully combine all three. My family and I feel called to plant churches in urban estate contexts and as such I am currently training as a pioneer ordinand.
Why St Mellitus College? Worship is at the heart of St Mellitus. All our theology is done in the context of worship. The purpose of our study is the glory of God. Furthermore, the college takes theology seriously. We are spoilt with the calibre of lecturers on our books, all of whom have an evident love for God and his church. This is true across all the centres. St Mellitus is also very committed to families. I am based at the North West centre and the staff there have been very proactive in investing in my wife and supporting my family. St Mellitus strives to create a culture of ‘generous orthodoxy’ – something which it achieves. I have had my eyes opened to new perspectives and ways of worshipping God. What you learn here is that he’s the same God however you worship him and that we can encounter him in a myriad of ways. I also believe that the context-based approach to training is very important. Each week I am given an opportunity to outwork my learning in my ministry context. This has had a massive impact on my growth as a disciple and a leader.
How is the programme shaping your leadership? My prayer for a long time has been, “God, make me a leader that lasts.” I want to be a leader who falls more in love with Jesus each day and sees that outworking in life and ministry. These are the types of leaders St Mellitus want to create. Through the teaching, residential weekends, focus on formation and staff support I have really grown whilst at St Mellitus. Most importantly, I love God more now than when I started. I also have greater confidence in my ability to unpack and teach scripture and doctrine. God has shaped me in my time here as a more compassionate and prayerful leader. I also believe that I have been empowered to be a more courageous leader taking steps of faith that I wouldn’t have done before.
11
Helpful Information
Programme Overview
Centres
At St Mellitus College we offer programmes at Introductory, Undergraduate and Postgraduate level. You can study with us as an independent student, an ordinand or as a Licensed Lay Minister.
St Mellitus College offers a range of programmes across four centres: – – – – –
On the following programme pages, you can find detailed information about each of the programmes of study that we offer.
Ordinand students will also attend residential weekends and a residential week at other venues. Undergraduate students attend one or two non-residential Teaching Weeks in London dependent on their programme of study.
Introductory – Non-accredited (audit) – Beginning Theology
Undergraduate – Certificate of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission – Diploma of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission – BA (Hons) in Theology, Ministry and Mission – BA (Hons) in Theology and Youth Ministry – Graduate Diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission
Postgraduate – MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission (with a focus on either Systematic Theology or Biblical Studies) – MA in Christian Leadership
London (Monday daytimes / Tuesday evenings) Chelmsford (Thursday evenings) North West (Monday daytimes) South West (Tuesday daytimes) East Midlands (Tuesday daytimes)
Validation St Mellitus College academic awards are validated by either Durham University or Middlesex University dependent on the programme of study. The Certificate, Diploma, BA (Hons) and MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission are validated by Durham University, and you will receive a Durham award on successful completion. The BA (Hons) in Theology and Youth Ministry and MA in Christian Leadership are quality assured by Middlesex University and you will receive a Middlesex award on successful completion.
Ordination
Learning Hours
– Full-time – Part-time – Ordained Pioneer Ministry
All modules involve a blend of lectures, discussion and personal study. A typical module will comprise 15+ hours of teaching and 150+ hours of personal study.
Please note: ordinand pathways are selected in discussion with the respective diocese, and can include non-accredited pathways.
Licensed Lay Ministry – Part-time 13
Introductory Programmes
Non-accredited
Beginning Theology
Programme description
Programme description
Students who simply want to enjoy our theology programmes without assessment or accreditation can apply to study with us. The teaching is exactly the same as for those who are following the first year of the undergraduate teaching but excludes the Teaching Weeks and ministry modules.
Beginning Theology is designed for people who want to learn more about the Christian faith, deepen their knowledge of the Bible and Christian traditions, and explore how they can respond to God’s call to mission.
Centres – – – – –
London (Tuesday evenings) Chelmsford (Thursday evenings) North West (Monday daytimes) South West (Tuesday daytimes) East Midlands (Tuesday daytime)
Duration Beginning Theology is a flexible, modular programme in theology consisting of six modules, each module lasting one term. Students can enrol for the entire programme or select individual modules according to their interests. When you have completed all six modules, you will receive a certificate of completion from St Mellitus College. Alternatively, you can attend the programme and not submit assignments, in which case you will receive a certificate of attendance.
Centres – London (Tuesday evenings)
14
Undergraduate Programmes
Certificate of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission Programme Description The Certificate of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission lays the building blocks of Christian theology by introducing foundational subjects such as Theology, Church History, Biblical Studies, Spirituality and Discipleship, and Christian Worship. It also starts to engage students in learning how to reflect theologically on practical aspects of ministry including Evangelism.
Validation The Certificate of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission is validated by Durham University.
Entry requirements Undergraduates will normally have one A Level (grade C or above) or equivalent for direct entry on to the Certificate.
Routes Students can study towards the Certificate on one of the following routes, in order to achieve the necessary 120 credits: – Full-time – Part-time
FULL-TIME Centres – – – – –
London (Tuesday evenings) Chelmsford (Thursday evenings) North West (Monday daytimes) South West (Tuesday daytimes) East Midlands (Tuesday daytimes)
Duration One year – One day per week (3 x 10 week terms per year) – Two academic Teaching Weeks (London, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) – An additional full day per week (minimum) for private study
PART-TIME Centres – – – – –
London (Tuesday evenings) Chelmsford (Thursday evenings) North West (Monday daytimes) South West (Tuesday daytimes) East Midlands (Tuesday daytimes)
Duration Two years – One morning or evening per week (3 x 10 week terms per year) – One academic Teaching Week per year (London, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) – An additional full day per week (minimum) for private study
15
Undergraduate Programmes
Diploma of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission Programme Description Students working towards the Diploma of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission initially study modules including Foundations for Theology and Ministry, Biblical Studies, Spirituality and Discipleship, Evangelism and Church History. After this, the Diploma engages with modules such as Doctrine, Ecclesiology and Ethics. Students also do a module focused on the interface between theology and practice involving research on an area of mission or ministry in their local context.
Validation The Diploma of Higher Education in Theology, Ministry and Mission is validated by Durham University.
FULL-TIME Centres – – – –
London (Monday daytimes) North West (Monday daytimes) South West (Tuesday daytimes) East Midlands (Tuesday daytimes)
Duration Two years – One full day per week (3 x 10 week terms per year) – Two academic Teaching Weeks per year (London, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) – An additional full day per week (minimum) for private study
PART-TIME Centres
Undergraduates will normally have two A Levels (grade C or above) or equivalent for direct entry on to the Diploma.
– – – – –
Routes
Duration
Students can study towards the Diploma on one of the following routes, in order to achieve 240 credits:
Four years
Entry requirements
– Full-time – Part-time
London (Tuesday evenings) Chelmsford (Thursday evenings) North West (Monday daytimes) South West (Tuesday daytimes) East Midlands (Tuesday daytimes)
– One morning or evening per week (3 x 10 week terms per year) – One academic Teaching Week per year (London, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) – An additional 6 hours per week (minimum) for private study
Ordinands and LLMs Part-time ordinands and LLMs will complete the diploma in either two or three years, in consultation with their diocese.
16
BA (Hons) in Theology, Ministry and Mission Programme description Students working towards the BA (Hons) in Theology, Ministry and Mission initially study modules including Foundations for Theology and Ministry, Biblical Studies, Doctrine, Ethics, Spirituality and Discipleship, Evangelism and Church History. Students also do a module focused on the interface between theology and practice involving research on an area of mission or ministry in their local context. In the final phase of the BA, students use their theological learning to examine issues and themes relating to contemporary life and ministry, including Missiology, Apologetics, Interfaith Engagement and Political Theology. There are further biblical studies modules and students usually complete a 6,000 word dissertation.
Validation The BA (Hons) in Theology, Ministry and Mission is validated by Durham University.
Entry requirements Undergraduates will normally have three A Levels (grade C or above) or equivalent for direct entry on to the BA.
Routes Students can study towards the BA on one of the following routes, in order to achieve the necessary 360 credits:
FULL-TIME Centres – – – –
London (Monday daytimes) North West (Monday daytimes) South West (Tuesday daytimes) East Midlands (Tuesday daytimes)
Duration Three years – One full day per week (3 x 10 week terms per year) – Two academic Teaching Weeks per year (London, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) – An additional full day per week (minimum) for private study
PART-TIME Centres – – – – –
London (Tuesday evenings) Chelmsford (Thursday evenings) North West (Monday daytimes) South West (Tuesday daytimes) East Midlands (Tuesday daytimes)
Duration Six years – One morning or evening per week (3 x 10 week terms per year) – One academic Teaching Week per year (London, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) – An additional 6 hours per week (minimum) for private study.
– Full-time – Part-time
17
Undergraduate Programmes
BA (Hons) in Theology and Youth Ministry Programme description
The BA (Hons) in Theology and Youth Ministry is quality assured by Middlesex University and you will receive a Middlesex award on successful completion.
The BA (Hons) in Theology and Youth Ministry aims to combine an excellent grounding in Christian theology alongside reflection on the latest ideas, issues and challenges in youth ministry thinking and practice. The programme is run by dedicated Youth Ministry Tutors and also provides an opportunity to learn from some leading figures in Christian youth work in the UK today. In addition, students have the chance to learn alongside those training for other forms of Christian ministry. It will prepare students spiritually, practically and theologically for the challenges of ministry among young people today.
Entry requirements
Whilst being open to people from a wide range of backgrounds, the programme has a strong academic component, aiming to give people a broad grounding in theology, as well as focussing on practical aspects of Christian ministry amongst young people in Britain today. Whilst on the degree, students divide their time between academic study and practical youth work in a local placement context. Students usually spend up to 3 days per week at an approved church, school or communitybased placement. Students and placements can apply together in a combined application, or independently and then be matched together. Some students work on placements with partner organisations such as XLP.
Duration
Studying this degree at St Mellitus College offers students theology and training at the heart of the local church; excellence in academic theological teaching; practical youth ministry training with a focus on issues of theology and practice in contextual youth ministry; and exposure to fellow students from a wide range of backgrounds and contexts.
18
Validation
Undergraduates will normally have three A Levels (grade C or above) or equivalent for direct entry on to the BA.
Routes – Full-time
Centres – London (Monday daytimes)
Three years – One full day per week (3 x 10 week terms per year) – Two academic Teaching Weeks per year (London, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) – An additional full day per week (minimum) for private study – Placement: 3 days per week at a church, school or community-based placement
Graduate Diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission Programme description Students working towards the Graduate Diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission will complete one year of mid-week teaching on Mondays, as well as attending two Teaching Weeks, in order to achieve 120 credits at level 6. In this programme, students take modules in biblical studies and church history, and are enabled to use their theological learning to examine issues and themes relating to contemporary life and ministry, including human identity, the nature of sin and evil, and salvation, transformation and apologetics. Students also usually complete a 6,000 word dissertation.
Routes – Full-time
Centres – London (Monday daytimes) – North West (Monday daytimes)
Duration One year – One full day per week (3 x 10 week terms per year) – Two academic Teaching Weeks (London, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) – An additional full day per week (minimum) for private study
Validation The Graduate Diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission is validated by Durham University.
Entry requirements Because the programme takes place alongside students taking the final year of their BA inTheology, Ministry and Mission, the College is responsible for ensuring that successful applicants can demonstrate sufficient prior aptitude for theological study such that they will not be disadvantaged by entering study at St Mellitus College at this level. Applicants must normally have minimum a Diploma (HE) in Theology with a substantial proportion of their graded credit at Merit/Upper Second level. However, especially for mature students, prior professional experience will be taken into account as well as educational qualifications.
19
Postgraduate Programmes
MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission
Validation
Programme description
Entry requirements
When it comes to theology, the deepest rewards come from serious engagement with the Bible and key Christian figures and texts. This parttime programme is offered primarily on Monday mornings in our London centre over two years for students who already have a prior university degree in Christian Theology or Religious Studies. The programme is ideal for Theology or Religious Studies graduates looking to advance in higher research, Anglican ordinands, or practising church leaders seeking deeper engagement with core Christian texts and themes.
– Submission of a degree-level academic paper no less than 2,000 words as part of the application process. – A 2.1 degree is normally required for direct entry to any MA – The BA should be in Theology or an equivalent subject (such as Religious Studies) and have contained substantial study of Theology up to Level 6. – Applicants with a Graduate Diploma in Theology or an equivalent subject will be considered, and the College will look to satisfy itself at interview as to whether the candidate has adequate preparation and grounding for study at MA level. – Consideration will also be given to the agreed number of students for the academic year. At present this is 20 per centre per programme per year. Please note that this means that places will not simply be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. In some cases, students will be invited to join a waiting list, and final decisions will be made on the basis of the aptitude of students for the programme relative to one another, based on the criteria set out above.
The MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission is validated by Durham University.
Students on the MA Theology, Ministry and Mission choose one of two different optional foci, each of which comes with a suite of related modules. Option 1 focuses on Systematic Theology and Christian doctrine. Option 2 focuses on Biblical Studies, both Old and New Testaments. Students will write a dissertation according to their selected focus, and complete additional modules such as Advanced Topics in Christian Doctrine, Advanced Study of a Key Theological Text, Advanced Study of a Christian Figure, Advanced Biblical Studies, and The Bible and Christian Faith. It has been designed with various people in mind, including: – Ordinands with a prior degree in theology – Clergy looking to take their learning further in Continuing Ministerial Education (CME) programmes – Students with a previous degree in theology, seeking deeper engagement with core Christian texts and themes
Routes
– Part-time
Centres – London (Monday daytimes)
Duration Two years
20
MA in Christian Leadership
Entry requirements – Submission of a degree-level academic paper no less than 2,000 words as part of the application process. – A 2.1 degree is normally required for direct entry to any MA. – Consideration will also be given to the agreed number of students for the academic year. At present this is 20 per centre per programme per year. Please note that this means that places will not simply be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. In many cases, students will be invited to join a waiting list, and final decisions will be made on the basis of the aptitude of students for the programme relative to one another, based on the criteria set out above. – The MA in Christian Leadership can be taken by anyone with a previous degree
Programme description Leadership is about influence. Many Christians exert influence over others in all kinds of ways. Some are leaders in the Church while others exercise leadership in different positions. Many are preparing for lives or careers in which they will exercise significant influence over people, organisations and networks. At the same time, many Christians do not know how to link their faith to their sphere of influence. What does it mean to exercise a distinctively Christian leadership in the contexts of workplace or church? What has Christian faith to offer as a model of leadership in the 21st century? The MA in Christian Leadership is in high demand. It is designed to help leaders engage in Christian reflection on the sphere in which they are living and working. The programme has been designed with various people in mind, including: – Graduate Christians setting out on careers in various fields – Ordinands with a prior degree in theology – Clergy looking to take their learning further in CME programmes – Experienced leaders looking to reflect on their leadership experience as Christians After a grounding in core modules in Systematic Theology, Leadership, and Power, the programme gives students the opportunity to focus on a specific area, for example Arts and Culture, Health Care, Economics, Politics, Church or Spirituality. The MA can be taken by anyone with a previous degree.
Routes – Full-time – Part-time
Centres – London (Monday daytimes) – North West (Monday daytimes)
Duration One year full-time, or two years part-time
Validation The MA in Christian Leadership is quality assured by Middlesex University and you will receive a Middlesex award on successful completion.
21
Ordination Training About At St Mellitus College, we specialise in training men and women for ordination in the Church of England. Full-time and part-time programmes are available, with both routes combining academic excellence and practical experience, with a strong focus on the personal formation of each candidate for ordained ministry. The College is proud of its first-rate academic teaching staff, as well as the wide range of visiting professors and associate lecturers. We are also able to draw on a pool of experienced church practitioners, who help develop each ordinand’s capacity for effective church leadership. The academic curriculum is extensive, covering all the key topics: biblical studies and languages, doctrine, ethics, history, spirituality, liturgy and worship, as well as preaching, sacraments, taking weddings and funerals, and modules in mission, apologetics, and evangelism – and more besides! St Mellitus College has a reputation for teaching excellence at both undergraduate and postgraduate level, so students benefit from high-quality input during their time with us. As well as doing academic work, all our ordinands are rooted in local churches or mission contexts whilst undertaking their theological study. On the full-time route, ordinands spend half their week in a church context, ministering under the supervision of a training supervisor, whilst our part-time ordinands learn to integrate their theological studies into their working life or local church context. Our full-time and part-time ordinands from across the country gather together for College residentials, which provide a rich context for worship, formation, spiritual growth, and friendships right across the breadth of the Church of England. Students discover what God’s people are doing across this land, learning from each other’s experience and from the different traditions that make up our community.
22
St Mellitus ordinands therefore learn through excellent academic teaching, which is integrated into their experience of mission and ministry in a local context, whilst being inspired by encountering fellow ordinands engaged in contemporary ministry. This combination makes St Mellitus College an exciting place to train for ordination, and prepares our students for the reality of mission and ministry today.
Pastoral Support Each ordinand is allocated a Personal Tutor, and where appropriate a Supervisor is appointed in their local church. They are also part of a Formation Group, consisting of a small group of ordinands who journey together through the programme, with their Tutor acting as the primary point of contact for academic and pastoral support and formation. We also have an excellent chaplaincy team in college, and a counsellor, as well as a staff team who are dedicated to supporting our students prayerfully and being available to offer support.
Validation Validation is dependent on which programme of study you choose.
Entry requirements Recommendation for training from a Church of England Bishops’ Advisory Panel or equivalent from an overseas church (with agreement from a Church of England Bishop) or other UK denomination.
Routes – Full-time – Part-time
Full-time Ordination
Part-time Ordination
Those looking to train full-time can do so through the College’s ‘Context-Based Ordination Training’ route. The Context-Based Ordination Training offers a unique opportunity to combine theology with practice, and with formation for the role that God is calling ordinands to. On this mission focused programme, students do half of their learning ‘on the job’ in a local church or mission context, and the other half in the lecture hall, learning all the time how to relate them to each other. This route can be taken by any ordinand who has been recommended to train for incumbent status or who is recommended for Ordained Pioneer Ministry, and some other ordinands, in consultation with their DDO.
Those looking to train part-time can do so through the College’s flexible and innovative part-time training route.
Alongside their ministry in the local context, students engage in academic study, leadership development and reflection through one full day’s teaching every week, one to two days (minimum) each week for personal study, six residential weekends through the year and one annual residential week.
Centres – – – –
London (Monday daytimes) North West (Monday daytimes) South West (Tuesday daytimes) East Midlands (Tuesday daytimes)
Duration The duration of your programme will be made in consultation with your diocese. This is usually two or three years.
A key value of this programme is learning the skill of relating theology to the whole of life – work, church, family, home, society. The opportunity to study while still engaged in these areas provides an ideal way to work out how the Christian faith impacts the world today.
Centres – London (Tuesday evenings) – Chelmsford (Thursday evenings)
Duration The duration of your programme will be made in consultation with your diocese. This is usually two or three years.
Ordained Pioneer Ministry The College trains many candidates for Ordained Pioneer Ministry (OPM). The full-time context-based pathway was originally designed around the needs of OPMs, and later adapted for other ordinands. Besides that ethos, and a number of academic modules that encourage thinking about new forms of church life, OPM discussion forums are arranged at residential weekends, seminars are available for Pioneers and support is given to supervisors of OPM candidates.
23
Licensed Lay Ministry
LLM Training
Entry requirements
Programme description
Recommendation for training for Licensed Lay Ministry from London or Chelmsford diocese.
At St Mellitus College we are committed to train and equip lay people to play their part in the ministry and mission of Christ’s church. We deliver Licensed Lay Ministry (LLM) training in partnership with the Dioceses of London and Chelmsford.
Routes
LLMs are trained for lay leadership within their local churches. It is envisaged that this often takes the form of educating and training other lay people in their ministries, but it can also include pastoral ministry, preaching and liturgical responsibilities.
– Three years (usually)
The path to Licensed Lay Ministry is demanding but worthwhile. To join the LLM programme at St Mellitus College, students first go through a period of discernment and selection in their local churches and diocese. If selected for training, they usually study for three years at St Mellitus College. In London, LLMs will study for a Diploma in Theology, Ministry and Mission. In Chelmsford, LLMs will study for a Certificate in Higher Education in Christian Ministry and Mission. If you worship in the Diocese of Chelmsford and you are interested in this programme, you can find out more on the Chelmsford Diocese website here: chelmsford.anglican.org/lay-ministry/ licensed-lay-ministry If your church is in the Diocese of London, you can find out more about Licensed Lay Ministry on the diocesan website here: london.anglican.org/mission/lay-ministry
24
– Part-time
Duration
Centres London (Tuesday evenings) – One teaching evening per week – One academic Teaching Week per year (London, Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm) and/or locally-based Saturdays spread throughout the year Chelmsford (Thursday evenings) – One teaching evening per week – A number of locally-based Saturday teaching days per year
Study with Us
Open Days We have a number of open days and open evenings across our centres throughout the year to give you a feel for what it’s like to study at St Mellitus College. On an open day, you’ll have the chance to meet with current students and tutors, sit in on the teaching, hear a bit about the college from members of staff, and have a tour of the building. Visit stmellitus.ac.uk/events for a list of our upcoming open days.
The Application Process Introductory, Undergraduate & Postgraduate Students 1 2 3 4 5 6
Book your place on an open day by emailing info@stmellitus.ac.uk Attend an open day Apply online at stmellitus.ac.uk/apply If you meet the entry requirements, we’ll invite you for an interview Attend an interview Await an offer letter
Ordinands 1 2 3 4
Apply online at stmellitus.ac.uk/apply Book your place on an open day by emailing info@stmellitus.ac.uk Attend an open day and interview Await an offer letter
For further information relating to the admissions process, please consult the Admissions Policy available on our website.
Fees & Finances Visit stmellitus.ac.uk/fees for further information.
Apply To apply to study at St Mellitus College, visit stmellitus.ac.uk/apply to complete an application form.
Find out more 020 7052 0248 info@stmellitus.ac.uk stmellitus.ac.uk/study-with-us facebook.com/stmellituscollege twitter.com/stmellitus @stmellitus 25
Centres
London St Mellitus College, London offers full-time training on Mondays for ordinands, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. On Tuesday evenings, part-time training is offered for ordinands and licensed lay ministers, as well as introductory and undergraduate programmes. St Mellitus College, London is a diverse community of people who gather for worship, fellowship, and theological study. Our time together begins with food and worship, before we move into the various lecture halls for teaching sessions. The library is available, as is our prayer room, and our chaplaincy team and tutorial staff are here to support students as they look to combine their studies with their ministry in church or at work, and in their everyday life at home. Dr Jane Williams and Revd Dr Lincoln Harvey are the Assistant Deans at St Mellitus College, and both teach primarily in the discipline of systematic theology. Jane oversees Mondays in London and joined the team in 2007, and Lincoln oversees Tuesday evenings and joined the team in 2010.
When? Monday daytimes (9.30am – 4.30pm) Tuesday evenings (6.30 – 9.15pm)
Where? 24 Collingham Road, London, SW5 0LX
Contact info@stmellitus.ac.uk
26
St Mellitus College, Chelmsford offers part-time training for ordinands and licensed lay ministers, as well as part-time undergraduate programmes. St Mellitus College, Chelmsford is a community of people who combine life, learning and work, as they train for ordination, licensed lay ministry, and study undergraduate theology to deepen their knowledge of Christ and broaden their love of his church. We gather in Chelmsford Cathedral on a Thursday evening for food, conversation, worship, prayer, and learning as our vocations are brought to birth in the nurturing environment of the Cathedral. Revd Rob Merchant is Director of St Mellitus College, Chelmsford. Rob’s passion in life is seeing people flourish. He has been part of St Mellitus College since 2012. Both Rob and his wife, Tamsin, were ordained in 2001. He has served in a number of different roles both as a stipendiary and self-supporting minister.
When? Thursday evenings (6.30 – 9.15pm)
Where? Chelmsford Cathedral, CM1 1TY
Contact info@stmellitus.ac.uk
St Mellitus College is a unique place to study theology. One of the things I loved most about being there is that it is a great place to develop the skills and toolset for your future ministry. Absolutely everyone at the college is willing you on to succeed. The staff have extensive experience both as theologians and as practitioners, so if there’s a particular area in which you are seeking to grow – whether that’s public speaking, written communication or a specific area of theology – they are more than happy to help. You only have to ask. Tosin, alumnus
“
Chelmsford
“
27
Centres
North West St Mellitus College, North West offers full-time context-based ordination training, full and part-time undergraduate programmes, and part-time postgraduate study. St Mellitus College, North West is the first full-time ordination college in the North West since St Aidan’s College, Birkenhead (1846-1969). As such we draw on the richness of St Aidan’s heritage to equip people from all walks of life for ministry and leadership. We gather from a radius of 150 miles on Mondays for worship, prayer, teaching, food and fun. Revd Dr Michael Leyden is the Director of St Mellitus College, North West. He has been part of St Mellitus College since 2013. He was born and brought up in Liverpool and, following a brief spell working in academia, he has ministered in Liverpool and Chester Dioceses since ordination. Michael’s zeal is for discipleship and equipping church leaders and their congregations to follow Christ in mission. He is especially passionate about mixed-economy parishes, and has led inherited churches alongside planting and leading Fresh Expressions of Church in a variety of contexts.
When? Monday daytimes (9.30am – 4.30pm)
Where? Liverpool Cathedral, L1 7AZ
Contact northwest@stmellitus.ac.uk
28
South West
East Midlands
St Mellitus College, South West offers full-time context-based ordination training, as well as full-time and part-time undergraduate study.
St Mellitus College, East Midlands, offers full-time context based ordination training as well as full- and part-time undergraduate study.
Through the provision of a new model for ordination training for the South West, the centre is contributing to the resourcing and growth of God’s Church in the region. Ordinands from across the spectrum of Anglican traditions join with lay learners to study theology in the context of worship, unity in the Spirit, and in service to God’s mission to his world.
Launching in September 2019, St Mellitus College East Midlands is the newest teaching centre for the college. The centre will seek to support and resource the church in the region by making available ordination training and wider theological education opportunities which aim to enable ministry and mission within the diverse contexts in the East Midlands area to flourish. This provision is being undertaken in collaboration with the Dioceses of Leicester and Southwell & Nottingham and at the invitation of the Bishops.
Revd Dr Donna Lazenby is the Director of St Mellitus College, South West. She has been on staff at St Mellitus College since 2014. She is passionate about resourcing the churches of the region. She delights to see individuals becoming more and more the persons they were created to be, as the Spirit forms the saints in Christlikeness and all take up their vocation. Donna loves theology, has planted and led a Fresh Expression of Church, and is passionate about building bridges between the Church and ontemporary culture.
When?
Revd Dr David Emerton has been appointed as Director of St Mellitus College, East Midlands, taking up his post from March 2019. David is passionate about the unity between theology and the Church and the development of both lay and ordained people as disciples of Christ. David trained for ordination as part of the first cohort of students at St Mellitus College, subsequently going on to complete his Doctoral studies at Aberdeen University before moving to minister in the East Midlands region.
Tuesday daytimes (9.30am – 4.30pm)
Where? St Matthias Church, Plymouth, PL4 8HF
Contact southwest@stmellitus.ac.uk
When? Tuesday daytimes (9.30am – 4.30pm)
Where? Trinity Church, Nottingham, NG1 3HX
Contact info@stmellitus.ac.uk
29
Community & Support
Welcome and Induction Each September, we host a Welcome and Induction Day for new students to introduce them to college life and to the staff team. It is a great opportunity to get to know some fellow students from around the country, before the start of term kicks in.
Chaplains and Counsellors The college makes available a team of chaplains and counsellors to discuss anything students may be dealing with whilst undertaking their studies. We’re aware that taking on academic study can be a big challenge and often coincides with other changes in people’s lives. Our current students find it such a gift to be able to talk things through with people who are impartial and excellent listeners.
Formation Groups While the thought of arriving at a college can be a daunting prospect, it can be helpful to know that students will be split into smaller groups of about 12, facilitated by a member of the academic staff team. These groups meet on a regular basis and play a central role in the life of St Mellitus College with the overall aim of shaping Christ-like character, and are where deep friendships are formed. Formation Group Tutors are often the first point of contact for any queries about academic pathway or programme of study and are there to provide academic and pastoral support for their students.
Fellowship Groups As well as Formation Groups, those studying for ordination will be assigned a Fellowship Group which meets together at Residential Weekends. These are made up of students from a variety of cohorts and teaching centres and are a great opportunity to learn from people with a wide range of experiences.
Senior Students Each year senior students are appointed as representatives of the student body. Their responsibility is to serve the student community, gathering feedback from students across the different cohorts, programmes and teaching centres to pass on to senior staff at regular meetings. They are there to offer pastoral support for students where needed and pray for the college and its community life.
Undergraduate Student Support Undergraduate students have a support structure within the College dedicated to them. The Lead Undergraduate Tutor and Lead Youth Ministry Tutor provide student support and host events to build community amongst the student body. The College hosts a retreat weekend and a weekend away each year, as well as evening events during Teaching Weeks, so that students can have fun and connect with one another.
30
Online Resources Once students are enrolled, they are granted access to our online learning platform, Moodle. This is a great tool, catered to each student’s bespoke needs, with module guides, student handbooks, assignment schedules, reading lists – everything they might need to excel as a student at St Mellitus College.
Academic Development We know that many students who begin their studies with us are somewhat daunted about academic study. For some, it is their first venture into Higher Education. For others, it has been many years since they engaged in formal study. St Mellitus College is fully committed to support students through their academic work, and while the primary point of contact is their Formation Group tutor, who will offer encouragement, advice and support with their studies and assignments, the College also offers an optional Study Skills course, spread throughout the year.
SpLD Support SpLDs (Specific Learning Difficulties), including dyslexia and dyspraxia, are learning difficulties which affect approximately 10% of the general population. This is mirrored in the student population at St Mellitus College where 8 – 10% of students in each year group are dyslexic. A smaller proportion of students are dyspraxic. St Mellitus College is committed to enabling students with these learning difficulties to access its programmes without being disadvantaged and therefore makes reasonable adjustments to programmes in order to enable such students to participate without disadvantage. Tailored packages of support are also available according to the needs of the individual students. St Mellitus College is committed to making reasonable adjustments to ensure students can study with us.
“
St Mellitus College is a place where I’ve not only grown in my confidence and ability to study theology, but I’ve also established a sense of community and have made sincere friendships that I’ll take with me when I leave! It makes a huge difference knowing that the community of students and staff will so often go out of their way to offer support, guidance and encouragement. Sam, undergraduate 31
Alumni Story: Jessie Jessie graduated from the BA in Theology and Youth Ministry in 2017. Below, she shares what she’s been doing since. Words Jessie Smart Photo Mark Pape
Tell us a bit about yourself My name is Jessie Smart and I am super passionate about working with young people; girls ministry in particular. I’m a youth minister at St Michael’s Southfields and the founder of a project called Belle which works with schools and youth groups, running workshops about girls realizing their true value, beauty and purpose! The need for Belle is prevalent in a world so preoccupied with image and social media. It’s really exciting that out of my passion, the opportunity to be the author of a book called More Than Just Pretty has arisen with SPCK Publishers. It’s been crazy, surreal and an absolute privilege to be on the book writing and publishing journey.
What are your hopes for Belle Ministry and More Than Just Pretty? My hope for More Than Just Pretty is that it will mean freedom for girls across the nation. My hope is that girls will know that they are more than their grades, their past, their body shape and the number of likes on their social media feed. My hope is that this will be a vessel for God to communicate his love for his daughters. My hope is that girls in schools, communities, youth groups, churches, families and clubs will rise up in the assurance of their value, beauty and purpose. My hope is that the message of More Than Just Pretty will spread contagiously. It’s time for girls to know that they are more than just pretty; they are pretty wild, pretty loveable, pretty ambitious, pretty kind, pretty funny. My hope for Belle is that it can continue to grow its presence in primary and secondary schools as well as youth groups and churches. My hope is that through testimony, activities, vulnerability, conversation and media, girls will be equipped and empowered to be who they truly are and were created to be. My hope is that Belle will be funded and able to run events, weekends away and retreats (in partnerships with other organisations) to create new, engaging and creative ways of exploring and communicating the truth with girls.
How has your time at St Mellitus College impacted your vocation? Studying Theology and Youth Ministry at St Mellitus College has majorly influenced my vocation. The programme gave me many practical, emotional and theological skills in terms of working in ministry. I was able to explore Belle theologically which led to changes in the way I communicated its ethos and mission. I’ve been able to write my book in a way which is grounded because of studying theology. I was able to connect deeply and authentically with those on my course and network with others; learning the paramount significance of being interdependent. I expect that everything I explored and learnt at St Mellitus College will continue to impact my vocation into the unforeseeable future!
33
St Mellitus College is a place of hope – hope for the church and hope for the world.
It is a place full of energy and life, one of the most innovative and exciting places to study theology in the UK.
Study with us, and be part of the story.
stmellitus.ac.uk/study-with-us
35
stmellitus.ac.uk info@stmellitus.ac.uk London | Chelmsford | North West | South West | East Midlands