The Diocese of Guildford has launched a new theological college, which will train up to 100 people each year for lay and ordained ministry.
St Martha’s is intended to build on the work of the former Local Ministry Programme.
Courses will focus on a mixture of practical ministry and academic theology, with the faculty hoping to attract students who have experienced a call to ministry for the first time.
The establishment of a new theological college will be welcome news for many, in the wake of Spurgeon’s sudden closure in August, and theology degrees being cut down at mainstream universities.
An inaugural service has been held at St Mary’s Church, Guildford, in front of over 100 clergy, lay leaders, and former students.
The Bishop of Guildford, Rt Revd Andrew Watson, opened the launch event by highlighting the significance of naming the college after Saint Martha; one of only five biblical figures described as “loved by Jesus.”
The college will offer several training pathways, including the Local Ministry Programme for ordination, Foundations in Ministry for lay ministry, and the Elizabeth Pathway to ordination for students over the age of 55.
The faculty are also planning to host occasional part-time courses for people looking to explore ministry in a more relaxed way.
David Godwin, a second-year Foundations in Ministry student, said his studies have seen him become “more intentional in faith, and more confident in sharing the Good News”.
“I know that God has a plan, and faith [in my calling] is more important than certainty,” he added.
Revd Sarah Murphy, a graduate of the Caleb track – soon to become the Elizabeth Pathway – said she had been strengthened by the practical elements of the course, which allowed her to experience prison chaplaincy and learn about church planting with a local Holy Trinity Brompton (HTB) team.