I longing critic It is a commitment to avoid unnecessary perverse provocations and to support honest and rigorous criticism.we need This interrogation of all sorts of ideas, developments, pathologies in this fast-paced and complex cultural context in which we find ourselves. I was therefore somewhat surprised to find on your page a sharp critique of the new forms of theological education in this country by my Anglican colleague, the Rev. Marcus Walker. Walker's polemics were “thoughtless” in the Arendtian sense, taking an intellectual approach that traded on careless assumptions rather than prudent caution.
Of course, Marcus Walker is right to emphasize the need for well-trained and rigorously educated priests in the Church of England. Additionally, I too lament the declining numbers across the sector. Walker, however, singles out St. Meritus College in particular as a violator, claiming that “traditional boarding colleges require 40 credits of Bible study, while new theological institutions do not.” Sometimes he's completely wrong. The truth is that all Theological Educational Institutions (TEIs) within the Church of England are held to the same standards. At St. His Meritus College, students undertake at least 40 credits of Bible study. Many of our students will go on to do even more.
In early March, we celebrated the Class of 2023. This included 138 clergy serving in 26 dioceses across the country. I was deeply moved by the testimonies of clergy who have received various academic awards. As I listened, I felt excited about what was in store for these intelligent, well-equipped men and women, and what was in store for the parishes to which they were headed. I was lucky enough to attend their training and found myself captivated by the first few episodes of the fascinating Netflix drama. Now, as I watch them graduate, I realize that I want to see the rest of this series as well. How will they face future challenges? How will they win in the upcoming grand finale?
And it must also be said that for some of our clergy, graduation is not an automatic rite of passage, nor is it no mean feat. For example, one such person that comes to mind is Jamie. “He's no ordinary priest,” he said as he introduced himself. But here Jamie threw himself into his studies, prayerfully persevering to earn a bachelor's degree in theology, ministry, and ministry. (This includes 40 credits of Bible study). As Jamie himself observed, between his graduation and Jesus walking on water, his family may have had a hard time identifying a greater miracle. But as Jamie also pointed out, our need for “unusual priests” has never been more pressing. So my question is, is Jamie disrespecting theological education in our national church? Would it be better for Jamie to look for an alternative job? Or rather, does Jamie's accomplishments signal the emergence of a generation that will boldly redefine what ministry and training should look like? I wonder?
No, the biggest challenges facing the sector lie elsewhere. This means that the training period for monks is becoming shorter and shorter (I'm the only one noticing this trend) wish I had the authority to revoke it).we need more time. You will have more time to teach intellectually uncompromising and compelling theology. MIt is a valuable time that helps clergy prepare for the often harsh realities of ministry. It is this combination of time and focus that will save the parish.
… All students still have a choice as to where they want to train.
Walker also argues that no one should be forced into a cheaper training model. That's exactly right, Marcus. But no one is! While we certainly need more investment in this area, it does mean that all students have a choice in where they want to train.
What is essentially needed today is more people with a missionary mission within the Church of England. Data shows only about half of the number of priesthood-trained clergy is needed, and the number of paid clergy is expected to decline from 7.5,000 to 5.5,000 over the next 10 years. is. This is cause for alarm. And why huge investment is required. You have a clear choice: invest in your future church minister or save for a rainy day. Well, it's raining! Now is the time to invest in theological training to ensure that every diocese has an adequate number of priests and a properly organized priest population. Revd Walker's Channel His anger is misdirected. He is right to demand high standards. It is a mistake to think that this can only be achieved by forcing one form of training on everyone. Oxford has its place, but we need to think imaginatively, rather than reductively, about training.
every TEI seeks to ensure that the next generation of deacons and priests are firmly rooted in the foundations of our faith.
I hope Pastor Walker doesn't get much sleep tonight, and let me assure him of the following.very TEI is dedicated to the prosperity of the Church of England. every TEI seeks to ensure that the next generation of deacons and priests are firmly rooted in the foundations of our faith. Next year, St. Meritus College will host a conference celebrating his 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed. And with senior faculty including Lord (Rowan) Williams and Dr Jane Williams, we currently have a further 23 PhDs in Biblical Studies, Religious Studies, Missiology, Systematics, Philosophy, Ethics and Pastoral Theology. doing.
If we sacrifice intellectual rigor, truth is called into the church. to The world we are called to speak about will not take it seriously to. The church is falling apart. The world has collapsed. Both require more priests. Rather than belittling or discouraging our new generation of ministers, Pastor Walker should help prepare and empower them.
