The Diocese of Guildford has launched a new theological college to expand its ambition to train more men and women for lay and ordained ministry across the diocese.
St Martha’s College will build on the work of the previously named Local Ministry Programme (LMP) and offer candidates high-quality theological training and formation, practical experience, and opportunities for people taking their first steps in exploring a calling to ministry.
The College was launched at St Mary’s Church, Guildford, in front of more than 100 clergy and lay leaders, including former students. The evening provided an opportunity to learn more about the vision of the College from those involved in its foundation, as well as to hear inspiring stories from curates and lay leaders who have been shaped by the training they received.
Opening the event, Bishop Andrew described the theological significance of naming the College after Saint Martha — one of only five people in the Bible described as being “loved by Jesus”. He shared his hope that graduates will grow in their ability to disciple others and grasp the depth of Jesus’ love in all that they do. He also explained that the name draws inspiration from St Martha’s Church, which sits geographically at the centre of the diocese along the Pilgrims’ Way.
Bishop Andrew's opening words
St Martha’s College will encompass various training options, including the Local Ministry Programme (the ordained track), Foundations in Ministry (the lay ministry programme), the Elizabeth Pathway (an ordained track for those over 55), and Occasional Courses for those seeking to “dip their toe” into exploring ministry.
Foundations in Ministry year-two student David Godwin shared his experience, explaining that he began attending church regularly around 11 years ago but more recently decided to “take a leap of faith” and explore a call to lay ministry. He said:
“I saw FIM as a chance to become more intentional in my faith and more confident in sharing the Good News. I have gained in biblical knowledge, deepened my faith, and feel recharged. I know that God has a plan, and faith (in my calling) is more important than certainty.”
Revd Sarah Murphy, who completed the Caleb track (soon to become the Elizabeth Pathway), praised the practical elements of the course, including learning about prison chaplaincy through visiting a local prison and meeting with the ministry team at a local HTB plant to understand church planting.
As well as celebrating the launch of the College, the evening also acknowledged its community of students and tutors, including graduates from the College’s licensed track, who were presented with their certificates.
Revd Dr Anna Poulson, St Martha's Interim Principal
Beth Perkins, Foundations in Ministry Lead
St Martha’s Interim Principal, Revd Dr Anna Poulson, shared the essence of St Martha’s College using the words of current students: “Fellowship, family, togetherness, community, hope, belonging and joy. They even used the word ‘exciting’.”
She added:
“My hope and prayer for St Martha’s College is first and foremost that we can be a community of people formed and transformed through our relationship with God, with one another, and with the world around us.
And that we can be sent out as ambassadors of His love to transform lives and communities for His glory.”
Bishop Paul closed the launch event by saying that “St Martha’s will create an even stronger vocational culture in the diocese,” adding that it is “so exciting to see people become exactly what God wants them to be.” He challenged attendees to consider who in their own lives they might “tap on the shoulder” to encourage them to explore a vocation in ministry.
More information on St Martha’s is available on the new website.