Summer 2016
NEWS from
www.ridley.cam.ac.uk
In this issue: THE HOPE OF CHRIST ON A DAY OF TERROR Rhona Knight’s parish placement took her to Brussels at the time of the bombings p 3
PRAYING ON LOCATION Federation students join up for a prayer-filled walk around three Cambridge sites p 4
WITNESS ON THE SIDELINES Danny Driver on the value and challenges of sports chaplaincy p 5
CYM REACHES NEW HEIGHTS! Youth and children’s ministry students start a new annual tradition p 10
FROM ZAMBIA TO HEREFORDSHIRE Kina Robertshaw looks back on her journey of discernment and forward to her curacy p 11
TAKING ON THE TOUGH MUDDER CHALLENGE Ridleians discover the importance of team spirit on a gruelling 11-mile obstacle run pp 12–13
Pray for our leavers: The 2016 Ember List pp 7–9
WHEN HE REIGNS IT POURS! Jane Quinton reflects on a college mission that took ordinands out of their comfort zone p 16
Seeking Out New Vantage Points Last month I climbed Castle with Jesus. As a fisherman, Peter was more used Mound in Cambridge for the to boats than mountains. But on the mountain top, first time. Once the site of Cam- he was overcome not by a panoramic view but by bridge Castle, it offers an unique Jesus transfigured before him, his face shining like viewing point for Cambridge’s the sun. ‘We were eyewitnesses of his majesty’, historic colleges. I stood on the marvelled Paul as Peter, quoting from 2 Peter 1:16. breezy summit with students As students train for ministry, we encourage and staff of the Cambridge Theo- them to find unfamiliar vantage points from logical Federation, as we paused which they can appreciate that same Jesus and at one of the stopping points on our evening his purposes in new ways. This may happen in prayer pilgrimage. the classroom, in a local ministry context or Unfamiliar vantage points can be worth when we worship together. For one student, it finding. Some of our youth ministry students happened on the Faith in Business Conference discovered this in the Lake District over Easter, he attended, enabling him to view the chalwhen they had their first ever experience of lenges he had faced in the construction indusclambering up a mountain. But unfamiliar try in a wider perspective. vantage points do not always This year we have a record offer picture postcard views. number of eighty-one ordinands We encourage our One of our students travelled at Ridley. What constitutes a new students to find to Brussels for her one-month vantage point will be different unfamiliar vantage placement. Just a Eurostar ride for each of them. The attraction points from which they away, Holy Trinity church offerof a new vantage point may well can appreciate God’s ed a unique vantage point for influence where they train as purposes in new ways items in the news headlines. As curates. You can read about one you can read in her article of our students, originally from opposite, she observed anxious reactions to the Zambia, who will serve her curacy in rural Herprospect of Brexit. She also witnessed the efordshire. And it is never too late to appreciate trauma inflicted by three terrorist bombs. the advantage of a new viewing point. Adrian Jesus took his disciples to unfamiliar vantage Chatfield, retiring from the Ridley team in July, points. Last term, our Tutor in Homiletics, Paul is looking forward to the vantage point of the Weston, helped us to imagine what that might Bridge Inn on the Erewash Canal, a few hundred have been like. At our weekly Communion service, yards from his new home. What about you? Paul cast himself as Peter, reminiscing about the Andrew Norman time he and two others climbed up a mountain Principal
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The Hope of Christ on a Day of Terror Holy Trinity Brussels, once home to the British nurse Edith Cavell, is a vibrant and diverse church set in the heart of the European capital. I was privileged to be part of the church community during a four-week placement over the Easter vacation. Several things initially struck me: the number of homeless people and refugees; the anxiety over Brexit; the ability of the church to bring together and provide a
another at the airport. Telephone networks couldn’t cope as people tried to contact loved ones. The thirty-two people killed by the blasts came from all over the world. Brussels was shaken and fear was palpable. Five days later a bomb targeting Christians killed at least seventy-five people in Lahore. And through this time we as a church community walked through Holy Week. For many, the violence and oppression as seen in the March bombings are reasons for atheism. Yet the cross in the sky which I photographed on the morning of the bombings from ‘The cross in the sky which I photographed on the morning of the bombings from two airline contrails heralds a different story’
spiritual home for people from all over the globe; the importance of the work of the Diocese in Europe and of the Inter-continental Church Society; and the joy of working in an effective and prayerful team. On the 22nd March, the day of the diocesan Chrism service, things changed. There was a ‘before’ and an ‘after’. Three bombs went off — two at the airport and one at Maelbeck metro station. One church member was on the train and
two airline contrails, the posters of the Serrano Pieta which filled the city, the witness of new friends who had been or were refugees and the open doors of the church in Brussels throughout the crisis herald a different story. It’s the story of how light shines in and dispels darkness and of how darkness itself announces the necessity of that light. It may be Friday, but Sunday is coming! Rhona Knight Final-year ordinand
A Glimpse of the Chapel Lent Art Installation
‘The Scourging with Thorns’ by Claire Todd
‘Simon of Cyrene Helps Jesus Carry the Cross’ by Rachel Monie
‘Jesus is Nailed to the Cross’ by Jo Kibble
‘The Repentant Thief’ by Luke, Becci and Charis Bacon
‘Jesus is Laid in the Tomb’ by Adele Barker and Steve Johnson
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Praying on Location It was a joy on a bright, chilly, very breezy April afternoon, to take time off from exam work to walk mindfully and prayerfully through Cambridge. Meeting at Westminster College, we were led through the walk by a booklet compiled by Dr Anne Francis from the Margaret Beaufort Institute of Theology, the Catholic member of the Cambridge Theological Federation. The selection of prayers, bible passages, meditations and verses was perfect but I particularly appreciated the Celtic prayers, which suited ideally the reflective mood of the walk. Small groups of students and staff from different Federation houses enjoyed fellowship and a prayer-filled walk around three sites, appreciating each other’s company as we went. We visited Westminster College’s prayer labyrinth, St Peter’s Church and Castle Mound.
Welcome to Eeva John We are pleased to announce that Dr Eeva John has been appointed Director of Pastoral Studies, to succeed Ali Walton. Eeva is an experienced theological educator who has served at Trinity Bristol, Wycliffe Hall 4
Each place brought its own blessing; the quiet, rhythmic, contemplative walk through the labyrinth, the bluebells and soft spring green of the trees in St Peter’s churchyard and the unexpected, unlooked for tranquillity of the ancient church itself. Here we were encouraged to focus on the Saxon font and reflect on our own baptism and the age-old Christian tradition that we inherit. Our third and final site offered the windy, breathless thrill of looking out over the city from a rare Cambridgeshire hill, as we prayed for the busyness of lives going on all around us. It was a wonderful refreshment to join others in walking through and praying for an environment which is so familiar that we all too often take it for granted. I felt truly blessed to be celebrating what was for me a (big!) birthday with so much prayer and in such a special way. Sally Wallace-Jones First-year ordinand
and, most recently, Westcott House. She was responsible for implementing the Common Awards programme nationally and has worked in Sudan for a Christian relief and development agency. Her research interests include transformational learning. Eeva is originally from Finland and is married to Rob. They have two grown up children, Hanna and Christopher. We look forward to her joining the Ridley team in September.
Witness on the Sidelines The world of professional foot- ingful conversations I’ve had ball is a challenging place for have tended to be with these anybody to work, Christian or players as they have willingly not. Success is heavily depend- opened up about how they’re Danny Driver ent upon performance, and if finding it. you’re not performing then in ‘They won’t care how much the harsh reality of profess- you know’, the team coach ional football your chances of told me, ‘until they know how selection are slim. much you care’. In what is a During my first year at Rid- male-dominated environment, ley whilst doing one-to-one there have been few occasions work with some young Christ- where the lads have opened ian athletes who compete up about anything they are nationally or internationally, I struggling with. Talking about became increasingly aware of struggles is perceived to be a calling to support those who weak and the pressure to compete at an elite level. Hav- perform leaves little room ing got to know the Cambridge for weakness. But as with all United first team chaplain, the chaplaincy and pastoral work, opportunity opened up for me relationship is key. As each to experience chaplaincy work week has passed and they’ve with their under-18s scholars. seen I’m around we’ve got to The lads in the squad are know each other more. semi-professional players who Each time as I set off for the train several days a Abbey Stadium, the week whilst study- The pressure on words of St Paul in ing for a vocational Colossians 4:2–6 profootballers to qualification. Since perform leaves vide a firm basis for October I’ve been my prayer: that God little room for to weekly trainmay open up a door weakness ing sessions and for a conversation most home games. about Jesus, and that My role is simply to be there my conduct and conversation to listen and chat to any of would be grace-filled. Several the players, coaching staff or times I’ve been asked, ‘Why are parents. Conversations range you training to be a vicar?’ or from none at all, to a brief ‘Why do you bother coming up two minutes, to the length of each week?’ or the occasional a match or session. Having comment, ‘I pray at times when played a lot of sport growing I’m struggling’. For all the times up, I know how frustrating it when the talk is about football can be watching your mates in general or how their colplay whilst you’re on the side- lege work is going, these brief lines, injured. The more mean- moments — of simple questions
or deep statements about a spirituality they may not have fully acknowledged — make it worth it. It’s worth standing in horizontal driving rain whilst they train or play. It’s worth it when at times no one acknowledges my presence there. It’s worth it when there’s just small talk. It’s worth it when there are deeper conversations. It’s worth it because Jesus cares about them and I want to make this known to them. Sport chaplaincy is something that the Church for many years has seemed to neglect but the truth of the matter is there’s one massive harvest field in professional sport. If you’re reading this and have a sense of a call to sports chaplaincy or you know someone who may have a calling to sports chaplaincy . . . get involved. The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few! Danny Driver Second-year ordinand
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Retiring to a New Mission Field Just a few hundred yards from our new home in Ilkeston is the Bridge Inn on the Erewash Canal, with a Christian landlord, canal boat galas and miles of happy running territory. There’s so much to explore, and opportunities for ministry abound. Yet I know I need to rein myself in, take a sabbatical, spend some time learning to do less, and to do it better. I haven’t got my head around the word ‘retirement’ and wonder whether ‘stopping paid employment’ says it better? The last nine years at Ridley Hall, helping birth and develop the Simeon Centre, have been amongst the most rewarding (and sometimes the most tiring) years of my working life. Moving on isn’t difficult for me as a ‘missionary kid’ and
I’m looking forward to hearing how a new Director of the Centre will lead it on new paths and projects. Many of you who read this have been really supportive and encouraging, and I’m grateful that you will go on praying for the Centre’s core mission: to keep lively prayer at the centre of Christian discipleship.
I hope to earn the right to gossip the gospel occasionally
For me, I wouldn’t like to second-guess God. However, I expect and hope to continue giving spiritual direction and mentoring, to speak at conferences and retreats, and to spend enough time getting to know our neighbours to earn the right to gossip the gospel
occasionally. It’s a hard mission ground, with some of the lowest church attendance in the country. So I think I’d like just to be me, and to listen out for rumours of angels. I was reminded recently of T. S. Eliot’s warning in ‘Little Gidding’, that ‘you are not here to verify, instruct yourself, or inform curiosity or carry report. You are here to kneel where prayer has been valid’. Where we will find Christian community remains to be seen, but my dream for that little corner of God’s Church that we will inhabit is that it be a place of hospitality and openness, a home. I long for us as Christians to show the world that we live life more fully, with greater awe, wonder and compassion. Let the fun begin! Adrian Chatfield Tutor in Christian Life and Thought & Director of the Simeon Centre
Equip: Youth Work is a nationally recognised qualification on the Qualification Credit Framework (QCF). The programme runs for six Saturdays from November to May, 10.00am to 4.30pm at Ridley Hall:
Inspiring Change
BO FO
O R K
NO
TH CO E 2 U R 016 S E /17 6
W
Providing you with the knowledge and skills that you need to be a competent and confident Christian youth worker within your church or organisation.
5th November 2016 26th November 2016 14th January 2017
25th February 2017 22nd April 2017 20th May 2017
For more information and to book your place contact us: info@cambridgecym.org.uk E
01223 746583 www.cambridgecym.org.uk
Ember List 2016 Our annual ‘Ember list’ draws on a tradition of Ember days, which were formely set aside by the Church for fasting and prayer, and considered especially appropriate for ordinations. With this pullout centrefold we invite you to pray for this year’s leavers as they prepare for their future ministry, whether it be in the world of work or in parish or youth ministry.
Adele & Jeremy Barker and Frederick,
Alexander, Edward & Nicholas Formerly Chartered Accountant Parish: St Philip & St James, Walderslade, Rochester Diocese I am excited to be returning to Kent for my curacy. The last two years at Ridley have been enjoyable, and also challenging in ways that I could not have anticipated. Being a member of a worshipping and prayerful community has been a privilege. I have made some wonderful friends and have many memories that will go with me.
Matt & Emily Beer
Formerly Parish Assistant Parish: St Mary’s Bletchley, Oxford Diocese My time at Ridley has been filled with a mixture of hard work, laughter, and friendship. These are the things that I will take from this amazing place to be. I am looking forward to working within a great team at St Mary’s and looking forward to seeing the Kingdom of God breaking into peoples lives.
Jonathan Carter
Formerly Physics Researcher and Christian Union Staffworker I am still waiting on the Lord for where he wants me after my time at Ridley. Whilst here, I’ve appreciated the chance to focus on prayer, to feel a greater sense of belonging in the Anglican tradition and to delve deep into rich theology through my studies.
Beth & Peter Cope and Matty & Rachel Formerly Physicist & Technical Marketing Specialist Parish: Lordsbridge Team, Ely Diocese It has been a real privilege to train on the new Contextual Pathway. As a Pioneer, this
allowed me to learn from inherited-mode church during my attachment, at the same time as pioneering a fresh expression of church. This training and the friendships formed are a good foundation for my new role as Team Pioneer Curate.
Pete & Claire Deaves
and Phoebe & Jemimah Formerly Parent Support Adviser/Teacher Parish: Holy Trinity, Rudgwick, Chichester Diocese We leave Ridley and St Matthew’s church family grateful for God’s grace in our lives, forming us for serving Christ’s Church. We take from the Cambridge conurnbation close friendships, an additional daughter, and excitement (mixed with apprehension!) about what’s ahead in the wilds of West Sussex. Please pray we would glorify God as we proclaim Christ with our lips and lives, empowered by his Spirit.
Colin Fairweather
Formerly English Teacher Parish: St Paul’s, Braintree, Chelmsford Diocese Before I came to Ridley, I was an English teacher at a sixth form college. After ordination, I will be heading off to St Paul’s parish in Braintree, Essex. I have felt like Ridley was exactly where God wanted me to be, and am so grateful for the intellectual and spiritual formation I have undergone here.
Sam & Rhiannon Follett
Formerly Physics Student Parish: Holy Trinity Brompton, Diocese of London It’s been such a privilege to have the opportunity to live and study in Cambridge for three years. We have formed deep friendships and I have had the space to learn and grow. We will certainly miss the place and the people. We’re really looking forward to joining the team at HTB and getting stuck in to ministry in London.
Tim & Clare Gage and Benjamin & Samuel
Formerly Assistant Administrator and Communications Coordinator Parish: Bishop Hannington, Hove, Chichester Diocese We have had a wonderful three years in Cambridge at Ridley Hall. We have made friends and been challenged, encouraged, supported and loved. We have grown in our knowledge and love of Jesus Christ and seek to serve Him more with the gifts and good news that he has given us.
Lauren Gate
Formerly NHS Administrator Parish: Oak Tree Anglican Fellowship, Acton, London Diocese I am thankful for the time I have spent at Ridley over the last three years. I have been greatly blessed by receiving great teaching and wisdom, forming great friendships and playing croquet in the sunshine. I am looking forward to my curacy in London and drawing upon all the things I have learnt and experienced while being at Ridley.
Sam Green
Formerly L’Arche Community Assistant Parish: St Thomas, Ashton-in-Makerfield, Liverpool Diocese I have loved being part of the Ridley Community; great people, two cooked meals a day, morning prayer, and everything else community life brings, have all made this a time I’ve really valued. I can’t wait for the essay-less future to begin!
Christopher & Rachel Henderson
and Bertie & Daisy Formerly Ministry Assistant and Accountant Parish: All Saints Little Shelford, Ely Diocese I have enjoyed the many opportunities to learn in Cambridge, and after three years at Ridley am looking forward to flourishing within the Church of England.
Rachel & Francis Hilditch and Abi
Formerly University Admissions Staff Parish: CSK, Hampton, Ely Diocese There is lots of change coming up: new house, new job, new town & (recently) a new baby, but we are so excited as a family to see what this adventure with God will bring. In the meantime, a big thanks to Ridley for shaping me into the person I am today and for giving me fantastic friends for life!
Matt & Kirsty Houghton
and Reuben & Hannah Formerly Church Youth Worker Parish: St Mary’s, Gt Baddow, Chelmsford Diocese Ridley has been a good time of equipping and receiving and sharing in community together. I am going on to a curacy at St Marys, Gt Baddow, Chelmsford in team ministry and look forward to my next stage of learning and putting ministry into practise!
Steve & Lindsay Johnson
and Esther & Anwen Formerly Charity Worker Parish: Benefice of Goring, Streatley and South Stoke, Oxford Diocese Ridley has been a gift; I’ve got to know wonderful friends, been taught, challenged and shaped by God. The two years haves gone so fast, but I have great memories. Now it’s time to move into the real world and put into practice all we have been taught and see what God has in store.
Rhona & Chris Knight
and Isaac, Jo & Misha Formerly GP Academic, Educator and Medical Ethicist Parish: Sleaford, Lincoln Diocese Ridley has been an oasis of faith, formation, friends and fellowship. I am surely not the only weekly commuter to exclaim each Monday how wonderful it was to come back to Ridley for a rest. Highlights? The Federation and college community; spiritual director training; Ignatian prayer; placements in Cottesmore and Brussels; Greek and Hebrew and researching flourishing in curacy. Really looking forward to seeing Chris every day again as we move to Sleaford.
Mark & Ali Lavender
and Hannah & Nathan Formerly Head of Science and School Croquet Captain Parish: St Paul’s, Crofton, Rochester Diocese Being a commuter from Kent I made full use of the diocesan travel allowance and am now deeply familiar with the M25 and M11. Despite feeling a little fragmented between two homes I am so grateful for my second family on F staircase and for the strong sense of community at Ridley.
Timothy Madeley
Formerly an Employment Lawyer and Pastoral Worker Parish: Ingleborough Team Ministry, Diocese of West Yorkshire and the Dales Ridley has been a time of change for me. It has not been without personal difficulties, but I have been blessed by the community and really felt supported as I trained. I am looking forward to seeing what God has in store for the future and the ways in which I can serve Him.
Rob & Melissa Oram
and Brony, Maddy & Nate Formerly Legal Representative Parish: St Bart’s, Holmer Ridley has been a tool in the Lord’s hand in chiseling, sanding and gently weatherproofing both me and my family. These have been days of challenge, formation and edification. We leave with gratitude to Ridley’s staff and fellow students, and to Christ Church, Cambridge for its love and Godly guidance to us as a family.
Chris & Trine Pearse
and Gracie & Joshua Formerly Actor/Musician & Worship Minister Parish: St Leonard’s, Wollaton, Southwell & Nottingham Diocese Ridley has been a great place to grow, be challenged, and be equipped for what’s to come in my future ministry. My wife and I have really loved being part of the community and have learnt so much during our time here. We’ll be sad to go but are very excited to see what God has in store in Wollaton!
Kina Robertshaw
Formerly in Retail Business Parish: St Peter Bromyard, Hereford Diocese I will always be grateful to God — it was during my time at Ridley, as an independent student, that I came to know my true identity in Christ and responded to God’s call to priesthood. ‘Surely the Lord is in this place.’
Simon & Sandy Robertson and Chloe
Formerly Nurse and Professional Development Lead Parish: All Saint’s Hordle and St Andrew’s Tiptoe, Winchester Diocese My family and I have been so blessed to be part of this community. It has been a time to learn, pray and serve. I am thankful for the support and wisdom from the tutors, and look forward to seeing what God is doing in Hordle and Tiptoe and joining in.
Tim & Sarah Rogers
and Isaac, Inigo & Raphael Formerly Diocesan Administrator Parish: Redenhall and Scole, Norwich Diocese We are looking forward to mission and ministry with seven rural churches and two schools. At Ridley I have grown in faith and knowledge, met wonderful people, learnt about my gifts and flaws and been inspired for God’s work.
Andrew & Jennifer Steer
and Rachel & Jessica Formerly Midwife Parish: Almondbury with Farnley Tyas, Huddersfield, Diocese of Leeds Studying at Ridley Hall has been a wonderful blessing, in terms of the depth and variety of theologies uncovered, as well as the richness of the worshipping community. Working and living with such a diverse body of people is not without its challenges, but the importance of prayer, worship and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit mean that this is truly a community of God’s love.
Ben Strain
Formerly Administrator, Lord’s Cricket Ground Parish: St Paul’s, Ealing, London Diocese My time at Ridley has provided the opportunity to build some amazing friendships which I hope will last a lifetime and help sustain me in ministry. My wife and I are so excited to be joining the community at St Paul’s and I am especially looking forward to developing gifts in preaching and teaching.
Kingsley & Sophia Yeboah
and Dennis, Bernice & Martin Formerly British Soldier Parish: Rainham Parish Church, Chelmsford We thank God for all his goodness towards our family. Ridley Hall is a gift both to the Church of England and to ordinands. In Ridley, there is an atmosphere of grace and love. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here. I am looking forward to parish ministry.
Youth Ministry Students
Please pray for this year’s leavers at the Institute for Children, Youth and Mission: Tim Annan, Jay Anderson, Charlotte Barton, Lizzie Beckett, Jen Crawford, Lisa Gordon, Naomi Lee and Rachel McDermott.
CYM Reaches New Heights! During the Easter vacation first-year CYM students swapped Cambridge for Cumbria. The students are the first CYM cohort to be studying for a BA (Hons) in Theology, Mission and Ministry on the CYM endorsed pathway in youth or children’s ministry within Common Awards. Together with CYM Director, Robin Barden, and Ridley tutor, Michael Volland, the students enjoyed a hard-earned break from study with a weekend of fun, fellowship and hill walking. The venue was the ‘Bunk House’ at Rydal Hall. With a log burner, comfy sofas and a well-equipped kitchen, the Bunk House was perfectly set up for conversation, laughter, contemplation and theological reflection. At the heart of the
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weekend’s activities was a long climb to the top of a local mountain. It gave the students a great work-out, a shared experience and a chance to remind themselves of the beauty of God in creation. The climb also helped to foster endurance and determination as the students encountered no less than five false summits en route. On Sunday morning the students joined local people at Rydal parish church (where William Wordsworth was once Warden) and were hugely blessed by the warm welcome and the quality and depth of the worship, in which almost everyone played a part. The combination of good fellowship, a chance to recharge batteries before the summer term, and the opportunity to be reminded in fresh ways about our shared calling, means the residential looks set to become an annual feature of the CYM programme.
From Zambia to Herefordshire Looking back, the journey to my curacy began when I responded to the prompting — of what I believe was the Holy Spirit — to leave my home country of Zambia and go to the unknown. I found myself at Ridley Hall, and it turned out to be my wilderness where I would reclaim my identity in Christ. It was a journey of almost six years: growing in faith, reading theology, discerning the sense of call to priesthood, and deepening my understanding of the Anglican tradition. I am now ready to embark on a new wave of change. From being a city girl, I will move to the rural benefice of Bromyard and Stoke Lacy. From my charismatic Pentecostal upbringing, I will find myself dancing to the beat of a rural evangelical parish. The benefice lies in the north-eastern corner of the predominantly rural county of Herefordshire, known for its outstanding natural beauty. There are four churches in the parish: St Peter’s Bromyard, St Paul’s Stoke Lacy, Brockhampton Chapel — a private chapel in the National Trust Brockhampton Estate — and Moreton Jeffries, which is in the care of the Church Conservation Trust.
We asked the Rt Revd Christopher Cocksworth — former Ridley Principal and now Bishop of Coventry — what advice he would give to today’s ordinands as they embark on their curacies.
I will be based at St Peter’s in Bromyard, a small market town with independent stores and businesses. Bromyard is ‘The Town of Festivals’, including the Gala and Steam Rally, the Folk Festival and Scarecrow Festival. St Peter’s is Grade 1 listed, dating back to at least 840AD, when it was an important centre of mission. It is by far the largest and most ancient building in Bromyard and is a heritage asset in its own right. Previously, the pattern of church life was traditional and fairly formal. Things changed in 2000 with the arrival of a new incumbent and then with his successor in 2013; together they have taken the church in a more evangelical direction, introducing more informal and contemporary patterns of worship. I look forward to my curacy, to being part of what God is already doing in the benefice. Isaiah 56:6–7 is a passage that has been on my heart concerning the curacy: And foreigners who bind themselves to the Lord to minister to him, to love the name of the Lord, and to be his servants, all who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it and who hold fast to my covenant — these I will bring to my holy mountain and give them joy in my house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.
Kina Robertshaw, final-year ordinand
It’s a pretty gruelling thing, a pretty rigorous thing, Christian ministry. I tell people to change their socks, because you sometimes have pretty long days! You need to look after yourself. But it’s the deep things of Christian ministry which remain true. Know the Church — know the Church deeply. Love the Church — love the Church truly. Be faithful. 11
Business Opportunities for the Gospel Stakeholder or Neighbour? The theme for this year’s Faith in Business conference left me reflecting on my time spent in the civil engineering and construction industry as Contracts and Project Manager. Few people will disagree that the construction sector in its entirety can be an extremely tough and demanding work place. This intensifies if you are a Christian, trying to imitate the loving, graceful servant nature of our Lord Jesus Christ. The speakers shared their experienceshonestlyandopenly and this often gave us a deeper look into their own hearts and minds, allowing us to see how they navigate the business arena from a Christian perspec-
tive. It was comforting in some respects to see that the struggles and battles I used to be engaged in on a daily basis were not unique to my line of work, but appear in every industry out there. It was also extremely encouraging when you hear people at the top of the business spectrum declare that they are openly willing to say no to immoral and unethical business behaviour. But it was not all about struggles and battles. We left the conference encouraged to stand strong and expect God to move in tremendous ways. We were encouraged to pray faithfully for those we work with and to pray for opportunities
Delegates sharing experiences and viewpoints during the conference
to share the gospel through our actions and decisions. Albeit infrequent, the opportunities do appear, and we need to be ready to give a response. What I valued most of all was the sense of community that was quickly felt. I met amazing people and was blessed to share time in prayer — corporate and personal. Roelof van Emmenis First-year ordinand
Taking on the Tough Mudder Challenge When Danny Driver, senior student, asked if I would like to take part in a Tough Mudder challenge with a team from Ridley, little did I know what I was letting myself in for! But on a Saturday in April, seven of us met at Culden Faw, near Henley, with a mixture of nerves and excitement, ready for the challenge. We were a rather eclectic looking team of seven, and the challenge was for all of us to finish an eleven-mile run interspersed with twenty-six obstacles which included climbing over twelvefoot walls, going through iced muddy water seven times, running through a field of electric cables and crawling under barbed wire and through pipes. It proved to be an incredible experience that demonstrated the importance of team spirit and how we are to be interdependent. In the 12
few hours we were together, relationships were formed and also deepened as we helped each other. We each had to contend with overcoming fears, whether it was a fear of heights, claustrophobia or the shock of sliding into and then swimming through iced water. It soon became apparent that we all needed each other to complete all the obstacles — we pushed, pulled, grabbed, carried and encouraged each other, whilst wading waist deep through mud, crawling under barbed wire, and swimming in iced water. We attempted nearly all the challenges, although some obstacles proved too much and three of us opted out of the ‘King of the Swingers’ obstacle, whilst the youngest member of the group regrets not doing that one twice! There was a huge sense of achievement when we all
The
1881Society
. . . One year on
The Development department is pleased to report that the 1881 Society has raised over £11,000 since its launch last summer. This term alone it has funded two different, but equally important, courses at the college. The first was a course on business writing for our staff. Designed especially for Ridley Hall, the day focused on honing writing skills that could be applied to a variety of areas, from academic reports to emails to news articles. Indeed, some of its results can be seen in this newsletter! Meanwhile, students took part in a study day on the subject of human sexuality, designed to prepare our ordinands for their future ministries by looking at what are important issues for the Church today. The 1881 Society funded a panel of speakers to lead the discussions during the day. Additionally, the Society’s first event for its were at the top of Everest 2.0, a very high concave ramp which had each of us needing to be pulled up to the top after sprinting towards it. The challenge was mental as well as physical, and for me a lesson in how we face up to things that test us and move us out of our comfort zone. It also produced in me a sense of playfulness, a characteristic that is important in our relationships with each other and also with God. So, yes it was tough and yes it was very muddy, as well as being extremely enjoyable, and an experience that resulted in a remarkable sense of achievement for all of us. It was however mostly about teamwork because when it became difficult we were all there for each other. I know Danny is already signed up for next year and is looking for team members — why not have a go?
members was held during this year’s C. F. D. Moule Memorial Lecture, when 1881 Society members, along with Moule (legacy) Society members, attended a special lunch with the Most Revd Dr Mouneer Anis, Primate of the Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East. It has been an exciting first year for the Society, and we are really looking forward to it developing and growing. Its impact on the college’s life and mission has demonstrated what a difference regular giving can make, and how the combined generosity of our supporters can really develop what we have to offer. We would like to thank every member of the Society for their support, as well as all who have helped us to publicise the initiative. If you would like to learn more about the 1881 Society, and how to join, please contact us: Email: development@ridley.cam.ac.uk Phone: 01223 741078
You can also find out more on the website at:
www.ridley.cam.ac.uk/giving-to-ridley/our-priorities
‘It proved to be an incredible experience that demonstrated the importance of team spirit’
Adele Barker Final-year ordinand
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Ordinand Awarded Prestigious Scholarship Ordinand Olga Fabrikantova has been selected for a Gates International Scholarship in order to undertake a PhD in Old Testament at the University of Cambridge. The scholarship is a global award for intellectually outstanding postgraduate students who are deemed to have a capacity for leadership and a commitment to improving the lives of others. ‘Born and bred in Moscow,’ writes Olga, ‘I moved to Cambridge a few years ago to read for the Theological Tripos, followed by the Hebrew Bible MPhil in the Divinity Faculty. It did not take me long to fall
in love with the exhilarating academic environment at Cambridge, and I am excited and honoured to be joining the Gates Cambridge community to do my PhD here as well.’ ‘My academic interests centre on the literature, language, history, and religion of ancient Israel from its origins to the Second Temple Period. While doing my undergraduate studies, I was particularly drawn to the power of the Hebrew narrative to capture the complexities, ambiguities, and uncertainties of the human existence and became interested in narrative ethics. As part of my MPhil studies, I have been able to explore the world of biblical literature further, delving particularly into the literary phenomena known
Faith and Politics In our new interview series, Q3, we spoke to the Right Hon. Caroline Spelman, MP, about her work and faith. During the interview we asked her: How can new church leaders best support our political leaders? Every one of the next generation of church leaders will find themselves in a parliamentary constituency. So I would say: find out who your local MP is and befriend them. Get to know them. You may not share 14
as inner-biblical exegesis and allusion. For my PhD studies, I hope to build upon this foundation and investigate the plurality of perspectives on truth and deception in the Hebrew Bible in the context of interpersonal relationships. Far from being relics from a distant past, I believe these perspectives have the potential to inform our contemporary ethical inquiries, in terms of both theory and praxis. As a candidate for ordained ministry in the Church of England, I am passionate about sensitive and well-informed religious leadership.’ We congratulate Olga on an outstanding achievement and continue to pray for her as she combines doctoral studies with training for ordination at Ridley.
their politics, but it’s someone in public life like yourself, and you’ll soon find that there are actually things that you have in common. And then work up an understanding of what each of you do over the years, and when the crunch comes at election time, you could consider for example hosting a hustings in your church — I think that’s quite an important role for the church at election time — freely and impartially to facilitate political debate. But I think all of the relationship will go better with the investment in it from the beginning of your time in your new church. Caroline Spelman MP delivered a College Lecture in December 2015 to Ridley students entitled ‘Christian Engagement in Public Life: A View from Westminster’.
On the Road ...our regular snapshot of some of the recent speaking engagements of members of Ridley’s teaching staff. Adrian Chatfield’s speaking topics included ‘Holiness — Happiness — Helpfulness’, ‘Having Nothing, Possessing Everything’ and ‘The Benedictine Disciplines of Stability, Obedience and Conversio Morum’. He also talked on ‘The God Factor’ at the 4th Symposium on Making Christian Marriage Possible.
Richard Higginson spoke on a range of subjects including Christian entrepreneurship and dilemmas in business, the ethics of assisted dying and the theology of work. He also spoke at St Paul’s Church in Cambridge on ‘Light in the Darkness: A Journey to the Cross with Seventeenth-Century Artists’.
Philip Jenson gave a talk on recent developments in Old Testament studies to Rickmansworth greater chapter and spoke on the Psalms at a retreat for Northaw and Cuffley parish. In April he took part in a project on how the Bible is taught in Common Awards institutions.
Rob McDonald taught a series for the Community of St Anselm at Lambeth Palace on ‘Growing as a Theologian’ and was invited to deliver a lecture on ‘Theology and Leadership’ at Leadership College London. He also preached at St Mary’s Burley-in-Wharfdale and at St Mark’s Kensal Rise, London at Pentecost.
Mike Thompson led teaching days in Oxford and Ely dioceses on the theme of ‘Preaching the Gospel of Luke’. He also gave a lecture for the Faraday Institute course ‘The Believing Brain’ entitled ‘The “Soul” in the New Testament’. In April he spoke to canons of Ely Cathedral on the theme of ‘Building a Generous Identity’. Michael Volland delivered the annual Germinate Leadership Lecture in May at the Arthur Rank Centre on ‘Missional Entrepreneurship in Rural Contexts’.
Paul Weston lectured in India at Madras Christian College and Tamil Nadu Theological Seminary, Madura. He also preached at Christ’s College and Sidney Sussex College in Cambridge and led a parish weekend for St Michael’s Chester Square in preparation for a parish mission.
Catherine Wright preached through Holy Week at Wimborne Minster and has been invited to give a talk on the theme of joy and the spiritual life at the St David’s clergy conference in June.
Getting theWord out Recent and forthcoming publications from Ridley staff, students and alumni
Theology The End of Theology: Shaping Theology for the Church’s Mission edited by Paul Weston and Jason Sexton (Augsburg: Fortress Press, forthcoming in 2016)
Gospel of Glory: Major Themes in Johannine Theology by Richard Bauckham (Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2015)
Bible
The Bible in the Contemporary World: Hermeneutical Ventures by Richard Bauckham (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2015)
‘Bible Study on Psalm 137’ by Philip Jenson, Magnet Magazine, Iss. 106 (Winter 2015) Meeting Jesus in John’s Gospel: Seven Encounters with Women by Bridget Baguley (Cambridge: Grove Books, 2016)
Church Life and Mission
Creating Missional Worship by Tim Lomax (London: Church House Publishing, 2015)
Awakening: From Hollow Religion to Heavenly Relationship by Richard Pennystan (Maidstone: River Publishing & Media Ltd, 2015)
‘Past-Embracing, Dynamically-Present, Future-Oriented: A Missiological Appropriation of Tradition for Theology’s Task’ by Paul Weston in The End of Theology edited by Paul Weston and Jason Sexton (Augsburg: Fortress Press, forthcoming in 2016) Apostles Today: Making Sense of Contemporary Charismatic Apostolates by Benjamin McNair Scott (Milton, Ontario: Pickwick Publications, 2014)
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When He Reigns It Pours! This seemed an appropriate play on words to sum up the mission in Cheadle that a few of us from Ridley had the privilege of being invited to be a part of this Easter. For when God is the centre of all we do, and he reigns in our lives, then just watch him pour down his blessings! Such was the evidence witnessed and experienced by us all as we spent a week with our brothers and sisters at St Mary’s and St Cuthbert’s.
urday an all-day fun event on the local green was organised with various attractions including games, activities, food, puppets and an Easter egg hunt. This was the one day for which good weather was needed, and yet for which the weather forecast had looked awful! Even on the Saturday morning the BBC was forecasting 100% chance at 12pm. However, we have a God of miracles . . . and the day stayed dry until the fete finished at 4pm . . . at which point
Many months of prayer and preparation had gone into this mission entitled ‘What Kind of God?’ Over twenty different events had been organised to which we, the Ridley ordinands, had been allocated to speak at or help with, from a Q&A supper at the local fisherman’s club to a garden party with a string quartet and fireworks. To cap it all on the Sat-
the heavens opened and the rain did literally pour down upon us! Easter Sunday quite appropriately saw the miracles continue, as a full St Mary’s
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church witnessed the appearance of our tutor Paul Weston! He had been struck down by acute gastric flu the day before the mission started and been unable to join us until the end of the week, but was there to provide God’s message.
Each of us was taken out of our comfort zone and yet each time saw our ever faithful God go before us
More than twenty people took significant steps towards making a commitment after the service at St Mary’s on Easter Sunday, and we know that many more seeds will have been planted to be reaped at a later date. As ordinands we have learnt much from the opportunities seen and experienced, but personally this mission leaves two lasting impressions. First, the phenomenal provision of God, including the fact that each of us was taken out of our comfort zone and yet each time saw our ever faithful God go before us and bring us through. And second, the joy it is to see and be a part of the body of Christ working together for his glory, and how encouragement and affirmation is so important in building up God’s Church. Blessings were indeed pressed down and overflowed on this mission — thanks be to God! Jane Quinton First-year ordinand