Student & Alumni Stories

My story begins in Sierra Leone during the civil war, when I was still a teenager. By 1999, the conflict had reached our town (Kissy), and every day required courage and trust in God. ”

“When I decided not to pursue art formally, I felt God clearly call me to keep painting in my freeJoanna Leidenhag time — for his glory, not mine,” she says. It was a calling she describes as threefold: a spiritual discipline, an act of worship, and a means of channelling God’s love to others.

Theological study goes beyond mere knowledge acquisition. It is a process of spiritual formation that equips people for ministry.”

Siaa Mathurin, St Hild ordinand, mum of seven and a grandmother to soon-to-be ten grandchildren, recounts how God has faithfully led her through many church traditions, personal trials, and a lifelong call to serve those on the margins.”

Martin Jones did not grow up expecting to become a minister. In fact, he came to Christian faith at the age of 47. Today, he is married to Valerie, serving in Baptist ministry, and helping lead a season of growth and renewal in a local church.”

Kenny was such a helpful presence when I landed,” Daniel recalls. “There was no incumbent priest at the time, so it made a real difference to meet someone who knew the community so well.” Kenny felt the same. “Having that shared St Hild background was a natural starting point for us,” he says. “It helped…

I made some wonderful friends who I still see regularly. Studying there healed my academic apathy and gave me the confidence to speak up and boldly profess my love of God’s Word.

The Ministry Experience Scheme (MES) was incredibly beneficial, would wholeheartedly recommend it to any young person thinking about ministry or wanting to explore their vocation. I don’t think I’d be in training now if I hadn’t done it.”

One of the clearest signs of God at work is seeing churches in the North beginning to embrace diversity,” she says. “Leaders are recognising that mission today must reflect the multicultural reality of our towns and cities.”

When l first arrived, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect of college life, but l quickly discovered that it is a place that encourages learning, growing in faith and being shaped and moulded in character. Although assignments are important, I’m not academic, but I have enjoyed studying here.”

For Jessica Stanewell, the path to ordination has been anything but conventional. From holistic therapist to outreach worker, single mother to spiritual leader, her journey is a testament to transformation, resilience, and the relentless grace of God.

Although already in full-time ministry, Sam pursued graduate study as he ‘recognised gaps in my theological foundations.’ This September, he will help lead The School of Leadership in a new partnership with St Hild, which will offer a Certificate in Theology and Ministry. His hope is that it will inspire students to pursue further theological study.