Serving the Community He Calls Home
For Nathan Spenceley, a St Hild Baptist Minister-in-Training, ministry is deeply personal. As Pastor of South Bank Baptist Church in Middlesbrough, he serves in the very community where he grew up—a place he describes with affection, honesty and hope. “Being from the area myself, my ministry is influenced greatly by a deep-rooted love for this place and all the people,” Nathan says.
While South Bank faces significant social and economic challenges, he is quick to highlight its strengths. “South Bank is an area beset by many struggles but one where there is a real sense of strength, warmth and resilience.”
Nathan’s path into ministry and theological education has not been straightforward, and he has faced challenges that have required perseverance, faith, and personal growth. “I have never come from a background where education was an obvious route,” he explains. “At various points it was necessary to develop in areas of confidence, discipline and faith before progressing to the next step.”
Those experiences continue to shape his understanding of theological study today. “Theological study goes beyond mere knowledge acquisition. It is a process of spiritual formation that equips people for ministry.”
Married with three children, Nathan enjoys football, Formula 1, reading and spending time with people. His ministry focuses particularly on discipleship, mission and helping ordinary people see how the Christian faith speaks into everyday life. “I am studying theology in order to serve the church and encourage the growth of Christian disciples.”
Why St Hild?
Nathan chose St Hild because he wanted training that would prepare him not just academically, but practically and spiritually for ministry. As his involvement in church leadership and preaching increased, he recognised that enthusiasm alone was not enough. “I realised that passion and willingness needed to be complemented by theology, prayer, reflection and training.”
St Hild offered a distinctive approach that appealed to him—one where theology and ministry are closely connected. “I wanted to study in an institution where my academic capabilities could be developed alongside theological thinking that takes into account the connection between theology and preaching, pastoral work, mission, leadership and ecclesiology.”
Today, Nathan balances theological study with his role as Pastor at South Bank Baptist Church, developing both his understanding of theology and his ability to lead effectively in a secular context. “It has been extremely significant for me because I do not seek knowledge simply for a qualification. I am studying theology in order to serve the church.”
Signs of Encouragement in South Bank
Nathan sees many reasons for hope in the life of the church. One of the most encouraging developments has been growing confidence among members of the congregation. “People are beginning to take steps forward,” he says, pointing to baptisms, service opportunities, regular attendance and a willingness to ask important questions about faith.
There is also a growing understanding that church is more than a Sunday gathering and Nathan feels people are realising that church is a community of Jesus followers beyond Sundays. The church’s engagement with the wider community has also created opportunities to build meaningful relationships with local families, children and schools. “Seeing church transformed into somewhere that encourages conversation, prayer and practical care has been a tremendous privilege.”
Nathan is particularly encouraged by a renewed emphasis on mission, discipleship, prayer and evangelism. “In a place like South Bank, where often only difficulties are seen, there are nevertheless encouraging signs,” he says. “People are feeling God’s love for them and recognising that they are a community He treasures. There is definite scope for the church to share the good news about Jesus in a clear, caring and bold way.”
The Unexpected Blessing of Confidence
One of the greatest surprises of Nathan’s time at St Hild has been the confidence he has gained. “I knew that the course would be challenging,” he says, “but I never expected how helpful it would be in enabling me to articulate my own voice.”
Coming from a non-traditional academic background, he initially wondered whether he would fit in. Instead, he found a supportive environment that encouraged growth in study, ministry and personal development. “The encouragement I have received has made a huge difference.”
His studies have also reinforced his conviction that theological education and local church ministry belong together. “There have been many occasions when lectures, articles, essays and classroom discussions have directly impacted my preaching, leadership and pastoral ministry.”
Learning alongside others has been another valuable aspect of the experience. “Interacting with peers who are facing similar theological questions and challenges reminds us that we are part of something much bigger.”
Ultimately, however, Nathan says the most significant impact has been spiritual. “Perhaps the biggest surprise has been how study has shaped my heart as well as my mind.” He adds: “It has enabled me to grow in my love for God, care and thoughtfulness, and faithfulness to His church. Study has shaped my heart as well as my mind.”
