St Hild Student Denise Stothard recently answered the question, ”What does it mean from your perspective to be a part of St Hild?” Here is her insightful answer:
“When I first arrived, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect of college life, but I 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; it is a place where I am being formed as a person as I follow God’s call to ordained ministry.
What stood out to me over the past year is the community that we become part of, or what I call my third family, when I am talking to my friends and people in my church context. The diversity of people from different walks of life, different age ranges, and the varied church traditions/denominations has helped to challenge me in good ways. People look out for each other and support each other, especially when we feel we are struggling with assignments and other issues in our lives and ministry. It has shown me that we are a community that is walking this journey together with God.
Learning and Mondays
I have learned a lot, not just in lessons but also from shared worship and conversations during our breaks and residentials. It hasn’t always been easy juggling study with the demands of working and family responsibilities. But I always look forward to Monday mornings travelling with Drew to come here, sharing our doubts, ideas and our joys. The worship starts my day off knowing God is with us all. The support of my prayer group has also been encouraging. Again, looking out for each other, having fun and praying together have helped to form a bond.
Feeling Supported in the Challenges
One challenge has been the different pathways offered at St Hild. I am part-time, whilst others are full-time, but it works. Even through the challenges, I’ve felt supported, encouraged and reminded that we are on this journey together.
Looking back, l can see how much I’ve grown here. At first, l couldn’t see it, but then someone from my church told me that they could see l had changed and l had grown more confident.
For me, it is not just a place of study but a place of transformation, a place that is friendly, welcoming and inclusive. A space to learn with support and encouragement from tutors, students and other staff. St Hild has helped me to think theologically in a safe space, to listen to God’s call, and a family to journey with.”
