Reflections on Study, Calling and New Ministry
Bee, who lives in Sheffield with her husband Matt and their three children, studied part-time as an independent student at St Hild from 2022 to 2024, earning a CertHE in Theology, Mission and Ministry.
I’d told everyone I would never do further higher education after university,” she says, “so even I was surprised when I turned up to an Open Day in early 2022.”
Bea Atkins
Bee describes her decision to study at St Hild simply: “In short, God did!” Drawn by a desire to deepen her theological understanding—particularly in Biblical Studies—she found encouragement while studying to explore a call to ordination.
“It was a really positive process,” she explains. “It confirmed a call to church leadership, but right now, lay leadership is the best fit for what God is calling me to.”
She has recently joined the leadership team of her Sheffield church for the year ahead, as the congregation navigates a time of transition. “In my spare time, I love walking with friends, gardening and doing calligraphy,” Bee also added.
An Unexpected Development
One of the most unexpected developments during her studies was the launch of Rooted Daily Journal Co., a project she founded with two friends in November 2023.
“I’d struggled for years to keep up consistent Bible-reading habits,” Bee says. Discovering the practice of Bible Writing—handwriting short passages of Scripture—changed that.
The trio began by releasing an Advent prototype journal in 2023. Since then, Rooted Daily Journal Co. has produced 12 journals and sold nearly 2,000 copies. “We also create free Bible Writing plans people can download from our website,” Bee adds.
Writing by hand slows you down. It helps you remember what you’ve read and engage with God’s Word more deeply.”
Study Helped Heal Apathy
Reflecting on the impact of her time at St Hild, she says, “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.”
Rooted Daily Journal Co.’s Waiting for Jesus Advent 2025 journals for adults and children are now on sale.
Use the code HILD to get 10% off
If you’re local to Sheffield, you can pick up your order to avoid postage.
