One Woman’s Journey into Ministry and the New St Hild Centre for Baptist Ministry
Clare Stones is not your typical theological student. After nearly three decades in education, including a senior leadership role in a large secondary school, she walked away from a thriving career to pursue a calling she could no longer ignore.
Now training as a Baptist minister through the newly established St Hild Centre for Baptist Ministry, Clare is also studying for a degree in Theology at St Hild. Her journey to ministry, however, has been anything but straightforward.
Not Ignoring a Call
“My call into ministry has been a ‘can’ I’ve ‘kicked down the road’ for around eight years,” she reflects. “At first, I honestly believed God had made a mistake—I thought it was just a whim I’d imagined.”
That all changed when Clare unexpectedly found herself leading her local church through a pastoral vacancy. The experience was a turning point.
“When the call didn’t go away and I was thrown into leadership, I realised it was time to take it seriously. I decided to explore it with gusto.”
Taking a Leap
Last July, she made the leap. Leaving behind her position as Assistant Headteacher and SENCo, Clare stepped into full-time ministry training. The financial risk was significant, especially with her eldest daughter also starting university, but her faith never wavered.
“As Baptists, we are self-funded, so the timing made no financial sense. But we trusted God, stepped out in faith, and have been so blessed.”
Support from the East Midlands Baptist Association (EMBA), including a grant to aid her studies, has helped make this transition possible. Being part of the newly launched St Hild Centre for Baptist Ministry is, for Clare, a unique opportunity to help shape the future of ministerial training.
“It’s not just an exciting time to be a student—it’s a chance to influence how future ministers will be prepared for the Church in the 21st century.”
Choosing St Hild
For Clare, St Hild was the only choice when it came to theological training. Its flexible structure allows her to serve in a local church while studying, ensuring her learning is constantly grounded in practice.
“St Hild offers a rich ecumenical environment that honours denominational differences, while providing the missional and pioneering focus I feel called to. I couldn’t imagine training anywhere else.”
The academic rigour, diversity of experience among students, and deeply supportive atmosphere have made a profound impact on her formation.
“We are not just studying theology—we are learning a new way of life. The emphasis on worship and Christ-centred community helps us grow not only as leaders, but as followers of Jesus.”
Her time at St Hild hasn’t been without its challenges. A difficult personal year tested her resilience, but the support of the college proved indispensable.
“The tutors are exceptional academically, but it’s their pastoral care that’s truly remarkable. Without their support, I might have had to step away.”
Advice to Others
For anyone considering a similar path, particularly those in the Baptist tradition, Clare’s message is clear:
“Don’t hesitate—come! Being part of this new college is a privilege, and the experience at St Hild is the icing on the cake.”
She acknowledges that the journey isn’t always easy—but it is undeniably worthwhile.
“Every day I’m reminded: God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. And for me, St Hild is exactly where that equipping is happening.”
