Dorothy Stewart Final Year Ordinand, Diocese of Ripon & Leeds
How did you come to recognise a vocation to the ordained ministry?
This was a very gradual process over a number of years. Having had a strong faith since childhood, I recognised my need to change important areas of my life as being the response to a desire for a deeper faith. My possible calling to ministry was initially identified by others who then questioned my awareness and willingness to be led by the Spirit.
With their encouragement and guidance I became more open and receptive to my calling, and realized that the various areas of my life and work all echoed the same theme – a strong desire to protect, defend, facilitate and encourage those less able to do so themselves – quite simply, to serve other people. This, for me, is what it means to try to love my neighbour as myself. It enables me to demonstrate aspects of my faith and not just talk about it.
What were you doing before Mirfield?
Before coming to theological college, I was working as a lecturer in Midwifery and related health topics at Manchester University and in local hospitals for many years. This has involved being an advocate for the students as well as the women in their care.
Prior to being accepted for ordination training, I spent a year completing the process of discernment. Throughout this time I actively participated in the life of the church in parish, diocesan and national roles. Within, and representing, the general community I have worked as a Magistrate for fifteen years.
What do you feel you are gaining from your time at the College?
My prayer life has become richer with the daily cycle of prayer. The formality of community prayer at Mattins, Evensong and Compline is intensely rhythmic, giving depth to one’s encounter with God. There are opportunities to experience other forms of prayer and ample time and space for private prayer.
In addition, I feel I have gained a lot from the experience of living a common life with other people. For me, it has been an extention of being part of a large family incorporating different generations and all that that requires. It reflects the diversity - the challenges and opportunities - that will be encountered in parish life, giving us experience and insight into dealing with these in an appropriate and loving manner. Our common life at College emphasises our dependence on each other.
How have your placements helped you prepare for priestly ministry?
The variety of encounters offered by the placement was very broad - for me so far they have included a large of experiences, from leading an adult Lent Class to taking a school assembly.
The experience of being perceived as a ‘clergy’ person worshipping with the three different congregations within the benefice called for mental and theological adjustments each Sunday. Their kindness and encouragement in response to my preaching was heart-warming and wonderful.
What you enjoyed most, and what have you found most difficult, about being an ordinand at theologial college?
I have enjoyed experiencing the variety of worship, often led by fellow students of differing parish backgrounds, reflecting the range of what can be expressed as ‘Anglican’.
Academically, biblical studies and analysis of liturgy have been fascinating. The intensity of academic studies and breadth of assessment has been challenging at times, but staff support and the companionship of fellow students ensured success.
What are your hopes and expectations as you look towards your curacy?
I hope to continue developing a deeper faith and spirituality, increasing my theological knowledge and ability to work within the broad church. I expect to increase and enhance my skills in leading God’s people in worship.