As I begin my second year (of three) studying theology at Cranmer Hall (Durham), here is a quick update. (If you want to be reminded about what I was up to in my first year, see my previous ‘postcard’.)

Over the summer I had some fascinating placement experiences:

  • two weeks based in Leuven (Belgium) visiting the Diocese in Europe. I wrote about this in a separate post: What is the Church of England doing on the continent?
  • four weeks on placement in Spennymoor (near Durham), at St Paul’s Church, experiencing something resembling normal parish ministry, and
  • two weeks on placement with a mental health chaplain in and around Darlington, learning what it means to be a Christian presence alongside people who are living with mental health problems.

Placements will continue during the autumn and spring terms, and this year I’ll be on placement with a university chaplain.

In terms of my modules for the coming year, here is what I’m expecting:

  • Biblical studies (11% 13%):
    • Further Biblical Studies
  • Christian tradition (50% 44%):
    • Topics in Christian Doctrine
    • Church Growth: Pentecost to Constantine
    • Science and Theology
    • Independent Learning Project (probably on something theological)
    • Ethics (smaller module)
  • Church ministry and mission (22% 25%):
    • Denominational Ministry (Anglicanism)
    • Death and Dying
  • Ministerial formation (smaller modules) (17% 19%):
    • Pastoral Ministry
    • Conflict Transformation
    • Reflective Practice

That’s all for now; more to follow in due course!