Dr Anna Hutchinson is a Tutor and Lecturer in Theology at the London centre.
What’s the story that led you to St Mellitus College?
I studied Theology as an undergrad and always knew I’d do more at some point, but didn’t know it would be my career! After graduating I worked in chaplaincy at a school and got to do some A Level teaching of Theology - I absolutely loved it and felt an instant call to teach Theology, but specifically to teach Theology to people training for ministry. So, I got my masters and PhD, did a bunch of different jobs along the way and by God’s grace, here I am!
Why does theology — and formation — matter to you?
I think Theology is a way of life - it’s not just something you study but a way of seeing the world through the lens of God. It’s also a spiritual discipline - the deeper I go in Theology the more I grow in love for God and for others - in his kindness I become a better person!
What makes St Mellitus College distinctive in your eyes?
I love the diversity of traditions within the college. I’ve had formation groups where people from traditions that disagree on a lot of issues have created genuine friendship. St Mellitus fosters a culture of curiosity, learning from difference and generous conversation - it’s so encouraging to see.
How do you hope your work shapes students and the wider Church?
My hope for all my students is that they grow in curiosity, resilience and nuance! In particular, I’d love my work to have an impact of helping people to read the Bible wisely, responsibly and in a way that makes it come alive.
What’s one truth you’ve learned through challenge or change that shapes how you serve today
I once heard someone say their mantra was ‘I’ve got nothing to lose and nothing to prove’ and I’ve borrowed it! When we rest in the security of our salvation and God’s love for us, the stakes of anything else immediately lower - there’s nothing I can do or fail to do and there’s no opinion that anyone can have of me that will change who I am in Christ.
Are there particular women — mentors, colleagues, or theologians from history — whose work or witness has shaped your theological imagination? How has their influence shaped your own teaching and scholarship?
I’m continually inspired by my female colleagues who bring the fullness of who they are to the work of theology. Their authenticity has shaped my teaching and scholarship to be unapologetic and encouraged me that the best contributions we can make to Theology happen when we are wholehearted and fully ourselves.
