.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself
Before entering ordination training I was a professional actor. I graduated from RADA in 2009 and as well as acting became increasingly interested in the transformation process and how the craft of acting related to people’s real lives. In 2019 I created my own coaching business and worked internationally for four years with individuals and business leaders. I live in Norwich with my husband and two children and they have been incredibly supportive of the calling that’s been placed over my life to enter Holy orders and we’re all growing in faith together through the process.
2. What first drew you to study at St Mellitus College?
I remember looking at the website and reading people’s stories and feeling inspired by the diversity of vocations and callings that were being nurtured at St. Mellitus. It was a place that felt dynamic and vibrant and on the open day I experienced something of the depth that the college also encourages. All of the communication I had with people felt like an extension and embodiment of colleges’ values and I was drawn to studying as part of a worshipping community. I was also very excited by the scholarship that was being created by lecturers and wanted to be formed in a place of sacred challenge.
3. How has your experience at St Mellitus surprised or challenged you?
I have been surprised and delighted by the transformation that I’ve witnessed during my training, both in those around me and within in myself. I have seen us all step out in courage, grow in confidence, and continue to be refined by the complexity of our learning and discussions. The challenges inherent in this deep transformational work have also been a place where I have seen us deepen our faith and rely on each other when it has been difficult. I wanted to come to St. Mellitus partly as I knew it would be challenging to be with others that hold different views and theological positions to me, but that challenge has provoked me into greater humility, openness and gentleness, with myself and those I’m training with.
4. Can you share a moment or experience at St Mellitus that has been particularly meaningful or transformative for you?
The moment that stands out is one of our formation group dinners on residential. We were all sitting on a long table eating, talking and laughing together. It struck me powerfully that this is the profound joy of the Christian life; that we are brought together through Christ and share our lives with God and each other. No-one but Jesus could have brought such a table of people together, but her we were with all our differences and from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences coming together in faith, love and connection. Being part of this community has intensely shaped and blessed my time at St. Mellitus.
5. Why do you think theology matters for everyone, not just those in church leadership—and how has your time here shaped that conviction?
I genuinely believe that engaging theologically, no matter how capable we believe we are, cultivates a brightening of faith. Reflecting, thinking about, studying and engaging with God gives us time to encourage a clarity of heart and mind. Studying is never a means to an end, but a way of embodying our discipleship and learning through wrestling with ideas, texts and stories. We’re all doing theology all the time, so the opportunity to be challenged, expanded and changed is a privilege and an act of worship.
6. What tips or advice would you give to someone thinking of studying theology or joining St Mellitus College?
I would encourage anyone thinking of studying or joining the college to trust that desire. To keep being attentive to the way God is calling you into a fuller version of yourself. Honouring the nudges the Holy Spirit offers is an incredible way to live as we are always being brought into greater freedom and life. Take the calling seriously and use it as an invitation to open up to learning more about yourself, others and God, regardless of the choice you end up making. Relax the grip around knowing and take the risk of encountering God in the whole exploration. Also, go for it!
7. In three words, describe your time at St Mellitus College. Why those words?
Affirming.
St. Mellitus is an environment of deep encouragement and support. There is always someone to talk to, to pray with, to discuss challenges with and there is an atmosphere of mutual support and affirmation.
Muscular.
There is no getting away from the fact that studying and training is a robust experience. There is a great deal to manage and often competing demands on time, resources and energy. However, it is also a place where I have grown in spiritual and theological endurance and capacity. My faith has continued to gain strength and definition and I am enjoying being shaped and sculpted by God through being at St. Mellitus.
Splendid.
I want to include this word to reflect part of the pure joy that it is to study at St. Mellitus. From the way coffee is served, the teaching is delivered, the community worship together and life-long friendships are forged, you know that you are part of God’s radiance at college. It is a wonderfully nurturing place and the commitment to keep Christ at the heart of everything that is done really does make it a splendid place.
