Rev’d Dr Grace Bally-Balogun is a Tutor and Lecturer in Christian Leadership at the London centre.
What’s the story that led you to St Mellitus College?
I had just completed a certificate in theology and was searching the internet to see what degree courses were available to study this topic further. I narrowed my search to two institutions - one in the Malverns and one in West London (St Mellitus, though I had never heard of it). I was going to apply for both, but felt led to focus on St Mellitus. So, I did! It was a bit of a battle, as I couldn't understand why God wanted me to apply to an Anglican college. Later on, I found out in the interview that the day I applied was on the closing date for all applications! I had no idea back then that this would lead me to discern a calling to priesthood.
Why does theology — and formation — matter to you?
I have always loved studying God's word from as far back as I can remember. Theology helps us to know who God is and in turn who we are. It is a great way for us to apply God's word to our contexts and respond to some difficult questions in society. Formation is how we grow in Christ - I get to witness that with our students, which is a privilege to observe and be a part of.
What makes St Mellitus College distinctive in your eyes?
I love St Mellitus for its willingness to embrace a global curriculum and diverse Christian traditions, which help teach theology in a way that students can ask critical questions that will make them healthy public and practical theologians.
How do you hope your work shapes students and the wider Church?
I hope that my small contributions will get students excited about God and who he is. I hope through formation, that students will also identify and surrender what Parker Palmer calls 'shadows' to grow as healthy leaders.
What’s one truth you’ve learned through challenge or change that shapes how you serve today
We are all created in the image of God, which means every person deserves dignity and self-worth. This has shaped many aspects of my teaching and the way I serve others.
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?
Teresa of Avila (Spanish mystic), St Josephine Bakita (first female Black Saint), Phoebe Palmer (a Pioneer in the Holiness Movement), Catherine LaCugna (Trinity theologian), are just some of my female heroes. All forerunners in some shape or form. Despite the challenges faced, their contributions have made indelible marks on church history, doctrine and missional theology. I tend to draw in their voices in my teaching, to give breadth and depth. Also, my journey has been surrounded by several mentors and spiritual directors who have been my 'godmothers'.
