Tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m a 35-year-old South Asian single mum seeking God in everything I do. I started training for ordained ministry with much hesitation because I didn’t feel as though I fit the bill. I was a caterer for many years and worked with clients ranging from food banks to film crews, but I felt something was missing, even though I was living my passion.
Over time, I realised God was deepening my trust in Him, and through obedience, I pursued the call. Our gifts and our purpose are not usually the same; however, God uses it all for His calling in our lives.
What first drew you to study at St Mellitus College?
I wanted a space where I could talk about Jesus and meet like-minded people. Being a single mum, I needed a space that was local to me, where I could get away from the baby groups and become part of a community that filled my cup both emotionally and spiritually.
I enjoy starting the day with worship because my Sundays are often filled with serving, so Mondays at St Mellitus have been a space where I can receive. At St Mellitus, it has been my experience that everyone wants you to do well, as it is not a competitive environment, unless you’re in my formation group and playing Uno.
I have also experienced that, even though there are different levels of academic ability in the room, all staff and students are united in the family of Christ, working towards fellowship, sharpening one another and building towards an intimate relationship with Jesus
Can you share a moment or experience at St Mellitus that has been particularly meaningful or transformative for you?
In my first year of training, I was given the opportunity to go on a retreat where I learnt how to pray through Ignatian contemplation. The resources I gained during the retreat have helped to sustain my personal and prayer life, which helps me hold the different roles I have in my life, including studying, ministry, family and personal life.
Theology at St Mellitus is academically demanding. Can you share a moment when you were stretched intellectually - and how that challenge shaped you?
I graduated with my BA in Theology in 2014, and in 2024, at St Mellitus, I opted for the MA in Theology, Ministry and Mission programme. As well as being stretched academically, I also grew in confidence to engage in the conversational atmosphere of the MA classrooms. I was never someone who put my hand up or engaged much in classroom discussions because of fear and nervousness. However, the smaller classrooms offered a friendly and intimate environment for me to grow in confidence while wrestling with theological perspectives out loud in the room.
Can you tell us about the formation side of studying at St Mellitus College?
Often, we start studying and forget that we are human and that life has its challenges, so I have found the formation side of studying to be the most challenging part of the experience. Being a student isn’t complicated, but having to hold and juggle different elements of life alongside being stretched, shaped and formed in the image of Christ has been a humbling and rewarding experience.
Why does theological study matter beyond the walls of a college or church—and how has your time here shaped the way you engage the world?
Studying has afforded me the ability to think critically and consider why I have chosen to be part of the Anglican Communion. Often, it is easy to dismiss structures and label them as legalistic; however, understanding liturgy and respecting the prayer cycle have allowed me to engage in conversations outside of church and college life, as well as appreciate them in my personal devotion.
What tips or advice would you give to someone thinking of studying theology or joining St Mellitus College?
They are flexible and approachable and want to see you do well. The academic tutors are excellent, and the staff are also journeying alongside you. Each staff member knows you by name, and I have loved the random chats with independent students, staff and other ordinands.
In three words, describe your time at St Mellitus College. Why those words?
Stretching – My brain has been fried many times, but this has helped me develop and establish a foundation for understanding my theological position.
Community – Journeying with others
Flexible – Being a single parent, I have some barriers, such as school drop-off and attending residentials; however, the college has been understanding and has helped to accommodate and adjust to my needs.
