Jesus saw in Peter the gifts and potential for an incredible ministry that he was calling him to, even though others couldn’t see it at first (Acts 4).
The Peter Stream offers a distinctive experience of discernment, complementing the Church of England processes by offering candidates a diverse community of peers to journey with, alongside theological and formational teaching within the context of a worshipping community at St Mellitus College.
This year-long programme is designed to identify and encourage the gifts and calling of people and prepare them for the national discernment process.
The Peter Stream exists to redress underrepresentation in ordained leadership in the Church of England – ethnic and socio-economic - and so is open to candidates from those demographics. The focus is on supporting candidates on their vocational journey, helping them in the discernment process while encouraging their desire to grow in faith in Jesus and the gifts He has given.
Further Information
The Peter Stream is a one-year introductory programme combining formation and theological study. It is run by dedicated tutors to ensure that the programme provides a safe and supportive community, giving candidates space to hear God’s call on their life, articulate that call as it relates to Church ministry, and prepare for and engage with the Church of England's discernment process. The three elements of the programme are:
DISCERNMENT
Formational development designed to encourage and inspire whilst discerning God’s calling.
TEACHING
Engaging theological content that is faith-enriching and discernment-relevant.
SUPPORT
Access to a range of support including a personal tutor, chaplaincy, counselling and specialist educational tutoring.
The Peter Stream runs for one academic year, from September to June. Sessions take place during term-time on Monday mornings at St Mellitus College, London and Tuesday mornings at St Mellitus College, East Midlands (Nottingham). Existing employment, living arrangements and church context are maintained.
Fees are funded by the diocese and travel is funded by St Mellitus College. The Peter Stream works in partnership with dioceses to support candidates through the two stages of the discernment process during the year, where appropriate.
Further information for dioceses can be found here.
Application to join the Peter Stream will be made by the Director of Ordinands (DDO) on behalf of the candidate.
If you sense you have a call, you should talk to your Vicar. If they are satisfied, they will refer you as a potential candidate to the DDO, who will refer you to the Peter Stream if they sense this could be a helpful route for you. Once referred, you will then be interviewed by St Mellitus College and, if accepted, a start date will be agreed on the next available programme.
Applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, including those with little experience with the Church of England, are encouraged to apply. No formal educational qualifications are required.
