News

New Centre Director - Centre for Discipleship and Theology

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Jo Henderson-Merrygold as our new Director of the Centre for Discipleship and Theology. A Methodist, Jo comes fresh from undertaking two roles in the Church of England, at diocesan and national level, most recently as Head of Lay Ministries. She has a doctorate in interdisciplinary biblical studies, and brings a wealth of experience in training, education and discipleship development in church and higher educational settings. Jo will begin her role at Queen’s in mid-August.

New Director of Research

We are delighted to announce that Dr Andrew Mein will be joining us in July as our new Director Research, when Professor Nicola Slee steps down from the role. Andrew comes to us from the School of Divinity at the University of St. Andrews, bringing a long and strong track-record of scholarship, publication and supporting others to research and write. A biblical scholar, with specialist knowledge in the study of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament, Andrew also brings extensive experience of living and working outside the UK (in India and Germany), which will stand him in good stead as he takes on the role of directing our Centre for Research and Global Partnerships. We are delighted too that Nicola will remain on the staff on a part-time basis both to continue supervising a number of doctoral students and, initially, to support Andrew as he steps into what will be a challenging role. Welcome, Andrew!

Called by Name: exploring UKME/GMH vocation in the Church of England

UKME Ordinants and Curates in partnership with the Minority ethnic Vocations Ministry recently held a two-day residential conference hosted by The Queen's Foundation. Reflecting back on the event, Angela Sheard, one of the organisers, shares this with us:

"Over a Friday afternoon and evening, we gathered at The Queen’s Foundation as a group of UKME/GMH ordinands, curates and those in the discernment process. As more and more people arrived in the Wakefield room, sat down and joined conversations, there was a palpable energy in the room. Some of us recognized colleagues and friends in the room, and were excited to catch up again with people we hadn’t seen for a while. But there was also real joy in being in the presence of other UK minority ethnic/global majority heritage (UKME/GMH) people who felt called by God into ordained ministry. Our gathering was a visible sign of the diversity of God’s church, and the grace of the Holy Spirit who calls us in and through that diversity.

Over the two days we enjoyed stimulating talks including a keynote address by Revd Dr Carlton Turner (one of the staff team at Queen’s) and a talk about the new selection process for ordained ministry by Revd Calvert Prentis, DDO for Birmingham Diocese. We also had two panels, one of UKME/GMH ordinands and curates and one of UKME/GMH people in different roles in the Church of England. These brought different experiences of discernment, college, curacy and other roles into conversation with each other, and gave us a starting point for discussions in which we reflected on our own experiences and listened to the experiences of others in the room.

For me, these conversations were at the very heart of our time together, and I will take the stories and wisdom of others along with me going forwards. Over the 24 hours that we spent together, we became a community that shared delicious food, worshiped together and generally held a space within which we could be honest about our calling and our journey as UKME/GMH people in the church, and hold space for others to do the same. These spaces are a precious gift for us and for the whole church - they are sources of the nurturing, mentorship and solidarity that is vital on our journey of vocation, towards ordination and beyond."

American Memorial Travel Grant 2022

Do you know a UK-based minister (of any denomination) who would benefit from a £2000 grant to travel to the United States of America?

Simply fill in your personal details and explain how you would consider using your grant for a chance to be selected.

Applications are now open until 31st October 2022.

• Application form

New staff member for Anglican formation team

We are delighted to welcome the Revd Canon Dr Georgina Byrne to the Queen's staff team. Georgina is currently a Residentiary Canon at Worcester Cathedral and brings with her a wealth of experience of ministry alongside academic interest and expertise in Church history. Georgina will join the staff at Queen’s in September as an Anglican Tutor in the ministerial formation team, with a particular focus on the placement experience in the formation process.

Anglican Admissions Appointment

We're delighted to announce that Revd Dr Allison Fenton will be joining the Queen's staff from Jan 1st 2021 as the new Anglican Admissions Tutor. Allison will take over from Revd Dr Andrea Russell who is moving to a post in the Diocese of Oxford. Allison comes to us with rich experience in both Anglican and ecumenical theological education and training, having worked within the past decade in the dioceses of Newcastle, Durham and Carlisle.

Allison says, 'Although I am sad to be leaving friends and colleagues in Cumbria and will miss the beauty of the Lake District, I am looking forward to working with a rich diversity of people at Queen's and (after lockdown) rediscovering the joys of city life. I'm excited about working for an institution which is both inclusive and prophetic. It will be a privilege to work with a gifted staff team to encourage the formation of faithful women and men from the Church of England and beyond who are responding to God's call to ordained ministry.'

We look forward to welcoming Allison to Birmingham, and to gaining from all that she will bring to Anglican ministerial formation at Queen's.

Distance Learning Studies

We are sorry to announce that, regrettably and for reasons outside of Queen’s control, the proposed transfer to Queen’s of St John’s Distance Learning courses has not been able to proceed as previously planned. This is disappointing as both parties had worked hard to try to bring the transfer to a successful completion.

However, the work of Distance Learning at Queens will continue, and our hope is that existing and new students will choose to move to their studies here in order to complete their programmes with us. We look forward to welcoming those who seek so to do.

Revd Dr Andrea Russell

The Revd Dr Andrea Russell will be leaving the Queen's Foundation at Christmas to take up the post of Deputy Director of Mission (Formation for Ministry) in the Diocese of Oxford. This is a post that brings together all of Andrea's interests and commitments in theological education and formation and which gives her an opportunity to shape the strategy of one of the most prominent Dioceses of the Church of England. The Diocese wants to continue and develop strategic and creative thinking and recognise in Andrea the qualities and skills they need. We know you will want to congratulate Andrea and we also know how much she will miss Queen's – and Queen’s will miss her!

Andrea says, ‘This was a really difficult decision. I have had an amazing time at Queen’s and was particularly looking forward to working with Clive Marsh as the new Principal. But, the Oxford role drew me in and I am excited to be joining a great team and looking forward to the future and this new adventure.’

Please keep her in your prayers as she begins to prepare for her new role and for colleagues at Queen's as they consider a new appointment.

New Staff Appointment

The Queen’s Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education is delighted to announce that the Revd Dr Barbara Glasson has been appointed to be a tutor in Pastoral Theology and a Methodist Oversight Tutor. This half time role will begin on the 1st September 2020.

Barbara is currently a presbyter in Bradford where she is Team Leader of Touchstone, a Methodist interfaith project. and is currently also the President of the British Methodist Conference. She brings to the Queen’s Foundation huge experience and expertise in pastoral theology, ministerial formation, interfaith engagement, mission and ministry in a variety of contexts and particularly among diverse communities. She is a highly-respected scholar and the author of a number of books on a variety of theological, missional and spiritual themes. With significant experience of teaching pastoral and practical theology to ministerial students alongside her circuit ministry and her service in and for the wider Church, she will offer great gifts and deep wisdom to the work of the Foundation at a time of change and exciting new initiatives.

Revd John B Taylor

We are sorry to hear of the death of the Revd John B Taylor. He was Senior Methodist Tutor and Tutor in Systematic Theology at Queen’s from 1979 -1988. He also served as Secretary of the Methodist Church Faith and Order Committee. Following his time at Queen’s, he became the General Secretary of the Methodist Church Division of Ministries, and then Chair of the Liverpool District. He served as President of the Methodist Conference in 1997-8.

Under a bluff exterior and wicked sense of humour was a heart of gold and a disposition that embodied loving kindness. He comforted and challenged people as appropriate, pushing them to fulfil their potential way beyond their expectations. He read regularly and prodigiously, and wanted everyone to do the same. He was a formidable systematic theologian, but always sought to root theological reflection in everyday life and experience. In 2018, he published a set of reflections entitled “Commonsense: the Musings of a Cloth-Cap Theologian” with the proceeds going towards cancer research in gratitude for the care he was receiving. The day before he died he wrote the following prayers:

Gracious God and Father of us all, whose will is that not one of his precious children should perish, help us to know that we are loved and to rejoice in the many blessings which you have prepared for us. Thank you for what we can learn even in difficult circumstances.

(Pause for silent reflection)

We thank you, Lord, that we have discovered what it feels like to be lonely and cut off. Thank you that we have gained insight into what solitary confinement in our prisons feels like and how our housebound auntie copes when we never visit her.

(Pause for silent reflection)

Forgive us that in the midst of plenty we hoard food and act as if tomorrow depends on it. Help us to recognise that there is sufficient for all, that in the midst of grain mountains and wine lakes we still sit in a land of plenty and that such emergency reserves are there for use today. Help us, Lord, to make the needs of the poorest our priority.

(Pause for silent reflection)

We live in warm and confortable homes, safe and secure. We pray for those who live in cardboard boxes. Help us to remember them and to unlock the means for them to return to significant relationships.

(Pause for silent reflection)

We pray, gracious, living God, when we are lost and disorientated that we may each find you walking at our side, our Companion and our Guide.

We pray through our Intercessor who sits at your right hand, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Periodic External Review (PER) Outcome

We are pleased to report the publication of the recent Periodic External Review (PER) recently undergone by the Foundation. The PER process, enacted by a team of reviewers from both our sponsoring churches and Durham University, is a comprehensive review of the life of the Foundation; reviewers meets with staff, governors, students and key denominational partners to inform their findings and decisions. The PER scope is thus wide - it assesses key areas of teaching, formation, community life, continued ministerial learning, and governance.

We are delighted to say that the Foundation has emerged with an unqualified ‘Confidence’ verdict in all these areas. This is the highest possible commendation, and a rare accolade.
In particular, the inspectors praised:

• the Foundation’s pioneering work in Black Theology and the broadening of the curriculum to include non-Western perspectives and voices;
• its success in modelling a genuinely inclusive formational community of faith, encompassing all theological traditions and a breadth of cultural backgrounds; and
• its excellence in teaching, research, global partnerships and scholarship.

The current Principal, the Revd Canon Dr David Hewlett says:

“We are very pleased and greatly encouraged. All these factors mark Queen’s out as an institution in the vanguard of theological education in the UK and beyond.”

The full report may be accessed here:
https://www.churchofengland.org/sites/default/files/2020-03/Queens%20PER%20report%20final.pdf

Appointment of New Principal

The Governors of the Queen’s Foundation are very pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Clive Marsh to the role of Principal at the Queen’s Foundation, succeeding the Revd Canon Dr David Hewlett who retires this summer.

The Revd Kenneth Howcroft, President of the Governing Body, says:
“We are delighted and excited by Clive’s appointment. David will leave Queen’s in good heart. We believe that Clive is the person to take it on to the next stage in its development as it adapts to meet the challenges of God’s mission in a constantly and rapidly changing world.”

Clive has shown a lifelong commitment to adult theological education in a variety of settings, and brings to Queen’s significant ecumenical experience in a number of areas, including ministerial training. His academic research extends to work on the Historical Jesus, Christology and, most recently, the interface between theology and public culture, with publications including A Cultural Theology of Salvation (OUP, 2018) and So What’s the Story…?: A Resource Book for Christian Reflection and Practice (DLT, 2019), co-written with Barbara Glasson.
Of his new appointment, Clive says:
“I am truly overjoyed to have been appointed to this post at Queen’s. David Hewlett has led the institution creatively and energetically to a point where, on the 50^th anniversary of its becoming an ecumenical institution, the next phase in the institution’s life can begin. As the first lay Principal, I shall bring some distinct insights and emphases, whilst recognising my dependence on ordained colleagues who already have leadership roles in the institution’s ministerial training work. My goal will be to lead a dynamic team of teaching staff, researchers and support staff to develop further the important role that Queen’s plays on the theological educational scene in the UK and internationally.”

Clive will begin the role formally on 1^st September, although students and staff may encounter him before then as he works with David on handover matters. We wish Clive well for this appointment, and very much look forward to him beginning this new role.

Queen's Campus - Covid 19 Update

In the light of updated government and ecclesial guidance on Covid-19, the QF Leadership Team has agreed that, as of March 18th, the Queen's campus can no longer be accessed by external visitors and non-residential students.

Hence for the foreseeable future:
- residential events will no longer take place on campus
- the Library will be closed to all users
- teaching, tutorials and supervisions will be conducted in online mode.

The Foundation itself remains open,with staff continuing to work by virtual/electronic means. Students will be advised in due course as to the specific impact on teaching delivery and assessment.

We continue to monitor the Covid-19 situation daily and will inform students/staff/visitors as soon as plans or procedures change.

Response to Covid 19

In the light of the Government's updated guidance on Covid 19, Queen's wishes to set out our current response to the situation.

We will remain open as normal for w/b 16/3/20. Apart from those who may need to self-isolate, or who are particularly vulnerable to the virus (e.g. immuno-suppressed, have underlying or chronic conditions, or are pregnant), we expect to continue studying, worshipping and eating as a community. However, we will be stepping up our protocols, especially around handwashing on arriving at Queen's (including for all visitors) and before chapel and eating in the dining room.

We will monitor the situation daily and inform students/staff/visitors as soon as we can if plans or procedures change. Further details are available here.

Seeking New Principal

The Governors of The Queen’s Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education, Birmingham are seeking to appoint a new Principal, following the retirement of The Revd Canon Dr David Hewlett in the summer of 2020.

We are seeking a creative and visionary Principal:

• who has a heart for God’s mission in God’s world, and for people’s development in discipleship and ministry;
• whose focus is ecumenical;
• who is committed to diversity and inclusion;
• who is serious about research-led teaching; and
• who has a vision for learning from and with the worldwide Church.

Further details on the role and application process are available here.

Distance Learning Announcement

The trustees of St John's College, Nottingham, have announced this week the decision to close the college and to ask the Queen's Foundation to take over responsibility for its long established distance learning programme.

We are glad to be able to continue the vital work of making theological education as widely accessible as possible through distance and online learning. We share St John’s pioneering spirit and are grateful that the trustees have seen fit to find a new home for this work in Queen’s. We are excited at the opportunity to continue and develop the progammes and we hope it will not be long before final arrangements can be announced when discussions have been completed and agreed with the University and St John's Trustees. Above all, we look forward to welcoming continuing students and staff to the communities of learning in Queen's.

Welcome to Prof Robert Beckford

Queen's is pleased to welcome back Professor Robert Beckford to a new role as Professor of Black Theology in the Foundation. Professor Beckford is one of Britain’s most distinguished black theologians, and we are looking forward to all he will offer to us, students and staff alike.

Full details of his appointment are available here.

Retirement of Principal

The Principal of the Queen’s Foundation, Birmingham, the Revd Canon Dr David Hewlett, has recently announced that he is planning to retire at the end of the current academic year in the summer of 2020, after 17 years of distinguished service and outstanding commitment to the Foundation and the Churches it serves. The Governors of the Foundation have been working with its Leadership Team to plan for the appointment of a successor and ensure a smooth transition. We expect to be recruiting to the post of Principal before Easter 2020 in the hope that the person appointed will take up the role on 1st September 2020. In the meantime, we wish David well for the remainder of this year and as he plans for his retirement.

The Revd Kenneth G Howcroft
President of the Governing Body

Queen's receives Silver TEF award.

We are delighted that Queen's has been awarded the Silver TEF Award for Teaching Excellence from the Office for Students. This award recognises that Queen's "delivers high quality teaching, learning and outcomes for its students" and "consistently exceeds rigorous national quality requirements for UK higher education".

For further details, see the official TEF publication notice.

Memorial Service for the Rt Revd John Habgood

The Memorial Service for the life of former Principal of Queen's, the Rt Revd and Rt Hon Lord John Stapylton Habgood PC will take place at York Minster on Thursday 27th June 2019 at 11.00 am. It is anticipated that the service will last around 90 minutes.

In order that the right ticket be allocated to you for the correct seating area / procession (if applicable), the attached ticket request form should be completed and returned (preferably by email) to Susan Hodgson, PA to the Dean of York (susanhodgson@yorkminster.org) or by post to Susan Hodgson, PA to the Dean of York, Church House, Ogleforth, York YO1 7JN. RSVP deadline: Friday 7^th June 201

There will also be some unallocated seating available on the day for anyone else wishing to attend this service.

QAA Review for Educational Oversight Outcome

We are pleased to announce that the outcome from our latest QAA educational oversight review visit (Mar 19) has been published. The review concludes that the Foundation "has made commendable progress with continuing to monitor,
review and enhance its higher education provision", a very pleasing verdict for students and staff alike.

The full review is available here.

Queen's Foundation Lecture (2019)

The 2019 Queen's Foundation Lecture will be given by Revd Dr Stephen Cherry, Dean of Kings College, Cambridge, on Monday 13th May 2019 at 7pm at Bournville Parish Church, Birmingham.

The title of the lecture is: 'Is Forgiveness the Answer? Reflections on Living Well after Violence, Abuse or Violence'.

Successful Office for Students Registration

We are pleased to announce that our application for registration with the Office for Students (OfS) has been successful, and that we have been designated by OfS as an Approved (fee cap) Provider.  This enables our students to access the student support system for courses in 2019-20, and means that we meet the @officestudents requirements for course quality, academic standards, student protection and more.
For further information see www.officeforstudents.org.uk/the-register.

Full Time Methodist Tutor

The Queen’s Foundation seeks applications from lay or ordained members of the Methodist Church for the post of Co-Director (Methodist) of the Centre for Continuing Ministerial Development.  

S/he will lead the programme of Probationer Studies which most probationers undertake and will join a gifted ecumenical team of tutors, including 7 other Methodist tutors, sharing with them teaching and tutoring responsibilities to students across the Foundation.  The post holder shares leadership responsibilities in the Foundation as a member of the Leadership Team.

Further details are available at www.queens.ac.uk/jobs

(There is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a member of the Methodist Church)

"Signs of the Times" Conference - Thursday October 11th

                           Booking deadline extended until 8th October

On Thursday 11th October, in association with the Theology, Religion & Popular Culture Network, Queen's will be hosting a day conference: "Signs of the Times". Contributors include Rev. Dr. Jane Craske, Dr. John Lyden, Prof. Clive Marsh, Prof. Anthony Reddie and Prof. Nicola Slee. To book for the conference, complete the booking form available here.

"Signs of the Times" Conference - Thursday 11th October

On Thursday 11th October, in association with the Theology, Religion & Popular Culture Network, Queen's will be hosting a day conference: "Signs of the Times". Contributors include Rev. Dr. Jane Craske, Dr. John Lyden, Prof. Clive Marsh, Prof. Anthony Reddie and Prof. Nicola Slee. To book for the conference, complete the booking form available here.

Anglican open days!

We are running a number of open days for Anglican ordinands this year:

• Tuesday 16th October 2018
• Saturday 10th November 2018
• Tuesday 4th December 2018
• Tuesday 29th January 2019
• Saturday 16 February 2019
• Tuesday 5th March 2019
• Saturday 11th May 2019
• Tuesday 11th June 2019

Click here for more information!

Staff updates over the summer

Earlier this month we said goodbye to several colleagues, although we hope in different ways they will continue to be part of the Queen’s community. Each are moving to take up significant new responsibilities in the life of the church and academy. Ash Cocksworth has been appointed Senior Lecturer in Theology and Practice at Roehampton University in London. Simon Sutcliffe has been appointed as a learning officer for the North West and Mann region of the Methodist learning network. And Richard Sudworth will be the new Secretary for Inter-Religious Affairs to the Archbishop of Canterbury and National Inter-Religious Affairs Adviser for the Church of England.

We send them every best wish for their respective new roles.

Book launch 18th June postponed

Please note that the book launch planned for 18th June (http://www.queens.ac.uk/events...) has been postponed. It will be rearranged for a date in the autumn.

God and the Gogglebox Conference

                           Booking deadline extended until 31st May

On Wednesday 6th June, in association with the Theology, Religion & Popular Culture Network, Queen's will be hosting a day conference on "God and the Gogglebox". Key contributors include Revd Kate Bottley, Revd Caroline Symcox, Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie and Prof Clive Marsh. To book for the conference, complete the booking form available here.

Theology Taster Course 2018

We are in the process of finalising names for the Theology Taster Course which starts on Saturday 12th May and runs through to Saturday 16th June (please see the flyer for further information). If you or anyone you might know would like to participate, please contact us ASAP and before 12th May.  Please email admissions@queens.ac.uk for further details or to request an application form. 

Centre for Discipleship and Theology Open Day - Saturday 19th May

A reminder that the next Centre for Discipleship and Theology Open Day (independent students) will be taking place on Saturday 19th May. The day starts at 10:00 and finishes at 13:45 (lunch is provided). During the day you will have the opportunity to discover study options; talk to current students; tour the campus and lecture facilities; sample a taster lecture; and worship in the Chapel. Please click here for further information. If you would like to attend please contact admissions@queens.ac.uk or call 0121 452 2668.

Queen's Foundation Lecture (2018)

The 2018 Queen's Foundation Lecture will be given by Professor Sarah Coakley, Norris-Hulse Professor of Divinity, University of Cambridge, on Monday 25th June 2018 at St Martin's in the Bullring, Birmingham. 

The title of the lecture is: 'Christian Worship and Desire'.

VU Theology faculty ranked 5th best in the world

We are pleased to share the good news from our partner university VU Amsterdam, whose theology faculty has been placed 5th in the world in the QS Top Universities ranking for Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies. The full results are available here.

"God and the Gogglebox" Conference

On Wednesday 6th June, in association with the Theology, Religion & Popular Culture Network, Queen's will be hosting a day conference on "God and the Gogglebox". Key contributors include Revd Kate Bottley, Revd Caroline Symcox and Prof Clive Marsh. To book for the conference, complete the booking form available here.

Methodist Theologians in Conversation

We are pleased to host an evening of conversation and dialogue between two Methodist scholars - Revd Dr Brian E Beck and Revd Tom Stuckey - on matters of Methodism past and future. All staff, students and external visitors are welcome to attend. To help with practical matters and refreshments, please register your intention to attend with Karen Vincent (k.vincent@queens.ac.uk) before 6th March.  

For further information, click here.

Doing Theology in a Strange Land

On Friday 27th April, in association with the Methodist Church, Queen's will be hosting a day conference on Dalit Theology. Key contributors include Revd Dr Vincent Manoharan and Revd Dr Israel Selvanayagam. To book for the conference, complete the booking form available here.

Centre for Discipleship and Theology Open Day 17th February

Just a reminder that the next Centre for Discipleship and Theology Open Day (independent students) will be taking place on Saturday 17th February. The day starts at 10:00 and finishes at 13:45 (lunch is provided). During the day you will have the opportunity to discover study options; talk to current students; tour the campus and lecture facilities; sample a taster lecture; and worship in the Chapel. Please click here for further information. If you would like to attend please contact admissions@queens.ac.uk

Publication of External Examiner Report 2016-17

We are pleased to note that the external examiner for our Common Awards (Durham University) programmes has highlighted a number of areas of good practice in his most recent report covering the academic year 2016-17. In particular, we are grateful for the following commendation:    

‘… [Queen’s] offers a very high quality of theological education and formation for ministry, resourced by an excellent curriculum, creative teaching and support for learning, passionate, collegial educators and innovative syllabi. Weaker students receive a good level of support; stronger students find stimulus and forms in which to excel at all levels.’

Postgraduate & Doctoral Research Open Day

An open day for those interested in pursuing postgraduate (MA) and doctoral study will take place on Saturday, February 17^th 2018. Gathering at 11am, participants will have the opportunity to hear about the range of courses and pathways on offer, talk one-on-one with staff, hear from current and former students, and investigate the possibilities available on our creative and student-centred programmes. There will also be a tour of the campus, and lunch is provided. The day will finish by 4pm. For further information, please click here.

If you would like to book a place, or simply chat further to a member of staff, please contact admissions@queens.ac.uk (Telephone 0121 452 2668) in the first instance.

Black Theology Forum - Thursday 25th January

The next gathering of the forum for Black Theologians at Queen's will be Thursday 25th Janruary at 7.30pm, with Lorlett Hudson. For more information contact: Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie, tutor for Black theology and ministries at Queen's or click here.

Centre for Discipleship and Theology Open Days 2018

The Centre for Discipleship and Theology Open Days for 2018 have now been confirmed as Saturday 17th February and Saturday 19th May, starting at 10 am and finishing by 1.45 pm. During the day you will get the opportunity to discover study options; chat to present students; tour the campus and lecture facilities; sample a taster lecture; and worship in the Chapel. If you would like to attend do please contact admissions@queens.ac.uk or telephone 0121 452 2668.

Opening of Frances Young House

We were please to celebrate the formal opening of Frances Young House on Monday 2nd October. The day was marked by a service of celebration and thanksgiving, at which Professor Young herself preached, and by the inaugural lecture of Professor Nicola Slee as Queen's Chair of Feminist Practical Theology.   A great evening was had by all.

First PhD student completes at our link university VU Amsterdam, and earns the rare distinction of a Cum Laude (distinction)

We are delighted that Revd Dr Al Barrett has been awarded the ‘Cum Laude’ for his PhD thesis entitled ‘Interrupting the church’s flow: Engaging Graham Ward and Romand Coles in a radically receptive political theology in the urban margins‘.  Al gave an excellent public defence in Amsterdam on 13^th September, responding eloquently and convincingly to his 5 opponents’ questions.  

Open Days for Anglican Ordinands at Qn's

We are running a number of open days for Anglican ordinands this year:

• Tuesday 17th October 2017
• Saturday 4th November 2017
• Tuesday 5th December 2017
• Tuesday 30th January 2018
• Saturday 17th February 2018
• Tuesday 6th March 2018
• Saturday 12th May 2018

Click here for more information!

Black Theology Forum - Thursday 28th September

The next gathering of the forum for Black Theologians at Queen's will be Thursday 28th September at 7.30pm, with David Gibbs. For more information contact: Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie, tutor for Black theology and ministries at Queen's or click here.

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Award

We are pleased to announce that Queen's has been awarded a Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Year Two Provisional award. This award recognizes that the provider "meets rigorous national quality requirements for UK higher education, and is taking part in the TEF, but does not yet have sufficient data to be fully assessed."

For further details, see the Queen's Foundation entry on the TEF website.

The Centre for Discipleship and Theology Open Days 2018

The Centre for Discipleship and Theology will be holding Open Days on Tuesday Saturday 17th February and Saturday 19th May .  If you would like to attend or require any further information please contact admissions@queens.ac.uk. To download the flyer click here.

Black Theology Forum - Thursday 22nd July

The next gathering of the forum for Black Theologians at Queen's will be Thursday 22nd June at 7.30pm, with Revd Canon Eve Pitts. For more information contact: Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie, tutor for Black theology and ministries at Queen's or click here.

Publication of MA External Examiner Report 2015-16

We have received the report of the External Examiner for our Newman University M.A. programme in Theology and Transformative Practice, and are very pleased with her assessment of the strengths of the Foundation’s work.  She noted a number of areas for commendation, including the depth and clarity of feedback given to students, the relevance and breadth of modules for those seeking to develop as reflective practitioners, and the intentional nurturing of those students with potential for doctoral work.

She concluded:

‘The programme continues to improve and the cohorts appear to respond to the good levels of specialist and ecumenical engagement. The Queen’s team is clearly at the cutting edge of the theological landscape and they are responsive to student need…the team offers a good example of thoughtful and reflective practice in responding to student needs and provoking them to develop and achieve the best possible outcomes. The progressive nature of the learning and the topics selected also offer insight into key issues for 21^st century church and society.’

Job opportunities at Queen's

We are currently advertising for two positions at Queen's:

• Accommodation and Conference Manager
• Campus Facilities Manager

The deadline for both positions is the 26th June.

For further details, click here.

The Windrush Generation - 2017 conference

Queen's is pleased to host the 2017 Windrush Generation Conference. 

Ahead of the 70th anniversary since the arrival of the first group of African Caribbean migrants in post-war Britain, this conference aims to illuminate the historical experience and theological context of The Windrush Generation since the post-war years. It promises to enrich our understanding so far of the Windrush generation shaping Christianity in Britain, by facilitating a re-examination of their socio- religious experience, beliefs, mission, and liturgical practices, in order to engender further historical and theological interpretations of the 'Windrush legacy'.

Speakers: 

• Professor Robert Beckford 
• Rev John L. Wilkinson 
• Rev Sivakumar Rajagopalan 
• Mark Sturge 
• Patrick Vernon, OBE 

Further details here. 

'Everyday People - Your Call' - conference at Queen's

Queen's is delighted to host the 2017 'Everyday People - Your Call' conference. The two-day conference will take place in July at Queen's.

Click here for further information.

QAA Educational Oversight 2017

We are please to announce that Queen's has received a positive outcome from our recent QAA Educational Oversight monitoring visit, conducted in March 2017.  The report from the visit concludes that Queen's "has made acceptable progress with implementing the action plan" our 2016 Review, and outlines the various mechanisms, processes and procedures that have contributed to such implementation.

The full report may be accessed here.

Black Theology Forum - summer activity

The Black Theology Forum will gather at Queen's on 27 April, 25 May, and 22 June. Click here to download the flyer. For more information contact: Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie, tutor for Black theology and ministries at Queen's.

Queen's Foundation Lecture 2017

The 2017 Queen's Foundation Lecture is given by Revd Dr Alison Milbank, University of Nottingham, on Monday 8th May 2017 at St John's Church Harbourne, Birmingham. For more details visit click here. All are welcome!

Black Theology Forum - 30th March 2017

The next gathering of the forum for Black Theologians at Queen's will be Thursday 30th March at 7.30pm, with Professor Robert Beckford. 'Doing Theology in the Age of Black Lives Matter: The Jamaican Bible Remix'. For more information contact: Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie, tutor for Black theology and ministries at Queen's.

Publication of External Examiner Report 2015-16

We are pleased to note that the external examiner for our Common Awards (Durham University) programmes has highlighted a number of areas of good practice in his most recent report. He notes, for example, that "programme curricula remain current, relevant and valid" and that "I continue to see much excellent practice in respect of feedback". In particular, we are grateful for the following commendation:     

"Many Queen’s modules are commendable for the strength of their curricular design. I was impressed by the structure of TMM2087 OT Text Study – Psalms, TMM2257 Christianity and Interfaith Engagement and TMM2501 – Christian Ritual, Theology & Pastoral Care. It was good to see the inclusion of black, feminist and liberationist perspectives in TMM2121 Topics in Christian Doctrine. Most impressive was the concept and design of Theologies in Global Perspective, which looks really excellent, both the breadth and the focus on Latin America, Africa & migration. Queen’s are probably ahead of many UK TRS depts. as well as TEIs in offering such provision. At this point the research expertise of certain staff members seems to make an obvious contribution to enhancing the curriculum."

VU Theology faculty ranked 7th best in the world

We are pleased to share the good news from our partner university VU Amsterdam, whose theology faculty have received a ranked as 7th best in the world in terms of criteria such as academic and faculty reputation. The full press release and figures are available here.

Appointment of Professor Nicola Slee

We are pleased to share the press release on the website of VU Amsterdam, which announces the appointment of Dr. Nicola Slee, Director of Research at Queen’s, as the newly created Queen’s Chair in Feminist Practical Theology.  The chair’s aim is to promote and strengthen practical theology in the academy and in the churches, responding to urgent societal issues from the perspective of feminism and related discourses. 

We offer Nicola our congratulations on the appointment, and its recognition of the quality and significance of her scholarship.

The full press release is available here.

Queen’s Foundation and Methodist Church name building

The Queen’s Foundation in Birmingham and the Methodist Church have announced the name of a newly purchased building today, named after a renowned theologian and minister.

‘Frances Young House’, 24 Somerset Road, Edgbaston, is the latest building to be made available to the Foundation, which offers academic ecumenical theological education and trains Methodists and Anglicans for ministry.

The building has been purchased by the Methodist Church, which has had a significant partnership with the Foundation since 1970. Building works are currently underway and scheduled to be finished by April this year.  Designed by a local architect, the newly refurbished structure will boast a new lecture theatre, offices, facilities and living quarters as a new space to ‘live, learn and reflect’.

The new building takes its name from the Revd Professor Frances Young, a Methodist minister and established theologian who has many notable achievements in theology, including an OBE for her services to the field.  When asked about her reaction to finding out that she would have a building named after her, Frances said:
"My first reaction was one of astonishment – it was so unexpected, and so out of sync with the sermon I was preparing about humility! But since finding out, I’ve been increasingly grateful, seeing it as a sign of mutual regard – of the College’s appreciation for my long standing association, and of my own appreciation for all the College has given me over the years."

The Revd Canon Dr David Hewlett, Principle of the Foundation, added:
“I am delighted that the house will be named after the Revd Professor Frances Young.  Professor Young is already closely connected with the Queen’s Foundation as one of our International Research Consultants and her lifelong work and ministry exemplifies the best of Christian scholarship.  The new building will be a wonderful addition to the Queen’s campus, providing first class accommodation for our student community and excellent additional teaching resources.”

Black Theology Forum - 16th February 2017

The next gathering of the forum for Black Theologians at Queen's will be Thursday 16th February 2017 at 7.30pm, with Nicola Burgher.  "What does the Bible say about healthy eating and well-being?" For more information contact: Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie, tutor for Black theology and ministries at Queens.

Christian Mission in Post-Christian Cultures

The Queen's Foundation is pleased to be hosting a one day conference on 16th May 2017 on 'Christian Mission in Post-Christian Cultures'. The event is organised by the British and Irish Association for Practical Theology, and the keynote speaker is Prof Dr Stefan Paas, Professor of Missiology and Intercultural Theology at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. See the attached flier for further details.

Opportunities at Queen's

The Queen’s Foundation is building on its reputation as one of the UK’s largest and leading theological colleges and seeks applications from experienced and qualified people to join us in the following areas:

We are looking to appoint up to two full time members of staff, but we are willing to consider part time appointments.  We hope that post holders will be ready to start work by September 2017 but we are willing to explore an earlier start date. You are invited to express an interest in these posts if you believe you meet the core requirement and at least one of the other principal areas of work. For further details, see our job openings pages.

We are also looking to appoint two Research Scholarships, for applicants wish to undertake full time study leading to a PhD in a theological discipline. For further details, see our research scholarship pages.

Context-Based Learning

We are delighted to formally announce the availability of our new Context-Based Learning programme which begins in September 2017. For further details, please access our Context-Based Learning page.

Subversive carols

On Monday 12the December, Staff and students from Queen’s will be making their annual trip into Birmingham city centre to sing 'subversive carols' (all the old favourite tunes, but with words that challenge the structures of injustice which trap many people at Christmas). We’ll be starting at around 2pm until about 3pm. All are welcome to join us (we gather near the Bull outside the Bullring)

If you can't join us in the flesh, please do pray for us.

Black Theology Forum - Thursday 26th January 2017

Black Theology Forum at Queen’s Foundation  Chair and convener: Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie

The Black Theology Forum (BTF) offers a space for the exploration of Black and Asian liberation theologies through critical conversations on a wide range of topics. It is a monthly gathering that merges scholarship with transformative practice, and anyone who identifies as Black and Asian are welcome to attend. Admission is free, however for planning and catering purposes please register in advance. For more details, please contact Dulcie McKenzie at Queen’s Foundation: d.mckenzie@queens.ac.uk.

Dr Tomlin is an award-winning educator and ordained minister. She has a long and distinguished academic career, teaching in universities both nationally and internationally. She was Education Studies Course Tutor at the University of Wolverhampton and had been appointed as a part time on-line tutor at Oxford University, Department of Continuing Education. In addition, she was a visiting tutor at The Queen's Foundation, drawing on several years experience of pastoral ministry as the Senior Pastor of Restoration Fellowship Ministries. Dr Tomlin has also worked as a Healthcare Chaplain, registered with the UK Board of Healthcare Chaplains. She is one of the leading experts on the art of preaching.

As a published author, some of Dr Tomlin’s key academic texts include Black Language Style in Sacred and Secular Contexts (1999) and co-authored books with Dr Paul Mocombe: Language, Literacy and Pedagogy (2013); Race and Class Distinction in Black Communities (2014) and Jesus and the Streets (2015). She also reviewed the 6th edition of the best-selling book Doing Your Research Project (2014) by Judith Bell with Stephen Waters. Dr Tomlin is a firm believer in the transformative power of Jesus Christ. 

Click here for further details.

Dates now available for Open Days (Independent Studies)

Are you interested in studying at Queen's as an independent student? If so, come along to one of our open days! Click here for more details and here to book! More information about Independent Study can be found is also available.

Open days for independent study - now available

We welcome at any of our open days anyone who feels called to study theology. We invite you to discover what the Queen’s Foundation can offer in its urban setting, through its diverse life and its wide range of academic programmes.

Click here for further information and booking details.

Newman University graduations 2016

Last Thursday (27th October), a number of Queen’s students formally received their Newman University awards, the climax of a number of years of study. Around 80 Queen’s students received awards – at postgraduate and undergraduate level – with many of them attending the formal graduation ceremony at the Birmingham Symphony. Congratulations to them all!

Black Theology Forum - 20th October 2016

Black Theology Forum at Queen’s Foundation
Chair and convener: Dr Dulcie Dixon McKenzie

The Black Theology Forum (BTF) offers a space for the exploration of Black and Asian liberation theologies through critical conversations on a wide range of topics. It is a monthly gathering that merges scholarship with transformative practice, and anyone who identifies as Black and Asian are welcome to attend. Admission is free, however for planning and catering purposes please register in advance. For more details, please contact Dulcie McKenzie at Queen’s Foundation: d.mckenzie@queens.ac.uk.

On the 20th October, Archbishop Agama will give a presentation, launch his new book and sign copies. His presentation will focus on the relationship between Africa and the Bible as a very ancient one and that non-European Christians and particularly those from Africa have made significant contributions to global Christianity. The suffering of Africa could be seen as a retribution for her contributions, rather than the misinterpreted "curse of Ham". The evening will include the launch of Archbishop Agama’s book, Africa, Christianity and the Bible, Our Global Destiny, which looks at the current and future role of Christians of African heritage here in Britain and around the world.

Archbishop Agama is a Christian leader within the Pentecostal Holiness movement. He is presiding prelate and executive director of the Apostolic Pastoral Congress, a collegiate collective of Pentecostal Bishops and Priests, which is part of the evolving "Convergence Movement" in Pentecostalism. He has published eight books, including various theological perspectives on the relevance of ancient Christianity to modern Pentecostalism, and in particular to the emerging Black and multi-cultural churches. He has been married to Helen for over 34 years and they have children and grandchildren.

Click here for further details.

Black Theology Forum - dates this term

The BTF convenes once a month, usually on the fourth Thursday during term time, and admission is free. Anyone who identifies as Black and Asian is welcome to attend. Refreshments are available. To register your attendance, please email Gail Harris in advance of the BTF.

Click here for further details about the Forum's activity this term, which includes papers from:

• Mike Royal
• Archbishop Doyé Teido Agama
• Rev David Shosanya

Open Days for Anglican Ordinands at Queen's

We are running a number of open days for Anglican ordinands this year:

• Tuesday 18th October 2016
• Saturday 12th November 2016
• Tuesday 31st January 2017
• Tuesday 7th March 2017
• Saturday 6th May 2017
• Tuesday 9th May 2017
• Saturday 10th June 2017

Click here for more information!

Launch of a Festschrift​ for Right Revd Penny Jamieson

All welcome to attend the forthcoming UK book launch of a Festschrift for Right Revd Penny Jamieson, the first woman bishop in the Anglican Communion on Wednesday 5th October 2016. Essays reflect on women's prophetic and priestly ministry, with contributions from Katharine Jefferts Schori, Victoria Matthews, Jenny Te Paa Daniel, Nicola Slee and Paula Gooder, amongst others.

Click here for further details.

Black Theology Forum - Thursday 29th September 2016

The BTF convenes once a month, usually on the fourth Thursday during term time, and admission is free. Anyone who identifies as Black and Asian is welcome to attend. Refreshments are available. To register your attendance, please email Gail Harris in advance of the BTF.

Click here for further details.

Queen's QAA Higher Education Review (2016) published!

The Queen's Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education has undergone a review by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and has received its final report, which is available in full here. We have received the following judgements from QAA:

• The maintenance of the academic standards of awards meets UK expectations. 
• The quality of student learning opportunities meets UK expectations.
• The quality of the information about learning opportunities meets UK expectations.
• The enhancement of student learning opportunities meets UK expectations.

Responding to the findings of the report, Principal David Hewlett said:

The QAA review for Alternative Providers of Higher Education, which takes place every four years, is a comprehensive and exhaustive process which looks at every area of quality in an institution and its provision for teaching and learning.  We are delighted at the reviewers’ conclusion that we meet all expectations and for the special affirmations they give us about the quality of our tutorial support and library provision. The outcome of this review is testimony to the diligence and skill of academic and administrative staff.

Click here for more information.

Black Theology Forum - 23rd June 2016

The BTF convenes once a month, usually on the fourth Thursday during term time, and admission is free. Anyone who identifies as Black and Asian is welcome to attend. Refreshments are available. To register your attendance, please email Gail Harris in advance of the BTF.

Click here for further details.

Everyday People - Your Call Conference - 15-17th July 2016

The Church of England is committed to encouraging more minority ethnic women and men to join the ordained ministry and so to more wonderfully reflect the face of Jesus Christ in the leadership of our churches.

The Queen's Foundation is hosting a 2-day conference from the 15-17 July 2016 for people to come and explore ministry in the Church of England. This promises to be a time of blessing, including story-telling, study, worship and an opportunity to speak out.

The cost for the conference is £50, but if you're in the Birmingham or Manchester dioceses your tickets will be subsidised to just £15.

Funding is available and we don't want finances to be a barrier to you attending, so get in touch if you have queries: The Revd Canon Faith Claringbull at ddo@cofebirmingham.com.

For further details, click here.

Come to Queen's for a theology 'taster course' this summer!

The Centre for Discipleship and Theology (CDT) at Queen’s is pleased to announce a “Taster Course” in theology to run from Saturday 14th May to Saturday 18th June 2016.

For more information click here.

Remembering John Hull event - 20th July 2016

On Wednesday 20th July 2016 at 7 pm, the Church at Carrs Lane, Birmingham, is holding an evening of remembrance for Professor John Hull. John was a tutor at Queen's from 2004 until his death in the summer of 2015. The evening includes: music, tributes, thanksgiving, and a viewing of the film based on John's book Touching the Rock: 'Notes on Blindness'.

For more information, click here.

Every Tribe, Nation and Language conference - 2nd July 2016

*** Final chance to register for the conference act quickly! ***

Queen's is delighted to announce the Every Tribe, Nation and Language Conference hosted by Queen's on 2nd July 2016. The conference is aimed at church leaders of all Christian traditions who are seeking to integrate people from different ethnic backgrounds into the life and mission of their church.

The conference speakers are:

• Dr Harvey Kwiyani 
• Rev Steve Hollinghurst 
• Gale Richards 
• Dr Tani Omideyi 

This conference is jointly organised by:

• Centre for Missionaries from the Majority World
• Birmingham Churches Together
• Queens Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education.

For more information click here.

The Black Theology Forum - Thursday 26th May 2016

The BTF convenes once a month, usually on the fourth Thursday during term time, and admission is free. Anyone who identifies as Black and Asian is welcome to attend. Refreshments are available. To register your attendance, please email Gail Harris in advance of the BTF.

Click here for further details.

Stephen Barton

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Stephen Barton, the husband of our colleague Mukti Barton, died peacefully on Wednesday 27 April.  Stephen’s funeral will take place at12 noon on Monday 16th May at St Germain’s Church, 180 Portland Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B16 9TD, and afterward at Lodge Hill Cemetery, Weoley Park Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham, B29 5AA.  The service will be inclusive with contributions from people of different faith communities. All are welcome.  If you are planning to attend please could you let Queen’s know by emailing a.parmar@queens.ac.uk

Announcing the inaugural Queen's Foundation Lecture

We are delighted to announce the launch of the annual Queen's Foundation Lecture. The Queen's Foundation Lecture is aimed at providing a platform for significant theologians to reflect on contemporary challenges to the church.

The inaugural lecture is given by Revd Dr Sam Wells, vicar of St Martins-in-the-Fields, on Monday 6th June 2016 at 7pm at All Saints Kings Heath, Birmingham.

The event is not ticketed and open to all! More information here.

The Black Theology Forum - Thursday 17th March 2016

We are pleased to announce the 'Every Tribe, Nation and Language: Growing Multi-Ethnic Churches' conference which will take place at Queen's on Saturday 2nd July 2016 between 10am and 4pm.

This is a day conference for church leaders of all Christian traditions who are seeking to integrate people from different ethnic backgrounds into the life and mission of their church.

For further information, please click here.

Queen’s tutor re-appointed to Liturgical Commission

The new Church of England Liturgical Commission has just been appointed by the Archbishops of Canterbury and York. Queen’s liturgy tutor, Revd Mark Earey, has been re-appointed to serve on it for the next quinquennium of General Synod. Mark said, ‘It’s a great privilege to be asked to serve on the Liturgical Commission again. The agenda looks likely to continue to focus on liturgical formation – making actual worship better – rather than producing lots of new texts, and there are exciting ideas about supporting worship among those with dementia, and about equipping people with personal worship resources which will support their daily discipleship.’

Queen’s tutor to speak at Praxis National day conference

Mark Earey will be one of the keynote speakers (along with Revd Canon Angela Tilby) at a day conference at Southwark Cathedral this Saturday (17th October) to celebrate 25 years of Praxis, the Church of England organisation committed to liturgical renewal and education. Mark was National Education Officer for Praxis from 1997 to 2002.

The day conference is called: ‘Worship Matters - the importance of worship for the mission of the Church’ and runs from 10.30am to 3.30pm. Further information from the Praxis website: http://www.praxisworship.org.uk/index.html

New Staff Member at Queen’s

We are pleased to announce the appointment of Rev Dr Jonathan Dean to Queen’s, to work with and support Methodist Probationers in their studies.  Jonathan joins us from Aurora University, where he has been Assistant Professor of Religion and University Chaplain.  We look forward to welcoming Jonathan and his partner Trey (who has himself been appointed to a post with the Epicentre church planting movement) to Queen’s in September.