One of the things I have always valued in ministry is the opportunity to keep learning and growing. Theology does not stand still, and neither should I. Auditing a subject through St Francis Theological College has been a wonderful way for me to keep my theological knowledge current, discover new authors and research, and continue to be challenged and inspired.
Karen and Coco
One of the things I particularly appreciate is the opportunity to study subjects that simply weren’t offered when I completed my theology degree. Theological education continues to develop, new areas of study emerge, and different issues become important for the church and the world. This semester I am auditing Synoptic Gospels. I studied this course about eleven years ago and still use the exegesis skills I learned then. However, I have forgotten some of the aspects of it and it’s great to add them again when preparing my sermon. My parishioners have always loved learning the historical and sociocultural context when the passage allows it, now I can add a few more interesting facts. I guess auditing gives me the chance to explore without having to enrol in another degree or formal qualification.
It is also surprisingly easy to fit into a busy week. I generally spend about an hour doing the reading beforehand and then Zoom into the three-hour lecture. I have access to all the course materials and readings, and I can participate fully in the stimulating class discussions, ask questions and contribute from my own experience of ministry.
And perhaps the best part, I don’t have to do the assignments.
Having completed formal study over the years, I know only too well how many hours can disappear into researching, writing, editing and referencing an assignment. Auditing means I can enjoy the very best part of study, learning, thinking, questioning, discussing and discovering, without the pressure of assessment deadlines.
I have particularly enjoyed being introduced to current authors and contemporary research that I may not otherwise have encountered. It is easy, being busy in ministry to keep returning to the same books, resources and ideas I already know, however auditing encourages me to step outside this familiar territory and hear new voices and perspectives. I have purchased three new books recommended in the reading list and am loving the newer scholarship.
What I learn does not simply stay in the classroom either. I find myself drawing on it in preaching, pastoral conversations, spiritual reflection and my own continuing formation. It keeps me curious and reminds me that theological education is not something that finished when I graduated, it is a lifelong journey. And as I am still paying my HECS, I love this inexpensive way of learning.
I enthusiastically recommend auditing to clergy, lay ministers and anyone who loves learning and wants to keep growing theologically. It offers all the stimulation of being back in the classroom, but without the late nights wondering whether your footnotes are in the right format.
Reverend Karen Allen
Coolum Anglican Church