Tuesday night is

…training night.

For what might be the first time ever, three members of the Priory’s congregation are simultaneously in training for ministry at the Queen’s Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Training in Birmingham. Or just ‘Queen’s’ to its friends.

One reader in training and an ordinand studied Worship. Specifically, what different models of liturgical worship exist. Asked to consider whether liturgical worship their own church modelled a ‘prawn’ or a ‘plaice’ this coming Sunday, it will be interesting to see whether they agree. And if you’re wondering, it’s probably easiest to ask the students concerned. Meanwhile the other ordinand covered Church History, specifically Constantine.

Before lectures the Queen’s staff and students worshipped together in a service of Holy Communion for Candlemas. In the darkened chapel, the individual candles of the worshippers shone out as lights of Jesus’ love, hope and peace in a troubled world.

A delicious supper of Chinese stir-fried pork or tofu with vegetables and egg-fried rice followed by pineapple upside down cake was shared in the dining hall. Fascinating theological discussions filled the room, before a quick ‘thank you’ to the chefs and a dash across campus to lectures.

Only a few more essays and formative assignments lie between now and ordination as Deacon at Petertide for one of the Priory students. Then an exciting new stage in her journey will begin, as a Curate. Priory prayers go with her.