Being part of the Ministry Formation Program (MFP) has been hugely beneficial to me this year. For some years prior to enrolling, I had been discerning a calling to ordained ministry in the Anglican tradition, and joining the 91ÖÆƬ³§¹ú²úAV Theological School (TCTS) community not only helped to clarify this calling but also provided a collegial space in which to study theology and learn about ministry.
From day one I encountered a community of staff and students that was diverse, committed and interested in sharing in my journey, with all its difficulties and joys. Here, I found a stimulating and supportive environment where you are encouraged to explore, discuss and challenge yourself and others in matters of faith, doctrine, ministry and personal growth.
Being my first year in the MFP, I took two introductory subjects – Introduction to Anglican Ministry Formation and Leadership, Teaching, Community Building. The content was highly relevant and helpful to me as I continued to discern my calling. The Revd Canon Dr Ray Cleary facilitated a rich learning community and fostered not only our knowledge and understanding but helped build strong relationships between students that quickly became mutually supportive and encouraging.
While benefiting from the academic study provided, the MFP is much more. Fridays begin with morning prayer at the 91ÖÆƬ³§¹ú²úAV Chapel, followed by a time of community gathering over morning tea in the Old Warden’s Lodge. After lunch, there are a variety of plenary presentations, which this year have included a diverse range of speakers, including Dean of King’s College, London, the Revd Dr Richard Burridge, Bishop of the Eastern region, Anglican Diocese of Melbourne, Bishop Barbara Darling, and Metropolitan Archbishop, Diocese of Melbourne, Archbishop Philip Freier.
These plenaries helped me deepen my understanding of the many issues facing the church in these times and provided a forum for questions and lively discussion with church leaders. The Friday program finishes with Eucharist, again at the Chapel, then drinks and refreshments together to end the day. Students are encouraged to take an active role in all liturgies and I found this really helpful in building confidence and in skill development.
Exploring faith, discerning a call to ministry – ordained or lay – and building ministry skills is all part of what I have encountered being part of the MFP this year. It has been a richly rewarding year; the MFP providing community support, friendships and mentoring that I really couldn’t have done without.
Having now been accepted as a Candidate in the Anglican Diocese of Melbourne, I am very much looking forward to further studies in 2013 in the MFP, spending more time with colleagues and friends I have made this year, and meeting the new students who will be joining our community next year.
Dr Sharne Rolfe
