As a part-time student at Cranmer Hall focusing on Theology, Ministry, and Mission, my educational journey is significantly influenced by the biblical principles outlined in 1 Timothy 3:4-5. This passage emphasises the importance of effectively loving one's family as a prerequisite for pursuing leadership within the church.
My commitment to this principle extends to my active involvement in my local church community, where I serve in Kids Church and lead two Bible study groups—one for new believers and the other for more experienced Christians. In addition to my church activities, I work as a personal trainer. This position naturally facilitates discussions about faith and provides opportunities to incorporate conversations about Jesus into everyday interactions.
By integrating my academic studies with practical ministry experiences, I am learning how to connect theological concepts with real-world applications effectively. This holistic approach to my mission emphasises starting from home and extending into both my professional role in the gym and the broader community. Ultimately, this framework allows me to express my calling in a meaningful way as I complete my studies.
Kia ora, my name is Sara, In the many places I have lived, across countries, New Zealand and the UK I have worked with children, youth and families, within the church and the community. My husband Luke and I call Durham home; we enjoy fellowship and worship at our church St Nics. With our 4 children being in almost every ministry of children and youth, covering teens to tots!
I am here at Cranmer studying for the Certificate in Theology, Ministry and Mission via the Children’s and Youth Ministry formational pathway. Being a part of the wider community, learning both Theology and Mission studies, journeying in faith alongside others from across denominations and modes of study has been an amazing opportunity. Focusing on Children and listening to leading voices in this area of ministry has been inspiring. The Growing Faith module, following the National Initiative within the Church of England, aiming to place children and families at the heart of the church’s ministry and mission, brought both challenge and courage to continue in my vocation of serving children and their families.
And we as a family, joined St Nics for this very reason! Children are encouraged to explore their faith alongside one another in the body of Christ, to encounter Jesus, to wonder and ponder about God, simply like we as grown-ups do!
I support our St Nics Children's and Families Ministry Worker Kate, as part of her wider team as she oversees the discipleship of children 0-11s. My passion is for the (0-5s); these are such foundational years for a child's development and holistic wellbeing. I believe nurturing the relationships of parent and child, along with the wider community being around them, is of great worth and value in the Kingdom of God. In Mark 10:14, Jesus says, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” I find joy in creating spaces for young families to know the love of God, to find community in the ‘calm to chaos and every emotion in between’ (0-5s) years and season of life.
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