Why Moorlands?

Tony Reynolds

Current Level III Student

Coming to Moorlands as a mature student in my late 50's, I was determined to get as much out of the course as possible, be equipped both theologically and practically, to serve God in the areas he wanted me to be in. It has been a roller coaster ride and I have learnt so much, but feel that I know so little. 

I have come to understand that my personal development to learn and grow is quite clearly my responsibility. The Moorlands 'SPAR' approach has lived up to it's reputation, as I have 'Spiritually' grown and have a much better understanding of who I am and how others view me, vital knowledge for any sort of effective, sustainable future ministry.

The 'Practical' aspects of the course have been rewarding and I have worked in a wide range of activities, from providing activities for 5 to 18 years olds in France with my 'Tutor Group', leading a service in a prison, to working alongside Chaplain's in a hospital that included supporting a wide range of patients/staff and a Macmillan Cancer Unit. 

'Academically", I thought the course was going to be a 'walk in the park', I had written reports throughout my career. It has been really challenging, at times like running in sand and I have burnt the midnight oil on a few occasions, but I have learnt so much from the research in writing the various assignments. The academic studies has influenced the way I think, I now approach issues with the thought - what evidence do I have available to support my response?

''Relationally' the course has been brilliant. Many of the guys and girls in my year are in their late teens and early twenties. I will never be their best mate, in the same way that they are building friendships, which will last for the rest of their lives, but there is a mutual friendship/respect and acceptance of our self-identities. Only this week I found myself looking at photos taken of our year group last summer, when many of us went down to the beach with a couple of guitars and we prayed, sang hymns and individuals stood up, sharing what the course had meant to them. This was followed by games and fun, none of it organised, and as I looked at the photo's I thought 'thank you Lord for letting me be part of this'.

Currently, I feel called to some sort of chaplaincy role in the future, or a ministry that is of a pastoral nature, however, that will probably require me to be ordained.  But I am completely at peace with the concept of an unknown future, trusting in God, which is inline with my favourite Bible passage - Proverbs 3:5-6.