A Note from the Principal
Welcome to the world of theological education and ministry formation. The territory you are now about to enter is one of fast-paced change. This is because of the shifting relationship of the gospel to its host culture. Once upon a time, we lived in a world of Christendom. The stories of the Christian faith were relatively well known; there seemed to be more of a moral consensus, and the church had a recognizable place in society. Those in ministry had a relatively clear idea of what their vocation was. That landscape has now altered. The Christian faith is more likely to find itself on the edge of mainstream culture; the constituency of the churches is more likely to be one of ethnic diversity.
Here at UTC we seek to honour what we have received from the past. We are deeply committed to the lines of continuity of those who have gone before us in faith. Our courses reflect our desire to stand within the catholic, evangelical and reformed traditions of the Christian faith. We also seek to be open to the future, and we believe good theology is required for a time like the present. We have thus developed an array of newer subjects that seek to respond to our Christian calling in a fast-changing world.
UTC has been at the forefront of a number of developments in the life of theology and the church in Australia. For many years it has been committed to the practice and theory of a public theology and a cross-cultural ministry. It has strived to take seriously the call for an integrated ministry and a process of formation for ministry.
Our desire is to respect the range of theologies found in the contemporary church. We are committed to helping people own their faith, and we want our students to have the capacity to respond sympathetically and creatively to those who differ from themselves.
This is an exciting time to be studying theology. It is a much needed vocation.
Associate Professor Clive Pearson (Rev Dr)
Principal