Displaying items by tag: church leadership

The future of theological education in the UK looks uncertain, with experts predicting that half of all Bible colleges may close within the next two years. Declining enrolment, financial struggles, and shifting educational models have left many institutions at risk. The CofE, which relies on these schools to train ministers, has seen a 40% drop in ordinands since 2019. Factors for this decline include secularisation, the cost-of-living crisis, and changing church dynamics. Some conservatives argue that a lack of doctrinal clarity within the CofE has contributed to the uncertainty. Others point to a global shift away from traditional seminary models, with institutions now exploring nonresidential programmes, microcredentials, and hybrid learning. St Mellitus and WTC have introduced flexible learning models to reach lay leaders and working professionals. Capernwray Bible School, which attracts mostly international students, sees a potential revival of faith through broader access to theological education. Experts believe these changes could reshape theological training for the future.