The Winchester School of Mission has appointed a new Dean of Licensed Ministry Training to lead ministry training across the Diocese of Winchester.
Revd Dr Amy Roche has been appointed to the role, having previously worked in developing a new church congregation in France and with the Anglican Church in Lebanon with women and refugees.
As Dean of Licensed Ministry Training (LMT), Dr Roche will be responsible for the delivery of mission focused training in the Diocese of Winchester through the School of Mission. She will develop the ministry training programme that helps grow the number of lay and ordained ministers in the Diocese.
She begins the role by taking responsibility for the forty-two students currently training for licensed lay, ordained, and preaching ministry. Revd Amy also regularly volunteers as a minister in rural parishes in the Whitchurch Deanery.
Revd Amy said:
“Having been working in the LMT team in the Diocese of Winchester since early 2019, I’m grateful for this opportunity to lead ministry training as we emerge into new types of ministry in the midst of the pandemic. I’m so grateful to all the Associates of the School of Mission without whom we couldn’t deliver such high-quality training. I am passionate about helping others grow and develop their vocation, and love to see people flourishing in their Christian life throughout and beyond their training.”
The Rt Reverend Debbie Sellin, Bishop of Southampton, said:
“I am continually inspired by our students who seek to share their faith and serve others in the community. As a Diocese, we would not be able to provide such support without the dedication of people like Amy. With Amy’s help, we will continue to guide people into joining God’s mission according to their vocation and gifting.”
The Licensed Ministry Training at the Diocese of Winchester offers a range of training programs. Classes are delivered by tutors who are expert in their subject areas and are experienced in delivering transformative mission and ministry through the local church.
As part of the South Central Theological Educational Institution (SCTEI), validated by the University of Durham, the Winchester School of Mission is inspected every year by an external examiner. This year the examiner concluded, that the Mission provides “an excellent education for your students which is the equal of any other provider of theological education.” He stated that the SCTEI combines “intellectual challenge with nurture and support”, and that “each student can enjoy a stimulating pedagogic environment.”
