Issac's Reflections: On His Time at Spring Hill and Finding His Faith

As well as being at Spring Hill over the past four years, I have also been exploring my faith and future within the Church of England. Right now, I am just beginning my ‘official’ journey of discernment - a pathway exploring my call to the priesthood - after which I hope to be accepted to theological college to be formed as an Anglican priest and gain a degree in theology. Running alongside the

discernment process, next year I will also be working in London for the Church of England as a Ministry Assistant. I applied for this position some time ago, without telling a soul - not even my parents! My application was successful and I was invited for a telephone interview. During that interview, I was informed that interest in the position was far higher than expected, with applicants from abroad as well as all over the UK. Following the interview, I was invited for an informal discussion and a second interview (this time online) after which I was told I had been selected as one of just two candidates who had been invited to London for a series of in-person interviews for the position. In total, I attended five interviews, so I was extremely relieved that none of it was in vain - I was offered the job on 27th June.

The position is for a fully funded and salaried discipleship year in central London, primarily working in a church as their Ministry Assistant, with a particular oversight of pastoral care. However, there are additional roles that really appeal to me on top of this discipleship experience, including working one day each week for an NGO called the International Justice Mission (IJM) which works to support those escaping from modern slavery. I am so fortunate to be afforded this experience and am both excited and terrified! I will be living away from my family, in the capital city, with all its opportunities and craziness. At the same time, I will be immersed in a life of ministry and service that I am going to embrace wholeheartedly and that I am certain will lead me forwards as I discern my future within the Church. I have not let my challenges hold me back and I hope that I can now help others through my work, in the same way people have helped and supported me.

When I started at Spring Hill I would hide under tables and only manage to talk to staff’s shoes!

Through the compassion, care and nurture that Spring Hill has given me, the unwavering support of my family, and my faith in God, I have got to where I am today. It is through these wonderful people around me that I can face the future.

Thank you, Spring Hill!