Thanksgiving at WEST
The thanksgiving service at the Wales Evangelical School of Theology (WEST) in Bryntirion was held, to the accompaniment of heavy rain showers, on Saturday 16 May.
A large number of friends, family and supporters attended the service. The principal, Jonathan Stephen, led the meeting and referred to the passing of Rev. John Waite, a former principal of the predecessor college. Dr Mark Pickett, the BA course leader, read and prayed.
The principal gave thanks to God for his provision over the year – the spirit of unity, accreditation to sponsor visa students, and an encouraging increase in student applications for the coming year, including 25 so far for initial training.
He outlined the financial challenges at a difficult time. Two initiatives to promote partnership were under way, with a major Korean church and with independent evangelical churches in England and Wales.
Several members of staff are standing down from their duties at WEST, while several leaving students – Richard Taylor, Tom Clewer, Jonny Raine and Matthew Jones – were interviewed. Local minister, Mark Barnes, prayed for the students.
The preacher was Gary Benfold of Moordown Baptist Church, Bournemouth, who is close to completing his DMin at WEST. His subject was ‘Serving a different king’ and his text was Hebrews 11:23-29.
Kerry Orchard
