Dr. Garry Williams has recently taken up a post at the John Owen Centre, part of the London Theological Seminary. EN took the opportunity to interview him about current theological education.
EN: In these times of economic constraint do you have any advice for young people and churches on how they may finance themselves through a theological course?
GW: I think that concern for the future of the ministry should be a shared responsibility of the whole church. For this to happen, pastors need consciously and deliberately to teach the congregation about the vital role of training in maintaining the health of the church. This will lead to congregations believing in and being prepared to support theological training, both in prayer and practically. The continuation of a faithful ministry is also a particular responsibility of present leaders, as Paul reminds Timothy, so pastors need to be proactive in identifying potential future ministers and in leading the church in supporting them.
