The way we facilitate this:
Theological Study — We seek to offer a range of opportunities for the study of theology. These range from 5-minute videos all the way through to doctoral research. It is our hope that we can support the Church and its leaders to be more confident and equipped to wrestle with Scripture.
Pursuit of Wisdom — Wisdom is where knowledge becomes mobilised and engages with real life. We seek to nurture a theological education that moves beyond introspection and towards a holistic, embodied ministry—one that holds space for pain and mystery without always rushing to provide answers. We pursue this through regular spiritual disciplines such as prayer and worship, as well as a deep, ongoing commitment to life in community.
Shaping of Mission — John tells us that “the Word became flesh and dwelled among us” (Jn 1:14). Jesus embedded himself within the particularities of place and the apostles proclaimed the Gospel within specific contexts. Ridley Hall discusses ancient texts and ancient truths in creative conversation with the ideas and values of our own cultural moment. This is central to our missional ethos. We work with all our students to ensure that, alongside their studies, they have sustained opportunities for mission. This is vital not only for practice, reflection, and learning, but also to ensure that Ridley Hall offers a learning experience that is not siloed off from the realities of the world.
Gracious — because grace is at the heart of the Gospel. We know our own frailty and sinfulness and share the grace that God has shared with us and with those around us.
Faithful — because we are called to follow in the footsteps of Christ, in faithfulness to his teaching, to the words of Scripture, and the witness of the Church.
Hopeful — because we trust that God is at work in the world around us, and we seek to join in with God’s action and mission.
Creative — because we live in changing times and God calls us again and again to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom in each new season, in ways that are rooted and faithful, yet responding to new challenges, questions, and situations.
Responsible — because God has entrusted us with the welfare of his people training at this time, and with great resources in our staff, students, buildings, and contacts. We aim to be good stewards, both prudent and able to take risks under the Spirit.
Named after the sixteenth-century martyr and Bishop of London Nicholas Ridley, Ridley Hall opened its doors in 1881 to train people eager to devote their lives to ordained ministry.
Under the leadership of the College’s first Principal, Handley Moule, the student body grew from an initial eight students to forty by the early 1900s. Ridley had become a thriving hub for ministry at home and around the world.
Early Years
Many of the College’s early alumni exercised their calling in Anglican parishes throughout Britain. But remembrance plaques in Ridley's chapel commemorate the willingness of others to follow Jesus wherever he led, even to the ends of the earth. Ridley’s alumni played a considerable role in helping to build the Anglican Communion, and have significantly influenced the Church and its mission ever since.
Ridley Today
Over the last century and a quarter Ridley has grown and changed, and we now prepare a diverse group of women and men of all ages to serve Christ in the Church through both lay and ordained ministry. We also offer a space for private study, spiritual renewal and refreshment to those taking a break from their careers or established ministries.
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