The Principal, Canon Robin Ward:
I am writing to say that I will be leaving St Stephen’s House as Principal at the end of April. I have had a very happy and fulfilling time here for what has been nearly two decades, but as I enter my sixtieth year I think it is important that the College is led with fresh eyes and fresh insights, as it embraces its mission to form priests in the Catholic tradition for the Church of England into the future.
It has been an honour to do this work in collaboration with dedicated and talented colleagues, and to be part of the intellectual and academic life of the University of Oxford, and latterly of Durham. Most importantly, the work of a theological college is shown in the
priestly ministry of its students, and the abiding memory of my time here will be the privilege of accompanying them at the beginning of their formation, and seeing it come to fruition in the parishes and places where they now serve so faithfully.
Bishop Martin Warner, Chair of the House Council:
We owe Canon Robin Ward a great debt of gratitude for his long and distinguished ministry at St Stephen’s House. Priests throughout the Church of England will continue to benefit from his teaching, encouragement and personal example. We look forward to thanking him
further in the months to come.
Prior to Fr Ward’s departure at the end of April, the Council will appoint an Acting Principal to oversee the work of St Stephen’s House, to review the role of Principal and to begin the recruitment process for appointing a successor. Throughout this process we will continue to
support staff and students.
We look forward to welcoming new ordinands to St Stephen’s House for the Michaelmas term, an affirmation of our continuing commitment to forming priests in the Catholic tradition of the Church of England.
