As over 100 exiting students prepare to graduate this month, Moore College welcomes another record intake of first year students.
Last week, the theological college welcomed 136 first year students - some starting the one-year Diploma of Bible and Missions, others the three-year Bachelor of Theology or Bachelor of Youth Ministry, or four-year Bachelor of Divinity.
It is a record intake for the college, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year.
A number of students shared their thoughts with Sydneyanglicans.net on their first impressions of college life.
Some were happy to admit to a high degreee of anxiety.
"I thought it would be a lot of hard work, a lot of hours sitting at the desk, " says Matt Stedman, of St Philip's, Turramurra South.
But those fears have been quickly laid to rest.
"I've enjoyed it", says Lisa Vassallo, of St Alban's, Rooty Hill, whose focus is on youth ministry. "All my nervousness has evaporated."
Robert and Dianne Martin, from St Michael's, Surry Hills, are one of sixteen couples studying together.
"Everyone's been very friendly and very welcoming", Robert says.
"I haven't felt alone or lonely."
"I was surprised how welcoming and kind the lecturers are", adds Dianne.
"They really go out of their way to emphasise they're on our side, and try and look after us."
"I knew I'd be challenged a lot", Matt Stedman says.
"My world view would be shaken and my understanding of God would be moulded and shaped."
The college has seen steady growth in the numbers of students in recent years.
One hundred and eight students will graduate at a much-anticipated ceremony on 20th March.
Thirty nine of these are ordinands going into the Sydney Diocese, the largest number ever in a single year.
“It’s the first time we’re studying what we really want to study”
Most of the students at Moore have already completed an undergraduate degree in another discipline.
Craig Tubman, from St Mark's, Avalon, says he is enjoying the workload because the subjects are interesting.
"For most of us, it's the first time we're studying what we really want to study. And that makes a big difference."
Coming to Moore College was a dificult but decisive moment for Craig.
"I knew once I start college, that's it, I've no choice but full-time ministry, because I've put so much into it,” he says.
“There's no back door exit."
Thinking about eternal realities helped Craig make up his mind.
"If heaven is real, and if we're going to be there fairly soon, then it totally changes everything", he says.
"When I think from that perspective " the reality of heaven " then it really confirms what I'm doing."
"It's a big shift in lifestyle", agrees Robert Martin, adding that being a student again requires self-motivation.
"Then there's the financial side", she says.
"We had interesting jobs, we saw the world, we had a regular income. I guess I've been challenged to really let go, not to secretly wish we could still have the security".
Despite the costs, the Martins have stepped out in faith.
"I'm still human, and have some fears", says Mr Martin. "But, I know that God is good. He'll look after us."
Robert and Dianne are leaving their ministry options open.
"We're thinking about overseas mission work,” Robert says.
“We spent some time in Ireland last year, so going back to Ireland is an option. We may consider rural ministry in the UK, or rural ministry somewhere in Australia. Western Sydney's not impossible."
Moore College Faculty member the Rev Dr Richard Gibson has been caring for first year students for the last ten years.
He says he never tires of it.
"Every year I come to it excited. Year after year, God sends extraordinary, wonderful people to College."
He has been impressed with the calibre of this year's students.
"They're mature, they know why they've come to College, they're determined to make the most of it. You can't help but be impressed with them.”
Article by Kamal Weerakoon, who is in his third year at college and attends St Anne’s, Strathfield.
