Graduation ceremony 2026: Committed to lifelong learning

Practitioner Tutor Major Malcolm Martin and Higher Education Degree Course Leader Major Paul Hilditch report on the BA and CertHE graduation ceremony. 

The graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of Salvation Army officers gaining a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Christian Theology and Practice, along with a group of territorial envoys and employed spiritual leaders gaining a Certificate in Higher Education (CertHE) in Salvation Army Leadership. The overall theme of thanksgiving celebrated commitment to learning, the achievement of the graduates, and the support that they received during their studies.

The international scope of officers within the BA cohort was recognised – 15 serve in the UK and Ireland Territory, two at Territorial Headquarters in the Norway, Iceland and the Færoes Territory, one in the USA Eastern Territory and one at the Salvation Army Training College in Lahore, Pakistan – together with recognition of envoys and pioneer leaders who formed the first cohort of the CertHE. It was acknowledged that all students had committed themselves to learning for spiritual growth and to enhance their daily ministry.

Following a welcome from Unit Head for Higher Education Major Matt Spencer, Territorial Leaders Commissioners Jenine and Paul Main led worship. William Booth College Principal Lieut-Colonel Mark Herbert drew upon the text of Jeremiah 3:15, which is displayed in the college reception: ‘I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding’ (English Standard Version). He recognised that enhanced understanding can help us to minister more effectively. He also drew attention to the response that Jesus gave when asked about the greatest commandment, asserting that graduation celebrates the effort to fulfil the command to love God with our whole being and to allow this inner transformation to impact our external actions. This was not the end of the learning journey, he acknowledged.

Introducing the programme of studies for the BA programme, Major Paul Hilditch highlighted that the motto of York St John University – the validating partner for the degree programmes – reflects The Salvation Army’s vision of fullness of life for all; learning is a means of experiencing greater fullness of life and of seeking to bring this life to others.

A unique feature of the students on the BA course was their decision to form a brass band as an expression of fellowship during their intensive study periods. Major Martin Cordner, a graduate of the course, introduced his newly composed piece ‘With a Degree of Difficulty’, which reflected the joy the cohort experienced in their fellowship of learning. The melodies within the piece echoed the modules of study, with a brief nod to ‘The Wonder of His Grace’ and the line ‘many are the things I cannot understand’.

Major Sarah King (IHQ) introduced the first cohort of the CertHE in Salvation Army Leadership – validated with the University of Gloucestershire – which was intentionally designed as a practical theology programme to support leaders in their local contexts, reflecting the tenet that biblical wisdom is largely about the right use of knowledge.

Representative student responses from Lieutenant Nazia Yousaf (Pakistan Territory) and Pioneer Leader Bethany Munn (Faversham) identified how learning had helped to transform life and ministry, rather than simply affirm existing practices. The support of fellow students, college staff, family, friends and communities was highly valued. Study helped to prompt deep questions about spiritual growth, integrated holiness, the nature of leadership, motivations for ministry and the need to seek God’s vision over personal preferences. Lieutenant Nazia was delighted to be present and was extremely thankful for the college’s support throughout her studies.

The ceremony concluded with reaffirmation that a commitment to lifelong learning is an expression of our love for God and others. Ultimately, it is God who blesses us with deeper understanding and enhanced skills for effective participation in God’s mission. The celebrations continued with a buffet lunch and afternoon tea.

Being part of this learning community has been great. Although initially having reservations about my ability to study at this level, the support and guidance of the tutors were excellent. Studying alongside friends and colleagues was fantastic, with each study week offering fellowship, challenge, support and lots of laughter!

The classroom teaching and discussions were especially valuable, allowing us to share experience and learn from one another. The theological study continually challenged my assumptions, broadened my thinking and often emboldened my faith. A deepening understanding of theology has helped me relate to more people in ministry through greater reflection, enabling me to listen more carefully to their stories and recognise God at work within their diverse experiences.

The practical elements of the course have helped me reflect more intentionally on existing ministry activities, and this learning is shaping how I approach, evaluate, and develop future ministry. I highly recommend this course!

‘Transformative’ sounds very dramatic, yet studying Christian theology has undeniably changed my understanding of ministry. Or, more honestly, I have been changed. I was introduced to new ways of reading Scripture, challenged by a whole host of theologians. I embraced the permission to ask questions, even what and why I believed. And God opened my eyes to new truths and revealed a deeper understanding of love.

I have been changed by those who shared this journey. Inspired and humbled by my fellow students, encouraged and supported by excellent tutors. Even if I had learnt nothing, the Spirit-filled worship, the laughter – and tears – and the friendships formed would have made study worthwhile. To misquote a famous line, ‘Who can say if I’ve been changed for the better? But, because of this programme, my ministry has been changed for good.’

This distance learning course opened up for me access to the William Booth College library, with residential study days and interactions with some of the Army’s best teachers and lecturers. Through both in-person and pre-recorded lectures our group explored and wrestled with topic after topic.

So what did I learn? We are a Bible-believing Army. We have strong theological foundations for what we do and believe. And we are actively working out what that looks like as we interact with, serve and preach salvation to God-hungry lives in a rapidly changing world.

The mission goes on, but now I stand on a firmer foundation, from which I can pivot to more effectively speak Jesus to lost souls who are hurting, broken and desperate for love, truth and transformation. Looking back over the course, I’m so glad I took on the challenge. Looking ahead, I’m so glad that the challenge to learn never ends.