The Revd Dr Mark Vasey-Saunders, St Hild Theological College
Universities and theological education institutions
House of Clergy
Election Address – Mark Vasey-Saunders
I have been ordained 25 years this year, and have worked as a University Chaplain, Team
Vicar and Pioneer Minister before moving into theological education ten years ago. For
the past ten years I have worked for St Hild College, as an academic tutor and now as
Centre Head for St Hild Sheffield. I have a good understanding of both the realities of
ministry and the challenges facing the TEI sector.
We are in a period of change as a church, where the shape of ministry is being
transformed, with clergy being asked to take on more responsibility, and provide
resources to address increasingly complex questions in our society. Yet TEIs are under
increasing pressure, and ordinands frequently have comparatively little contact time for
theological education. I believe it is of vital importance that we as a church properly
resource theological education, and develop realistic plans for enabling lifelong
learning throughout ministry.
I also hope that I have something to contribute to some of the divisive debates within
our church. I am firmly committed to working for a church in which we can work
together despite our differences, and have sought to create this sort of community in
my work at St Hild.
September 2026
ordinands,tei,teis,theological education
ordinands,tei,teis,theological education
