It’s 100 not out for Regents Theological College!

As Elim’s Bible College (now Regents Theological College) approaches its 100th anniversary, Principal Dave Newton reflects on the story so far and looks forward to all God is continuing to do

Ancient call

It was 1925 when Elim took ownership of a former convent in Clapham, London. It was described by the founder of the Movement and first Principal, George Jeffreys, as ‘Elim Woodlands, a place of joyous natural peace’.

Don’t be fooled, however, by the polished publicity and leafy description; this site was purchased with a real purpose.

In 1928, records declare 97 ministers, 32 of them women, were commissioned into Elim ministry.

The college was a real answer to prayer; after ten fledgling years of the Elim Movement things really began to accelerate as the college met the increasing demand to train men and women as pioneers, evangelists, missionaries, pastors and teachers.

In his book, ‘Defining Moments – 100 years of the Elim Pentecostal Church’, Chris Cartwright reflects, “Many arrived with very little materially, but they left with the faith to change towns, cities and nations.”

Urgent call

Culture and society have changed significantly over the years. The 2021 UK Census revealed there has been a 13 per cent drop in those who call themselves Christian, dropping below 50 per cent for the first time since records began. (Source: BBC 29 November 2022)

Whilst there may be an openness to spirituality more generally, the church may not appear to be advancing in mission at the rate it once did.

That said, the need for a vibrant church declaring and demonstrating the kingdom of God is as urgent as ever. The rise of loneliness, mental health conditions, suicide, and fuel and food poverty acts as the backdrop for the church to bring the Good News of Jesus to towns, cities and communities today. In addition, for many, the news about Jesus is news that has not been heard before.

There is still an urgent need for women and men to train for ministry today, working in churches, planting new churches, and impacting education, business, politics, arts and health. Chaplains are required to identify with people in times of need, entrepreneurs to establish innovative projects, prophets and artists who tell a better story.

Current call

Now located on its fourth site since its inception 98 years ago, Elim’s Bible college continues to train people to serve the King and his kingdom. Young and old from all backgrounds and locations are responding to the call and preparing for the mission and purpose God has laid out for them (Eph 2:10).

Personal call

As you would expect, the college in Malvern has moved on significantly from all those years ago and is now delivering accessible training, with fantastic resources, from entry-level to PhD. That said, the call and mission have not changed.

Are you hearing God’s call to take up your part in his mission? How could Regents equip you to fulfil all that God has planned for you?

As Regents Theological College continues to innovate and adapt how we teach, however, the reason we teach and train has not changed. We hope and pray that people who train with us leave with faith to change cities, towns and nations with the saving power of Jesus.

This article first appeared in the February 2023 edition of Direction Magazine. For further details, please click here.

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