September 26, 2012

Cardiff's Centre for Chaplaincy Studies has been chosen to train chaplains for more than 150 church schools in Hong Kong.

The Centre is part of St Michael's Theological College and Cardiff University, who both just signed a partnership agreement with SKH Ming Hua Theological College to develop chaplaincy training. The Anglican Church in Hong Kong is working towards appointing a chaplain in every church school.

The Revd Canon Dr Andrew Todd, Director of the Centre, recently welcomed the first students from Hong Kong, who have registered on the Cardiff Master of Theology in Chaplaincy Studies programme.

He said, "It is fantastic to see this link develop, which will bring together chaplains from Hong Kong, the UK and elsewhere. This will enrich the learning of all concerned and develop our understanding of chaplaincy as a global phenomenon."

The contract reinforces the growing international reputation of the Centre, said the Principal of St Michael's College, the Revd Canon Dr Peter Sedgwick.

He said, "This is a very exciting new partnership which will enable us to take our wide experience and expertise in chaplaincy across the world. It is good to see the two provincial theological colleges working so well together. I look forward to even greater collaboration in the future."

Students will travel to Cardiff to study a number of times each year, but it is expected that courses will also be developed in Hong Kong by Centre and Ming Hua staff working together.

Dr. Gareth Jones, Archbishop's Theological Consultant & Dean of Ming Hua , said, "Chaplaincy is a key part of Archbishop Paul's vision for ministry in the Province of Hong Kong, and the Cardiff Masters programme provides the perfect foundation for our future work in this field. We feel there's a real meeting of hearts and minds between St. Michael's and our Ming Hua College, in this and other areas, and we are very excited about what we will achieve together."

Professor Terry Threadgold, Head of the School of History, Archaeology and Religion, and Pro-Vice Chancellor of Cardiff University said, "The University is delighted at the start of this new chapter in education for chaplains wishing to enhance their skills through the Cardiff Centre for Chaplaincy Studies. The partnership will not only offer SKH Ming Hua Theological College, Hong Kong students the chance to participate in the proven and respected MTh in Chaplaincy Studies, but also establish a further link between the University and Hong Kong."

For more information about Cardiff Centre for Chaplaincy Studies, visit http://www.stmichaels.ac.uk/chaplaincy-studies.php,

Anglican Communion News Service