123 Years of Ordination Training at Mansfield

Alumni and students’ families came from far and wide (including the States, Switzerland and France) for this special day: this year’s Reunion was held in celebration of the 123 years of Ordination training at Mansfield, which sadly ended this year.

The day began with the Mansfield Association AGM for alumni, the final Ministerial Education Training Committee, and a Parents’ Network Meeting. After lunch, the Principal gave her annual report, and the Mansfield Association announced the winner of the Student of the Year, Michael Coulon (Maths DPhil, 2005). Marcus Borg (Theology DPhil, 2005), who is now Professor in Religion and Culture at Oregon State University, gave an entertaining and thought-provoking lecture on Jesus Scholarship, from Caird to the Contemporary, followed by a lively discussion. Tea was served and Tom Goodman (Physics, 2007) gave croquet lessons to guests. The Commemoration Service began at 4pm, presided over by Chaplain Tanya Rasmussen, with Susan Durber (Theology, 1978, now Principal of Westminster College, Cambridge) preaching, and a choir directed by John Oxlade.

During the day, Mia Blundell (Physics, 2007) played her violin, Paul Fleming (PPE, 2006) led tours of the College, and other student helpers were on hand to assist. We showed Peter Armstrong’s 1969 documentary of Mansfield in the Council Room, where Alma Jenner, with the help of Oliver Mahony and Sheila Mawby, had created an exceptional exhibition on the history of ordination training at Mansfield.

View the photos, taken by Nick Gomes (History, 2007)