As 50th Anniversary Approaches, London Seminary Launches Bold New Plan to Train the Next Generation

To mark its 50th anniversary, London Seminary, an evangelical vocational training college based in Finchley, London, and an Agency member of Affinity, has announced the launch of ‘Challenge 50’. This bold campaign aims to train the next generation of pastoral ministers across the UK, addressing a critical and growing need.

While churches long for well-trained pastors, and many candidates have come forward for training, the main obstacle is increasingly financial support, particularly in diaspora communities. Challenge 50 seeks to fund 50 students on the Seminary’s Pastoral Training Course who would otherwise lack access to rigorous, Christ-centred training. Fewer people are pursuing ministry than in previous generations, and some who do opt for less rigorous preparation. In diaspora communities, which form a significant and growing part of London and the UK, the need for well-trained pastors is urgent, with funding being the primary challenge.

‘We have seen the tremendous need for rigorous training,’ said Seminary Principal Bill James. ‘The Lord has raised up workers for the field, and we trust that Challenge 50 will provide rigorous, practical training to many who could not otherwise afford it.’

Partnership & Development Manager Eliot Kern added: ‘This is a grave situation, but also an exciting and unique opportunity. There is a real need in these churches, and the Seminary is well-positioned to meet it with excellent training. We hope Christians across the UK will support the Challenge 50 campaign through prayer and giving.’

To learn more about the Challenge 50 campaign or to donate, visit www.londonseminary.org/challenge50.