On Sunday, 12^th November 2023, Nazarene Theological College Australia and New Zealand held their annual Celebration Service where seventeen students were recognized for completing their respective programs of study. Students were awarded the following qualifications: Diploma in Christian Studies (5), Associate Degree in Christian Thought and Practice (1), Bachelor of Theology (2), Graduate Certificate in Arts (1), Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy (3), Graduate Diploma of Arts (3), and Master of Theology (2).

Several highlights from the evening included:

• Rev Roland Hearn, Chair of the NTC Board of Trustees, recognized the Principal-elect, Rev Dr Joseph Wood, who will be taking up the post in January 2024.
• Rev Dr Rex Rigby, National Superintendent of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in Australia delivered the commencement sermon titled, “We were made for so much more!”
• Current Students, Salome Karibule and Umuti Tiata, were awarded the NTC Academic Achievement and Spirit of NTC scholarships.
• Academic Dean, Rev Dr Linda Stargel, noted that this year’s student body represented 22 nationalities, studying from 11 different countries, and 10 different denominations. She also announced that the Sydney College of Divinity (SCD), NTC’s awarding body, have been granted University College status by the Australian government.

Rev Dr Joseph Wood, incoming NTC Principal said, “It is always a joy to celebrate the accomplishments of our students. They represent what quality Wesleyan theological education seeks to embody: holistic formation of mind and spirit for the glory of God.” Please pray for NTC Australia and New Zealand as they prepare to welcome new students in 2024, continuing the mission of “Deepening Faith, Expanding Knowledge, and Inspiring Christlike Action.”