Connect with a student

ALC has a diverse group of students who are on a pastoral ministry journey. Over the coming months, we will introduce some of these students to you through our eNews. This month we meet our South Australian Vicar, Paul Ridley.

Paul lives in the Barossa Valley with his wife Jenny and is currently completing his vicarage placement at Zion Lutheran Church, Angaston.

Throughout his career, Paul has dedicated himself to service, moving from roles as a lay worker in congregations and parishes across South Australia, Victoria, and Tasmania to serving as a high school chaplain and then, as a youth worker.

Paul first studied at ALC from 1988 to 1991. His motive for studying theology at the time, was to gain a better understanding of the teachings of the church and what it means to be Lutheran. So, what’s brought Paul back to ALC after all these years?

‘Although I was always actively involved in the church, I had never considered becoming a pastor, despite receiving encouragement from many people over many years to do so. It was while serving as a chaplain at one of the LCA’s General Conventions, that I felt called to pursue this vocational pathway. After contacting ALC to discuss what was involved in studying for ordained ministry, I enrolled in studies to complete the requirements of the pastoral studies program.

I have really enjoyed returning to study at ALC and have found the staff to be engaging and extremely supportive. I am thankful that online lectures mean I have not had to travel to Adelaide for classes and have appreciated the opportunity to be “in class” online with students from all over Australia. Getting together with these students for a follow up face to face intensive, has also been a highlight of my time at ALC.

For me, my vicarage experience has really affirmed my call and given me the assurance I’ve felt I’ve needed to pursue becoming a pastor. One thing that I'm really enjoying, that I did not expect to be enjoying, is writing and delivering a sermon. Sharing the gospel and seeing God’s word impact lives, is deeply fulfilling.

So, if you are thinking that pastoral ministry might be for you, but you're uncertain, I encourage you to contact ALC and have a chat about what’s involved. Put those feelings to the test and see where God leads you.’