With more than two decades of ministry experience under her belt, in addition to a Masters of Arts in Theology from Moore College, Natalie Ray might not seem like she needs to do any more study to equip her for her role as Maturity and Magnification Pastor at Toongabbie Anglican Church. But during the COVID pandemic, Nat was drawn to return to study, to undertake the Graduate Certificate of Pastoral Care for Mental Health at Mary Andrews College.

She shares her story with us here.

2024 grad Carolyn Hallam shares her inspiring journey with us.

Prompted by 2 Peter 1:5-8, she joined Mary Andrews College to deepen her faith. Balancing studies, parenting four teens, and ministry work, she found joy in learning and grew in confidence.

Anna spent her working life as a casual tutor at Sydney University while serving alongside her husband James in various parishes and roles across the Sydney Diocese. She has three adult children and eight grandchildren. When she turned 60, she decided to prepare for her retirement… by studying.

Terrified of studying as an adult and satisfied with what she calls a ‘simple faith’, Vanessa Turner was not someone you would expect to find in a lecture room at Mary Andrews College, or writing theological essays. And yet, Vanessa makes this reflection on her time at MAC: “MAC is definitely my special heart place.”

When Rebekah was diagnosed with a major, life-altering medical condition, it was her studies at Mary Andrews College that gave her the theological foundations to carry her through a devastating time of her life.

With a passion for knowing Jesus better, and keen to see the Church improve its accessibility for all of God’s people in all their diversity, Kath Thornhill is currently studying remotely at Mary Andrews College, first from Coonabarabran and soon, in 2024, in Dubbo.

MAC’s hybrid learning means that Kath can continue her studies without interruption.