Sarum College held a short service today (Wednesday 9 September) in a full college chapel to welcome Revd Dr Rob James as Principal, together with his wife Jean. The service was led by the Chair of Trustees, the Rt Revd Dr John Inge, and attended by college staff, members of the student body, neighbours in the Cathedral Close, clergy from the Cathedral and St Thomas, and Trustees.
Jacquie Gallon, Registrar and Principal’s PA read the lesson from Proverbs 3:13-18. Rob then picked up the theme of the passage and the personification of wisdom in his short sermon, speaking of how the whole of college life might meet and reflect wisdom.
The full text of his sermon is HERE.
Bishop John then led Rob in a number of questions, which Rob replied ‘With the help of God, I will’. Questions that say much about what Sarum College wishes to be, such as:
Will you seek to nurture this college as a place of welcome, where people of many traditions may find space to learn, to question, and to grow in wisdom and in faith?
Will you be a faithful steward of all that is entrusted to you, the College’s people, resources, history, and hope, seeking the flourishing of this community?
Will you lead with humility and courage, be ready to listen, ready to learn, and ready to be changed by those you serve?
Will you uphold the vision of Sarum College as a centre of Christian learning and spiritual exploration, serving the Church and the wider world?
The Cathedral Canon Chancellor Kenneth Padley led the congregation in prayer for Rob and Jean, and the work and staff of Sarum College. The service finished, drinks were served with the opportunity for guests to talk and meet Rob personally. We want to thank all for attending and giving such a heartfelt welcome to Rob and Jean.