The first cohort to complete a new course enabling a deeper understanding of the Christian faith have received their certificates and are recommending the course to others.
The Bishop of Norwich’s certificate in Christian learning launched in January 2025. The aim is to give people the opportunity to learn more about the Christian faith or to go deeper in their own spiritual journey.
The course takes place over five units with each one taught through a mix of in person and online learning as part of a group. The units are led by Revd Richard Lamey, Director of Mission and Ministry, Revd Lucy Dallas, Diocesan Director of Ordinands and Initial Ministerial Education, the Very Revd Dr Andrew Braddock, Dean of Norwich and Dr Jane McLarty, a Licensed Lay Minister within the Diocese of Norwich.
Roz Trudgett was part of the first cohort;
“This is an excellent, well structured, thought provoking course, ideal for everyone, no matter where you are on your faith journey. It will give you new information and revive facts buried in your brain. I highly recommend it.”
David Robinson also took part and said;
“The Bishop’s Certificate goes far beyond an intellectual appreciation of our rich Christian Learning. By breathing new life into our journey together with fellow pilgrims it both inspires and challenges us to think differently and be different. I highly recommend it to anyone who seeks to deepen their faith in fellowship with like minded Christian disciples.”
The Bishop of Norwich’s Certificate in Christian learning is open to anyone interested in Christianity, whether you are new to the faith and would like to understand more, or whether you have been a Christian for years and would value the experience of meeting with others and exploring more together.
There is an option to dip into one or two modules of interest or complete all five. Those who completed all five modules were given the certificate in Christian learning from the Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Revd Graham Usher, on 29 November 2025. Bishop Graham said;
“What a delight to present certificates to those who have successfully completed the Bishop’s Certificate in Christian learning. Well done to each of them. Thank you all who have been involved in teaching modules, as well as Dr Jane McLarty for organising it all. I hope that more people will take part and discover the riches in going deeper into our Christian discipleship.”
Roy Burrows was part of the first group and said;
“The course gave me a deeper understanding of our Christian faith and the historical context of the Old and New Testaments. We had great presenters, who brought the topics to life. But the best part for me was the fellowship of my fellow attendees, sharing our different perspectives and faith, and learning from each other.”
Jane Ward added;
“This course has something for everyone, whether you’re new to faith or have been a Christian all your life. The modules are so interesting and I have made lifelong friendships along the way. I highly recommend.”
The next course begins on Saturday 26th September 2026. If you are interested or would like to find out more, go to: The Bishop’s Certificate in Christian Learning – Diocese of Norwich
