Diane started doing the Masters in Theology and Ministry (MATM) at Durham University in 2003, as part of her ongoing commitment to what the Anglican church calls 'continuing ministerial education'. Every clergy person is expected to commit time and energy to making sure that they keep learning and stay in touch with how theological thinking is developing.
After 2 years study the Course Director at the time invited Diane to consider extending her studies at doctorate level. This would mean another 4 years study at a higher level, and mostly researching on her own, apart from a Summer School for a week each year.
However when Diane accepted her current post here in Amble she needed to take a year out to settle into the new job and a new Diocese. So, of her 8 years since starting, 2 were at Masters level, 1 was 'fallow' and the other 5 were at doctoral level.
Her research was into spiritual growth and development, and the title of the thesis is: 'Can spiritual maturity be nurtured in northern Anglican parish congregations?'
When people ask her 'What's the answer?' she says, the short answer is 'Yes!' and the rather longer answer takes about 82,000 words and can be found on the Durham University website - on this link:
http://etheses.dur.ac.uk/3276/
The doctorate is a professional one, and gives her the letters D.Th.M. after her name. She can now formally be known as the Revd Dr Westmoreland should she so wish!
On behalf of everyone here at St Cuthbert’s I would like to say – CONGRATULATIONS! |
