Peter Morden to be next Bristol Baptist College Principal 

The Revd Dr Peter Morden has been offered the role of Principal of Bristol Baptist College commencing with the new academic year 2023/4

He will succeed the college’s current Principal, the Revd Dr Steve Finamore, who is retiring in summer 2023.

Peter has served as Senior Pastor at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Leeds since 2017, and in the 10 years prior to that held a variety of roles at Spurgeon’s College, London, including Acting Principal, Vice Principal, and Tutor.

He has published widely, particularly in the fields of Baptist identity and spirituality, and is known internationally in Baptist and evangelical circles through his speaking engagements and writing.

In a statement, the college said it had worked with Peter for a number of years already as an Honorary Research Fellow and Supervisor and a Guest Lecturer, and so is 'delighted to welcome him into the staff team in the role of Principal, and we look forward to the contribution he will make to the life of the College.'

'I am both humbled and excited to be called to serve Bristol Baptist College as its next Principal,' Peter said. 'The College community is a vibrant one, due in significant degree to the excellent work of the outgoing Principal, Stephen Finamore, and the ‘Bristol tradition’ continues to shape Baptist life in the UK in a host of positive ways.

'We live in challenging times but also times of great opportunity. I look forward to working with the wonderful staff team to equip and release new generations of ‘able and evangelical’ planters, pastors, pioneers, and community ministers who will work with all ages to help transform this nation for Jesus.'

The Chair of Trustees, the Revd Ruth Bottoms, said, 'In Peter we believe we have found the right blend of a pastoral heart and commitment to academic excellence that we look for in a Principal.

'In addition, Peter is someone who already has much experience of delivering theological education and formation for ministry whilst also having wide and recent local church experience.

'I look forward to working with him as he leads us into a new chapter of the College’s life, bringing both continuity and change.'

On Dr Finamore, the statement added, 'We are immensely grateful for all the work he has done in leading and developing the College over the last 17 years.'