'Stephen’s career has been devoted to making Christ known'

Spurgeon's College has honoured former Vice Principal, Academic Director Stephen Wright with a Festschrift - and the Archbishop of Canterbury played a role in the proceedings

Spurgeon's College held a special service on 29 May 2024 to present a Festschrift to the Revd Dr Stephen Wright (BA, BA, MA, PhD, SFHEA).

Stephen, an Anglican minister, worked for the College for more than 25 years in various capacities starting in 1998 as an Associate Lecturer and retiring in 2023 as the Vice Principal, Academic Director. He is a well-respected New Testament and Homiletics scholar.

The Festschrift, Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant: Essays in Honour of Stephen I. Wright — Reflections on Effective Christian Ministry, was edited by Seidel Abel Boanerges and John Woods. The three sections of this book trace the academic interests and career path that Stephen has taken as a Christian minister, New Testament scholar, preacher, homiletician, theological educator, and academic administrator.

In one way or another Stephen’s career has been devoted to making Christ known, helping people to follow Christ in the discipline of faith, devotion, and reflection. It features contributions from world-renowned scholars such as NT Wright, Steve Walton, Anna Carter Florence, Michael Quicke, and others.

Justin Welby (The Archbishop of Canterbury) wrote the Foreword, and Nigel Wright (Principal Emeritus, Spurgeon's College) wrote the Afterword.

Stephen was also further surprised that afternoon, for it included a visit to Lambeth Palace to meet The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, and present a copy of the Festschrift to him in person.

Justin Welby said, ‘In his pre-retirement ministry Stephen Wright drew together four of the aspects of the modern church in the UK that are most essential. They are well reflected in the Festschrift.

'First, there is the question of close and careful attention to the Scriptures, based on proper scholarship and disciplined by the needs of clear communication.

'Second, there is the practice of homiletics.

'Third, there is a philosophical self-awareness of the culture in which we swim.

'Fourth and finally, there is the need for a deep love, for Christ and for other human beings, which alone opens the way to being an instrument of God’s call, and of the life-giving and empowering work of the Holy Spirit’.



Many former colleagues commented on Stephen's impact on life at the college and beyond. 

Co-Editor, the Revd Dr Seidel Abel Boanerges said, ‘Beyond Stephen’s intellectual abilities and contributions, his kindness, integrity and humility have truly set him apart.

'Stephen is a person who embodies the highest ideals of our ministerial profession, someone whose dedication and passion have inspired us all. His legacy is not just the body of work he leaves behind but the many individuals he has positively impacted’.

Deputy Vice Chancellor, the Revd Helen Stokley, said, ‘Stephen is loved by everyone here at the College. This Festschrift is a heartfelt tribute to a person who has not only shaped our theological field but also touched our lives in profound and lasting ways.'

Bristol Baptist College Principal, the Revd Dr Peter Morden, speaking about Stephen said, ‘You have given great service to Spurgeon’s College as a teacher and as an academic administrator and leader…This festschrift is richly deserved.'

Eastern Baptist Association Regional Minister Team Leader, the Revd David Mayne, added, ‘I am in no doubt that we are healthier, wiser, and more thoughtful disciples of Jesus because of your teaching and friendship. 

'Your capacity to combine deep intellect and insight with gentle and kind friendship have been a true blessing.'

The former Principal of Spurgeon’s, the Revd Dr Roger Standing, said, ‘As a friend and colleague, a scholar and a gospel preacher Stephen’s whole life has not only been centred on Jesus, but has also epitomised what being as disciple of his looks like.'

Former Tutor, the Revd Dr John Colwell, described Stephen as 'an excellent colleague, unfailingly kind and supportive, bringing clear and insightful comment on the New Testament text.'

Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant: Essays in Honour of Stephen I. Wright — Reflections on Effective Christian Ministry is available to buy at £9.99.

Contact reception (enquiries@spurgeons.ac.uk) at Spurgeon’s College