Meet our new undergrad programme coordinator
Meet our new undergrad programme coordinator
At the start of the academic year, we meet CMS’s new Undergraduate Programme Coordinator, Natalie Burfitt, who longs to help students find treasure in the course.
by Helen Harwood,
HH: Firstly, Natalie, can I ask what are you excited about as you begin your role coordinating the undergraduate programme?
NB: Lots of things! I really enjoy meeting all the amazing people that come to study at CMS and hearing their stories – it’s very inspiring.
I learn so much from being around the teaching team and the students so I’m excited for the ways that I’ll be challenged and changed.
I do think studying theology is a spiritual practice and that God effects the transformative ‘renewing of the mind’ that Paul refers to in Romans through it (if we’re open to it). I’m looking forward to finding out how the course can best support this process of renewal for students.
How did you get into pioneering?
I’ve had formative experiences in churches that have had a clear purpose around connecting with the wider community at various times in my life and those have been the most life-giving. I’ve also been part of churches that have been introspective and self-absorbed and that’s been the opposite! So being ‘missional’ is in the DNA of my spirituality. It was when I was looking for next steps from my Anglican curacy and contemplating running a pub instead of a church that I really came out as a pioneer.
In what way are you currently pioneering?
I do small scale community building in my neighbourhood – Advent windows, street parties, that kind of thing. I’ve been offering something called Sacred Space in my local park which has been going for almost a year. It follows the Celtic seasons and is very simple and open to all.
I also work for a Gloucester Diocese organisation called Sportily and we are pioneering growing Christian community with children, families and young people in ways that are active and involve movement.
You’re not new to Pioneer Mission Training, how have you been involved up to now?
I studied on the MA programme a few years ago. I’ve since been working as part of the Post-Christian Britain Hub, coordinating the regional hubs that deliver this wonderful training on a non-academic pathway.
I’ve also been a volunteer chaplain for the undergraduate programme. I am the proverbial bad penny!
Oh no, Natalie, you are definitely a ‘good penny’! What are your hopes for the Pioneers who come to train with us?
Oof – I have a long list there! That they bond with each other and find a community that is supportive and nurturing. Also, that they find treasure in this course – things that excite them and that equip them practically.
I hope that they enjoy the ride and are able to sense God’s leading in this commitment. It’s a big undertaking and I hope God meets them in their needs and aspirations.
How can we pray for you in your new role?
Thank you. I’ll make mistakes as I learn – pray for grace for those around me!
