Pilgrim Theological College is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025, telling a remarkable story of its impact on numerous students.
Fiona Bottcher, Master of Theological Studies/Graduate Diploma of Theology
Fiona had great support from her ministry team when she first thought about enrolling.
When she graduated, her spiritual care skills were in demand.
“I was ordained as Covid-19 made the news. My placement as the Mental Health Ministry Coordinator (Sunshine) has involved building and supporting both a Men’s Shed and Women’s Shed program with Sunshine Uniting Church, as well as providing hospital chaplaincy within the mental health wards at Sunshine Hospital,” Fiona said.
“Ministry formation at Pilgrim is much more than learning the ‘ins and outs’ of ordained ministry.
“It created a supportive environment to develop and articulate my own faith.”
Michael Butler, Master of Theology
After an active career, Michael found time to study in retirement.
“I qualified as a social worker, however, for most of my working life I was a trade union official,” Michael says.
“It was always an ambition to integrate my religious faith with my whole life and to understand where it all fit.
“When I retired in 2020, I decided to enrol in post-graduate theological study, and to be able to study and reflect on my life has been a true blessing.
“I have been privileged to be taught by lecturers who have encouraged critical thinking and to be able to explore my faith with classmates from whom I have learnt so much.”
Lima Zama, Master of Theology (online)
Following undergraduate studies at Pilgrim, Lima was the first woman to be appointed Lecturer at Seghe 
Theological Seminary. She returned to study a Masters online.
“I am the first lady clergy in the United Church of Solomon Islands to acquire a Master of Theology qualification,” Lima says.
“I appreciate the wonderful privilege in being given the scholarship to study at Pilgrim Theological College.
“It is a blessing for me and my family and my church.”
Now Lima is working to improve the library at Seghe to support her students’ learning.
Duncan Turuva, Bachelor of Theology
During his long career as a flight attendant, Duncan knew the call to ministry was there.
Now he’s Minister of the Word at Mount Waverley Uniting Church.
“My studies at Pilgrim have provided me with deep theological understanding, practical pastoral tools, and a ministry shaped by compassion,” Duncan says.
“Most significantly, Pilgrim has equipped me with the knowledge and perspective needed to faithfully bridge the timeless truths of Scripture with the complex and diverse cultural realities of our world today.”
Sunny Chen, Graduate Certificate in Leadership
Sunny is a National Consultant to the Assembly of the Uniting Church in Australia.
“As someone who previously supported and oversaw approximately 70 worship communities, and who now exercises leadership in the national work of the Uniting Church, I have greatly benefited from studying the Graduate Certificate in Leadership at Pilgrim Theological College,” Sunny says.
“From confronting complex problems in challenging situations to offering a non-anxious presence in chaotic and uncertain environments, my studies have undoubtedly equipped me to fulfill the responsibilities required in my work.”
Pilgrim’s internationally-regarded team of educators equips people for all kinds of ministries and provides space for anyone to explore faith. All are welcome.
Interest in study?
Find out more about study and scholarships at Pilgrim by contacting Erlinda Loverseed on 03 9340 8892 or by email at study@pilgrim.edu.au
This article was originally published by Crosslight and is shared on Vox with permission.
Pilgrim Theological College is a college of the University of Divinity from the Uniting Church tradition, based in Melbourne, Victoria.
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