We’re delighted to introduce the Rev Dr Thomas Sharp, who will join St Augustine’s College of Theology as our new full-time tutor in Pastoral Theology in March 2025.
Currently serving as Succentor at Southwark Cathedral and priest-in-charge of St Hugh’s, Southwark, Thomas brings a wealth of experience in liturgy, pastoral care and community engagement. He has been deeply involved in interfaith and diversity initiatives and has cared for St Hugh’s growing, ethnically diverse congregation.
Thomas’s academic credentials are equally impressive. His doctoral research explored the pastoral theology of Roman Catholic theologian, Karl Rahner, examining his work as a pastoral theologian, specifically around the themes of aging, illness, and death.
Beyond academia, he’s founder and project co-ordinator of the Young Anglican Theology Project, an initiative connecting and inspiring young Anglican theologians across the Communion the chance to share and publish their work. This online venture reflects his commitment to making Anglican theology accessible and inclusive, and we’re looking forward to working with Thomas to further this important initiative.
Thomas grew up in Hampshire before studying Law at university and living in community at Hilfield Friary. He trained for ministry at Cranmer Hall in Durham and served as a non-stipendiary curate at Newcastle Cathedral while completing his PhD. A Third Order Franciscan and active member of the Society of Catholic Priests, Thomas encourages an inclusive priestly spirituality in the Church of England.
Outside of his ministry, Thomas describes himself as “a keen musician and cook (but not a chef!) and as much a gardener as anyone can be living in London.” His partner, Evan, is a parish priest in Kensington.
Of his new appointment, Thomas said, “I am immensely excited about teaching and learning with the staff and students at St Augustine’s. The students I have met were open, excited and hopeful, and that is very much the sort of church I want to be a part of building for the future.”
Thomas will take up his new post in early March 2025. In the meantime, please pray for him as he says his goodbyes and prepares to begin his new ministry.
