Last summer, St Luke’s welcomed a new curate, Rev Lizzie Campbell. A curate is like an apprentice vicar. After being ordained as a deacon (being ‘priested’ generally comes a year later), a curate usually spends three years serving in a parish, while learning the ins and outs of running a church. After that, they can become a vicar at their own church. We’re delighted Lizzie has joined us for her curacy. Now it’s time to go behind the clerical collar and get to know her better…
Hi, Lizzie. How have you settled in at St Luke’s?
Really well. Everyone has been super welcoming and I’ve had lots of lovely dinner invitations. I’ve lived in London before, but I did my theological training in Cambridge, so it’s been good to be back, catching up with old friends and making new ones. My social life has exploded!
Tell us about your faith journey…
I grew up Roman Catholic, but I’d often sneak a book into the pews and read Harry Potter instead of listening. By sixth form, I was a staunch atheist. I went to university to study physics, and there my sense of the awesomeness of the universe grew into philosophical enquiry. I also joined a choir, sometimes leading evensong in a church. Initially, I fell in love with the music, but my interest in spirituality grew. Perhaps my search initially brought me to Christianity because it was familiar, but over time I learned it really is the faith for me. Jesus has a lot to do with that – the idea of being both human and divine, and of God being very close. I’m also interested in other faiths and have recently finished a Masters degree in philosophy of religion and theology, looking at aspects of neo-paganism.
How did you end up training for ministry?
After my physics degree, I worked as a software developer for five months – and hated it. I got a job at a Catholic retreat centre in the Lake District, and while there, I started thinking about long-term ministry, but I didn’t know what that would look like. I joined a Church of England Ministry Experience Scheme internship in Stepney for a year, and ended up staying for two. I was involved in all aspects of church life – preaching, prayers, toddler and youth groups, Messy Church, visiting parishioners. It was an intense and emotionally taxing two years, and by the end, I felt my calling was to the priesthood. However, the discernment and selection process is long and gives you time to explore your calling and be sure it’s the right path. Eventually, I set off for Westcott House in Cambridge to study for a BA in Theology and Practical Theology, followed by my MA.
What spiritual influences did you pick up along the way?
I enjoy the writings of the medieval women mystics – Julian of Norwich, Hildegard of Bingen, Teresa of Avila. They were real trailblazers. Contemporary writers I admire include Nadia Bolz-Weber and Sara Miles.
Both writers who are appreciated at St Luke’s. So how did you end up joining us here in Holloway?
I considered going back to Stoke-on-Trent, where I grew up, but my Diocesan Director of Ordination suggested St Luke’s might be a good match. I visited and met your vicar John, and it felt like the right place for me. St Luke’s has quickly become home – I feel able to relax and be myself. John is a great teacher – we have a laugh and I’m not afraid to make mistakes. I feel very welcome.
That’s good to hear. What else can we, as St Lukers, do to support you in your curacy?
Don’t be afraid to share your expertise with me – I have a lot to learn and I’m very open to advice and guidance. I’m learning a lot about presentation from the actors and musicians here. I’m keen to get to know everyone and pub trips are welcome, but please don’t be offended if I turn down invitations – I’m sometimes a little overwhelmed with offers!
You’re in your late 20s – what do you see as the advantages and disadvantages of going into the priesthood at a young age?
On the plus side, I’m enthusiastic about everything – it’s all fresh and exciting, and I’m keen to get stuck into everything. I have a long time to grow into the role, and for the young people of the parish, I’m not so far from their age that they won’t want to talk to me. On the down-side, I’m still growing as a person and there are gaps in my life experience, although I like to think I have empathy even if I don’t have experience. It’s good to have teams that are diverse. John and I have different experiences and I think that makes us a stronger team.
What do you hope to learn during your curacy, what would you like to contribute to St Luke’s, and where do you see your ministry taking you in the future?
I hope that during my time at St Luke’s, I’ll learn to run a parish well, and pick up a lot from the skills and creativity of the people here. I want to work hard on bringing back youth events and introducing a new generation of young people to St Luke’s. I also want to help bring a return to a community social life after lockdown. As for the long term, I’m not thinking too much about it. I’ll see where God leads, but I’m interested in chaplaincy in hospitals and hospices, or in universities, so that may be in my future.
When you’re not running the youth club or leading services, how do you enjoy your time off?
I’m a guitarist, playing bluegrass and folk music. I do sessions and play in bands, perform at bluegrass festivals, and have toured with my friend, folk musician Ciaran Algar. I love in-line skating [rollerblading] and join the LFNS [London Friday Night Skate, a mass skate through the streets] when I can. I also enjoy running, hanging out with friends, visiting museums, going to concerts and all that London has to offer.
QUICK FIRE:
Windsurfing or walk in the woods? Walk in the woods.
Lark or night owl? Lark.
Tea or coffee? Coffee, milk no sugar.
Winter or summer? Autumn. I love the colours of the season, and all the cosying up and celebrating. Plus it’s my birthday season.
Top takeaway? Indian.
Favourite holiday? The Solomon Islands. During my training, I spent six weeks with the Melanesian Brotherhood. It was remote and gorgeous, with no home comforts or WiFi, and I loved it.
Favourite book? I Capture The Castle by Dodie Smith. It’s a nostalgic story set in a rose-tinted time, and the characters are magical.
What animal would you like to be? A Labrador, so I could spend time with people, eat a lot and be happy!
Interview: Cath Francis
Photo: Clemency Flitter