From Rigid to Curious: Minnie’s Journey into Theology

Since I was young, I have always wanted to study theology. But the timing and opportunity never came together until I recently arrived at African Christian College.

My biggest question was simple: what exactly do we study when we pursue a theology degree? Studying the Bible was obvious, but beyond that, I was uncertain. I also carried with me a rigid and defensive mindset on my beliefs. I hoped to confirm what I already held true while dismissing anything that seemed different.

I had often heard the myth that studying theology makes one lose the fire of worship. So, I came determined to test that idea for myself. That is how I began my journey here.

In just three months, my perspective has been deeply challenged and transformed. It almost felt as if the programme anticipated my mindset, because the courses are designed to address such stereotypes. Alongside practical survival courses like academic writing and information technology, we started with one called What Do I Believe? In this class, we explored our personal beliefs in community, guided by a facilitator, learning from one another outside the boundaries of formal lectures.

I am grateful for the progress I have made. I know this is only the beginning, but I am confident this is exactly where I am meant to be. I am still on the journey of becoming.

Miniehle Mpofu, First-year Student.

Those conversations revealed how differently we all view theology, often shaped by myths and misconceptions. The real shift came when we entered the classroom for Introduction to Theology.

There I discovered that theology is not a rigid system of right answers, but a living conversation shaped by scripture, tradition, reason, and experience. It is less about defending what I already believe and more about engaging openly, using tools to help me form thoughtful convictions within my cultural context.

This approach has turned the classroom into a sanctuary for me . . . a place where I grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and communally. Now, I enter each class like an empty cup, eager to be filled with the tools to develop my own theology through honest dialogue with scripture, tradition, reason, and experience.

I am grateful for the progress I have made. I know this is only the beginning, but I am confident this is exactly where I am meant to be. I am still on the journey of becoming.