Samuel Williams, who is in his final year at St Stephen’s House training for the priesthood, has been selected as one of around 100 theological students, aged 21-35 who will attend the Global Ecumenical Theological Institute (GETI) run by the World Council of Churches (WCC). Samuel’s studies will be partially funded by a grant from The Bill Snelson Young Ecumenists Fund.
GETI is a flagship programme of the WCC. It brings together young and emerging ecumenical theologians and educators from a broad spectrum of Christian traditions and all eight regions of the WCC to engage with one another on current critical theological themes. A programme of online study precedes the intensive residential programme which this year takes place at the Coptic Orthodox Logos Papal Centre near Alexandria in Egypt.
Samuel said: “This is a great opportunity to be involved in global ecumenism focussed on rigorous theological discussion and study. It will be a time for me to learn and grow in my faith in a diverse and challenging environment. The residential aspect of the course will enable full immersion into ecumenical dialogue and Christianity in Egypt, and globally.”
At the end of GETI, Samuel should be awarded a Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Global Ecumenical Theology to go alongside his current studies for an MTh in applied theology. Samuel is also due to be ordained a deacon in the Church of England at the end of June 2025.
What is the Bill Snelson Fund for Young Ecumenists?
The Bill Snelson Young Ecumenists Fund was launched in October 2023 by Churches Together in England and the Snelson family. It is in memory of Bill Snelson, a dedicated ecumenist, who was General Secretary of Churches Together England from 1997 to 2008. Grants from the Fund allow young adults to experience ecumenism abroad. That experience can be study, pilgrimage, volunteering or any activity that promotes church unity.
Applications can be made to the Snelson Fund twice a year. The deadline for autumn applications is 31 October. From 2026 The closing date for spring applications will be 30 April.
Find a list of young Christians who benefitted from The Bill Snelson Young Ecumenists Fund.
Download a brief guide to The Bill Snelson Young Ecumenists Fund and how to apply.