Meet Noreen Balfe
Noreen is known to many as mother, grandmother, wife, sister, daughter and student. Noreen started studying at Atlantic School of Theology two years ago through the Diploma in Theological Studies after being called upon to take on a role in extraordinary ministry in her local Roman Catholic Church.
After researching her educational options online, Noreen reached out to a family member who was a graduate of AST and soon realized the school and the program would be a good fit.
Like many, when the pandemic hit, Noreen’s studies moved completely online. When asked how she finds her days in a virtual world she explains “Studying at home during the pandemic has filled my days with thoughts about God, religion, culture, and politics. I am either reading, writing or in a Zoom class. During break time and depending on the season, I enjoy ocean kayaking or snowshoeing on the south shore of Nova Scotia. I manage daily meditation prayer and a weekly class in rally dog training and ballet.
There is no downside to online learning for me, although it would be nice to be in a classroom setting. Building friendships with your fellow classmates can still happen online. Prior to the pandemic I utilized the AST library centre on campus. It is an excellent reference library with a spectacular ocean view facing the Northwest arm in Halifax.”
When asked about her learning experience at AST, Noreen explains “The teachers have a passion for sharing practical and spiritual knowledge. I am learning a lot in the first year mandatory biblical and worship courses. Other optional courses such as Eco-theology: To Earth with Love carries a timely message I can bring forth to my community to inspire action on the climate emergency. If you are interested in studying theology, please consider the AST varied programs. You will have the opportunity to learn and explore biblical and worship foundations, divine truths within scriptural languages, studying critical source material in the gospels, pastoral ministry, and connecting the ancient meaning of God, creation and nature within a post-modern context. We are God’s beloved, and we must maintain a strong connection with nature and creation.”
Noreen encourages students to purse their theological education during these times, even if in a virtual environment. “Formal learning during the pandemic is a fascinating experience. Virtual learning provides a platform to connect with other like-minded people from all over the world who are interested in sharing thoughts and ideas as they pertain to Christianity.”
Do you want to learn more about AST's program offerings? Contact our recruitment and vocations coordinator .