The Queen’s Foundation has been awarded a Science for Seminaries grant from ECLAS to support an innovative project, Neurodivergence, Psychology, and Intersectionality for Ministry. Led by tutor Revd Dr Allison Fenton, the project will examine how churches can become more inclusive environments for people with neurodivergences by bringing theological reflection into conversation with psychology, psychiatry, and neuroscience.
Built around four main elements, the initiative will develop new resources, teaching, and opportunities for dialogue across church and academic contexts.
Symposium on Neurodivergence and Inclusive Ministry
A two-day symposium, taking place in May 2027, will bring together ministers from a range of denominations alongside specialists in psychology, psychiatry, and neuroscience, including contributors with neurodivergences. The event will create space for theological reflection, interdisciplinary dialogue, and practical discussion around what genuinely inclusive church practice can look like in a variety of ministry contexts.
Developing a Practical Resource for Churches
The project will produce a practical, research-informed guide to help churches become more welcoming and supportive environments for neurodivergent people. Drawing on academic expertise and lived experience, the resource will offer accessible, context-sensitive guidance for churches seeking to strengthen inclusive practice in worship, leadership, pastoral care, and community life.
Enhancing Theological Reflection Teaching
New teaching sessions will be introduced within the Foundation’s core Theological Reflection module, enabling students to explore neurodiversity, emotional experience, human difference, and the influence of power, race, and class in ministry. These sessions will encourage students to engage in theological reflection in conversation with contemporary psychological and neuroscientific insights.
New MA-Level Module in Neurodivergence and Ministry
A new MA-level module will also be developed within programmes validated by Durham University and Birmingham Newman University. The module will extend the project’s interdisciplinary work into postgraduate study, equipping students to think critically and pastorally about neurodiversity, ministry, and inclusion within the life of the Church.
Revd Dr Allison Fenton, Queen’s Research Fellow and Associate Tutor, said: “I’m looking forward to building on the research project Queen’s has been working on alongside St Mellitus on neurodivergence and formation. We hope that those who participate in our new modules will be scientifically, theologically and pastorally equipped for ministry in the Church in all its glorious neurodiversity.”
Equiping Christian Leadership in an Age of Science (ECLAS) and the Science for Seminaries grant programme are funded by the John Templeton Foundation.
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