It was a day of joyful celebration. In the presence of more than 150 of their colleagues, family members and friends, many of whom came from outside the UK, and in the beautiful and hallowed surroundings of the historic St Philip and St James Church, seventeen men and women graduated with a PhD from the Oxford Centre for Mission Studies. Wearing the bright red gown of the academic doctor, and wondering if their "bonnets" were at the correct angle, they came forward to receive their precious certificates from Professor Richard Comley of Middlesex University, who presided over the ceremony.

The huge smiles, loud applause and the countless photographs said it all. Years of patient study and painful labour finally got due recognition. Now these new doctoral scholars will return to the homes and ministries in Africa, Asia and all over the world to continue to serve the world Church and the Kingdom of Jesus Christ.