Dr Emma Percy

Biography

I was appointed as the Senior Lecturer in Feminist Theology and Ministry Studies at Aberdeen in January 2023. I studied History at Cambridge University and then Theology at Durham University and was ordained deacon in the Church of England in 1990. I became one of the first women priests in the Church of England in 1994. In 2005 I was appointed as Fellow and Chaplain at Trinity College Oxford. Alongside chaplaincy responsibilities I studied part time for a PhD at Nottingham University, supervised by Prof Karen Kilby. The thesis led to two books Mothering as a Metaphor for Ministry (Routledge 2014) and What Clergy do especially when it looks like nothing (SPCK 2014). The practice and resourcing of ministry has continued to shape my writing and research. I was co-editor of The Study of Ministry (SPCK 2019).  Feminism and gender theory inform my research and writing, my latest book chapter was a theological reflection on ‘Queer Eye’ (Fearful Times Living Faith 2021). My current research focuses on the theology of the female reproductive body, including pregnancy endings. Many years of experience in pastoral and welfare roles shape my other current research which is around the virtue of Fortitude and spiritual resilience.

I have taught at Oxford University and in Anglican Theological Seminaries. Most recently I was the Merrow Fellow at Virginia Theological Seminary, USA. I have extensive experience of teaching on continuing ministerial development and lay training courses.

I am an Episcopalian priest and a seasoned campaigner for gender justice within the church. (Former Chair of WATCH www.womenandthechurch.org )

I have relocated to Aberdeen with my husband and dog (Lyra). We are enjoying exploring the city and the wider area. I like walking and eating, enjoy cooking and eating out. I practice yoga and write poetry.

Research Overview

My Research interests include

• The theology and practice of ministry
• Pastoral theology
• Feminist Embodied theology 
• Theology and Motherhood
• Care, Kindness and Resilience
• Virtues 

Current Research

• A Pastoral theology of Abortion 
• Fortitude and Spiritual Resilience

Past Research

• Motherhood and theology
• Pastoral ministry
• Women's path to ordination in the Church of England
• Gender and inclusion in the Church