Society of the Sacred Mission

The Society of the Sacred Mission (SSM) is an Anglican religious order founded in 1893 by Father Herbert Kelly. Registered as a UK charity (no. 1101444), it operates as a nonprofit organisation focused on Christian ministry, spiritual formation, and theological education. The society follows a mixed-community model, encompassing professed members (who take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience), associates, and companions through the affiliated Company of the Sacred Mission[1][2].

History

Father Herbert Kelly established SSM to train candidates for Anglican ordination, initially through Kelham Theological College (1903–1972), which became a cornerstone of its early work. Later, the society expanded its operations to include St Michael's House in Australia and ministries in Lesotho, Japan, and South Africa[1][5].

Structure and Membership

SSM comprises three membership categories:

• Professed members: Celibate individuals living in community under traditional religious vows[1].
• Associates: Non-vowed members engaged in community work, including married individuals[1].
• Companions: Individuals outside the community who commit to living "to the glory of God" through the Company of the Sacred Mission[1][5].

Activities

The society’s charitable objectives include advancing vocation, nurturing spirituality, and promoting theological scholarship[2]. Its work centers on:

• Spiritual direction and retreats at St Antony’s Priory in Durham, offering guided retreats and silent prayer[4].
• Education and research, including plans for an Institute for Anglican Religious Life to support religious communities and scholars[4].
• Publications, such as An Idea in the Working by Herbert Kelly and historical works documenting SSM’s legacy[5].

Legacy

Notable members include theologian Gabriel Hebert and historian George Every. SSM’s archives and theological library remain key resources for studying Anglican religious life[1][4].

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Society_of_the_Sacred_Mission [2] https://ssm.org.uk [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/about-the-register-of-charities/-/charity-details/4004120/charity-overview [4] https://ssm.org.uk/activities/ [5] https://arlyb.org.uk/community/society-of-the-sacred-mission-ssm-province-of-europe/