John Bartlett was appointed Principal in 1989. He is retiring on medical advice, shortly before his 65th birthday.

As Principal of the Theological College he established a new, centralised training for Non Stipendiary Ministry and created the key posts of Chaplain-Tutor and Director of Pastoral Studies. He was also instrumental in developing theological courses for the laity.

When he took up office, Professor Bartlett directed an imaginative re-ordering of the College chapel. Later, he extended the College with a new lecture room and guest room and improved the staff accommodation at the Gate Lodge.

The Archbishop of Dublin as Visitor of the College and the Bishop of Meath & Kildare as Chairman of the Theological College Council said today: "We have always felt very much in his debt for the huge personal sacrifices he made in taking on this work. We have appreciated his dedication. There will obviously be further opportunity to express appreciation, but in the meantime we wish him and Olivia every blessing in prospect of an active and happy retirement." 

A Church of Ireland spokesman said: "John Bartlett has strongly maintained the inclusive tradition of the Church of Ireland. He saw the College as a place where ordinands of all traditions within the church could train together and learn from each other. He put a strong emphasis on the importance of a sound theological education and liturgical awareness in those training to preach the Word and minister the Sacraments."

Speaking at the College today, John Bartlett said "I am leaving with reluctance, on medical advice, but in the belief that after twelve years this is an appropriate moment to hand over to a successor as under its new Council the College continues the process of developing the training of ordinands to meet the needs of the twenty-first century."

In retirement John hopes to find more time for editing the archaeological journal Palestine Exploration Quarterly, founded in 1865, and for research and other academic commitments. In 2002 he will become President for the year of the Society for Old Testament Study. In December last he married a family friend of long standing, Olivia, and they will live in Dalkey, Co Dublin.