John Went grew up in Essex, attended Colchester Royal Grammar School; read Classics Part 1 (1st class) and Theology Part 2 (Starred First) at Corpus Christi College Cambridge. He trained for Church of England Ministry at Oak Hill Theological College. After a curacy at Emmanuel Northwood in London Diocese he was Vicar of Holy Trinity Margate before going on to be VicePrincipal of Wycliffe Hall Oxford. In retirement he continues to preach and lead services. He lives in London, UK.