Vocations – Called to Reader ministry?
With applications now open for the 2022–23 training course, it’s a great time to consider if you sense a calling to the ministry of a Diocesan Reader.
Diocesan Lay Readers have a significant voluntary role in assisting the ministry of the church. Readers are authorised by the Bishop to preach, teach, lead worship and engage in pastoral work, not just in their own parish but in other churches throughout the diocese.
As the role of a Reader in teaching and leading is significant, potential Readers are given training in Biblical studies, theology, ministry and preaching over a two year period before they are commissioned.
We are greatly encouraged by the numbers of new Lay Readers who have been commissioned for Down and Dromore (42 and 10 in training) but more are needed.
The course
Over 15 months, potential Readers are given training in biblical studies, theology, ministry and preaching before they are commissioned.
At present the total cost is £1,500. The diocese pays one third of the amount with the remaining two–thirds shared by agreement between the sending parish and the candidate. This sum can be paid in instalments.
If you sense a call to this role, please have a chat with your rector first.
Download the 2022–23 course brochure here.
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: Monday 11 October 2021