Called to Diocesan Reader ministry: Jillian Aulds
Jillian is a parishioner of St John’s, Newcastle and was commissioned as a Diocesan Reader on Sunday 9 June at a service in her home church.
My faith journey has been a transformative and enlightening experience. From a young age, I was brought to Sunday School and church every Sunday by my parents in Saintfield Parish Church, where shortly after being confirmed I helped out, and later became a Sunday School teacher. I enjoyed all aspects of church life, attending Bible study groups and being an active member of the Girls Brigade for many years.
I moved to Newcastle 1989 and found St John’s Church, on the Rock, not right away, but when the timing was correct, my late husband and I became active members, serving in lots of practical ways at first, which led on to becoming a member of the Select Vestry, reading in church and serving as a churchwarden.
Over the years I wanted more but wrestled with these thoughts for years. It was a couple of years ago I was asked had I ever thought about a doing Parish Reader course. (which I had). I found myself enrolling and before I knew it I had begun. After this finished, I applied for the Diocesan Reader course.
This course included a lot of study, assignments, weekends in Dublin at the Church of Ireland Theological Institute where I have forged new friendships with people I would otherwise never have met. It has allowed me to deepen my understanding of scripture and develop my skills in communicating God’s truth. Through prayer and guidance from my Rector and my church family in St John’s, I have been equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively share the Gospel.
Looking to the future, I am filled with anticipation and excitement. God has a purpose and a plan for my life as a lay reader. I trust God will continue to guide and shape me as I embark on this journey. With faith as my foundation, I am confident that the future holds endless possibilities for growth, service and spreading the love of Christ.
In the words of Thomas Aquinas: “To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible.”
Jillian Aulds