Annual Readers’ Day

Readers from all corners of our diocese gathered in Wells on Saturday for Annual Readers’ Day. It was a time to give thanks for Reader ministry in Bath and Wells, and an opportunity to welcome those who are beginning their ministry and thank those who continue to service in our diocese.

The day began at Flourish House, where Readers gathered together for a morning of learning, discussion and fellowship. They were joined by speaker, Helen Paynter, who is a Tutor in Old Testament at Bristol Baptist College. Helen gave a fascinating and thought-provoking session on: “Unanswered questions, unfulfilled longings: How the Old Testament groans for Jesus.”

In the afternoon the Admission, Licensing and Rededication of Readers Service took place at Wells Cathedral.

During the service, all Readers renew their commitment to serve God through their ministry. Four new Readers were licensed and four Readers who have moved to Bath and Wells from other dioceses were welcomed.

In their welcome to Readers Bishop Michael and Bishop Fiona, said, “Readers have a clear calling and an honoured place in the life of the Church. Theirs is a ministry of the Word, speaking of Christ in varied ways from everyday conversation to leading public worship, teaching and preaching. They build connections between life and faith both in the Church and in their communities, workplaces and neighbourhoods.

“They work among children and young people, care for the bereaved, share Communion with the sick and housebound, and serve in numerous other ways unique to their calling and their context.

“……The importance of Reader ministry within our Church is reflected in their receiving the Bishop’s licence and commission to serve within our diocese.”

We pray for all our Readers and for the churches in which they minister.

The candidates and those being welcomed

Candidates for admission and licensing as Readers and the benefice/parishes in which they will serve are:

• Deborah Catherine – Hale Cheddar, Draycott and Rodney Stoke
• Richard Ian King – Mells with Vobster with Elm, Whatley and Chantry
• Diane Angela Newton – Minehead
• Lynda Frances Norton – The Link Benefice and the Benefice of Westonzoyland with Chedzoy

The following have been licensed by the Bishop to their benefices and are ministering there already:

• Paul Phipps – St John the Baptist, Weston-super-Mare
• Sally Tooze – St Paul, Weston-super-Mare
• Robin Whitworth – Trull with Angersleigh
• Ruth Whitworth – Trull with Angersleigh