Releasing the gifts of all people
Across the Diocese of Bath and Wells many individuals are serving faithfully in a wide range of lay ministries with the guidance and support of their local clergy. The Lay Ministry Pathways (LMPs) has been developed to encourage and equip lay ministry leading to the Bishop’s Commendation for ministry.
Through the Lay Ministry Pathways, we aim to:
- Celebrate the diverse gifts of Lay Ministers in our diocese
- Offer a variety of pathways leading to equipping for ministry depending on prior experience
- Ensure safeguarding is in place for all involved
- Encourage connection and mutual support among lay ministers across parishes and benefices
- Provide simple, adaptable resources to help equip people for ministry in their local context.
A new approach to equipping for lay ministry
In the past, preparing for lay ministry often meant ‘doing a course’. While valuable for some, this model doesn’t suit everyone or reflect the wide variety of gifts people bring. The Lay Ministries Pathways offer a flexible and responsive approach. Rather than starting with “What course shall I do?”, they begin with a question of calling:
Lay Ministry Pathways
Releasing the gifts of all people across our diocese is becoming easier with the introduction of the Lay Ministry Pathways with their flexible and adaptable approach to training for ministry roles in Worship, Pastoral Care, Funeral and Bereavement Care, Preaching, and Pioneering.
A flexible, accessible pathway
The Lay Ministry Pathways value both the traditional approach to training as well as embracing an apprenticeship-style learning, making space for a wider variety of learners. They recognise that people start their journey to ministry by bringing unique life experiences and skills, allowing each person to begin their journey of equipping for ministry at a level that is appropriate for them.
Training that builds confidence and competence
The Pathways include a , with further training tailored to the Core Gifts and Skills needed for the specific commissioned ministry roles.
Alongside lay ministry training, incumbents can also receive ongoing training to support and help them guide and encourage Commissioned Lay Ministers in their own settings.
Growing local ministry together
Our vision is for every benefice to have a flourishing shared local ministry with lay and ordained people working side-by-side to build up the body of Christ and lead the Church in mission.
Each recognised lay ministry is split into a selection of gifts and skills to form a ministry checklist. This is used by the Incumbent or another trained leader to support and assess the candidate’s readiness and confidence in ministry. All Commissioned Lay Ministers are recruited following the safer recruitment process. Their appointment is agreed and supported by their PCCs, commended by the bishop, and commissioned locally.
Discover your next step in ministry
Whether you’re exploring your calling or supporting others in theirs, the Lay Ministry Pathways open the door to shared local ministry across Bath and Wells.