“I was sick and you took care of me. I was in prison and you visited me.”
Matthew 25:36
Commissioned Lay Ministers for Pastoral Care are people called to show Christ’s love through practical care and compassionate presence. While many Christians offer informal care to those around them, a Commissioned Lay Minister (CLM) for Pastoral Care is specially equipped and recognised to carry out this ministry on behalf of the church.
A ministry of presence and care
Commissioned Lay Ministers for Pastoral Care serve in many ways, depending on the needs of their community and their own gifts. Their work might include:
- Visiting the sick or housebound
- Supporting the bereaved or lonely
- Walking alongside those experiencing life changes
- Encouraging and nurturing people new to faith
- Offering a listening ear during times of crisis
- Supporting individuals preparing for baptism, marriage, or other milestones
Whatever the context, Commissioned Lay Ministers for Pastoral Care offer a calm, compassionate presence — a reminder that no one is alone.
Guided and supported
Commissioned Lay Ministers for Pastoral Care work under the guidance of their Incumbent or another licensed minister, ensuring they feel supported and connected to the wider mission of the Church.
Each Lay Minister brings their own unique experiences and gifts to the role. Resourcing and training for this ministry helps affirm and grow these gifts, equipping individuals to serve with confidence and care.
Exploring the call
Becoming a Commissioned Lay Minister for Pastoral Care often begins with a heart for caring and a desire to walk alongside others. It may start with simple acts of kindness or being a listening ear. Training helps to affirm this calling, grow confidence, and connect with others serving in pastoral ministry.
Just as a reminder
Training for Lay Ministry Pastoral Care is a part of the Lay Ministry Pathways which are a flexible and responsive approach to training people called to Lay Ministry. Instead of asking the question “What resource shall I do?”, it begins with a question of calling:
- “What is God calling me to do, and what do I need to be equipped for it?”
- “What is God calling you to do, and how can we support and equip you?”
Called to this ministry?
You may feel called to this ministry if you are:
- Prayerful and rooted in your relationship with God
- Compassionate and able to listen deeply to others
- Easy to talk to
- Willing to prepare thoughtfully and prayerfully for pastoral encounters,
- Comfortable meeting and supporting people in a variety of life situations
- Able to maintain confidentiality and appropriate boundaries
- Committed to ongoing support for your ministry
- Genuine and authentic in your care for others
- Open to learning and developing practical pastoral skills
Who to contact
Working out a calling is about listening attentively to God and reflecting with others.
If what you have read is making sense for you – you are feeling nudged to this ministry – then have a conversation with your Incumbent: you may find they are already thinking about how people can get involved. We want Commissioned Lay Ministers to feel properly equipped for this significant role.
Your Incumbent will need to contact the Training team for information and resources.
Email the team: training@bathwells.anglican.org
Safeguarding notice
All those who go on to exercise ministry on behalf of the church are safely recruited following DBS checks and safeguarding training.