“God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth”
John 4:24
Lay Worship Assistants contribute to the life of the church and their community by leading services. They might lead Morning and Evening Prayer, alternative non-Eucharistic forms of worship, and assist clergy to lead Eucharistic services.
Lay Worship Assistants fulfill this role under the guidance of the incumbent. That guidance gives LWAs confidence and authority to use their gifts, supported by their incumbent’s experience and theological knowledge.
Across the diocese, Lay Worship Assistants are increasing the flexibility of worship within our churches. They improve the range and number of services that can be offered. They ensure that people can worship regularly in their own communities.
Meet a Lay Worship Assistant
I the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard my people cry… who will bear my light to them, whom shall I send?
“Having trained as a drama teacher it is in my nature to create images for people to respond to. So when the hymn above nudged me into offering myself to my local church, the role of Lay Worship Assistant immediately sprung to mind.
The diocesan course, run by our deanery, provided me with the guidance and inspiration I needed to fulfil this, producing themes and suggestions with material to dip into for expansion.
Sharing with others on the course opened my eyes to the vast possibilities of being able to lead our church families into the presence of Our God through words and music. For me it is an opportunity to bring a vision of His Kingdom into the lives of His Children.”
I will go Lord, if you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart"
Sally from Quantock Deanery.