As lay spiritual leaders, the well-being of LLMs is important to the diocese, to local churches and congregations, and to God. ‘Living well’ looks different for each person. Nevertheless, as part of the licensing service, LLMs are asked:
- Will you be faithful in leading the people of God in worship, and in preaching the word to them?
- Will you be diligent in prayer, in reading Holy Scripture, and in all studies that will deepen your faith and fit you to bear witness to the truth of the gospel?
- Will you endeavour to fashion your life according to the way of Christ?
- Will you promote unity, peace and love in the Church and in the world, and especially among those whom you serve?
- Will you work closely with your colleagues in ministry and encourage the gifts of others?
These are questions which are useful to keep in mind as we live out our faith. They call us to keep a balance in the use of our time; to remember our family, friends and work colleagues; and remind us that taking time to pray and seek God is never wasted, nor is time used to play and rest. God is interested in our being as well as our doing and calls us to keep Sabbaths regularly.
The Wheel resource may enable us to think about the balance within our life. Living Into Our Values is an external resource which helps us to focus on what is important to us. LLMs may also find it helpful to have a mentor and/or a spiritual director.
The questions also remind us that we never stop growing. Instead, deepening our faith and character are also part of our continued calling. As Paul wrote: Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (Phil 3:13-14)
LLMs are encouraged to attend Continuing Ministerial Development which enables them to learn, to meet other LLMs and clergy and to resource themselves. If an LLM is not receiving information about CMD regularly, they should email mmsupport@bristoldiocese.org. LLMs may also wish to deepen their study by registering for an accredited course. Appendix C of the LLM handbook.