Between October and December, 17 lay people from across the Diocese will be commissioned to serve their benefices as Worship Leaders. Those being commissioned have spent time together over the past few months, exploring the theology and practice of worship, and will play an important role in supporting ministry in their parishes.
Lay worship leaders are volunteers who, having responded to a call from God, are trained and commissioned by the Diocese to lead and support worship in their parishes. Their training includes content exploring what worship is, why corporate worship is important, how to choose songs wisely, how to put a service together, and what the Anglican distinctive is in our worship services.
The training consisted of regular gatherings where the group, mostly from the Chippenham Deanery, considered the rhythm and patterns of worship, the aim of worship, and how to include others through studying the Bible and reading Church of England guidance. On one occasion, Alice Kemp, Disability Co-ordinator for the Diocese, spoke to the group, sharing guidance on how to include and support those with Disabilities. Members of the group commented that they were able to learn a great deal from each other and found the explanations of how to plan a service particularly helpful.
Stephanie Hayton, Diocesan Adviser for Lay Ministry, spoke about the joy of the first commissionings, saying:
“I am so pleased to see lay people being affirmed in their ministries and their willingness to serve the people of God. All of them recognise that worship is not just what happens in church on Sunday, yet all realise that how we worship together is part of our service to God and our welcome to others. They have completed their safeguarding training and have the affirmation of their PCCs and I encourage them to see where God leads them, and their churches, as they continue on their journeys of faith.”
Christopher Bryan, Archdeacon of Malmesbury, commissioned some of the new worship leaders. Speaking about the services he said:
“Molly, Andrew, Peter and Fiona are generously offering their time and talents to be Benefice Worship Leaders. It was a joy to commissioning them at Marshfield and Syston. Their ministry means that the local church can offer regular services and be present in communities across our Diocese, helping more people to hear the good news about Jesus.”
The group of new Lay Worship Leaders reflect the diversity, depth, and dedication of those called to serve in the Diocese of Bristol. We give thanks for each of them and pray for their flourishing as they lead and support worship in their parishes.
If you would like to know more, speak to your incumbent or Area Dean and ask whether Stephanie can run a course in your deanery or benefice.