FIVE people from parishes across the diocese were admitted to the office of Reader in Worcester Cathedral.
The Bishop of Worcester, Dr John Inge, conducted the service, licensing the individuals to minister in the parishes they have been called to serve.
Readers are trained and licensed lay ministers in the Church of England authorised in particular to exercise a ministry of preaching and teaching.
They undergo a two-year training course before being admitted to the role, which ends with the award of a Certificate in Higher Education by the University of Durham.
After being licensed they carry out a wide range of tasks within their parishes and beyond, especially helping others to reflect on their faith and how it relates to their daily lives.
Among those admitted and licensed were Sue Hiscocks who will serve in the benefice of Fladbury, Hill and Moor, Wyre Piddle, Cropthorne and Charlton
“I am married and have a lovely family of children and grandchildren. I came to live in Charlton five years ago and have been active in Church and community since moving here,” she said.
“I enjoyed my time at Queens College, especially being part of a community which studies, worships, prays, and eats together and I hope to build on and consolidate on my learning.
“My ministry will be in the 5 Alive Parish, teaching and preaching in Church, active in church community but also as a bridge between Church and community in the villages. Hopefully, I will be a friend to all I meet as I seek to express and share the love of God and help others reflect on their faith and how it relates to their daily lives.
Bishop John said: “Lay Ministers play a very important role in our churches, sharing their faith with others and serving them in God’s name. I was delighted to be able to license these five people to this very important role as well as welcome Yuki who will also be able to exercise her ministry here once she is licensed in London.”
The preacher at the service was Canon Sue Oliver, Warden of Readers, who said the new Lay Ministers should “proclaim the Kingdom of love, compassion, justice and freedom, just as Jesus did; by how [they] live, teach and meet people wherever they are. And make sure to keep connected to Jesus through prayer, which will sustain life and ministry.”
