Lay ministry pathway

Releasing the gifts of all people

Across the Diocese of Bath and Wells many individuals are serving faithfully in a wide range of lay ministries with the guidance and support of their local clergy. The Lay Ministries Pathway (LMP) has been developed to encourage and equip lay ministry leading to the Bishop’s Commendation for ministry.

Through the LMP, we aim to:

• Celebrate the diverse gifts of Lay Ministers in our diocese
• Offer a variety of pathways leading to equipping for ministry depending on prior experience
• Ensure safeguarding is in place for all involved
• Encourage connection and mutual support among lay ministers across parishes and benefices
• Provide simple, adaptable resources to help equip people for ministry in their local context.

A new approach to equipping for lay ministry

In the past, preparing for lay ministry often meant ‘doing a course’. While valuable for some, this model doesn’t suit everyone or reflect the wide variety of gifts people bring. The Lay Ministries Pathway offers a flexible and responsive approach. Rather than starting with “What course shall I do?”, it begins with a question of calling:

Lay Ministries Pathways

Releasing the gifts of all people across our diocese is becoming easier with the introduction of the Lay Ministries Pathway with its flexible and adaptable approach to training for ministry roles such as Lay Worship Assistant (LWA) and Funeral Minister (FM) – there are other courses in development.

A flexible, accessible pathway

The Lay Ministries Pathway values both the traditional approach to training as well as embracing an apprenticeship-style learning, making space for a wider variety of learners. It recognises that people start their journey to ministry by bringing unique life experiences and skills, allowing each person to begin their journey of equipping for ministry at a level that is appropriate for them.

Training that builds confidence and competence

The pathway includes a Foundation course for all lay ministries, with further training tailored to the Core Gifts and Skills needed for specific roles like the Lay Pastoral Assistant or Local Preacher.

Alongside lay ministry training, incumbents can also receive ongoing training to support and help them guide and encourage Lay Ministers in their own settings.

Growing local ministry together

Our vision is for every benefice to have a flourishing shared local ministry with lay and ordained people working side-by-side to build up the body of Christ and lead the Church in mission.

Each recognised lay ministry is split into a selection of gifts and skills to form a ministry checklist. This is used by the Incumbent or another trained leader to support and assess the candidate’s readiness and confidence in ministry. All Lay Ministers are recruited following the safer recruitment process. Their appointment is agreed and supported by their PCCs, commended by the Bishop, and commissioned locally.

Discover your next step in ministry

Whether you're exploring your calling or supporting others in theirs, the Lay Ministries Pathway opens the door to shared local ministry across Bath and Wells.