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:

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.