Is this a ministry for you to explore?
You may feel called to this ministry if you are:
- Someone who notices unmet needs or new opportunities within your community
- Sensing God prompting you to respond in creative or unconventional ways
- Feeling passionate about connecting with people currently beyond church life
- Imagining fresh expressions of Christian community or new ways for people to encounter God
- A naturally gatherer, encourager, and inspirer of others around a vision
- Showing qualities such as creativity, adaptability, perseverance, or entrepreneurial thinking
- Receiving encouragement or affirmation from others who see these gifts in you
A call to Local Lay Pioneer Ministry often emerges when someone senses the Holy Spirit prompting them to respond creatively to the needs of their community.
Pioneers are typically people with a passion for those not currently connected with church, an imagination for new ways of reaching out, and a desire to gather others around a shared vision. This sense of calling is often affirmed by clergy, friends, or the wider church community, who recognise gifts of creativity, compassion, initiative, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
Who to contact
Working out a calling is about listening attentively to God and reflecting with others.
If what you have read is making sense for you – you are feeling nudged to this ministry – then have a conversation with your Incumbent: you may find they are already thinking about how people can get involved. We want Lay Ministers to feel properly equipped for this significant role.
Your incumbent will need to contact the Training team for information and resources.
Safeguarding notice
All those who go on to exercise ministry on behalf of the church are safely recruited following DBS checks and safeguarding training.