“I was sick and you took care of me. I was in prison and you visited me.”
Matthew 25:36
What are Lay Pastoral Assistants?
Lay Pastoral Assistants (LPAs) play an important part in their communities by visiting and caring for those in need. All Christians (we hope) show that care for others informally, but Lay Pastoral Assistants have a specific ministry to do so on behalf of the Church. They are identified, equipped and commended to share in the pastoral ministry of the Church. An LPA role can vary widely, and may include supporting families, the bereaved, the lonely, those who are unwell, those new to faith, those preparing for marriage or facing other life changing moments. They offer a listening ear and a friendly face to many.
Lay Pastoral Assistants fulfil this role under the guidance of their incumbent or other licensed minister.
The unique gifts and experiences of an individual shape and identify how their role will work. Training to become a Lay Pastoral Assistant is a way of affirming and endorsing a person’s gifts in the work they are already doing to live and tell the story of Jesus.
For further information follow the link below to how local ministry is discerned and resourced.
And email training@bathwells.anglican.org.
Safeguarding notice
All those who go on to exercise ministry on behalf of the church are safely recruited following DBS checks and safeguarding training.