Is this a ministry for you to explore?
You may feel called to this ministry if you are:
- Prayerful and rooted in your relationship with God
- Compassionate and able to listen deeply to others
- Easy to talk to
- Willing to prepare thoughtfully and prayerfully for pastoral encounters,
- Comfortable meeting and supporting people in a variety of life situations
- Able to maintain confidentiality and appropriate boundaries
- Committed to ongoing support for your ministry
- Genuine and authentic in your care for others
- Open to learning and developing practical pastoral skills
People from all walks of life and backgrounds are called by God to serve as LPAs. This is a voluntary, usually part-time ministry. While it requires a regular commitment of time, the role is designed to be flexible and responsive to your individual circumstances.
As this is a ministry on behalf of the Church, you will serve under the guidance of your Incumbent and with agreement of your PCC. This may involve visiting and supporting people whose experiences and perspectives differ from your own, offering friendship, prayer, and encouragement as a representative of the worshipping community. You will be safely recruited following safeguarding guidelines.
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.