The annual Lay Ministry Service 2024

The annual Lay Ministry Service at Lincoln Cathedral on Saturday 12 October 2024 was a significant event. It celebrated the dedication and contributions of lay ministers within the Diocese of Lincoln.

Pauline Wiggett and Peter Holmes were admitted and licensed as Readers by the Bishop of Grantham. Along with this, Lynne Smith was blessed and commissioned as a Warden of Lay Ministry to work alongside Clare Lyndsay. Congratulations everyone!

The service featured a Sung Eucharist with a special focus on thanksgiving for lay ministry.

The Bishop of Grantham led the service, emphasizing the importance of lay ministry in supporting the spiritual and community life of the diocese.

The cathedral was filled with members of various parishes and chaplaincies, all coming together to recognise those who serve in lay roles. 

The Bishop of Lincoln preached a sermon about waiting – and how everyone is gathered with those waiting to see where their vociational journey leads, waiting to see how God’s call will unfold. Waiting is indeed a good thing!

The service included the formal declarations by the candidates, affirming their commitment to their faith and their roles within the Church of England. The new Readers each received a blue scarf to show their new ministry, which they can wear when robed.

This annual event not only recognizes the hard work and dedication of lay ministers but also inspires others to consider how they might serve their communities in similar ways.

It was a day of reflection, celebration, and renewed commitment to the mission of the Church, highlighting the vital role that lay ministers play in the life of the diocese.

The Lay Ministry AGM

Shortly after the service, the annual general meeting for Lay Ministers took place in the Chapter House of Lincoln Cathedral. There was plenty of discussion including about the wellbeing of lay ministers.

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