Key information
Reader Ministry Handbook 2023
Reader Working Agreement 2024
Annual Conversation Form 2024
Useful links
Facebook group for local Readers →
WhatsApp group for Clergy & Readers →
Supporting Lay Ministry →
Team contact information
Reader Training – Cuddesdon →
Who’s Who
Nick Partridge
Interim Warden of Readers
Email Nick
Jane Walden
Associate Warden of Readers
Email Jane
Beth Jackson
Assistant Team Administrator
Email Beth
Reader Training →
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Reader Ministry news
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Readers are people of all ages and from all walks of life uniquely qualified to bring the word of God into issues of working life, voluntary work, leisure and relationships; as well as being involved in the life and mission of the Church. They encourage others to share the Gospel wherever they are and help others discover the Christian faith for themselves.
The Office of Reader is the only voluntary lay ministry in the Church of England that is nationally accredited, episcopally licensed and governed by canon law. Readers often lead worship and can be easily identified by the blue scarf they wear. They also preach and teach; in fact the name ‘Reader’ is a reminder of their core calling: to speak aloud God’s Word in the community. Some have particular roles and gifts for serving in the wider community; some in schools, in work-place chaplaincy or as pastoral visitors. Some are specially trained to take funerals and in caring for the bereaved. Others are in pioneer roles, seeking to bring the Gospel to people beyond the familiar boundaries of the Church.
Readers work alongside ordained and lay colleagues, often in ministry teams. Having been trained and licensed they share responsibility in leading the people of God in discipleship and mission.
Anyone can apply to join a Reader training programme. Often we shrug off this question or assume it couldn’t possibly be me! Sometimes, others recognise your calling before you do; others have recognised that they have a calling by a feeling inside of them or through prayer or an experience in their life. The way people are called by God is as varied as the people called. After a process of selection, Reader training takes place locally as a three-year part time course. Upon completion you can expect to receive a license to minister in this Diocese from the Bishop. Like all Christian service it is exciting, demanding and rewarding.
Like those in ordained ministry, Readers are sustained and supported in their work by participation in a continuing programme of training and development.
If you feel you are being called to be a Reader please click on the dropdown tabs below, contact us, or to read more, visit our Vocations webpage →
• Lead church worship
• Preach
• Lead study groups
• Pioneer ministry in their local parish
• Lead funeral services
• Offer pastoral care
• Offer chaplaincy care
• Enable mission in the everyday lives of others.Then Reader Ministry may be for you! Anyone can apply to join a Reader training programme. Often, we shrug off this question or assume it couldn’t possibly be me! Sometimes, others recognise your calling before you do. Sometimes you may have a calling by a feeling inside of you or through prayer or an experience in your life. The way people are called by God is as varied as the people called.
Still unsure, why not visit our ‘Discover your vocation’ page for courses and schemes that will help you to discern your vocation.
Step Two – Contact Nick Partridge– Interim Warden of Readers for an initial chat: ku.gr1734622919o.coi1734622919dsolg1734622919@egdi1734622919rtrap1734622919n1734622919
Step Three – Following a time of discernment, you may be called to interview for Reader Ministry.
What do candidates say about it?
If you would like any other information relating to Reader Ministry please contact Beth Jackson
Deanery Sub Wardens
- Tewkesbury & Winchcombe – Angela Cole
- Forest South – Denise Hogan
- Cheltenham – Dereck Freeman
- Cirencester – Derrick Pierce
- Stroud – Linda Jarvis
- Severn Vale – Rob Poole
- Gloucester City – Sue Rodford
- Cirencester – Gordon Land
- North Cotswold – Vacant
- Wotton – Vacant
