Reader Ministry
"We shall not have a really healthy base for our ministry until we have a Reader in every group of parishes in the Diocese"
Rt Revd Gordon Roe, Bishop of Huntingdon, Warden of Readers March 1995
Readers play a vital role in the Diocese of Ely. In 1995 there were more than 120 licensed Readers as well as some 42 in training. In any one year, as a group they will take part in thousands of services - often running them single-handed. They will preach many hundreds of sermons. But their work extends far beyond church services. Readers can be found running children's and youth groups; visiting the elderly and the sick, leading school services, taking funerals and generally helping spread the Gospel throughout the Diocese.
What is a Reader?
Readers in the Ely Diocese come from many, many walks of life. What they have in common is that they have been called to, and trained for, a specific lay ministry within the Church of England.
In Church they can be distinguished from their ordained colleagues by the distinctive blue scarf which licensed Readers wear.
What can a Reader do?
Once licensed by the Bishop, Readers can:
- take morning prayer and evensong, as well as other services such as word services, Compline, etc.
- preach sermons
- officiate at funerals
In addition, because of their training, Readers are well suited to:
- lead Bible study groups and prayer groups
- participate in running baptism and confirmation groups
- ... and generally work as an important member of the parish(es) ministry team.
What training does a Reader have?
For most people it takes two and a half years of study to become a Reader. The course, supervised by the Director of Studies, is a blend of tutored study, lectures and parish work.
Working under their appointed tutor, who may be a priest or an experienced Reader, the syllabus is studied from Bible topics to Liturgy. On average Readers in Training will meet 10 times a year with their tutor to whom they submit essays and project work.
In addition there are three one day conferences held during each year of training. These provide further tuition and allow Readers in Training to meet and build a fellowship.
At the same time, working with their incumbent, trainees gain practical experience in their own parish. This involves leading intercessions, preaching and pastoral work.
To provide spiritual support during the training period there are experienced Readers who act as "pastoral tutors" to each candidate.
How are Readers licensed?
On completion of their training Readers are licensed by the Bishop of Ely, usually at the Readers' Annual Service held in the Cathedral in April. At this service candidates make their declaration of faith, take their oath of obedience to the Bishop, and receive authority for their ministry.
What support do licensed Readers receive?
Licensing is not the end of becoming a Reader. To preach the word of God, Readers must keep up their private reading and undertake on-going tuition. Each year the Readers' Board - the "governing body" - holds a training day and an Annual General Meeting which address specific topics. There is also an annual quiet day. In addition, all Readers - in training and licensed - receive regular copies of the national newsletter, The Reader, and the Diocesan publication, Ely Reader.
The Board is currently seeking ways of building the fellowship amongst Readers still further.
Is there an age limit?
Licensed Readers may continue until they are 70. After that age they can obtain "Permission to officiate" and so continue their ministry for as long as they are able.
How do I apply to be a Reader?
If you are interested in becoming a Reader you need the support of:
- Your incumbent
- Your Parochial Church Council
In the first instance it is best to discuss the matter with your incumbent, or with an experienced Reader.
The formal application to be considered for training begins by gaining the necessary application forms from:
Mrs Ruth Kightley
Registrar
St Mary's Rectory
Oak Street
Feltwell
Thetford
IP26 4DD
Tel: 01832 828104
email: registrar.readers@ely.anglican.org
Or you can email the Chairman of the Readers Board.
