Lay MinistryWHAT IS A LAY PERSON?
In the church we broadly categorise people as either lay or ordained. All deacons, priests, and bishops are ordained members of the church - otherwise known as clergy. The word 'lay' derives from an old French word (lai) meaning secular, which in our context simply means 'not clergy'. Therefore, anyone who belongs to the church and is not ordained is considered a lay person. WHAT IS A LAY MINISTER? A Lay Minister is someone the Church has discerned as having a calling and a gift for particular activity within a community. At present there are three recognised lay ministries (defined by Statute 18: The Lay Ministry Licences Statute):
WHY DO LAY MINISTERS REQUIRE A LICENCE? A Lay Minister acts with the authority and support of the church, therefore it is critical that all such ministers are adequately trained and resourced. A licence helps to protect both the Lay Minister and the church. Licences let people know that Lay Ministers have been equipped for their role and are authorised to exercise their ministry. QUALITIES OF A LAY MINISTER Spiritual Maturity
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