Key Contact:

Dr Adesola Akala

Lay Ministry Officer

APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN FOR THE 2026/27 COURSE!

Foundations for Ministry (FFM) is designed to help church members discover or facilitate their calling to Christian ministry. The course sessions will provide an informative and interactive environment that will awaken a sense of vocation or strengthen Christian service.

What is the course aim?

FFM aims to provide you with a sound biblical foundation for exploring and developing your call to Christian ministry and commitment to life-long discipleship.

What does the course offer?

The course runs over three terms, October to May, and includes an induction evening, 20 core sessions and three additional Saturday course days. Sessions comprise a mixture of interactive talks, group work, and personal reflection all designed to help you: 

• Identify your spiritual gifts and identify the shape of your specific ministry.  

• Understand the Church, which is the main setting of your Christian service. 

• Discover your call to mission, where God has called you to serve, and how to remain fruitful in your ministry.  

Where is the course going to run?

This year’s course is going to run on Wednesday evenings during term time, 6:45pm – 9:15pm at St John’s House, 155-163 The Rock, Bury, BL9 0ND. 

Who can apply?

The FFM course is open to all lay people in the Diocese of Manchester. It is specifically designed for those already rooted and established in the Christian faith and active in church life. FFM is not a Christian discipleship course, rather, it helps Christians explore their gifts, vocation, and calling to Christian ministry. We encourage those considering applying to discuss this first with their vicar or supporting minister. This will ensure that the course is suitable for applicants and that they will be fully supported during the course. 

The application process requires references from the applicant’s incumbent and chosen mentor. No interviews required.  

Are there any assignments, tests or written work?

The FFM course does not include written assignments, tests, or essays. Learning is based on interactive presentations, group work, open discussions, and personal reflection. Students are encouraged to keep a learning journal and between each session, engage in short preparatory exercises called linkwork. However, this is optional and for personal use only. There are no requirements to submit any written work nor will anything to be marked or graded. Throughout the course, everyone will be supported at the level that works best for them. For those who want to go deeper, a list of reading and online resources will be provided.

How much does the course cost?

All the costs of FFM training are met by the diocese, but parishes are encouraged (where possible) to support their candidates if help is required with basic costs such as travel expenses. Where finances are a barrier to participation, parishes are encouraged to get in touch. 

How can I apply?

Applications for the 2026/27 year are now open. The submission deadline is Monday, 21st September. Please find further details and application forms below.

For more information, please contact Dr Adesola Akala, Lay Ministry Officer, at: adesolaakala@manchester.anglican.org