New Readers Licensed at Manchester Cathedral
Readers from across our diocese gathered at Manchester Cathedral on Sunday afternoon for a special service celebrating Reader ministry, with new Readers licensed, experienced Readers recognised for their service, and existing Readers renewing their commitment to ministry.
Readers from across our diocese gathered at Manchester Cathedral on Sunday afternoon for a special service celebrating Reader ministry, with new Readers licensed, experienced Readers recognised for their service, and existing Readers renewing their commitment to ministry.
Newly licensed during the service were Ronald (Ron) Berry of New Life Church, Breightmet; Iain Gilbert Blair of Rossendale; Yvonne Carson of Saddleworth; Victoria (Vicky) Cole-Kinsey of Ramsbottom and Edenfield; Susan (Sue) Stonestreet of Kirklees Valley; and James Wilson of St James and Emmanuel, Didsbury. As they were admitted to Reader ministry, they joined Readers serving across the Diocese of Manchester in preaching, teaching, leading worship, pastoral care and supporting the mission of the Church.
Led by Bishop Matthew Porter, Bishop of Bolton, the service brought together Readers, clergy, family members and supporters from churches across the diocese to give thanks for the contribution Readers make to worship, preaching, teaching, pastoral care and mission. During the service, a number of Readers were also awarded the title of Reader Emeritus in recognition of their long and faithful service, namely Lizzie Bomber of West Bolton, Jane Mann of St Andrew, Radcliffe, Gill Morrell of the Rossendale Team, Amanda (Mandy) Mullings of St James and Emmanuel, Didsbury and Michael Vine of St Andrew, Radcliffe.
Welcoming the congregation, Bishop Matthew described Reader ministry as an important part of the Church’s mission, helping to equip God’s people and encourage the wider ministry of the Church. He reminded those gathered that Readers are called to work alongside clergy and lay leaders, helping the whole Church participate in God’s mission to the world.
The congregation heard from several candidates about their journey towards Reader ministry. Speaking about her own discernment, Sue reflected on a growing desire to deepen her faith and help others explore theirs. Another candidate, Vicky, described how a long-standing sense of calling eventually led her to undertake training and pursue Reader ministry, while James spoke about feeling called to teach and share Scripture while continuing to serve through his secular profession.
During the service, Neil Whitaker, Reader Development Officer, highlighted the commitment shown by those preparing for licensing. The candidates have undertaken extensive training alongside others preparing for both Reader and ordained ministry, engaging in theological study, spiritual formation and practical ministry experience.
The sermon focused on God’s call and the role of Readers in serving the Church. Reflecting on her own journey into ministry, the preacher, Canon Avril Scott encouraged the candidates to trust in God’s guidance and not be discouraged by doubts or challenges.
She said:
“There are of course hiccups along the way. There are ups and downs. Just ride them. It’s just like a rollercoaster. The ups are absolutely wonderful. The downs will test you, but you will get through them because the Lord will walk by your side every single step of the way.”
She also offered the new Readers encouragement to embrace the opportunities Reader ministry would bring, describing it as a ministry that offers “joy, happiness and fulfilment” while reminding them that they would never minister alone.
Drawing on the hymn Here I Am, Lord, she reflected on God’s call to service and the responsibility of holding God’s people in their hearts. She reminded the congregation that ministry is ultimately rooted in love, service and responding faithfully to God’s call.
The service included the renewal of vows by existing Readers, prayers for Reader ministry, and the formal admission and licensing of the six new Readers. The candidates affirmed their commitment to prayer, the study of Scripture, leading worship, preaching the gospel, promoting unity and encouraging the gifts of others within the Church.
We were pleased to be joined by the talented musicians from St James and Emmanuel who blessed us with some wonderful worship music. The service concluded with prayers for the Church, for those entering Reader ministry, and for the communities they will serve, before the congregation gathered for photographs and refreshments.
Reader ministry continues to play a vital role across the Diocese of Manchester, with Readers serving in parishes, chaplaincies and local communities, helping people encounter Christ through worship, teaching, pastoral care and mission.
Find out more about Reader Ministry by watching this new short film:
