The deadline to apply for our Lay Training Courses is approaching, don't miss out on a fantastic opportunity to grow, nurture and serve at your local church.
Our courses are around 12 sessions long and will run between April and July 2023. Delivery will be a mixture of online and in-person teaching at various venues around the diocese.
If you want to know more about any of our courses, please download the course prospectus.
Alternatively, please feel free to contact the Local Ministry Officer, Jamie Mackenzie.
There are currently ten courses available:
- Children & Families
- Community Outreach & Social Action
- Digital Church & Online Media
- Ecology & Creation
- Mission & Evangelism
- Parish Admin, Finance & Governance
- Pastoral Outreach & Listening
- Prayer & Spirituality
- Worship & Liturgy
- Youth Work
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LAY TRAINING
Does the training involve any assignments, tests or exams?
There are no assignments, tests or exams on the courses. There is a limited amount of written work that is optional between sessions, but the ethos of the course is mainly focused on group discussions, reflective practice and real life application. However, for those wanting to take things deeper there will always be suggestions for further reading, resources and ongoing development.
How much does the training cost?
All the costs of training are met by the diocese but parishes are expected 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 contact the Local Ministry Officer for further advice and support.
Does the training have an age limit?
The training has no age limits but special consideration would need to be given to anyone applying under the age of 18 to ensure that they are appropriately supervised and have the full permission of their parent/guardian.
Can you still apply if your parish is in vacancy?
Yes, during vacancies or interregnums the application reference required from the parish can be completed by the Churchwarden, Licensed Reader, Team Rector, Area Dean or another suitable minister/ church leader.
How is general training different from Authorised Lay Ministry training?
Participants may find themselves training alongside Authorised Lay Ministers (ALMs) on the same course. ALM is a different lay training pathway that includes a more indepth application process, extra training requirements and a recognised higher level of leadership and safeguarding responsibility. After training ALMs are authorised by the Bishop of Manchester to carry out a mutually agreed ministry role back within their local parish context. An ALM’s authorisation lasts for 3 years after which time it can be reviewed.
What do I get at the end of my training?
In recognition that all lay training is something that should be encouraged and celebrated locally, participants will receive a course completion certificate signed by the Bishop of Manchester. It is then up to the participant and the local parish to discern how best to utilise their ministry and gifts and in what format. Further support for this will also be provided by the Local Ministry Officer if required.