FOR CLERGY
Self Supporting Ministry
We are blessed with a very significant number of Self-Supporting Ministers (SSMs). The numbers fluctuate each year, but around 30-40% of all ministers are self-supporting and the diocese gives great encouragement and support to those who decide to pursue this form of ministry.
SSMs are ordained, licensed clergy who do not receive a stipend and freely give their time and efforts to serve their parishes or, in a wider capacity, in other places where there is a need.
SSM Roles
OLM: Ordained Local Ministry
This is usually a parish-based ministry where your church community recognises in you that special skill to do God’s work in a particular area of need within the parish. A local parish-based ministry.
MSE: Ministers in Secular Employment
This ministry is divided between your place of work and your community. Taking your ministry partly out of the usual place of worship and into the workplace.
NSM: Non-Stipendiary Ministry
This kind of ministry is for those who recognise a calling to serve a wider community than those who wish to concentrate on specific areas within their parish.
NSMs can also serve their ministry in their local place but may get wider experience if they wish to.
Diocesan SSM Officer
Revd Canon Catherine Binns serves as an NHS Chaplain.
She has an important role in promoting, developing and supporting the wide variety of SSM ministries.
Archdeaconry SSM Officers
Revd Derek Allen for Bolton Archdeaconry. Serves as an SSM.
Revd Gary Miller for Manchester Archdeaconry is an OLM.
Revd David Brooks for Rochdale Archdeaconry is an OLM
Revd Janet Aitken for Salford Archdeaconry. Serves as an SSM.
Useful Links
You can find lots of useful resources here.
The SSM Registration and Claim Form can be found on the Claiming DBF Fees page.
CHRISM is The National Association for all Christians who see their secular employment as their primary Christian ministry and for those who support that vision. For more information and resources visit the CHRISM website.