A Reader is licensed by the Bishop to be a public representative minister in their parish, chaplaincy or place of work. Readers come in all shapes and sizes. They might preach and teach, lead worship and intercessions. They may lead small groups or large missional projects. They encourage others to serve God in the church and community, and all will work collaboratively with other people who might be ordained or not. However the vocation is expressed, a Reader is always learning new things of God.

People selected to train for Reader Ministry in the Church of England enter a phased formation programme, which equips them to become:

• Skilled Teachers of Faith - through learning and experience
• Enablers of Mission – naturally drawing others into the adventure of authentic Christian living and outward loving service
• Leaders in Church and Society – by influencing and shaping the world around them through distinctively Christian insights and faithfulness.

More details on the formation programme can be found below:

Bridge to Licensed Reader Ministry

• A five-session Zoom-hosted entry course for individuals who have been selected as Readers in Training (RiT)
• Takes place the summer before starting the IME1 phase
• Introduces and prepares RiTs for our learning approach

Licensed Reader Ministry Training

• 24-month course comprising of two phases (IME1 and IME2)
• IME1 begins in the autumn with three terms of mid-week evening Zoom sessions and monthly in-person Saturday meetings
• IME2 starts in the February after licensing and is a monthly commitment
• Both phases have assessed work following the national Formation Framework

If you are interested in becoming a Reader in Training please contact Sheri Gidney, Warden of Readers