Growing in God through preaching
With over 400 churches in Suffolk and numerous experiments of gathering in church plants, developing new congregations there is a growing need to develop the ministry of preaching in all its forms so we can all Grow in God.
Preaching is just one way by which we can grow in depth as disciples of Jesus Christ. In the Church of England this is a public ministry and a vital part for those exploring faith who visit on a Sunday or attend a Baptism, Wedding, or Funeral. Equally those who are attracted to an activity of a new worshipping community event can benefit from an opportunity to hear the word of God explained and applied to living out faith in everyday life.
If this is something you feel called to then we want to encourage this gifting by offering an accessible means to enter this ministry.
New Policy for Permission to Preach
Rightly the Church of England ensures that all those who preach in public with its authorisation are appropriately discerned, trained and supported with ongoing reviews.
Canon Law states that
The sermon shall be preached by a minister, deaconess, reader, or lay worker duly authorized in accordance with Canon Law. At the invitation of the minister having the cure of souls another person may preach with the permission of the bishop of the diocese given either in relation to the particular occasion or in accordance with diocesan directions.
Canon B18
Clergy and Readers (Licensed Lay Ministers) are trained to national standards at a high level to enable this ministry. In addition, Bishops can give permission to preach for those who are under the authorisation of the Incumbent and support of the congregation. This new policy enables this.
Discernment is initially with your Incumbent and congregation with support from the Diocese. Authorisation to preach would be normally limited to six occasions in any one year.
Permission to preach will only be given alongside an existing commissioned role such as Elder or licensed ministry such as Evangelist, Pioneer, Children’s & Families Minister, or Youth Minister.
Training
Initial training dates for 23/24 are on Saturdays, 10.00am to 1.00pm.
16 September 2023 | 9 December 2023 | 2 March 2024 | 13 July 2024
How to apply
Please download and complete the application form.
Application form | DOCX
Find out more
If you would like to find out more please download our booklet with all the details:
Permission to preach | PDF