The Bishop's Certificate in Preaching

Bishop’s Certificate in Preaching

Bishop’s Certificates in specific aspects of ministry are designed to resource and recognise lay ministers across the diocese.

Each ministry pathway includes theological learning, practical training and shared formation for people who have been formally recommended for training by their incumbent and PCC.

The pathways are circular, and can be joined at any stage. Bishop’s Certificates are awarded when an individual has completed the programme set out by their incumbent and the Director of Ministry.

Bishop’s Certificate pathways are conceived as initial training which takes place alongside the practical experience of Christian ministry.

Learning: To achieve a Bishop’s Certificate, lay ministers need to complete at least three BCDM learning courses that will directly resource their ministry. These are chosen in conversation with their incumbent. Some of these courses can be completed online at any time, others take place in person or on zoom. (See list below.) Where people have already completed BCDM courses, they can be credited to the pathway.

Training: There are five practical training sessions spread around the year, and around the diocese. This cycle can be joined at any point. To achieve a Bishop’s Certificate, lay ministers will need to attend all five. Although the pathway can be completed within a year, it can also be followed over a longer period. Anyone involved in preaching is welcome to attend individual training events, whether or not they are on the certificate pathway.

Formation: All those recommended for a Bishop’s Certificate are expected to attend a bi-monthly formation group. These will explore broader issues related to being a lay leader. At each meeting, practical objectives will be agreed and reviewed.

Commissioning: Commissioning lay ministers is a valuable way that people’s calling and competence can be recognised and celebrated. Bishop’s Certificates do not automatically lead to, or follow, commissioning. It is for the incumbent to consider – in partnership with the PCC – whether, and at what stage, a lay minister might be formally commissioned.