We're excited to announce a partnership with the Diocese of BC to offer training for Lay Worship Leaders. The Diocese of BC has offered this training for the last four years and trained over 80 lay leaders to officiate at a daily office (Morning, Evening Prayer). Bishop John has given his approval to this course for those seeking to be Licensed Lay Worship Leaders in the diocese of New Westminster - one of the newly authorized lay ministries being launched in 2025. Completion of this course does not guarantee a license but offers solid preparation for exercising this ministry.
Here are the details of the course. An application form is linked below.
Dates and location
- Via Zoom, on Thursdays from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
- March 6, 13, 20 and 27; April 3, 10 and 24; and June 5
- Three mentored services during a month of mentored practical experience in your parish/region, followed by a final Zoom class on Thursday, June 5
Course description
The eight sessions will equip lay leaders to:
- Understand the purpose of liturgy
- Follow the liturgical year and the lectionary, and examine their purpose in worship and liturgical formation
- Understand our Anglican, geographical, social and historical context
- Become familiar with the broad principles and structure of the offices in the BCP and the BAS, as well as the liturgy of the word
- Learn to plan worship collaboratively in your parish
- Access the available liturgical, lectionary, and prayer resources needed to plan and lead a worship service
- Reflect on lessons learned from the practical implementation of course content
Cost
Free; however participants must purchase (or borrow) their own copy of the required reading well in advance of the course.
Required reading
The Liturgical Year: the spiraling adventure of the spiritual life by Joan Chittister, Ancient Practices Series, 2009
Requirements:
- the support of your parish priest before applying for this course.
- attendance at every session and completion of all assignments. One session may be missed if the assignment is completed and the video recording of the session reviewed.
- a mentor willing to coach and offer feedback on three mentored services in your parish/region between the end of April and beginning of June.
- a valid police record check with vulnerable sector and completion of safe church training by the end of the course.
How to apply:
Those interested should complete the online form here. Applications will be accepted from December 1, 2024 until January 17, 2025.