A Licensed Lay Minister (or Reader) is a voluntary minister authorised by the bishop to teach and preach, conduct worship and assist with the pastoral ministry of a church.
Find out more about the role and Licensed Lay Ministry in our Diocese.
Contact details
- Bishops Adviser for Licensed Lay Ministers
Alan Cossey
alan.cossey@dioceseofnorwich.org / 07909 446 847
Diocesan House, 109 Dereham road, Easton, NR9 5ES - Admin Support
Lesley Lofts
Lesley.lofts@dioceseofnorwich.org - Deputy Warden and Licensed Lay Ministry Training Coordinator
The Revd Charles Read
charles.read@dioceseofnorwich.org / 01603 882331
Diocesan House, 109 Dereham Road, Easton, Norwich, NR9 5ES
Training for Licensed Lay Ministry
Students follow a two year programme which is delivered in partnership with the Eastern Region Ministry Course.
What is a Licensed Lay Minister?
A Licensed Lay Minister (or Reader) is a lay leader who has been identified, trained, and licensed by the Bishop in order to: teach the faith; enable mission; and lead in church and society.
Becoming a Licensed Lay Minister
Being a Licensed Lay Minister is both and exciting and demanding experience. We are looking for people with the potential to fulfil the threefold ministry.
Map of Sub-Warden Areas
View the contact details for Licensed Lay Minister Sub-Wardens, Area Representatives, and those on the Licensed Lay Ministers’ Committee.
Grant Applications
Grant aid is available to help Licensed Lay Ministers cover the costs of their continuing ministerial development.
MDR for Licensed Lay Ministers
All Licensed Lay Ministers in the diocese are encouraged to have a Working Agreement with their Incumbent / Priest-in-Charge and to review this as part of a Ministerial Development Review at least every two years.
Support for Licensed Lay Ministers
The Bishop’s Adviser for Licensed Lay Ministers acts on behalf of the diocesan bishop in all matters relating to licensed lay ministry.
Training & learning opportunities
Events, training and learning opportunities which may be of interest to Licensed Lay Ministers.