Charlie Houlder-Moat writes of her experience on the pilot project:
“As a newly licensed LLM with a keen interest in Mission, I was invited to trial the new Pioneer Pathway for LLMs. I completed modules on ‘Creating New Christian Communities’ and ‘Elements of Mission and Ministry in Context’. I studied the different theologies of mission including their different biblical emphases. Via the wonder that is Zoom we got to meet people that are leading missional communities from around the UK. We were able to question each about practical issues in addition to their theological perspectives. It was a privilege to meet those that are creating a beautiful mosaic of mission within the Anglican tradition.
“The modules were a fabulous introduction to Ministry and Mission covering topics such as the Five Marks of Mission, Evangelism and Contextual Mission. Led by: ERMC tutor in Evangelism and Mission, John Wigfield; Pioneer Missioner for the diocese, Tim Yau; and Jonathan Richardson, Diocese of Norwich Development Officer for Children, Youth & Families. These were great opportunities to meet other Licensed Lay Ministers from across the diocese and further afield, explore each other’s contexts and share stories.
“In addition to completing some of the more ‘traditional’ modules, the new Pioneer Track pathway enables LLMs to shape their ministry by tailoring the modules to suit their specific calling.
“Completing these modules gave me a language and underpinning to what I was already doing. I met people who were speaking the same language as me and a new world was opened as I was signposted to helpful resources and met groups of people doing Church differently.”
Annette Uzoigwe is also an LLM in the diocese, based in the Tas Valley Benefice. Speaking about her experience of this new module she said: “I enjoyed the module as it helped me to understand what mission is and how it has developed over time theologically and practically. It has made me aware that what I have been doing during lockdown is also mission, be it knocking on people’s doors to check-in or through the sharing of cards and sweet treats.”
Might you be encouraged in a Ministry of Mission and Evangelism as a key focus of your call?[1] If so, talk with your Incumbent and seek out a Vocations Advisor. Apply for LLM Training and ask about the Pioneer Track Pathway.
Selection for Licensed Lay Ministry runs from September each year for admission the following September, with a closing date in February each year. Those interested in the Pioneer Track apply using the same process but indicating their specific interest. See here for more information or contact the Warden of Readers, Archdeacon Karen.
[1] Liz Shercliff, Grove Booklet: Exploring Missional Reader Ministry.’