Licensed Lay Ministers (LLMs) are lay people who come from all walks of life
They are licensed by their bishop to a teaching and preaching ministry, both within church and outside its traditional boundaries. Called by God and trained in theology, they bring their life experience, skills and knowledge to their Christian service. LLMs often have a role in equipping other Christians to grow as disciples in their places of daily living.
They work together with ordained and lay colleagues, usually serving within a ministry team.
In addition to preaching and leading worship LLMs may:
- Serve as chaplains in places like prisons, schools and hospitals,
- lead study groups in a variety of contexts, e.g. Bible study, Lent courses, confirmation and discipleship courses,
- work with children and young people,
- exercise a caring ministry in their communities, including their workplace,
- conduct funerals.
LLMs also find many informal ways of ministering by their presence, witness and listening at their places of work, at home, among neighbours and in their local communities.
Responding to God's Call
Trainee LLMs come in all shapes and sizes: can you say ‘yes’ to some of the following?
- You feel God’s call to ministry of some kind
- Your gifts have been recognised and affirmed by others in your church or community
- You seek to connect what you know of God’s word with what is happening in society
- You are open to new challenges and willing to step beyond the familiar in following Jesus
- You are willing to work as part of a team
Remember that following God’s call is a process; it may take a while for the way to become clear.
You can contact the Vocations Team by emailing layvocations@elydiocese.org.
Find out more about Licensed Lay Ministry
Find out more about Licensed Lay Ministry in the Diocese of Ely, including the LLM Selection Criteria, various specialisms, training opportunities and pathways to becoming a LLM.
Could it be you?
After talking to your Incumbent and PCC, please contact the Vocations Team for further information.
Journey to Licensed Lay Ministry
Although it is unique for each candidate, the following timeline will give you an idea of what a typical journey to Licensed Lay Ministry might look like.
Initial Training for Licensed Lay Ministry
Our Introduction to Theology for Ministry course is usually a starting point for Licensed Lay Ministry. Mentors are available to support you if needed - if you think this is you, please contact layvocations@elydiocese.org
After Licensing Training for Licensed Lay Ministry
The Diocese of Ely has a partnership with the Eastern Region Ministry Course to provide training for our candidates for Licensed Lay Ministry.
Transforming Ministry
More information on and for LLMs can be found on the Lay Ministry website.