F6
The Diocesan Synod approved a Local Ministry Scheme in the autumn of 1998.
There are about thirty dioceses in the country which have Local Ministry Schemes, Lincoln being the first to introduce theirs in 1984. All vary somewhat, but all have the same aim which is to encourage and develop the ministry of the whole Body of Christ. A National Consultation in 1994, organised by the Edward King Institute and held at High Leigh, Hoddesdon, showed that Local Ministry is:
“A way of unfreezing the whole people of God for collaborative ministry.”
Firmly based on New Testament principles [see e.g., Romans 1: 3 - 8, 1 Corinthians 3 : 9 - 13 and 1 Peter 2 : 9] interest in formal Local Ministry Teams continues to increase within our diocese and to date we have six which have been mandated by the Bishop. Such interest does not detract from the good examples of collaborative ministry in many parishes and the Local Ministry Officer is happy to work with all those who want to develop shared ministry whether or not it is formal.
The Local Ministry Scheme does, however, provide for a more formal structure and means of support in those localities where they are considered to be appropriate. A formal Local Ministry Team, for example, is authorised (mandated by the Bishop) for a period of up to six years even when a Vacancy occurs during that period.
Continuity is assured as the priest appointed to a benefice in which a formal L.M.T. exists will work as a member of that Team. Support and encouragement are provided throughout the life-time of the Team as well, through a consultant approved by the Board for Christian Development.
Ecumenical Teams are encouraged wherever appropriate and in all cases “local” is key. This means that each L.M.T. will be unique, meeting local needs through the ministry of those whose gifts are recognised and are appropriate.
The Local Ministry Scheme in this diocese provides a framework in which Teams can work through:
- exploring the needs and possibilities in a given locality
- initial training, especially through the “Growing Together in Christ” Course (See under Adult Learning elsewhere in this Handbook)
- formal constitution and mandate, with the encouragement of the local Deanery Pastoral Committee and the Board for Christian Development which oversee the Scheme and the work of the Local Ministry Officer.
For further details contact the Local Ministry Officer at the Ministry Development Department -
Holywell Lodge, 41 Holywell Hill, St Albans, Herts. AL1 1HE - Telephone 01727 818151
