Random Ramblings

Lastweekend the Diocese of Chelmsford asked us to  think about ministry in this diocese and has issued the following leaflet for us to pray and to prompt thought about future ministry. The diocese of Chelmsford does not have historic reserves such as more ancient dioceses e.g. Lincoln do, because it is a young diocese, in relative terms.  Therefore it is ever reliant upon the giving of increasingly dwindling congregations who are constantly urged to give more. Nothing wrong with that - I suspect most of us can manage a bit more! But re-imagining ministry is a difficult task, not only because we older church members are set in our way of thinking about things, but also, historically, the church has recognised three orders - bishops, priests and deacons.    Only since 1866 have Readers been licensed. Readers, traditionally have been trained to lead worship and to preach. They can take funerals, but may not officiate at H...