This website introduces a set of volumes – The Sermon Slot – that I was inspired to produce out of my experience of rural ministry in the Church of England. Within that framework I have seen more and more parishes joining together into ever larger Team Ministries under the leadership of fewer parish priests. Urban ministry suffers in much the same way with equally small congregations and fewer clergy in many places. Sector ministries in prisons, hospitals and industry must not be forgotten in this changing scene of fewer ordained resources.
The series consists of three volumes, designed to be used alongside the Common Worship Lectionary Sunday readings for each of the three years, A, B, and C.
It may help to remember that the first disciples were not clergy. They were ordinary people chosen and trained by Jesus in the ways of the kingdom and learning how to share the Good News that is the gospel of love. Jesus told them to go out and spread the word. That is the job of each one of us as present day disciples. The first disciples were chosen by Jesus, and in the case of Matthias, by the drawing of lots. However, selection of suitable people for lay worship ministry is not the subject under discussion here, but must be considered carefully with prayer and discussion in each worshipping community. Having been involved in designing a course of training for Lay Worship Leaders (LWL) I know that such a course cannot offer theological study in the depth required of preachers. Lay people who lead worship are not authorised by the Church of England to preach, absolve sins, give blessings, or preside at the Eucharist in the Church of England.
The series provides a Reflection tailored to each Sunday in the triennial calendar, suitable for use by a Lay Worship Leader.