Our wonderful lay ministers were given a huge thank you at a special event celebrating their discipleship in our Diocese.
Led by Bishop Mark and Nic Denyer, Lay Ministry Development Officer, the uplifting service featured lay people from across the Diocese sharing their stories, reading Scripture and leading prayers.
Nic said: “There was an overwhelming feeling of joy, love, generosity and the grace of the Holy Spirit moving throughout the cathedral. The personal stories of calling and faith lived out in everyday life were inspirational and moving. There is no doubt that as a Diocese we are lucky to be in a place with competent and valued lay people.”
Around 160 people attended the celebration – the first of its kind in Newcastle Diocese – at Newcastle Cathedral in October.
The guests represented all the diverse lay ministries in our Diocese, from Authorised Lay Ministers, Pioneers and Community Missioners to Anna Chaplains, Readers, Churchwardens and supporting clergy.
On arrival, guests were handed a gift tag, which thanked them for the work they do, and included the messages 'God heard us. He helped us. He sent you.' and 'Here I am Lord, if you lead me, I will hold your people in my heart.'
Bishop Mark added: “The celebration was a powerful reminder of the remarkable and invaluable service of our lay ministers in this Diocese as part of our shared ministry as the whole people of God.”
“It was an honour to take part in this service and hear the incredible journeys of our lay ministers and God’s guiding hand leading them to their individual ministries. We are so thankful for all their work, compassion and love, and I will continue to pray for their faithful service in and for our communities.”