The ceremony took place at Bristol Cathedral on Saturday 10th October, with the new Licensed Lay Ministers (LLMs) preparing to serve communities across Swindon, North Wiltshire, Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
The Rt Revd Neil Warwick, Bishop of Swindon and Acting Bishop of Bristol, led the service and officially admitted and licensed the eight volunteers.
They were named as John Bordiss, Claire Hayward, Lynsey-Ruth McDonagh, Hosea Njoroge, known as Tony, Ana Nsi Nchama, Laura Thomas, Ricarda Todd and Mary Bell.
Licensed Lay Ministers are trained volunteers who support the work of the Church of England under the authority of parish priests.
Their responsibilities include leading worship, teaching, providing pastoral care and helping churches develop projects to support local people.
The eight new ministers will take on a range of responsibilities, including supporting farming communities, working in nursing homes and establishing community initiatives.
John Bordiss, who previously worked in farming, the Royal Navy and the police, hopes to use his experience to help people in rural areas.
He said:
“After years in farming and in service with the Royal Navy and the police, I’ve learned a lot about myself and others through these experiences.
“As I drew closer to the end of my secular work and into my retirement, I felt a strong calling towards Licensed Lay Ministry; it felt like the most natural thing to do, like coming home and being where I belong.
“I hope to focus my ministry on supporting rural and farming communities, offering a helping hand to those facing life’s challenges, and sharing the comforting message of hope found in God’s word.”
Another newly licensed minister, Lynsey-Ruth McDonagh, works as a chaplain at MHA Hartcliffe Nursing Home, supporting residents and their spiritual needs.
She said:
“Ever since I stepped into chaplaincy, it’s felt a natural fit. Like a pair of comfy slippers – but with the occasional stone thrown in for good measure!
“Serving as a chaplain in a nursing home is a huge privilege – being there for the residents, listening to their stories and nurturing their faith in the twilight of their lives.”
The licensing ceremony forms part of the Diocese of Bristol’s efforts to strengthen connections between churches and the communities they serve.
Its Transforming Church. Together strategy focuses on building relationships with local people and supporting projects intended to bring about lasting social change.
The diocese covers Church of England parishes across Swindon, North Wiltshire, Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
Bishop Warwick, who took up his role as Bishop of Swindon in November 2023, is also serving as Acting Bishop of Bristol while the diocesan bishop position remains vacant.
