Categories: uncategorized
Date: 06 December 2006 22:58:54
This evening I had a meeting with the Diocesan Registrar of Readers to discuss recent events and to talk about my future as a Reader. It was a very good, productive and positive meeting. What helped is that we've known each other for many years as we both trained as Readers at the same time.
Like everyone else I've spoken to, she is perplexed as to why my previous incumbent permanently revoked my licence, especially as she has spoken to him at some length about this.
Anyway, she offered some helpful advice. My first step is to talk to the Vicar where I'm now worshipping. We have spoken a few times, but I haven't "come out" yet, as obviously, I want to be certain that I feel comfortable in that church and that it is where I want to stay (whiuch is the case). If this Vicar were to agree to me renewing my ministry at this church, it would take at least six months for anything to happen about it. Mainly so that I get a chance to settle in properly and get to know people (very important in a Lay ministry) and then all the rigmarole of PCC resolutions and licence transfers etc.
She also assured me of her total support in whatever route I should take, emphasising the fact that although I am not licensed to a parish at the moment, I am still a Licensed Reader and, as such, I should not feel that I am "stuck on an iceberg somewhere" (her words) and to call her, or any member of the Readers Board, if I need any help or advice. That's really comforting to know.
I've also been offered the option of an external consultation. This would be to meet with somebody not connected with me or my church in any way to discuss (in confidence) any aspects of my ministry that I'm happy or unhappy with, to recognise my strengths and weaknesses and to focus on where I want to go. (This involves filling in a form. There's one weakness highlighted already)
So, the road from nowhere seems to be going somewhere. This wee so far, I've set out back on the road to be a Driving Instructor and the road back into Reader minstry.