It was on 5th May 1866, at a meeting of the bishops at Lambeth Palace, that the ministry of Readers was launched within the Church of England. In this 150th anniversary year it’s appropriate to reflect on the ministry that Readers exercise in parishes across the Anglican Church. The bishops sought to release lay people in the church to share the ministry of the Word and to take the church’s life and witness beyond the walls of its building.
Today there are around 10,000 licensed Readers who lead worship, teach and preach, to build up the Church and make Christ visible. Readers provide a pool of lay people trained in theology and who can bring the gospel to people at work and in the community. In this way, they make vital connections between the church and the world in an attractive and authentic way, as only lay people can.
The biblical mandate for this ministry is well expressed by Paul, when writing to Timothy to encourage him to share the gospel ministry with others:
‘You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.’ (2 Timothy 2:1,2).
In this special anniversary year, let’s make this our prayer:
‘Almighty Father, you have called your Church into being in your love and strengthened us for your service. As we give you thanks for 150 years of Reader ministry, guide us, inspire us and make us all a joyful Church, one in heart and mind; for the sake of your kingdom, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.’