Our second Archdeaconry Explore Day was held this Saturday at St Barnabas, Erdington. Over 130 delegates were discovering and learning more about church vocations and service at two Archdeaconry Explore Days.
Bishop Anne led worship and encouraged everyone to ‘think outside of the box’ about their talents and calling, discovering new life, new hope and new purpose through volunteering.
Delegates met over refreshments, shared in worship and heard six short talks on ministry ranging from Completative Ministry and Spiritual Practice to volunteering to combating poverty endemic in our Birmingham region.
Lisa Wilcox, a Reader from Curdworth, Middleton and Wishaw, spoke about the variety within her ministry saying:
“I am privileged to be involved in funeral ministry. It’s not just for one day you do your ministry, it’s a lifetime. I lead a Pet Service on Christmas Day. I talk to all sorts of people in my wellington boots with my Schnauzer!”
A lively Ministry Marketplace provided an opportunity for conversation and expert advice from ministry leaders in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. The Marketplace stalls offered insights into volunteering in CofE schools, Sports Ministry, Commissioned Children’s & Families and Youth ministries, Interfaith Ministry, to name but a few.
Organised by Area Deans, Phelim O’Hare and Ann Richardson, they both express their grateful thanks to the organisers, host venues, inspirational volunteer speakers, and of course, the delegates that made the event so successful.
If you missed the Archdeaconry Explore Days this time, but would like to know more about lay ministry, please contact your Area Dean who can help signpost you in the right direction for information about your calling: areadeans@cofebirmingham.com