On Sunday 22 September, Bishop Rose admitted Ann Friedlos, Janet Butcher-Weisner and Nigel Poole to the office of Reader in the Church. Along with Karen Bates (transferred from Chelmsford Diocese) they were licensed to exercise a public ministry in our diocese. The service took place in Canterbury Cathedral and included the granting of ‘Reader Emeritus’ to Frances Morgan and John Vaughan in recognition of their long service as Readers.
Bishop Rose with Readers admitted, licensed and emeritus
You can watch the service on the Canterbury Cathedral YouTube channel.
Nigel Collins, Warden of Readers, said. “It was a great privilege to walk alongside Ann, Janet, Nigel and Karen in the lead-up to their licensing as Readers and to celebrate with them and so many others at this joyful service.
“I was pleased that we could mark the dedication, commitment and service of John and Frances who were recognized as Emeritus Readers, having ministered as Readers for over 26 and 22 years respectively.”
Bishop Rose with Readers in our diocese
Readers are lay ministers of the Word with a passion for sharing the Gospel. Like their clergy colleagues, they have completed a process of discernment and theological studies as part of their ministerial formation. They exercise a preaching and teaching ministry which will include:
- Teaching the faith,
- enabling mission in everyday life, and
- leadership in church and the wider community.
To find out more about Reader ministry contact Nigel Collins, Warden of Readers.