More than 100 Church of England Licensed Lay Ministers (LLMs) with ‘vital roles in the overall ministry of the Diocese’ gathered from across Lancashire at the weekend.

They joined with friends and family in Blackburn Cathedral for their three year relicensing service.

The ‘Triennial Service’ was led by the Bishop of Blackburn, the Rt Rev Philip North, and included a sermon preached by Canon Ruth Haldane, our Warden of Lay Ministry.

Also participating was the Bishop of Lancaster, Rt Rev. Dr Jill Duff who has taken on oversight of the ‘Growing Leaders’ strand of the work in the Diocese from this month, alongside Canon Anne Beverley our new Director of Ministry.

Bishop Jill praised the contribution of LLMs in the front line of the Church’s ministry saying: “The men and women who were relicensed at this triennial service are inspiring and dedicated leaders.

“My prayer is for every LLM to be a wellspring of joy and hope to the people of Lancashire as every day we continue to pursue our aspiration to be healthy churches, transforming communities; spreading the Good News about Jesus Christ across our wonderful County.”

“LLMs have many varied roles in their parishes, as teachers of the faith, leaders in church and society; and enablers of mission. They play a vital role in the overall ministry of the Diocese, in serving their churches and communities.”

At the service, also attended by The Venerable David Picken, Archdeacon of Lancaster, the opportunity was taken to particularly thank all those retiring from Licensed Lay Ministry, some of whom had served over 30 years in their ministry.

Canon Ruth Haldane added: “It was encouraging to see more than 100 lay ministers come forward for renewal of their licenses for another three years. I am thankful to Jesus Christ for each lay minister; for the part they play in ministry in their parish churches and supporting their communities.”

After the service one LLM, Fred Bridges of Holy Trinity South Shore, Blackpool, said: “Today’s service was a chance to reflect on what I am doing as a Licensed Lay Minister and to recommit myself to this ministry.”

Meanwhile, the youngest LLM in attendance was Natasha Green of Higher Walton All Saints (in plurality with) Hoghton Holy Trinity, who added: “The service today was a joyful celebration as well as an opportunity to commit myself once again to my ministry.”

Captions for the above pictures, top to bottom:

• Fred Bridges from Holy Trinity South Shore in Blackpool
• Natasha Green, the youngest LLM on the day, from Higher Walton All Saints (in plurality with) Hoghton Holy Trinity
• With Bishop Philip and Bishop Jill, front centre, and other senior clergy are many of the Licensed Lay Ministers who attended the weekend service.