With wonderful appropriateness, the Gospel for 6th July 2010 spoke of the Lord sending labourers to his harvest. That theme echoed throughout the Sending Liturgy at the conclusion of Supporting Lay Pastoral Ministry, as Bishop Terry individually blessed the participants and sent them forth to their parishes to continue in their diverse work. The Bishop’s presence, his words and his enthusiasm were deeply appreciated by all.

The 75 people who came together in English Martyrs, York, on 6th July are actively engaged in a multitude of roles which support our Clergy in the pastoral care of God’s people. Some are SVP members, some bereavement visitors, while others are Extraordinary Ministers who take Holy Communion to the sick and housebound. There are members of hospital visiting teams, prison visitors, and Catechists who work with young people and with adults.

The participants had met monthly, in both Middlesbrough and Hull, to explore some theological underpinning and practical skills which are applicable to pastoral care. Input had been led by Fr John Lumley, Rev Peter Warren, Sr Brenda Matterson and myself.

We had explored bereavement and loss, the spirituality of ageing, health and sickness, listening skills, boundaries and accountability, and welcoming those on the threshold of the Church. In doing so, we used various documents of Church teaching, drew on widespread expertise, shared experience and good practice, and grounded everything in the life and example of Our Lord.

Due to the imminent start of the new Diocesan Catechists’ Course, we won’t be able to run Supporting Lay Pastoral Ministry this coming year. But, God willing, it will commence again in September 2011.

A participant from Hull, who was unable to be at the Sending Liturgy, sent good wishes saying ‘Each session has touched us and helped us to grow in faith’. I’m sure that the facilitators can echo that remark, as every session has been a real joy and privilege for us.

Jane Cook, Adult Formation Adviser