This year’s Licensed Lay Ministers (LLMs) Licensing service was held at St Mary's Byfleet on 22 June. The service included the admission as LLMs of Sam and Amber, and the renewal of licenses being given to nine other LLMs, two of whom were being licensed in new parishes – with one person joining us from another Diocese.
Sam Fisk said: “The service was really wonderful and felt affirming for me. The whole day was perfect and lovely to be with so many friends on this wonderful occasion.”
Bishop Paul led the service and preached, and the two new candidates were presented for admission by John Valentine (Dean of LMP). Those gathered sang hymns and songs of praise. Those LLMs being licensed or re-licensed read the Bible readings, led the intercessions and gave testimony on their calling to this ministry.
John Valentine, Dean of Guildford’s Local Ministry Programme (LMP), said “It was such a joy to be at Amber and Sam’s licensing service! They are such fine people and we have seen them on this journey towards this moment – a great day!”
Around 150 people attended and celebrated, taking lots of photos and enjoying excellent refreshments in the church and community centre afterwards.
Graham Everness, LLM Registrar and Secretary, said: “A wonderfully joyful occasion – a packed church, with worshippers from every corner of the diocese joining together to celebrate 11 of our LLMs either embarking on a new ministry or renewing their existing one. Many thanks to the good folk of St Mary’s Byfleet for hosting us so well, and to God for calling us to share in His mission in this way.”
Visit our LLM page to find out more about Licensed Lay Ministry in the Diocese of Guildford.
