I can’t believe how quickly time has flown since I began training as an Associate Minister but I thought that you might like to know what I have been doing...

The Autumn term began with an investigation and discernment of my current ministry at All Saints along with a power point which I then presented to others on the course. It was helpful to think about our parish and the work of our church as it gave us a greater understanding of our own places of worship before we began our first placement in October. I was really nervous going into St Edward’s Castle Donington on my first day but I was given a very warm welcome and soon felt at home. I loved joining in their services and other pastoral activities. St Edward’s is very lucky to have a modern church hall with a large kitchen and tables and chairs which made the bring and share lunch much easier than I am used to. I was particularly impressed with breakfast church. A full English breakfast is served once a month followed by a family service. I am glad to say that I didn’t mix up the orders when it was my turn to be a waitress.

It was very strange returning to All Saints just before Christmas especially as I now had to plan my second placement. I am hoping to focus on pastoral work once I am licensed next year so I arranged to go to St Botolph’s in Shepshed where there is a Pastoral Assistant. It is amazing how much you can fit into four weeks. I attended most services, warm spaces on Saturday mornings, the Tuesday club, it was pancakes this month, as well as attending home communions and a funeral. I loved both my placements and met so many warm, welcoming and interesting people. I found that the experience convinced me that my calling is for pastoral care.

I have also had to complete several assessments over the last six months, and if I now looked rather dazed it is because I have another four to do, all running around in my head. The work is challenging, I am busy planning a fifteen minute service, preparing for an essay on Anglicanism and liturgy and another on St Paul as well as a third presentation on my last placement. The work is challenging but I am thoroughly enjoying my training.

If you think God may be calling you to explore Associate Ministry please feel free to have a chat about the course with me.

You can can find out more about Associate Ministry here and on 23rd April we shall be welcoming Revd Liz Rawlings, Discipleship and Vocations Enabler, to come and preach for Vocations Sunday.