On 11th March 2007 I was commissioned as Lay-Evangelist at St. Mary's church. This followed a two year's course in Christian studies, and a year's Church Army course in evangelism, part of which involved working at a church in inner-city Glasgow. Lay-Evangelism is a fairly recent lay-ministry within the Chelmsford diocese, and involves a variety of roles, including:

• working with those outside or on the fringes of the church,
• working with individuals on their journey of faith,
• encouraging and enabling others in evangelism,
• making contact with people through work, leisure and community links,
• leading Christian Outreach groups,
• parish mission and outreach events,
• working with clergy.

During the past year I have helped lead our Alpha courses. We are currently on our fourth course, with the fifth one starting in September. We also have an Alpha follow-up group for those who have been on the course, and want to continue learning more about Christianity.

This year I have also been involved in setting up a women's ministry at St. Mary's; help at the weekly Pram Service; meet up regularly with Emma Jarratt, the FDS youth worker, and when time allows, go into Helena Romanes School with her. We now also have an evangelistic prayer group that meets weekly at Jo Parker's house. Occasionally I am involved with outreach events outside the parish, and try to bring something of these experiences back to St. Mary's with me.

Finally, I would like to thank the Ministry team and the PCC at St. Mary's for their support and encouragement in what is still a relatively new position within the church.

 

Sue Goodman