SSMs joined Bishop Mark and others at Evensong at Chester Cathedral to mark the 60th anniversary of Self-Supporting Ministry
To mark the 60th anniversary since the first ordinations of clergy to Self-Supporting Ordained Ministry in the Church of England, SSMs in the Diocese of Chester joined the Bishop of Chester for a garden party celebration followed by Evensong at Chester Cathedral.
During the service, the Revd Lyndon Bannon, Bishop's Officer for Self-Supporting Ordained Ministry in the Diocese of Chester, spoke of how fortunate, and blessed we are, that in our diocese, we have such a wealth of SSMs who are called to a broad and diverse expression of ministry. He said: "Some minister primarily in parish settings, others in the secular workplace, others as chaplains, and still others in networks and in leisure settings. Whatever they do and wherever they do it – they are called to serve God and his Church, by and through making his name known and through building the Kingdom."
Lyndon also expressed his thanks to God for those who serve as SSMs in our diocese and thanked the SSMs for their service, their sacrifice, and the blessing they bring to those they serve.
The Revd Simon Chesters, Diocesan Director of Ministry, also spoke of the contribution SSMs make and Bishop Mark, Bishop of Chester, gave the address.
The National Jubilee Celebration Service to mark the 60th anniversary will take place in Southwark Cathedral on Saturday 9 September, at which Bishop Julie, Bishop of Birkenhead, will preach. All SSMs, as well as former SSMs who are now in receipt of PTO, as well as any friends or other clergy who wish to attend, would be most welcome. If you would like more details, please contact Jane Hood at Church House.
Could you be a Self Supporting Minister?
Anyone wishing to explore a vocation to Self-Supporting Ordained Ministry is encouraged to speak to their incumbent in the first instance or feel free to contact Revd Lyndon Bannon, for an informal conversation.