Licensed Lay Ministries
Title III, Canon 4 of the Episcopal Church describes the lay ministries which, because of their unique and important role in the life, work, and worship of the Church, should be sanctioned by the Bishop for their worthy purpose. These roles are: Pastoral Leader, Worship Leader, Preacher, Eucharistic Minister, Eucharistic Visitor, Evangelist, and Catechist.
These ministries are far more than functionary roles. Indeed, these roles are as important as any in the church. In many ways, these leadership roles show to the world how we are the church. Therefore, just as in the solemnity of ordained ministry, we must discern God’s call to us and attend to it with the same deliberateness and vigor.
Important Note for 2023 License Renewals
If you have been licensed for any of these ministries in the past you are eligible for a conditional license valid until December 31, 2023.
The purpose of the conditional license is to provide time for completing the Safe Church and Anti-Racism and Dismantling Racism training and consulting with your appropriate member of the clergy for any additional education or conversation. Your letter of support from a member of the clergy must note what education or training for the ministry was completed. No prior approval from the Bishop for a training or educational program is required for license renewals this year.
These conditional licenses will be offered for renewal applications received through October 1, 2023.
For more information about Licensed Lay Ministries, including application forms for each ministry, read on below.
Licensed Lay Ministries Descriptions 2023
Worship Leader Application 2023
Eucharistic Minister Application 2023
Eucharistic Visitor Application 2023
Lay Evangelist Application 2023
Lay Catechist Application 2023
