26 October 2017
Photo competition puts the focus on local preachers and worship leaders
- Internationally renowned photographer
- Get tips on taking the best pictures
Photographers are being asked to put Methodist local preachersand worship leaders in the frame.
The Local Preachers and Worship Leaders Photo Competition,launched today, aims to showcase the diversity of worship leadersand local preachers across the Church. Entrants will be asked tosubmit two photos for their entry. The first should be of the localpreacher or worship leader engaging a congregation through worshipor preaching. The other should depict the subject in an aspect oftheir daily life that informs their ministry - perhaps in their dayjob, enjoying a hobby or engaging with a community project.
The competition is open to UK residents and people areencouraged to interpret the brief as creatively as possible. Imagescaptured using smartphones are welcomed, as long as the quality ishigh.
The lead judge will be internationally renowned documentaryphotographer, Martin Parr. Martin's interest in the competitionconnects with his experience of Methodism as a child. He says: "Mygrandfather was a Methodist local preacher and keen photographer,who first introduced me to the camera."
Prizes will be awarded in four categories:
- Pictures of worship leaders: entrants aged 18 or younger
- Pictures of worship leaders: entrants over the age of 18
- Pictures of local preachers: entrants aged 18 or younger
- Pictures of local preachers: entrants over the age of 18
Winners in each category will be awarded a cash prize of £75,with £40 awarded to second and third place. All entries will beshowcased in an online gallery.
The competition is sponsored by the Leaders of Worship andPreachers Trust (LWPT), which launched
"LWPT's purpose is to support preachers and leaders of worshipof all denominations through resources, grants and training. We aredelighted to be involved in the competition, and look forward toseeing the fruit of your creativity," said Jo Swinney, PreachEditor, judging panellist.
The closing date for entries is Sunday 31 May.
A new training pathway for Methodist local preachers and worshipleaders, produced by the Discipleship and Ministries Learning Network,is currently being piloted and will be launched in September thisyear.