What is the difference between a licence and accreditation?
A licence is given by the local Circuit when a Local Lay-Pastor is appointed to a role and remains in the role (during the probation this is a provisional licence). Accreditation is given by the Connexional Team (Ministries: Vocations and Worship) and affirms that a Local Lay-Pastor has successfully completed the training pathway.
Can I transfer my accreditation to another circuit?
Providing you have continued to complete ongoing training, you are able to transfer your accreditation as a Local Lay-Pastor. Licences are not able to be transferred and must be given by the Circuit you are appointed to.
Do I need to do the core Local Lay-Pastor units in order?
Cliff College offers the opportunity to take a unit per term and so the order that the units are completed is dictated by when they are offered. They offer the six core units over a two year period.
When can I join the training programme and commence study at Cliff College?
You can join the training programme at the start of any academic term.
What is the cost of units at Cliff College for Local Lay-Pastors?
The core Local Lay-Pastor units are available for £360 per unit. A Circuit should budget £1,080 per year for each Local Lay-Pastor in training. They should also budget for the costs of travel and overnight accommodation for the Local Lay-Pastor if they wish to attend the live lectures on campus at Cliff College.
What costs does a Circuit need to consider when appointing a Local Lay-Pastor?
On top of any employment costs, a Circuit should consider the cost of training (£360 per unit), travel costs to Cliff College if they are to attend live lectures in person, as well as the usual expenses, technology etc.
How does a Local Lay-Pastor apply for the core units at Cliff College?
By applying directly on the Foundations: Mission and Ministry pathway programme page at Cliff College.
Can a Local Lay-Pastor lead worship or preach?
Local Lay-Pastors shall not by virtue of the office be authorised to preach or lead worship. However, a Local Lay-Pastor may lead worship or preach if they are a Local Preacher or Worship Leader and have completed the appropriate training.
Can a Local Lay-Pastor preside at the Lord’s Supper or administer baptism?
Local Lay-Pastors shall not by virtue of the office be authorised to preside at the Lord’s Supper or administer baptism.
What do Local Lay-Pastors do?
Local Lay-Pastors are people called to care for, enable, lead and represent a relevant local church or churches. The particular duties are decided by the Circuit. See What is a Local Lay-Pastor? for more information.
I’m interested in being a Local Lay-Pastor, what do I do?
Please see Called to be a Local Lay-Pastor? for more information.
Can a Local Lay-Pastor be accredited using previous learning and experience?
Please see Assessment of Prior Learning and Experience
Are Local Lay-Pastors classed as ministers of religion for tax purposes?
No, Local-Lay Pastors are not classed as ministers of religion and therefore are taxed and treated in the same way as other lay employee roles.