Bridging the Gap: Reader Ministry Today

This is a book for those seeking to discover their vocation in Christian ministry. It is also a book for clergy, Readers and interested lay people who would like to find out more about the work of Readers. It is full of information and practical help. Readers, drawn as they are from every walk of life, are well placed to share God's love with the community beyond the Church. Called and trained, they assist the Church's life and witness by leading worship, preaching and teaching. Over the last few decades much has changed. For instance, women are now well established as Readers, and Reader ministry has developed to include a wide range of activities such as pastoral work, funerals and evangelism, as well as the traditional preaching, teaching and liturgical roles. They make a significant and extensive contribution to the Church's ministry and mission. All the contributors are Readers, among them Christina Baxter, the Principal of St John's College, Nottingham and Chair of the House of Laity of the General Synod, and Andrew Britton, the distinguished economist.