A celebration service welcomed four new Licensed Lay Ministers (LLM) to the diocese at the cathedral in Truro this month.

Rt Revd David Williams, Bishop of Truro and The Rt Revd Hugh Nelson, Bishop of St Germans, were at the service which saw the licensing of Claire Thomson, Ian Thompson, Mary Wren and Richard Westcott.

During the service Bishop David invited the new LLMs, many of whom are also known as Readers, to take up his challenge to each recruit five others to become LLMs.Six people lined up outside the cathedral for a photograph.

Bishop Hugh preached, and the licenses were issued in his name.

Jim Seth, Diocese of Truro’s Chaplain to Readers (Licensed Lay Ministers), said: “Bishop David presided, and Bishop Hugh preached asking us to look at what our real blessings are.”

Mary Wren, who was licensed at the service, said: “It was a very special celebration to share with friends from the Roseland Benefice, Spiritus Theological College staff, Bishops David and Hugh and all the Readers. It was a blessing to be standing with the LLMs after our two years training together, now being sent on our way to serve God in the Diocese.”

Ian Thompson, who was also licensed, said: “The licensing service was a wonderful occasion.

A person in white with blue and the back of the Bishop of Truro.“I was blown away by the amount of effort and attention to detail that had gone into making this service very special. The music was beautiful.

“It was lovely both Bishop David and Bishop Hugh were there and that they made it clear how much they valued the ministry of lay readers.

“I love the fact there were so many committed to sharing the gospel and to making disciples of our Lord Jesus. To him be the glory.”

Isaac McNish, Diocese of Truro Head of Ministry, said: “The Licensed Lay Ministry service was a time of real joy and gratitude. As new ministers were licensed and others renewed their commitment, it was a reminder of the depth of calling and service across our diocese.

“Each person brings their faith and gifts to the shared life of the Church, helping us to grow together in faith and to serve our communities with hope.”Bishop Hugh in the cathedral.

Claire Salzmann, Truro Diocese’s Reader (LLM) Events Coordinator, said: “It was a truly joyful, worship-filled service in which LLMs were able to celebrate the God-given opportunities we each have to serve him and share his word with all in each of the places we daily find ourselves.

“We were delighted Bishop Hugh opened God’s word for us all.”

Find out more about Licensed Lay Ministers here.

Spiritus Theological College was formally South West Ministry Training Course (SWMTC).