Local Preachers and Worship Leaders

Local Preachers and Worship Leaders

Throughout its history, the Methodist Church has recognised that God calls people other than ordained ministers to lead worship and to preach.

Training as a Local Preacher

The process of formation and training for a local preacher is a comprehensive one, and takes place under the supervision of the Circuit Local Preachers' Meeting. The development of skills and understanding through regular participation in leading worship is supplemented by a course of study known as Worship: Leading & Preaching.

Worship Leaders

Worship is at the heart of all we do as God's people. Worship leaders are appointed trained and commissioned by their Church Council to take a leading and significant role in public worship in their church. They work alongside the minister or local preacher appointed to lead an act of worship. Their role may include choosing and leading music and prayers, reading Bible passages or other readings, facilitating dance or drama and any other aspect of worship other than the sermon.
Since September 2015 the authorised training course for worship leaders has been Worship: Leading & Preaching. Worship leaders study alongside local preachers on this course. Responsibility lies with the Church Councils to determining the appropriate training for worship leaders in their church, with guidance and support from the Local Preachers' Meeting.

Continuing Development (CLPD)

As Local Preachers and Worship Leaders, we are committed to lifelong learning. We need to continue in developing our understanding and skills in preaching the Word and leading the people of God in worship.
You can find a range of resources to help with this on the Methodist Church website here: Continuing Development