Lay Minister Training Begins

The Lay Minister training for the Suva/Ovalau Archdeaconry commenced, marking a significant step toward equipping lay leaders to support the parishes, the Phase 1 of the training began with the group from Holy Trinity, St. Luke, St. Matthew, St. Christopher, and St. Lawrence. This training initiative through SJTBTC, aligns with Archbishop Sione's charge to Review and strengthen the Diocese of Polynesia, ensuring it remains a relevant and resilient Church.

The Diocese of Polynesia is committed to embracing diversity and celebrating the richness of its many cultures, a core value that this training seeks to uphold. Archbishop Sione’s vision for a vibrant, adaptable Church requires strong lay leadership to meet the spiritual, pastoral, and practical needs of the people. Lay ministers are an integral part of this mission, acting as leaders in worship services, administering sacraments, and providing crucial spiritual guidance and counseling to parishioners.

As society faces complex issues such as mental health, addiction, poverty, and social justice, lay ministers need to be equipped to address these concerns. The training emphasizes these areas, ensuring that ministers can offer informed, compassionate support to individuals and communities in need. Archbishop Sione’s call to create a Church that is not only present but active in addressing the real-world struggles of its people is being realized through this holistic approach.

In addition to addressing modern social challenges, the training also includes vital refresher courses on the Anglican faith, its history, liturgy, and practices. This is crucial in ensuring that lay ministers have a solid foundation in Anglicanism, enabling them to lead with confidence and grace. The sessions focus on maintaining the coherence and standards of the liturgy, paying particular attention to aspects such as pacing, tone, and ritual. These skills help foster a reverent and meaningful atmosphere during worship, deepening both the congregation's and the ministers' appreciation of the faith.

The first phase of this training serves as a building block for creating lay ministers who are well-prepared to lead their communities with compassion and spiritual strength. By engaging in this formation, the lay ministers of the Suva/Ovalau Archdeaconry Group are stepping into a vital role that reflects the broader vision of a resilient Church, capable of adapting and thriving in a changing world.

As this training progresses, the Diocese of Polynesia remains committed to nurturing leaders who will carry forward the mission of the Church, embracing diversity, building resilience, and fostering a sense of unity among its communities.