Lay Workers Training

So much for 8 hours a week. ....I just did 3 days of training at Offa House near Leamington Spa!
We were introduced to the Methodist 'System', where lay workers fit into it, Job Descriptions etc.
We also had workshops on Pastoral Care and Visiting and 'You and your Community'.
Listening/Communication skills were high on the agenda.
Hmmm..... Am I a listener? Much to learn and develop here....and for those who knew it already, it was a useful reminder. As I reflected on the importance of listening I read a very challenging item online:
http://www.sidsillinois.org/images/reading_material/couldyoulisten.pdf
For 'Godly play' we sat in a circle on the carpet with Gloria, a lovely lady from Cardiff with boxes full of Bible stories for kids and adults (she was telling us how once she had tresspassed onto the set of Doctor Who, and I suggested she might qualify as a female Time Lord, transporting all her stuff to distant galaxies and bringing fun and excitement to crusty aliens). This was really fascinating, and I will certainly try and introduce Godly Play here....watch this space.
As ever, I found myself leading a group of musicians in providing valuable worship time for the course participants. That's an area of ministry I mustn't neglect.
Richard, a twentysomething guitarist and Youth Worker agreed to publish a photo and report of the Lay Workers' Induction Course in the Methodist Recorder. Turns out he's an ace Frisbee thrower (yes, there really are Frisbee Chucking Championships). He brought a frisbee with him on the Tues afternoon walk...and impressed us.
Now to put learning into practice......