Continuing Ministerial Education is delivered in a variety of ways in the Diocese of Worcester.
This page sets out the arrangements approved by the Bishop of Worcester under Ecclesiastical Offices (Terms of Service) Regulations 2009.
While those holding office under Common Tenure are under a duty to participate in Continuing Ministerial Education, the expectation is that all clergy, including those with freehold, will want to participate. National guidelines recommend that full time ministers take personal responsibility in setting aside at least 5 days each year for CME.
In support of this the following provision is offered:
- Regular teaching mornings and days on vocational and practical aspects of ministry
- Annual grant for course attendance (at present £210)
- Opportunity for sabbatical leave
- Grant support for further study at academic institutions.
As a member of the West Midlands Regional Training Partnership we offer courses including:
- First Incumbents conference
- Developing Ministry leadership course
- New Area Deans conference
- Developing Missional Imagination
- Preparation for retirement
It is expected that clergy will take an annual retreat. The form and pattern of retreat will vary but during a year full-time clergy should set aside the best part of a week for this activity. This should not be considered as leave. Reasonable costs of such retreats should be claimed as part of parish expenses where appropriate.
The Director of Ministry & Discipleship meets new clergy and clergy new-in-post for an introduction to the diocese, and to discuss training needs and gifts. Along with other members of the Ministry & Discipleship team, he is available for all clergy in a consultancy capacity, especially concerning the training and development needs identified in the Ministerial Development Review.
Courses and resources available locally and nationally are advertised regularly in the diocesan mailing.
Grants towards further training, e.g. to further MDR outcomes
Grant support for further study at academic institutions
Sabbaticals/Extended Study Leave
For further information on related issues, please contact the relevant member of the Ministry and Discipleship Team.
The contents on this page was formerly section A4 of the Diocesan Compendium.