Bishop John has announced the appointment of Phil Bradford as Co-Warden of Readers (Licensed Lay Ministers) in the diocese, alongside Kath Davis (who has served in this capacity since May 2021).
Kath and Phil will serve as equal partners, sharing the ministry across the whole Diocese and offering a model of collaborative ministry.
Phil serves as Team Rector for the Worcester City West benefice, where he has encouraged and nurtured the vocations of a range of lay ministers, including LLMs.
Phil said: "I am very pleased to have been appointed to this role, and I look forward to working with Kath to support and develop Reader ministry in the Diocese. This is both a challenging and exciting time for the Church of England, in which all forms lay ministry continue to be vital. I am delighted to be given this opportunity to get to know and work with our existing LLMs, and also to be able to promote the ministry and encourage others to come forward."
Bishop John said: "I am delighted to appoint Phil as Co-Warden of Licensed Lay Ministers; Phil brings a wealth of experience, enthusiasm and understanding to this important role. I take this opportunity also to express thanks to Rob Farmer for all he contributed, not least – together with Kath Davis – the setting up of this new way of working so that the two Co-Wardens model collaboration between lay and ordained ministers. I am grateful to Kath, who continues in post, and to all who exercise ministry as Readers. The contribution they make to the mission of the Diocese is greatly appreciated."
Kath, who serves as an LLM in the Pedmore and Wollescote benefice, says: "I am very pleased that Phil has been appointed Co-Warden to work alongside me in supporting and encouraging LLM/Reader Ministry across the Diocese. I trust and pray that Phil and I will build a relationship together that will be compassionate, collaborative and inclusive, where gifts and talents can be both inspired and inspiring."
Due to existing commitments, Phil will take up the role fully from April 2023, with current arrangements continuing until then.
