Called to Preach: Background - Lay Preachers in the Uniting Church Basis of Union and Regulations
Background - Lay Preachers in the Uniting Church Basis of Union & Regulations
Each of the traditions coming into union in 1977 to form the Uniting Church in Australia recognised the Holy Spirit’s gifts in lay people to take part in leading the public worship of God’s people. The Uniting Church recognises the significance and God-given nature of these ministries and commits itself to their continuance:
The Uniting Church recognises and accepts as lay preachers those who at the time of union are accredited lay preachers (local preachers) in any of the Uniting Churches and who adhere to the Basis of Union. It will seek to recognise those endowed with the gift of the Spirit for this task, will provide for their training, and will gladly wait upon that fuller understanding of the obedience of Christians which should flow from their ministry. Such members will be called Lay Preachers. [Basis of Union 14(d)]
WHAT IS THE MINISTRY OF LAY PREACHER?
The Ministry of Lay Preacher is one in which lay persons may participate in the proclamation of the Gospel and in witness to Christian faith and experience, and for which they have received gifts and are called by the Holy Spirit. [Reg 2.8.1]
WHO IS A LAY PREACHER?
A Lay Preacher is a member of the Church who is authorised to conduct services of worship in the Congregation in which such Lay Preacher holds membership and in any other Congregation to which the Lay Preacher may be invited by the Minister (or equivalent local leader)thereof. [Reg 2.8.2]
a) The Church recognises as Lay Preachers:
(i) persons who at the time of the inauguration held the office of Lay Preacher or Local Preacher in any one of the Uniting Churches, and who signified adherence to the Basis of Union;
(ii) Persons who are subsequently accredited as Lay Preachers in accordance with procedures prescribed by the Assembly.
b) A former Minister whose recognition has been withdrawn under the provisions of Regulation 2.4.23 (a), and who is in good standing with the Church, may upon request be accredited as a Lay Preacher. [Reg 2.8.3]
