Commissioned Pastoral Teams
An Approved and Accredited Scheme in the Church of England Birmingham
What is the scheme?
The scheme seeks to strengthen the life and witness of the Church in parishes so that the gifts of lay people are developed to share with clergy in pastoral care and community outreach on behalf of their church, in the service of Christ.
A Commissioned Pastoral Team is an intentional and focussed way to co-ordinate the myriad of pastoral activity that takes place in every church to ensure that no one, and no activity, is overlooked. It helps to ensure pastoral support and safety for everyone.
How can our church join the scheme?
Careful preparation is needed before a parish embarks on the scheme - this may take as much as six months - and will involve meetings between the Lay Ministry Formation Lead, Warden of Commissioned Pastoral Teams, Incumbent and PCC.
Once a PCC has given its approval to joining the scheme, individuals selected to become team members will need to complete three formation modules and meet relevant safeguarding requirements before the team is commissioned in their church.
What are the formation modules?
Learning to Listen |
Team Building |
Pastoral Theology |
Safeguarding |
| 6 sessions | 3 sessions | 3 sessions | 2 online modules |
The modules are most usually completed by a team in their church - or sometimes in an oversight area or the deanery.
What happens after Commissioning?
At the heart of continuing development for Commissioned Pastoral Teams is an Annual Away Day on the first weekend in June. Team members are also expected to participate in continuing learning opportunities to develop their skills in specialised areas of pastoral ministry appropriate to their role and interests.
Where can I get more information?
The introductory leaflet for the scheme is available here
The Formation Flow Chart is available here
Parish clergy are invited to send for the Incumbent Handbook giving full details of the scheme by contacting the Learning & Development Support Team (0121 426 0429)
For an informal conversation about the scheme contact the Lay Ministry Formation Lead or the Warden of Commissioned Pastoral Teams