Life Long Learning & Vocation

Interested in Lent or Eastertide courses?

CLICK HERE to find out more

The church encourages its members to take up further study of the Christian faith.  Many of these courses are part of the 'Learning for Life' Lay Ministry programme organised by the Diocese of Chelmsford.

These include the Lent and Eastertide Schools - short courses on a variety of topics.  Some relate to worship,  others explore the role of Christians in the wider community.  They are open to all, and are free-standing units, although some also form modules of the Course in Christian Studies. 

The Course in Christian Studies is open to anyone over the age of 16.  It is based on weekly meetings in local groups, either in the evening or a weekday morning, running during term-time over a two year period.  It is an opportunity to explore the Christian faith with others. 

The syllabus is wide ranging and includes study of the sacraments, ethics, the Old and New Testaments, and doctrine as well as optional modules.  Teaching and discussion tend to be informal, but the course requires around three hours of home study each week and several pieces of tutor-assessed written work. 

Over 2000 people across Essex and North East London, including quite a few from St Nicolas, have joined the course since it began in 1987.  Opportunities may also exist for study and training for those who believe they are called to lay ministry including Readers, Lay Evangelists or Pastoral Assistants.  Details of the various courses are displayed on the notice board in the Church Hall. 

To find out more information about the course in Christian Studies click on the link below.

To find out about Lay and ordained Ministry in the Church of England, click on the Vocation link below.

CHRISTINE NEWMARCH writes about a course she attended entitled

LEADING IN A TIME OF CHANGE.  Read about it here

Vocation in the Church of England

Lifelong Learning and Courses in Christian Studies

Iain Bendrey writes about his calling to join the priesthood and the long journey involved.

If you would like to discuss any issues arising from above further, please contact a member of the clergy team.