It’s a momentous occasion when a community comes together to celebrate the dedication and hard work of its members, and that’s exactly what happened at Norwich Cathedral on September 20, 2025. On this special day, seven individuals were licensed as Lay Ministers, marking a significant milestone in their spiritual journeys. The ceremony was attended by hundreds of people, all of whom were eager to welcome and support these new ministers as they embark on their new roles. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a sense of excitement, hope, and anticipation for the positive impact these individuals will have on their communities. As the cathedral’s grandeur provided a stunning backdrop, the Bishop of Norwich led the service, highlighting the importance of Licensed Lay Ministry in the diocese.
As part of the service, Helen Grogutt was commissioned as the Bishop’s Adviser for Licensed Lay Ministers, a role that will enable her to provide guidance and support to her fellow ministers. Helen, who serves as a Licensed Lay Minister in the parishes of St Giles, St George Tombland, and St George Colegate in Norwich, as well as a chaplain at Norwich Cathedral, is well-equipped to take on this new challenge. Her experience and passion for ministry will undoubtedly be invaluable assets as she works to nurture and encourage the growth of Licensed Lay Ministry throughout the diocese. The commissioning of Helen Grogutt is a testament to the diocese’s commitment to supporting and empowering its lay ministers, recognizing the vital role they play in serving and caring for their communities. As the Bishop of Norwich licensed Helen, it was clear that this was a moment of great joy and celebration, not just for Helen, but for the entire diocese.
The seven new Licensed Lay Ministers who were welcomed during the service will be serving in various roles throughout the diocese. Rosalind Bingham will be serving in the Waterside Group Benefice in the Deanery of St Benet at Waxham and Tunstead, while Loretta Freeman will be serving in the Pakefield Benefice in the Deanery of Lothingland. Liam Pilgrim will be serving in the Hempnall Team Ministry Benefice in the Deanery of Depwade, and Frances Sanderson-Bates will be serving in the Taverham w Ringland Benefice in the Deanery of Norwich North. Additionally, Lynda Swain will be serving in the Heacham Benefice in the Deanery of Heacham and Rising, James Watts will be serving in the Great and Little Plumstead, Rackheath with Salhouse and Witton Benefice in the Deanery of Blofield, and Roxanne Rouse will be serving in the Mitre Benefice in the Deanery of Norwich South. Each of these individuals has been called to serve in a unique context, and they will be working to build connections, provide care, and share the love of God with their communities. As they begin their new roles, they will be supported by their fellow ministers, clergy, and the diocese as a whole, ensuring that they have the resources and guidance they need to thrive.
The licensing of these seven individuals is a significant event, not just for the diocese, but for the wider community. It represents a commitment to serving and caring for others, and a recognition of the importance of lay ministry in the life of the church. As these new ministers embark on their journeys, they will be working to make a positive difference in the lives of those around them, whether through leading worship, providing pastoral care, or engaging in outreach and mission. They will be working in a variety of settings, from rural villages to urban centers, and will be serving people from all walks of life. Through their ministry, they will be helping to build stronger, more compassionate communities, where everyone can feel valued, supported, and loved. As they serve, they will be living out their faith in practical and meaningful ways, inspiring others to do the same, and helping to create a ripple effect of kindness, empathy, and understanding that will spread far and wide.
The celebration at Norwich Cathedral was a powerful reminder of the impact that ordinary people can have when they are empowered to serve and care for others. The Licensed Lay Ministers who were welcomed during the service are not professional clergy, but rather ordinary people who have been called to serve in an extraordinary way. They have been equipped with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to make a real difference in their communities, and they will be working to share the love of God with others through their words, actions, and presence. As they serve, they will be helping to break down barriers, build bridges, and foster greater understanding and empathy between people from different backgrounds and perspectives. They will be working to create a more just, compassionate, and peaceful world, where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. The diocese is deeply grateful for the commitment and dedication of these new ministers, and is excited to see the positive impact they will have on their communities in the days, weeks, and months ahead.
As the service at Norwich Cathedral came to a close, the hundreds of attendees departed with a renewed sense of hope and enthusiasm for the future. They had witnessed something truly special – the licensing of seven individuals who are passionate about serving and caring for others. They had seen the diocese’s commitment to supporting and empowering its lay ministers, and had been inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm of the new ministers. As they went their separate ways, they carried with them a sense of excitement and anticipation for the future, knowing that the Licensed Lay Ministers who had been welcomed during the service would be working tirelessly to make a positive difference in the lives of those around them. The celebration at Norwich Cathedral was a powerful reminder of the importance of community, compassion, and service, and it will be remembered for a long time to come as a moment of great joy, hope, and celebration. The Licensed Lay Ministers who were welcomed during the service will be working to create a brighter, more loving future for all, and the diocese will be supporting and guiding them every step of the way.
