Clare Whitney will be the new Lay Ministerial and Learning Development Officer in the diocese, joining colleagues in the Vocations and Training Team from 1 September .
She will have oversight of Reader training and other forms of current training for lay ministry, including the Pathways and Living Discipleship course, as well as reviewing and expanding the provision of lay training in the diocese. Clare joins the team with a strong background of and many years' experience in education, including adult learning. She is a Licensed Lay Reader in the Central Wolverhampton Parish, serves on the Diocesan Reader Council and also has experience of hospital chaplaincy.
Clare said: "I am delighted and excited to be joining the Vocations and Training Team. I believe passionately in each person discovering their unique call to God's service, unlocking and developing their individual skills and gifts. I see discipleship as a journey of lifelong learning of curiosity, discovery and growth as we seek to follow Christ. It's a great privilege to journey alongside people from all walks of life, encouraging and helping them to flourish in their Christian faith."
Director of Ministry Jeanette Hartwell said: “I am delighted that Clare has been appointed to this role following a rigorous appointment process in which there were some very strong candidates. The team is passionate about supporting discipleship, vocation and evangelism in the diocese through our training programmes and the resources that we provide to support parishes. Clare is a passionate advocate for lay ministry in all its forms and for ensuring training is available and accessible for all. Her appointment to this role will further strengthen the team and enable us to better serve ministry and mission in the diocese."