What are Authorised Lay Ministers (ALMs)?
Authorised Lay Ministers (ALMs) are trained lay people, active in church life, who have a particular vocation, special interest, or skill that can be an integral part of their church’s ministry. They are highly valued in the Diocese of Ely and have a crucial part in the success of the Diocesan Strategy.
ALMs are nominated by their incumbent and Parochial Church Council (PCC) to be trained and equipped in preparation for being ‘commissioned’ by the Bishop. After this service, they will carry out an agreed ministry role within their local parish context.
In the Diocese of Ely, there are people of all ages and churchmanship who have trained to become ALMs in their own churches. Most are now in active ministry, playing their part in the day-to-day life of their parish.
Many Authorised Lay Ministers have found their training to become an ALM to be transforming, rewarding and fulfilling.
Support for our ALMs
Your Incumbent will be able to support you in your ALM pathway. The Diocese of Ely Mission and Ministry Team will also be able to advise you on anything particular you might need. they can be contacted on missionandministry@elydiocese.org.
Current ALMs can also find out more about the Safeguarding Training requirements of the role on the safeguarding pages here.
Training and Development
There are various ALM specialism pathways available. Details of the training courses can be found on the Developing a Church Vocation pages here.
Becoming an ALM
If you are interested in becoming an ALM, after talking to your incumbent and PCC about your interest in training as an ALM, please contact the Vocations Team for further information and to apply.
In addition to the specialist training requirements, and undertaking project work that is relevant to both their specialism and parish, all potential Authorised Lay Ministers have to complete the Diocesan Growing as a Disciple course.