From the Revd Dr Sue Clarke
Sir, - I read with interest "SSMs survey finds joy tempered by
frustrations" (News, 15
May). The diocese of Southwark has also undertaken qualitative
and quantitative research into the ministry and attitudes of its
NSM clergy.
The findings of this research, conducted over a three-year
period, mirrored many of those reported, including the finding that
80 per cent of those in secular employment considered that they had
a priestly ministry in their place of work: 24 per cent serving in
their parishes for more than 20 hours per week, and 80 per cent
considering themselves deployable.
The research formed part of an MA in Ministerial Theology
submitted in 2013. The findings are summarised in the report A
Review of NSM Ministry within the Diocese of Southwark
2012-2014, which was launched at a service celebrating NS
ministry in Southwark diocese in September last year.
An advisory group on non-stipendiary ministry has now been set
up by the Bishop of Southwark, the Rt Revd Christopher Chessun,
chaired by a member of the Bishop's senior staff group. Members of
the group reflect the diversity of non-stipendiary clergy in
Southwark.
This group is addressing the recommendations of the report in
addition to continuing the discussions on how non-stipendiary
clergy can be used most strategically in the diocese, and their
priestly ministry in secular employment acknowledged and
resourced.
SUSAN CLARKE
Member of Bishop's Advisory
Group for Non-Stipendiary Ministry
26 Abbotsleigh Road
London SW16 1SP