St Hilda's, Warley Woods

Congratulations to Jenni and Diane who have been commissioned for new additional roles within the Diocese of Birmingham. At a special Choral Evensong at Birmingham Cathedral on Sunday 18 October, Jenni and Diane joined colleagues, family and friends from across the diocese as the Bishop of Birmingham led a service of commissioning for a team of Bishop's Advisers and LGBTQI+ Chaplains.

Jenni was commissioned as Bishop's Interfaith Adviser, while Diane was commissioned as an LGBTQI+ Chaplain.

These are two important roles which will enable Jenni and Diane to share their experience, gifts and ministry in supporting people and churches across the wider diocese.

As Bishop's Interfaith Adviser, Jenni will offer advice, insight and support around interfaith relationships and engagement, helping churches to build understanding and positive relationships with people of different faiths and beliefs.

Bishop Michael said: “I am deeply grateful for the wisdom, experience and service of this outstanding group of Bishop’s Advisers.”

“Each person brings their specialist experience and insight to supporting churches across Birmingham and the wider region.”

“I pray for God’s rich blessing on each of them, as they continue to serve in this way.”

Diane's role as an LGBTQI+ Chaplain will involve offering pastoral support, guidance and a listening ear to people navigating questions around sexuality, gender and the Church. The chaplaincy team provides a safe and confidential space for adults to talk, as well as offering support and encouragement to clergy and churches seeking to become more inclusive and welcoming.

Bishop Michael thanked the LGBTQI+ Chaplaincy Team for their ministry. “Our dedicated LGBTQI+ Chaplains provide compassionate support for many across Church of England Birmingham,” he said .

“I’m grateful for the way they listen with attentiveness and respect, and offer pastoral encouragement as people navigate these important areas of life. Please join me in praying for these colleagues as they continue to serve God and his people.”

The commissioning service included a special liturgy in which those taking up these ministries affirmed their calling and commitment. The congregation then prayed for each person, asking that they would grow in faith, hope and steadfastness, and abide in Christ as faithful disciples.

Jenni said: “Being commissioned is for me a humbling recognition of the work I have been doing for many years, and the experience I have in this area. I will continue to work alongside the Director of Interfaith, Canon Dr Andrew Smith, offering advice and support across the diocese as well as representing the Church of England Birmingham at interfaith events.”

“I do this alongside being the incumbent of St Hilda's, and hope our own local interfaith connections will continue to blossom.”

Diane said: "I took up the LGBTQI+ Chaplaincy role a few years ago when I was invited to join as a lay person. Now I'm ordained as a priest it's good to continue and good to be commissioned along with other chaplains and advisors.”

“I feel the diocese takes the LGBTQI+ community seriously and wants to include and affirm people's discipleship journeys. I hope that people I meet with will find me a good listener, ally and supporter and a companion along the way of following Jesus."

We are delighted that Jenni and Diane have been recognised and commissioned for these important ministries. Both roles reflect the importance of listening, building relationships, offering welcome and helping people to feel valued and supported.

Please pray for Jenni and Diane as they take on these additional responsibilities. We wish them every blessing as they continue to serve God and the wider community through these new ministries.

Photo credit: The Church of England Birmingham

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