Commissioning Service

Commissioning Service – Lay Preacher June

I met with Rev John Henry on Monday 15th December 2025.

As usual, I had lots of ideas to share with him along with one or two concerns. John let me speak and as I went to share one of my ideas, he said, “Hold that thought for a moment, there is something I want to ask you.” John went on to ask if I would pray and consider the possibility of becoming a Lay Pastor at Alder Grove Church. I thought at that moment, “Why is he asking me?” I had never thought about any other role within church as I am already busy and did not think of adding to what I did. John continued to
explain about the things I did which were already a part of the Lay Pastor role, things I did without question, or a second thought.

I agreed to pray about the matter over Christmas, to give it lots of thought, and also to come to terms with what other people would think about this.

I spoke with John on 31st January, I told him I was willing to accept the role.

We had our Church Council meeting on Tuesday 6th January, John said before the meeting, “I’m not going to say anything today!”
near the end of the meeting he leant across and said, “I’m going to announce it, are you alright with that?” No time like the present, so in AOB, John in his lovely manner, began – “Friends…” He put forward some reassuring words and was met with a hands up in agreement. I was overwhelmed that there were no objections and people immediately began asking questions.

On the 28th of January I received my Job Description and an Order of Service for my Commissioning Service on Sunday 1st
February, (no hanging around in the Methodist Church) I immediately invited my family to attend the service, my son was able to attend, but my daughter informed me she was working a long day. Imagine my surprise and joy when I walked out of the vestry on Sunday 1st February and my daughter, granddaughter, son in law and son were all walking towards me. They told me they were so proud of what I was doing.

The service was wonderful and I truly felt God’s blessing upon everyone present. There was genuine warmth and feeling in the handshakes and hugs that day.

I have met with John and chatted about a few ideas for Alder Grove. It is a great place to be, and with God’s love and help, I am praying that we can expand our worship to meet the needs of our community – watch this space!

June Rutherford