Applications and Nominations Now Open
September 2026 Cohort
The Diocese of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands is pleased to announce the launch of two exciting ministry formation opportunities through the Christian Education and Training Department.
These programmes are designed to equip faithful women and men with the theological knowledge, spiritual formation, and practical ministry skills necessary to serve more effectively in the life and mission of the Church.
Whether you sense God calling you to the ministry of Lay Reader or have been identified for ministry as a Lay Leader, we invite you to prayerfully consider these opportunities for growth and service.
MINISTRY FORMATION OPPORTUNITIES
Diocesan Lay Readers’ Training Programme
The Diocesan Lay Readers’ Training Programme is intended for faithful communicant members who discern a vocation to the ministry of Lay Reader within the Church.
Participants will receive comprehensive theological formation and practical ministry training in preparation for licensed lay ministry. Upon successful completion of the programme and fulfilment of the requirements of Canon XXXII, participants may be considered for licensing by the Bishop as Lay Readers in their respective cures.
Who should apply?
Persons who:
- believe God may be calling them to the ministry of Lay Reader;
- are faithful communicant members of the Church;
- actively participate in the worship and life of their parish;
- demonstrate sound Christian character and spiritual maturity; and
- are willing to undertake a year-long programme of formation.
Application Deadline: 22 August 2026
Downloads
Lay Readers’ Information Letter
Diocesan Lay Leaders Formation Programme
The Diocesan Lay Leaders Formation Programme prepares lay persons for ministry in Baptism, Confirmation, and Pastoral Care within their respective cures.
Participants will undertake a structured programme of theological, spiritual, and practical formation designed to strengthen the Church’s ministry and mission throughout the Diocese.
Upon successful completion and licensing, participants will be equipped to exercise this ministry under the authority of the Bishop and the direction of their incumbent.
Who may be nominated?
Persons who:
- are faithful communicant members;
- demonstrate Christian maturity and leadership potential;
- actively participate in the worship and ministry of the Church;
- possess a heart for pastoral care and Christian formation; and
- are recommended by their clergy.
Nomination Deadline: 22 August 2026
Downloads
Lay Leaders’ Information Letter
Which Programme Is Right for Me?
| Lay Readers’ Training Programme | Lay Leaders Formation Programme |
| Individuals apply for admission. | Persons are nominated by their clergy. |
| Prepares persons for the ministry of Lay Reader. | Prepares persons for ministry in Baptism, Confirmation, and Pastoral Care. |
| Focuses on preaching, worship, teaching, and pastoral ministry. | Focuses on catechesis, pastoral care, leadership, and Christian formation. |
| Participants may be considered for licensing as Lay Readers. | Participants may be considered for licensing as Lay Leaders. |
Programme Highlights
Participants will receive formation in areas including:
- Holy Scripture
- Anglican Doctrine
- Theology
- Worship and Liturgy
- Preaching and Teaching
- Christian Education
- Pastoral Ministry
- Leadership
- Safe Church
- Spiritual Formation
- Practical Ministry
- Parish-Based Learning
- …and other areas essential for faithful and effective ministry.
Who Should Consider These Programmes?
Applicants and nominees should be:
- Faithful communicant members of the Church
- Persons of sound Christian character
- Active participants in the worship and ministry of their parish
- Willing to deepen their faith through study and formation
- Committed to serving Christ and His Church
- Supported by their clergy (where applicable)
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Applications and Nominations Open | Now |
| Closing Date | 22 August 2026 |
| Programme Begins | September 2026 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who can apply for the Lay Readers’ Training Programme?
A. Any faithful communicant member of the Church who believes God may be calling them to the ministry of Lay Reader and who meets the programme requirements.
Q. Who can be nominated for the Lay Leaders Formation Programme?
A. Persons identified by their clergy as suitable for ministry in Baptism, Confirmation, and Pastoral Care.
Q. How long are the programmes?
A Both programmes are designed to be completed over approximately one year.
Q. When will classes be held?
A. Participants will receive a detailed schedule following acceptance into the programme.
Q. Does successful completion guarantee licensing?
A. No. Successful completion of the programme is one requirement. Licensing remains at the discretion of the Bishop and is subject to the Canons of the Church.
Q. Is there a cost?
A. Please refer to the programme information letter or contact the Christian Education and Training Department for details.
A Message from the Director
“The Church flourishes when faithful women and men respond to God’s call with willing hearts and prepared minds. These programmes represent an important investment in the future ministry of our Diocese. I encourage you to prayerfully consider whether God is calling you—or someone you know—to serve in one of these ministries. We look forward to welcoming a new generation of lay ministers who will faithfully proclaim the Gospel and build up the Body of Christ.”
Fr. Javanie
Director
Christian Education and Training Department
Contact Us
Christian Education and Training Department
Email: cetd@anglicandiocese.com
Telephone: (876) 908-2826
“Whom Shall I Send?”
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I; send me!'”
Isaiah 6:8
God continues to call women and men to serve His Church in a variety of ministries. If you believe He may be calling you to deeper service, or if you know someone whom God may be calling, we encourage you to take the next step in faith.