What follows are the reactions to the course by the trainees who are about to end the third year of their training scheme. It’s what they wrote, just as they wrote it.

Diana writes:
1.  Enjoying it very much. Was hungry for it!
2.  Have learnt a huge amount.
3.  Tutorials interactive.  We discuss the very good module material together, so also learn from one another, which is useful as we have had different life experiences.  Lots of laughter, support and companionship.
4.  3 years of training is good and the fact that it's parish based.  It takes time to get used to being, and being seen, in a new role. 
5.  Was worried about the projects and essays but there is plenty of help available and have enjoyed the challenge.
6.  I had known that God wanted me to be a Reader for some time but I kept putting him off.  Many a time since I started training I have said to God,  "I can't do this!  You put me here!  You'll just have to help me!"   And he has never let me down!
7.  Feel closer to God because I've been obedient and know myself better and forgive myself more.
 
Diana Dow  June 2005

Janet writes:
Not knowing quite what to expect after passing through the selection process for Reader Training I was relieved to feel secure in the way we were introduced to the forthcoming course. An overview of the modules and the necessary study skills were very helpful at that time, albeit daunting!  Despite having heard comments from the past experience of others I have found the first two years to be well organised, informative, fascinating, challenging and encouraging. If your home congregation is behind you and the ministry team are able to guide you into changing where you sit in church as well as what you do in services then you will find the whole experience supportive and exciting.

I personally find the focus of weekends and days away decidedly beneficial so, one of the highlights for me have been the Study Weekends and Days. As we are such a small group (three of us) we have benefited enormously from meeting up with the second year Winchester Readers during these occasions. We have shared some challenging discussion, some moving worship, some deep thought and some great fun.  (Speaking of fun and challenge I must mention the January Reader Weekends on the Isle of Wight – they are a must do!)  Another highlight for me has been the quality of the tutoring we have received for most of the courses. The tutors have enabled me to tap into the wealth of their experience and knowledge as well as creating new and happy relationships.

The quality of the modules we have studied have been first-class. Knowing that all Readers in Portsmouth and Winchester are following the same course is encouraging and supportive. Being given the opportunities to put things into practice in home parishes has also been encouraging and supportive, especially as I have experienced a difficult period in my personal life during the second year.

What are the down sides? The amount of work can put you under enormous pressure, particularly when essays and assignments are due and especially during November/December! Another thing I have found particularly difficult (and I see it becoming harder during the third year due to a placement situation) is feeling less involved with my home churches. Seeing the people who charged me with the mandate to train, less often and having to say 'no!' to things I would really like to do, has been a trial. I am assured however that it is worth it in the end!

As a final comment I would like to say how much I have enjoyed and valued the whole experience. Time with a Spiritual Director has added to the value and I would recommend finding someone as soon as possible. Also, try to look out for people in your congregations who might possible want to consider Reader Training as soon as you have been selected and keep encouraging them – lay ministry has a significant role to play in the future of the Church in embracing God’s Kingdom here on Earth – Amen.

Janet Clarke  July 2005 

Jeannette writes:

To the new trainee Reader:

Why do it?
Perhaps it is because we have been chosen, God wants us to be Readers, to stand up there at the front and preach a sermon, lead a service, and who knows what else God has in store for us?

Can I do it?
Well be assured, God won’t ask you to do anything you aren’t capable of doing. He will give the means and the will to do it.

Will I know anyone?
You aren’t the only one, the other trainee Readers feel just as apprehensive as you do, share your feelings and pray together.

Will I make friends?
Yes and good friends too, as you share and study together you will come to trust and rely on each other.

Will it answer my questions?
Yes and more, the tutors are there to help you, and they are backed up by a team of helpers, if you don’t know don’t be afraid to ask.

How much is there to do?
You won’t stop! From the minute you start, you will be on the go. Studying, tutorials, study days, study weekends, sermons, intercessions, not to mention essays and projects.

Is it worth it?
Wow! Yes! Brilliant! Terrific” What more can I say!!

What will I do when the course is finished?
That is for God to tell you, He has a mission for you, and that is to spread His word, if you listen to Him, He will tell you what He wants you to do.

Remember, Everything is possible to one who has faith.”
God be with you

See you at the Admission Service.

Jeannette Poulter  Aug 2005