Usually it's your own minister in the pulpit, but what if they're on holiday, off ill or your congregation is vacant? With fewer ministers available for such times, a new scheme funded by United Appeal is training lay people to become accredited preachers.
This will ensure that services continue Sunday by Sunday. It also gives the opportunity to people who feel called to preach, but not to full time ministry, to use their gifts in God's service.
"There are a lot of gifted people who can be of great service to the Church and their fellow Christians," explains Tom Finnegan, who is organising the scheme. "This course recognises their skills, confirms their call and ensures quality worship even when a congregation's own minister is away." Eleven accredited preachers are in the final stages of completing the pilot programme and this autumn around 70 will begin their year-long training course.
Further information and video will be uploaded soon.