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Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” 

And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 (NIV) 

 If you feel that you may be called to be a Local Preacher in the Methodist Church, it may be helpful to reflect on the following extract from the Service for Admission of Local Preachers: 

“Local Preachers are called to be worthy in character, to lead God’s people in prayer and praise, and to share in the Church’s mission in the whole world.”  

(The Methodist Worship Book, pg. 332)  

If, after prayerful thought, you want to explore your sense of calling, talk to your minister. If, together, you feel that this is a calling to be discerned further, your minister will talk to you about what happens next and guide you through the formal application process. 

Are you interested in finding out more about Local Preaching in the Methodist Church in Ireland?

This introductory session is for those who are discerning a calling to this important ministry. The session is also for ordained ministers, lay workers and accredited local preachers who will support those in training in their local context.

The evening will include an exploration of:

– Being called to be a Local Preacher

– The why and how of Local Preacher Training in MCI

– Training in the local context

The next online event will take place on Wednesday 6th November at 7:30pm

In the application process, there are several steps to follow at local level involving the Superintendent Minister and the Circuit Executive. If the Circuit Executive recommends that you should be received as a ‘Local Preacher in Training,’ your Superintendent will contact the Connexional Local Preachers’ Co-ordinator.  

You will then be asked to complete an online application form to be approved as a ‘Local Preacher in Training’. A sample of the form can be downloaded here. Once your application is approved you will be contacted by the Ministries Team about your Local Preacher training pathway and the Methodist Local Preachers’ Course. 

The Methodist Local Preachers’ Course gives you an opportunity to develop practical skills in the leading of worship alongside deepening your understanding of the Bible and Theology. The Course is a balance of self-study, online learning, guided tutorials, and includes practical assessment.   

It is possible to begin training in the Autumn or in the Spring.

• For Autumn entry, applications must be made no later than 27th September 2024 

• For Spring entry, applications must be made no later than 14th March 2025 

All Local Preachers who have completed training and been formally accredited are required to engage in at least fifteen hours of further learning or training per year. Local Preachers are also required to share in the worship and fellowship life of the Church. The Ministries Team and District Local Preachers’ Coordinators organise opportunities for ongoing development and fellowship. Some Circuits also organise Circuit Preachers’ meetings. 

The Learning and Development page gives details of seminars and courses which can be used to fulfil the further learning requirements for Local Preachers