Lesley Stear has been an active member of St. Andrew's Church within the Ramsbottom and Edenfield Team Ministry for over 30 years, and is now preparing for her ordination as a Deacon at Manchester Cathedral on Sunday 2 July.
Lesley's journey towards ordination began when she served as an Authorised Lay Minister (ALM) in Pastoral Care, and Prayer & Spirituality.
"As I became involved in this ministry, it was other people that recognised my calling to ordained ministry. I was asked several times ‘if I had ever thought of being a vicar?’. I have to say that I resisted this calling but the niggle did not go away and so I decided to attend the Vocational Support Group and my discernment began. I have often felt like I have been pushed, nudged or dragged to ordained ministry rather than simply called, but God is persistent and here I am!"
Reflecting on her training, Lesley shared that the most significant lesson she has learned on her journey so far is the vital importance of placing God at the centre of everything she does, "It seems obvious but it's easy to forget. The most inspiring thing I have experienced is how God expands your heart so that you are able to love more people."
As Lesley anticipates her future ministry, she acknowledges that there will be a number of challenges to face in her new ministry, including "...how people relate to me as a deacon with a collar, having been a member of a congregation within the team for 30 years. All of the four congregations within the team ministry have been very supportive during my training but the relationship between us will change when I begin my curacy."
Reflecting on her personal achievements, Lesley shares that her most significant achievement is staying the course! "There have been so many challenges during my discernment, my studies, and my formation." Despite these challenges, she expresses gratitude for her upcoming ordination, noting, "My imminent ordination is quite the achievement!"
Looking ahead to the next twelve months following her anticipated ordination, Lesley plans to approach her ministry journey gradually, "I am just going to see where God calls me to be... and prayerfully discern what God is calling me to do, and who God is calling me to speak to."
Lesley acknowledges the goodness of God in her life and the journey that lies ahead, sharing "What more can I say, this is amazing, I am so excited, if a little terrified! God is good!"