Page Contents
Ministry
Ministerial Development Review
Clergy holding the bishop's licence and licensed lay workers have a regular Ministerial Development Review (MDR) every 18 months or so. During an MDR, participants have an opportunity to review what they have been doing, look at their present activity, and discern priorities for the future. Please visit the MDR webpage for further information.
Pastoral Supervision Programme
As part of our commitment to clergy care and wellbeing, we offer Group Pastoral Supervision. Clergy can sign up for small group sessions led by a trained leader, where they have a safe space to share their day-to-day challenges and experiences amongst a group of supportive peers.
Spiritual Companions
Spiritual Companionship is a mutually enriching relationship where one person accompanies another on their spiritual journey, offering a sacred space for growth, reflection, and discernment. Rooted in deep and rich Christian traditions—such as Franciscan, Jesuit, Benedictine, and Quaker practices—spiritual Companionship is not about providing advice or ministry but about guiding the individual to notice and respond to God’s activity in their life. It is a process of walking alongside someone, helping them to grow into the fullness of the stature of Christ, focusing on God’s plan for their life. This one-on-one relationship involves attentive listening, prayer, vulnerability, and mutual learning, as the Spiritual Companion holds space for emotions, struggles, and challenges. The Holy Spirit is central to the process, guiding both Companion and pilgrim toward deeper understanding and transformation. Spiritual Companionship is a holistic, hospitable journey, marked by confidentiality, support, and challenge, where both parties commit to dedicated growth and the continuous unfolding of God’s presence. It is not a spiritual “gym” but a lifestyle that encourages true transformation and deeper connection with God.
Christian ministry is founded upon a life of prayer. God is ever doing new things, and without an openness to the Spirit, God’s purposes and blessings are in danger of passing us by. Not only that, Christian ministry is a weighty calling which may only be maintained in God’s strength and with the gifts of his refreshment. No doubt any Christian knows this; but in the midst of busy ministries, it is all too easy to focus upon the next deadline, pressurising time available for prayer. This is where many find a Spiritual Companion (or Spiritual Director) helpful. A Companion asks the questions, “How is your prayer life, and how might God be speaking to you today?” Through regular conversation, we discern what modes of prayer are most fruitful for us, and help us grow and deepen our relationship with God.
The details of any relationship with a Spiritual Companion are a matter of negotiation, such as the frequency and length of meetings. In our diocese, we are fortunate to have a number of Spiritual Companions willing to offer their services. Those wanting further information about these should contact the Bishop of Manchester’s Chaplain in the first instance at BishopsChaplain@manchester.anglican.org
Wellbeing
Sanctuary Course
One in four people will be affected by a mental health challenge at some point in their lives. The Sanctuary Course is a free small-group resource designed to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and engage communities in meaningful conversations about mental health and faith. Each session examines a key mental health topic, and the accompanying films feature insights from mental health professionals, church leaders, and theologians.
The Sanctuary Course is designed for small groups which might include:
- People with questions about mental health
- Mental health professionals with a wealth of knowledge to share
- Leaders who want to engage their community in mental health conversations
- People supporting loved ones with mental health challenges
- People living with mental health challenges
- Anyone who wants to learn about faith and mental health
The Sanctuary Course requires no previous training or expertise—just a willingness to engage in dialogue with other believers. This course and films address difficult and sensitive topics, and may not be appropriate for a young audience. It is not recommended for people ages 17 and younger.
Inter-Diocesan Counselling Service
The Inter-Diocesan Counselling Service offers professional counselling to clergy, licensed lay ministers, ordinands and their families. This service provides confidential marital and individual counselling for clergy, accredited lay workers and their families
St Luke's
St Luke's for Clergy Wellbeing provides wellbeing support and counselling for clergy requiring support with their mental health. Further details of how to access this service can be obtained from HR.
At a Loss
At a Loss provides support for the bereaved and those supporting them.
Work Rest Pray
Work Rest Pray offers reflections on how faith relates to those three important aspects of our lives and also to our wellbeing, sense of identity and self-worth.
Work Life
Clergy Transitions Service
The Clergy Transitions Service is a service provided nationally by the Church of England which gives confidential, personal support to clergy who are at a vocational crossroads, or who are looking for a fresh opportunity. The service offers both practical help with job applications and interview skills, as well as working with individuals to identify their skills and talents and develop greater self-awareness.
Clergy may self-refer, and diocesan funding is available for any who gain the prior authorisation of one of our bishops or archdeacons.
Employee Assistance Helpline
Health Assured is the diocese's Employee Assistance Programme, offering support and guidance to help navigate life's challenges and concerns. This service is available to clergy and provides services from counselling to advice on various practical matters, such as finance, health and wellbeing and life events. For login details please contact HR: HR@manchester.anglican.org
Unite Union
The Church of England Clergy Advocates is an association for clergy members within the Church of England. It operates as a professional branch of Unite, the largest union in Britain. Membership is available to all clergy members. The network of Accredited Representatives within the Church of England Clergy Advocates offers expert advice, support, and representation. For more information, visit the Unite website.