As a Methodist Local Preacher I am part of a long heritage.

The role of the Local Preacher dates back to the days of John Wesley, the founder of Methodism. In 1738 John Wesley experienced conversion and as a result of this began his career to "reform the nation and spread spiritual holiness throughout the land". From then on, his life was given to preaching the gospel the length and breadth of the country, which he did mainly out of doors, covering an average of eight thousand miles a year on horseback! Some of those converted by his preaching, began in turn to preach the gospel and became known as "Mr Wesley's Preachers."

The Local preacher gives an important service which is valued throughout Methodism but who are these people and how do you become one?

Anyone who is a member of the Methodist Church and feels God is calling them to become a preacher, can offer themselves for this work. the first step is for them to speak with their minister who will in turn put them their name forward for the approval of the Local Preacher's Meeting, (held quarterly). Subject to their approval the trainee Local Preacher begins a training period of study and preaching, which lasts between 2 and 5 years depending in individual circumstances. Throughout this period adequate supervision is given and the all of God to this work is fully tested and reviewed.

The trainee Local Preacher begins by accompanying a fully accredited Local Preacher. This is called "having a note to preach". At first they only take a small part in the service, perhaps reading one of the lessons, but gradually the amount is increased until with help they are able to take a whole service. At the same time the trainee attends regular classes with the Local Preacher's Tutor and works through a programme of study. This includes reading, written and oral work. The next stage, again subject to the approval of the Local Preacher's Meeting, is for the trainee to be placed "on trial". When they attain this stage they are responsible for the whole service and go out unaccompanied. The Local Preacher's Meeting receives regular reports on the services the trainee has taken as well as the progress they are makingin their studies. This enables the meeting to decide whether or not the trainee should continue as a preacher. In most Circuits the trainee is allocated to one person who will be able to offer support, help, advice encouragement and constructive criticism. The period of training includes written and oral examinations. On satisfactory completion of these studies a recommendation is made to the Circuit Meeting and if accepted, a service of commissioning and welcome is arranged. At this service vows are made and the trainee becomes "Recognised" as a Fully Accredited Local Preacher.

Becoming a Local Preacher is a lifetime appointment. it carries with it a great responsibility as well as tremendous privileges. As a full accredited Local Preacher you are entitled to preach in any Methodist Church world wide. Recently I have had to withdraw from preaching on the grounds of poor health but not before receiving my long service certificate, awarded after 40 years as a fully accredited Local Preacher.

Being a Methodist Local Preacher is a rewarding and satisfying experience and I can recommend it to you. If you feel this is something God may be calling you to do or if you would like to learn more about it, do get in touch with someone who can help. Your minister or any Local Preacher will be pleased to discuss it with you and point you in the right direction.