John Hicks

Date ordained
2005

Sphere of work
Education

Why did you become an SSM/MSE/WP?
Primarily because I felt a distinct calling to those who work in school and other adults associated with the organisation. All too often clergy see the mission opportunity in primary schools as the children, which is true. But the far bigger place is those adults who pass through the school gates daily.

What's best about what you do?
Being able to travel side by side with others on their journey of faith, and/or helping others to witness an active faith. I have been fortunate to be able to baptise and marry staff as well as conducting a funeral for a long standing member of staff.

What's the most challenging?
Trying to get others to realise the potential of mission in a primary school setting.

If the church asked, what would you say are the three most important things you have learnt from your work-focused ministry?
  1. That so many people want to talk about faith
  2. That people still hold clergy in high esteem
  3. That people appreciate seeing day-in day-out an enthusiastic accessible priest

If the church asked, what would you say are the three most important lessons for it which have emerged from your work-focused ministry?
  1. That people need to know how to access you, and when they can seek confidential advice. As the senior manager this has been especially important
  2. That there is a need to be receptive the to the religious 'curve ball' that non-church-goers lob, because they have a need to question/find out more about what motives me and others 
  3. That working people want to know the church cares abou them, even if they don't go to church.

Why do you think the SSM/MSE/WP development within the CofE has, to date,
been so lack lustre?
Ultimately because we don't have SSM/MSE/WP bishops yet! The central church has not mandated dioceses to put time and money in to support and develop and challenge us.

What is it that SSM/MSE/WPs can contribute to the mission of the church today?
Relevance. Being where people are.

What do you think SSM/MSE/WPs need to receive from the church in order to be effective in their unique ministry?
Affirmation and support from local clergy. And an understanding that we are not treading on their toes but doing the work of the church.

Would you do it all again? (And anything else you simply must say)
Absolutely.... We need more. And we need to enthusiastically encourage more.
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