• Matter discussed between Prospective Lay Preacher (PLP) and Presbyter.
• Achievements noted for cross-crediting, course of study decided upon and begun.
• PLP begins assisting with services and is supported into leading services.
• Trinity College makes the academic decision as to readiness.
• Practical requirements - taking the leading role in 10 services including a Trial Service where the PLP is critiqued by a presbyter, lay preacher and member of the congregation.

‘Mature and Experienced’:
The Church permits ‘mature and experienced’ accreditation if:             
1)    the worship leader is over forty years of age            
2)    is a member ‘of good standing' in the parish            
3)    has suitable theological understanding             
4)    has been leading services for more than five years            
5)    has taken more than 10 services            
6)    has undergone a successful ‘trial service’  

Completing the Process:

• The Presbyter presents the PLP to the Synod.
• The Synod ‘tests the call’ (by sub-committee or full Synod).
• PLP gives a faith statement and answers faith related questions.
• If all is satisfactory the PLP is declared ‘accredited’ to the full Synod.
• The Synod applies to the New Zealand Lay Preachers Association for a certificate (cost $20).
• Certificate is presented in the home church.
• The Lay Preacher Network is informed and the new LP fills in a registration form.
• The Lay Preacher’s details are entered on the official church lists.

Further Information:  
Church website: Lay Preachers.
Church website – Administration/leaflet 153.
Church Law Book Sect 1 10.10.
The Lay Preachers Network contact Dorothy Willis 

 Dear Ordained 

As ‘Leading Lay Preacher’ I had a dream
That all Worship Leaders feel part of a team,
Be the minister, Deacon or Clergy or Lay,
On-training together is the very best way.  

The worker is worthy of his/her hire,
Yet travel-cost covered is all LPs require,
But Presbyter, mentor, and leader of church,
If we’re not valued you could be in the lurch.  

To cherish Lay Preachers is wisely a must,
So honour the second Sunday in Au-gust,
And do LP ‘up-dating’ in each December,
Cert dates on your wall will help you remember!  

Friend Clergy, it is you, who must do the applying
For Long Service Certificates to come a-flying;
Watch out for new talent, and prevent parish waning
Run ‘Lead Worship’ courses and get your folks training.  

Presbyters and Enablers, show that you care
Sit in your own pews, at least twice a year!
With dream part-achieved, I say thanks, and good-day
For Dorothy of Southland now leads Preachers Lay.