Who ya gonna call? : the experience of licensed lay worship leaders in rural congregations in the United Church of Canada

Abstract

This qualitative research study examines the experience of Licensed Lay Worship Leaders (LLWLs) serving in rural pastoral charges in the United Church of Canada. Taking the form of a phenomenological study, the experiences of LLWLs were obtained through a series of interviews. Analysis of these interviews identified some common themes. Analyzing these themes offers us insight into the experience of LLWLs. These insights give us the opportunity to celebrate the experiences and successes of LLWLs while also offering us the opportunity to improve the experience for LLWLs, and at the same time, better meet the needs of the rural pastoral charges in which they serve.