5.10 The Reader and ministry to the bereaved.

Fifty-six per cent of all respondents in the survey indicated that taking funeral services was a primary function of Readers. Whilst there is significant growth of 92% in the last eight years in the number of funerals taken by Readers in Winchester diocese, the absolute number remains extremely low. Contact was also made with some undertakers who showed little or no understanding of who Readers were. Several indicated that anyone was able to read at a funeral.

The e-mail discussion revealed contrasting stories from people whose job involved them working with the bereaved. One correspondent indicated that they took funeral services because their incumbent recognised their skills, and another did not, because the incumbent believed that funerals were an inappropriate ministry for a member of the laity. The latter view reflects a clear distinction between the work of the caring professions during bereavement and the ministry of the church. The Reader's role in this ministry would still seem to be evolving and could be an important topic inclusion in 'Continuing Ministerial Education' programmes.