"I'm delighted to have this opportunity to celebrate the work of lay people. And the particular way in which we're celebrating that work is through the introduction of two awards." Bishop Robert

Celebrating Lay Ministry and Service

Across the Diocese in Europe, thousands of lay people serve faithfully in their churches, communities and workplaces. They share the Good News, care for those in need, support worship, build relationships, strengthen communities and demonstrate God's love in countless practical ways.

Much of this work happens quietly, without recognition, yet its impact is profound.

Our lay awards celebrate those whose faith, commitment and service have made an exceptional contribution to the Church, their community or wider society.

Our Awards

The St Benedict of Nursia Award

The St Benedict of Nursia Award is conferred occasionally by the Bishop in Europe to recognise exceptional and distinguished service by a lay person. This award is made at the Bishop's discretion and is presented at an appropriate service or ceremony.

Click here to read about St Benedict of Nursia

The St Elizabeth of Hungary Award

The St Elizabeth of Hungary Award is presented every two years to lay people whose service deserves wider recognition across the Diocese. Nominations are welcome from across the Diocese and recipients are selected by an assessment panel.

Click here to read about St Elizabeth of Hungary

Who can be nominated?

We invite nominations of lay people from our chaplaincies of all ages whose service has made a significant difference in their church, community, or workplace. This may include ministry with children, young people or families, pastoral care, social action, environmental work, communications, volunteering in the wider community, administration, worship, teaching, or any other form of Christian service.

We are looking for the unsung heroes whose faithfulness and generosity inspire others.

What are the Award criteria?

The St Elizabeth of Hungary Award recognizes exceptional service. The panel will consider:

• The impact of the nominee's service.
• Evidence that they have gone above and beyond what might normally be expected.
• The significance and consistency of their contribution, and usually also the longevity.
• How their service reflects one or more of the Anglican Communion's Five Marks of Mission.

Who is eligible to be nominated?

• Nominees must be lay members of the Diocese in Europe and be on the Electoral Roll of one of its chaplaincies.
• All nominations are subject to safeguarding checks.
• Individuals who have received a state honour, such as an MBE, or who are members of the Cathedral Chapter [lay canons], are not eligible.

How are nominations assessed?

Nominations are considered by a panel including the Bishop in Europe, the Dean of the Cathedral, the Chair of the House of Laity and other diocesan representatives.

When are nominations open?

Nominations for the St Elizabeth of Hungary Award open in Easter 2027.  Please do prayerfully begin to consider who you may wish to nominate. Details about how to nominate them will be available in January 2027.

Join us in prayer for all those involved in lay ministry in our Diocese: Diocesan Prayer for Lay People

See below for updates and latest news about either of the Lay Awards