We spoke to one of our new Readers Lucious Ofeni, who will be licensed as a Reader during this weekend’s service at Liverpool Cathedral.
I am a family man with my lovely wife, Febby, and my four children, Enoch, Joel, Blessings, and Unique. I live in Speke, Liverpool. I was born in Africa in a Christian family. Both of my parents were Christian from the Presbyterian church. Although I grew up in a Christian family, I did not know God personally until when I went to the University of Malawi. This was the time I submitted my life to Jesus as a personal saviour. That was a massive change in my life and a moment of experiencing my life as a child of God. Since then, my faith has grown and continues to grow every day.
I take on different roles in my local church, from preaching the word of God to offering intercessory prayer, praying with those who need prayer, and sometimes leading the church service. More importantly, we need to connect with members of our community. Through the support and encouragement of our Vicar Phil Saltmarsh, the work has been meaningful to my personal life, my family, and a more extensive community.
My faith in God has motivated me in my current role as an accredited Programme Facilitator in the Probation Service and is a source of great joy and fulfilment. This faith is not just a personal belief, but a guiding principle that aligns with my professional role. My role involves supporting people who go through the process of change, which aligns with my Christian belief that God wants us to be changed people who embrace love for God and for each other through Jesus Christ our Lord. Previously, I worked for Victim Support, supporting victims of crime, and after that, I worked in a mental health hospital. In these diverse roles, I have witnessed God’s favour in my interactions with people from all walks of life. My belief in God is a constant source of strength that helps me face numerous challenges my role brings. Witnessing God working through me is a blessing.
Q. Was your interest in reader ministry gradual, or something you knew you have always wanted to do?
It was not my interest in reader ministry; in fact, I did not know about it due to my background; however, I felt the calling of God in my life while still a young boy. I felt God was calling me to ministry, but I did not know what ministry it was. I completed the Directions Course a few years ago to explore what God wants me to do. After the course, it became clear that God wanted me to serve him as a lay leader. Hence, Reader ministry came to me after some thought, reflection and listening to the voice of the Lord; hence, it was gradual. Several people asked me if I would consider being an ordained, but I said I had not heard that calling as I felt God was calling me to Reader ministry at this time. I follow God’s calling.
I firmly believe that hearing God’s calling is more essential than your interests. When God calls you to ministry, He equips you to do His work. If you send yourself, your work will not be worthwhile. Unless God builds the house, the builders build it in vain. Isaiah 60 v 22 says, “When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen”. It is the Lord who makes good things happen.
Q. What roles did you hold in church before your licensing?
My journey in the church has been transformative, marked by various roles and experiences. Whether as a youth leader, a missionary, or a PCC member, I have felt God’s hand guiding me, using me to reach out to others and deepen my spiritual life. As a youth leader, I led youth groups and events such as retreats, visiting the sick in hospitals, and cheering for youth in youth juveniles. I have been involved in youth evangelism where I witnessed the power of God working amongst us. As a member of PCC, my roles range from care and maintenance of the church to supporting the clergy both prayerfully and practically. Each role has been a stepping stone in my personal growth, reinforcing my belief that I am here to serve God and God alone. This sense of belonging and community has made me feel included and valued.
Q. Why do you think reader ministry is important?
Reader ministry is important and essential in Christ’s body because they help lead public worship and teach and preach the Good News. Readers are lay people who have completed theological training. Witnessing God’s transforming power in my life and sharing the good news have been the central parts of my ministry. The Reader is the eye of the church that plays a critical role in the operation and management of the church in different capacities. Providing pastoral roles is essential for the Reader, leading Bible study groups and discussions. The Reader bridges the gap between the church and the community.
Q. How would you like to develop your ministry?
First, I want to know Jesus and the power of His resurrection more and more. In this, I wish to develop more time in prayer and fasting and devoting more time to praying for the sick, vulnerable, marginalised, unappreciated and undervalued in our communities. Speaking out for injustice and praying for our leaders to govern God’s people with love and compassion. Praying for healing and deliverance for the sick and demon possessed. I believe that the more time you spend in prayer, the less work you do physically for the power of God to be manifested in people’s lives.
Are you feeling inspired?
Find out more about becoming a Reader on our Lifecall website.
