Guidance for Ministers

You will receive an email from the MMDR Administrator confirming that your review is due. This email includes links to this guidance page and all relevant forms. Take time to read the information carefully so you understand the process and timelines. The notification marks the start of your review journey and ensures you have everything you need to proceed smoothly. Please reply to acknowledge receipt of our message and move to the next step within two weeks of receving the email.

You can view the biographies of the MMDR Consultants participating in the pilot on this page. It may be that there’s someone you’d particularly like to conduct your review. Perhaps because you’ve worked with them before or feel their experience would help them understand your context. On the form linked below, you’ll find a drop-down menu where you can indicate your preference.

Please note, however, that we can’t guarantee your choice. Consultants’ availability can change due to personal circumstances, and to keep things fair, we ask that no one works with the same consultant more than three times. If you don’t have a preference, please still complete the form so we know you’re ready to proceed. And don’t forget to click Submit when you’re done, so we receive your response.

Ask people in your context first and then use the form linked below to give us the names of your local context reviewers. You will need to identify the following people to take part.

At least one Churchwarden.
For multi-parish benefices, or parishes held in plurality, we recommend asking one Churchwarden from each parish.

At least one Parish Safeguarding Officer.

At least two other local context reviewers. Please consider asking:

At least one church member.

At least one person from the local community in your parish.

If you are concerned about the feedback you might receive from any of the people identified in the above list to the extent that it might be destructive rather than simply challenging, please get in touch with the Deputy Director of Mission and Ministry to discuss alternative arrangements.

These reviewers provide valuable feedback on your ministry from different perspectives. Choose individuals who know your work well and can offer constructive, honest insights.

Once you have asked your local context reviewers and gathered their names and use the buttons below to open the form and send us their details.

The Administrator will send role-specific feedback forms to your nominated reviewers.

Before completing your self-reflection, you will receive the feedback from your reviewers from the Administrator. This allows you to consider their perspectives as you reflect on your ministry. Take time to read their comments carefully and prayerfully, noting areas of affirmation and any constructive suggestions. In the same email, you will also receive the name of the MMDR Consultant who has been assigned to you and copies of your previous review. This will either be your six-month review with an Archdeacon if this is your first MMDR, or, if you completed an MMDR previously, your last completed MMDR form and your previous interim review. The Consultant will be in touch to arrange a meeting with you.

Using the redesigned online form, reflect on your ministry in light of the feedback you’ve received. Before you begin completing the online form, take time to think through your responses carefully. This form invites deep reflection on your wellbeing, leadership, ministry practice, and future aspirations, so it’s helpful to approach it prayerfully and without rushing. Downloading the PDF version first can be a good starting point; it allows you to review all the questions in one place, jot down initial thoughts, and gather any information you might need (such as previous objectives or Mission Action Plans). Consider what has been fruitful in your ministry, where you’ve faced challenges, and what you sense God is calling you toward next. Aim for honest, thoughtful answers that will make your review conversation meaningful and forward-looking. Please aim to submit your Self-Reflection no later than two weeks ahead of the meeting you have arranged with your Consultant. Upon submission, notify the Administrator and they will download the form to share it with your Consultant.

You will already have heard from your Consultant and arranged a date to meet with them. At that meeting, discuss your Local Context Reviewers’ feedback, your Self-Reflection and any emerging goals you have for your development. This conversation is an opportunity to affirm strengths, explore challenges, and firm up your development objectives. It is designed to be supportive and forward-looking, helping you plan for the next stage of your ministry.

After the meeting, your consultant will draft the agreed summary and share it with you by email for approval. Once wording is confirmed, they will submit it via an online form.

Also after the meeting, draft your development objectives and share them by email with your consultant. Once the wording is confirmed, your Consultant will submit your development objectives via the online form.

In order to complete your MMDR, you will need to ensure that the following three documents are agreed with your Consultant and submitted at the same time.

1. Self Reflection by Minister

2. Development Objectives

3. Consultant’s Feedback

The Administrator will compile your self-reflection, review summary, and development objectives, then share them with Bishop’s Staff. This step ensures senior leaders understand the realities of ministry and can offer appropriate support and encouragement.

MMDR COMPLETE

The next steps are follow-up to your completed MMDR.

An MMDR Adviser will be assigned to you and your Development Objectives will be shared with them. This is the only document they receive. Their role is to help you identify CMD resources, mentoring opportunities, and practical steps to achieve your development objectives. This support is tailored to your needs and aspirations. It will be your responsibility to undertake any development actions you identify with your Adviser; they will not normally follow up with you.

Your Adviser will be in touch to arrange a meeting within six weeks to explore next steps. This conversation focuses on practical support and resources, ensuring your objectives are achievable and aligned with diocesan priorities.

Your interim review will be scheduled for 12 months after the review meeting, and your next MMDR for 24 months later. This rhythm helps sustain reflective practice and ensures ongoing support for your ministry.