Ministerial Development Review provides an opportunity for all clergy under Common Tenure to reflect on their vocation and ministry. In the Diocese of Portsmouth, the MDR process is designed with the wellbeing of clergy at its heart.

How our MDR process works

In our diocese, the MDR process is carried out on a two-year cycle. The MDR is carried out in Year 1 by an Archdeacon, and in Year 2 by a Lay Reviewer. In addition, Bishop Jonathan aims to have a meeting with every member of the clergy under Common Tenure, every three years. So everyone eligible for MDR will be reviewed annually, and will see the Bishop at least once every three years in addition to this.

The process begins with the filling in of a Preparation Form. What you put in this form will provide the basis for the conversation with your reviewer. In addition, in Year 1, you will be asked to send Colleague Review forms to at least five people, including your Area Dean (or equivalent), at least one person from your parish (or other setting if appropriate), and at least one from the wider community. You will have a chance to reflect on this feedback on your Preparation Form and in your MDR. You will see that the Preparation Forms for Years 1 and 2 are slightly different; you might find that this leads to different types of conversation in each year.

The MDR then takes place, with either the Archdeacon or the Lay Reviewer. Following the MDR, you will be asked to fill in a record form, outlining in brief notes the actions arising from your review and anything else that it would be helpful to record.

The Archdeacons’ PAs are here to provide support at every stage of this process, and can be contacted with any queries.

PA to the Archdeacon of the Meon

Kara Weston
supports the work of the Archdeacon of the Meon by providing administrative services.

E: email