Laity have long been an integral part of Methodist ministry. Lay leaders, lay speakers, and lay missioners have served the church almost since its inception.
Certified Lay Ministers (CLMs) typically provide ministry in part-time or volunteer roles in a variety of formats including conducting public worship, caring for the congregation, assisting in program leadership, developing new and existing faith communities, preaching the Word, leading small groups, and establishing community outreach ministries. Congregational Development and Connectional Ministries have partnered to offer a training opportunity to help laity deepen their leadership skills and gain practical, hands-on experience.
“The Certified Lay Minister program is designed to offer anyone who wants to be a stronger leader in their church a good foundation,” said Dr. Nita Crump, Director of Connectional Ministries. “We encourage everyone who is assigned to a church as Lay Supply to participate in this program, and we also encourage all other church leaders to consider it.”
Participating in the CLM program will make any lay person a stronger leader in their church, she said.
The coursework includes holistic ministry training covering the following topics:
During the training, which runs Oct. 13, 2018, through March 3, 2019, participants will develop a team of leaders and supporters within their current congregation who will encourage them throughout the course and beyond. Through the 11 classes, held at The Chapel’s Brunswick campus, they’ll build relationships with other South Georgia lay leaders and learn, practice, implement, share, and be inspired to take what they’ve learned and put it into action.
Schedule:
Module 1- Call and Covenant for Ministry
Module 2- The Practice of Ministry
Module 3- Organization for Ministry
Module 4- Connection for Ministry
The cost for the class is $300 per person, which includes lunch, snacks, books, and supplies for the entire course. Scholarship opportunities are available. Contact Dr. Nita Crump at nitac@sgaumc.com for more information.