Certified Lay Ministry Training

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.

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:

Worship
Discipleship
Preaching and Teaching
Congregational Care
Communication
Organizational and Personal Leadership
United Methodist Connection

During the training, participants will develop a team of leaders and support system within their current congregation who will encourage them throughout the course and beyond. Participants will also 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.

Modules Covered:

Module 1- Call and Covenant for Ministry

Module 2- The Practice of Ministry

Module 3- Organization for Ministry

Module 4- Connection for Ministry

Registration:

The cost for the class is $300 per person, which includes lunch, snacks, and curriculum materials for the entire course.

Certified Lay Ministry Classes 2023-24

Fall 2023 – Perry UMC in Perry. Cost $300, includes lunches.

Sept. 9- 9am-6pm

Sept. 23- 9am-4pm

Oct. 7- 9am-4pm

Oct. 21- 9am-4pm

Nov. 4- 9am-5pm

Nov. 18- 9am-12pm

Winter 2024 - Bemiss UMC in Valdosta. Cost $300, includes lunches

Jan. 13- 9am-6pm

Jan. 27- 9am-4pm

Feb. 10- 9am-4pm

Feb. 24- 9am-4pm

March 9- 9am-5pm

March 23- 9am-12pm

Register here

Summer 2024 - Pittman Park UMC in Statesboro. Cost $300, includes lunches M-F, snacks, books, and supplies. The cost for lodging, breakfast, and dinner will be on your own.

June 24-28

Sept. 21- 9am-4pm

Oct. 5- 9am-4pm

Oct. 19- 9am-4pm

Nov. 2- 9am-5pm

Nov. 16- 9am-12pm