How Do I Become a Lay Speaker?

To begin as a Lay Speaker you must:

-Apply in writing by completing the Application Form. For a copy of the form please go to the bottom of the main Lay Speaking page and click on "Download Lay Speaking Forms." You will then be taken to the page with the link for the Lay Speaking Application form. Click on that link to bring up the form.

-Be an active member of a United Methodist Church*

-Be ready and desirous to serve the church.

-Be recommended by your pastor and Charge Conference or Church Council.

-Complete the Lay Speaking Ministries Basic Course.

-Be willing to exercise leadership, according to your spiritual gifts, under the guidance of a pastor.

-Be willing to submit an annual written report of ministry/re-application form to the Charge Conference each year.

*NOTE--In many cases non-members may also enroll in a class, as availability allows, if they submit a registration along with a letter of recommendation from their United Methodist pastor and in consultation with the District Director of Lay Speaking Ministries in their area. Non-members will be recognized as "graduates" of the course, but cannot be "credentialed" in the UMC.