ERD Lay Servant Ministries

What Are Lay Servant Ministries?

Lay servant ministries had its origins in the early organization of the Wesleyan revival in England. With more societies than ordained clergy, John Wesley authorized the use of lay assistants who preached and conducted worship in the absence of clergy. Speaking from the pulpit has always been one important role of the lay servant. However, many lay servants never speak from the pulpit. Today there are a wide range of functions, both in the church and in the world. Lay servants show their faith by responding to others with care-giving love and service. Some are involved with crisis ministries or hospital visitation,

while still others visit in nursing homes. Some share in caring one-on-one or are involved in specialized ministry in their community. The Scriptures and Christian experience point to the importance of proclaiming God’s transforming love. Lay Servant Ministries help Christians to claim their spiritual gifts, talents and skills, by offering them empowering training. This training encourages them to find places to use their God given gifts in ministry while providing them a network of support.

What is a Lay Servant?

~ An active, supportive member of a United Methodist Church

~ Someone well informed on the Scripture, doctrine, heritage, organization, and life of The United Methodist Church

~ Someone committed to Christian service that is supported by on-going formal training to help them develop skills in witnessing to their Christian faith through: Leading in their church and community, Caring by providing care-giving ministries and Communicating through the spoken word

Lay servants reach out to others in time of need, lead classes, chair committees, volunteer to organize outreach efforts of the church, and speak out about their faith.

Certified Lay Servant –

Have taken an advanced course in Lay Servant Ministry
Serve the local congregation and beyond
Requires pastor and charge conference approval
Must complete an Advanced Course after the Basic Course
Must file an annual report
Must complete one (1) Advanced Course every 3 years

Lay Speaker –

Certified Lay Servants who provide pulpit supply on occasion
Requires pastor and charge conference approval
Must complete the required courses for Lay Speaker
Must interview with the District Committee on Lay Servant Ministry
Must be approved by the Conference Committee on Lay Servant Ministry
Must file an annual report
Every three (3) years must complete one (1) Advanced Course and interview with District Committee on Lay Servant Ministry

Upcoming Classes

Basic Class -

For laity wishing to begin taking Lay Servant classes. This course invites you to consider the importance of exercising servant leadership, remaining rooted in consistent spiritual practices, and being part of a group that holds members accountable in discipleship. It offers guidelines for optimal communication in leadership and presents numerous types of lay servant ministries.

REQUIRED TEXT: Lay Servant Ministries: Basic Course Participant’s Book by Sandy Jackson. Individuals will need to order this book. Available through Cokesbury, Amazon and Upper Room. Please allow at least two weeks for delivery

DATES: Saturday, March 23 and 30, 2019

TIME: 8:30am - 4:30pm (registration begins at 8:00am)

LOCATION: Watson UMC, 13900 E US Hwy 37, Watson 62473

COST: $30.00 (includes two meals and snacks)

REGISTRATION: Advanced registration is required. Use the link below.

If you experience any difficulties with the on-line registration please contact the Embarras River District Office at 217-347-3915.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Monday, March 11, 2019

Course Description

Registration

Advanced Class -

Leading Worship -

This course explains the basic pattern of United Methodist worship within the broader context of Christian worship. It covers the formative nature of worship and provides practical suggestions for how to renew and revitalize worship. Instruction in multiple resources for planning and leading worship included to lead congregations into a deeper and richer experience of God. Counts towards the Certified Lay Speaker Tract.

Lay Servants Lead in Conflict Resolution -

Transforming conflict into a positive rather than a negative force is a spiritual pursuit and needs to be grounded in biblical principles: love of God, neighbor, and self. This book is a resource for leaders, ministers, mediators, facilitators, and conflict transformation consultants who want to approach the work in this way. Part 1 explains how we can prepare ourselves for the work of engaging conflict. Part 2 explores how we engage others in conflict transformation, outlining specific processes. Interwoven with the practical instructions are stories that illustrate the potential for this new "justpeace" approach.