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 –
Lay Speaker –
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
DATE: Saturdays, October 13 and 20, 2018 (attendance on both dates is required)
TIME: 7:30am - 3:30pm
LOCATION: Effingham Centenary UMC, 203 E Grove Ave, Effingham 62401
COST: $35.00 (includes, 2 meals and snacks)
REGISTRATION: Advanced registration is required and must be done through the conference website. To register on-line go to: https://igrc-reg.brtapp.com/ERD2018FallBasicLayServantClass. If you experience any difficulties with the on-line registration please contact the Embarras River District Office at 217-347-3915.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, October 5, 2018
Through an understanding of the history of storytelling and of storytellers as keepers of beliefs, traditions, history, and values, you will find new meaning in the stories and storytellers of the Bible and of the Christian faith, learn what makes a good story, discover your own style as a storyteller, learn the techniques of effective storytelling, and practice creating stories from your own experience. Let the dance begin! Counts toward Lay Speaker Track.
REQUIRED TEXT: Dancing with Words by Ray Buckley (ISBN 978-0-88177-407-8). Individuals should order and read this text prior to the class. It is available through Cokesbury or Amazon. Also available as an e-book. Please allow at least two weeks for delivery.
DATES: Saturdays, October 13 and 20, 2018
TIME: 7:30am - 3:30pm
LOCATION: Effingham Centenary UMC, 203 E Grove Ave, Effingham 62401
COST: $35.00 (includes two meals and snacks)
REGISTRATION: Advanced registration is required and must be done through the conference website. If you experience any difficulties with the on-line registration please contact the Embarras River District Office at 217-347-3915.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, October 5, 2018
This course will explore the special gifts of theology, witness, and organization that The United Methodist Church brings to the church universal, how we got where we are today, and how our distinctive emphases are still needed in the 21st century church. Counts toward the Lay Speaker Track.
Required Text: The United Methodist Way: Living Our Beliefs by Bishop Kenneth Carder (ISBN 9780881775716). Participants are expected to read this text prior to class and complete required assignments. Available through Cokesbury and Amazon (paperback & kindle).
DATES: Saturdays, October 13 and 20, 2018
TIME: 7:30am - 3:30pm
LOCATION: Effingham Centenary UMC, 203 E Grove Ave, Effingham 62401
COST: $35.00 (includes two meals and snacks)
REGISTRATION: Advanced registration is required and must be done through the conference website. If you experience any difficulties with the on-line registration please contact the Embarras River District Office at 217-347-3915.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, October 5, 2018