New training resources available for Certified Lay Ministers

"The resources. are a response to action by the church's 2004 General Conference authorizing a new form of church leadership."

- Sandy Zeigler

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - New resources are now available to help prepare United Methodist laypersons to be certified as lay ministers within the denomination for assignments to pastoral leadership posts.

The resources, developed by the General Board of Discipleship in partnership with the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, are a response to action by the church's 2004 General Conference authorizing a new form of church leadership, said Sandy Zeigler, director of Discipleship's lay leadership development.

A Certified Lay Minister is typically assigned by a district superintendent to serve a small membership congregation under the supervision of a clergyperson. He or she also may serve as part of a pastoral team in the church where he or she regularly worships.

"These training modules ensure that people seeking to become Certified Lay Ministers receive the training, support, supervision and accountability to enable them to provide excellent leadership in churches where traditional clergy appointments are not viable," Zeigler, a GBOD staffer who was instrumental in their development, said.

Each module covers a different aspect of training and is recommended for study with church leaders as part of a mutual ministry team.

"Module One: Call and Covenant for Ministry" examines United Methodist theology and ordering of ministry, along with the role of the Certified Lay Minister and other leadership concerns.

"Module Two: The Practice of Ministry" explores basic skills needed by the Certified Lay Minister, including leading worship, preaching and sharing faith, forming discipleship ministries, and providing congregational care.

"Module Three: Organization for Ministry" covers the basics of leadership, administration, and congregational development, and how to maximize leadership, organization, and resources in various kinds of congregations.

"Module Four: Connection for Ministry" reviews United Methodist history, doctrine and polity, and the connection between various levels of the denomination. It also includes proposed plans for ongoing education and a commitment service.

The modules are available to download at The Upper Room online bookstore of the General Board of Discipleship Web site www.GBOD.org. Each module is priced at $25.

The Rev. Karen Greenwaldt, top executive of the General Board of Discipleship, said, "Discipleship Resources is pleased to offer these resources in a readily accessible and affordable form. We believe that they are an exciting new step toward fully developing a new form of leadership in The United Methodist Church."

Further information on the Certified Lay Ministers program is available from the General Board of Discipleship Web site at www.GBOD.org.

Last updated on 25 Apr 2008

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