Lay Speakers Ministry and Classes
Lay Speaking ministry in The United Methodist Church
A Lay Speaker is an active, supportive member of The United Methodist Church eager to serve through the church, becoming well informed on the Scriptures, the doctrine, heritage, organization and life of The United Methodist Church. A Lay Speaker is also committed to witnessing through church and community leadership, caring ministries and spoken communication and willing to improve his/her skills for service.
There are two kinds of Lay Speakers:
Local church Lay Speakers serve in and through their local churches. They have completed the Basic course for lay speaking. Each year they are recommended by their pastor and Charge conference. They report on how they have served and continued to learn in the past year.
Certified Lay Speakers serve in their own churches and in other churches throughout their circuit, district or conference. They have completed the Basic course and at least one Advanced course. They must complete another Advanced course every 3 years. They too are recommended by their pastor and Charge conference and must report on their service and spiritual growth.
How do you know if you are ready to be a Lay Speaker?
You are ready to become a Local or Cerfitifed Lay Speaker if you are ready to share God's love and your faith, you sense God's call on your life and are willing to explore it and you are willing to commit your time and energy to the service of God and neighbor.
If you are interested in becoming a Lay Speaker, contact your pastor for further information or check out the monthly calendar for Basic and Advanced classes in Wisconsin.
