Lay Speaking Ministry

In our midst, there are laity who occasionally fill a pulpit, or who regularly visit the sick or talk with persons uncertain about God. Some laity have considered a call to ministry but wanted to remain in their community and live as a faithful servant. Persons not confident of a call to ministry yet knowing that God has a hold on their lives, have asked themselves, "Could God be calling me to ministry?"

Certified Lay Ministry may be an appropriate response for these persons.

A Certified Lay Minister (CLM) is a qualified layperson called to congregational leadership as part of a ministry team under the supervision of a clergy person. They are intended for the missional leadership of smaller churches but often serve the church in many other ways. Paragraph 272 of the 2004 Book of Discipline explains Certified Lay Ministry.

A person wishing to become a CLM enters a certification process including training, support, supervision and accountability while serving in a local church assigned by the District Superintendent. CLMs are laypersons serving out their call as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

A CLM:

• Is an extension of the historic role of laity in the Methodist movement
• Is trained, supported, supervised and accountable for leadership
• Can be assigned by the District Superintendent as an appropriate leader in a small church or faith community
• Has the support and supervision of a clergyperson
• Can make a real difference in the vitality of a congregation that otherwise may be discontinued for lack of a pastor.

If you are interested in becoming a CLM, pray to discern God's will in your life. Talk to your pastor or District Superintendent to explore the process.

Certified Lay Speakers serve in their own churches, in other churches, and through district or conference projects and programs.

Contact Mike Freeman at mfree9180@aol.com