Lay Servant Ministries

is a professing member of a local church
desires to serve God’s mission for the world through the Church
knows and is committed to Scripture, and to the doctrine, heritage, organization, and life of The United Methodist Church
serves through their witness, leadership, and service inspiring others to a deeper commitment to Christ and more effective discipleship
is prepared to undertake one or more of the following functions :
- provide leadership, assistance, and support to the ministries of their local congregation;
- lead meetings for prayer, training, study, and discussion;
- conduct or assist in conducting services of worship;
- preach the Word or offer devotions;
- work with others in the congregation and community to provide leadership for and foster caring ministries;
- assist in the distribution of the elements of Holy Communion upon request by the pastor;
- teach the Scriptures, doctrine, organization, and ministries of The United Methodist Church

is a Certified Lay Servant
serves by preaching the Word when invited by the pastor, the District Superintendent, or the Committee on Lay Servant Ministries

How to become a first time Certified Lay SERVANT

I am already a Certified Lay SERVANT and need to maintain my certification

Complete an Annual Report for the Charge Conference of your Local Church
Receive recommendation for renewal from the Pastor and Charge Conference of your Local Church
Complete an Advanced Course in Lay Servant Training once every three years.

How to become a first time Certified Lay SPEAKER

Have a conversation with your pastor
Complete the WNCC Lay Servant Training Questions and Form
Complete the Basic Course in Lay Servant Training, and 6 Advanced Courses in each of the following areas:
- Leading Worship
- Leading Public Prayer
- Discovering Spiritual Gifts
- Preaching
- UMC Heritage
- UMC Polity
Receive approval from the Pastor and the Charge Conference of your Local Church
Receive approval from the District and Conference Lay Servant Ministries Committee

I am already a Certified Lay SPEAKER and need to maintain my certification

Complete an Annual Report for the Charge Conference of your Local Church
Receive a recommendation for renewal from the Pastor and the Charge Conference of your Local Church
Complete an Advanced Course once every three years
Receive a recommendation for renewal from the District and Conference Lay Servant Ministries Committee every three years