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Bi-District Lay Speaking Ministries Training

Bookmark this page for updates on Lay Speaking Ministries Training and Certification.
The Bi-District Lay Ministries training team held a training event in October, 2011. Watch this space for a spring 2012 opportunity or check with other districts to see if they are hosting training.

To check on other Virginia Conference training events (all training is open to everyone), click here.

What Are Lay Speaking Ministries?

Lay Speaking 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 speaker. However, many lay speakers never speak from the pulpit. Today there are a wide range of functions, both in the church and in the world.

Lay Speakers 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 Speakers fill pulpits; lead Bible studies; teach/lead Sunday school classes; speak at retirement centers, to prisoners, and at youth group gatherings, as well as teach and facilitate in other small group settings.

Lay Speaking 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.

 

Lay Speaker's Report to Charge Conference Form 19

Lay Speaking Ministries Training Form for Charge Conference (not-year specific - use for each year)

Arlington District Lay Speaking Ministries flyer

5001 Echols Avenue * Alexandria * Virginia * 22311
Telephone:703-820-7200 ~ Fax: 703-845-8147
The Cross and Flame is a registered trademark and the use is supervised by the General Council on Finance and Administration of The United Methodist Church. Permission to use the Cross and Flame must be obtained from the General Council on Finance and Administration of The United Methodist Church.