Across our conference, laity serve in a variety of ways—preaching, teaching, leading ministries, and serving in local congregations and beyond.

Explore the Different Pathways for Lay Ministry

One of the questions we hear most often is, “What’s the difference between a certified lay servant, certified lay speaker, and certified lay minister?”

We’ve recently expanded our online resources to help answer that question and make it easier to explore each pathway.

• Certified Lay Servant — called and equipped for leadership roles in the local church
• Certified Lay Speaker — prepared to offer pulpit supply across the district
• Certified Lay Minister — equipped for long-term ministry roles as part of a ministry team

Interested in Certified Lay Ministry?

Applications for the 2026–2027 Certified Lay Minister Candidate Training Program are now being accepted through August 27.

If you are discerning whether certified lay ministry might be right for you, reply to this email and let’s schedule a phone call. We would be glad to walk alongside you as you discern your next steps.

~ Your Lay Servant Ministries Team