Managing local church ministry programs can be a lot like flying an airplane. There is the thrilling season of takeoff and soaring to new heights. Eventually, however, a ministry or program must descend and head for the runway. Sometimes ministries can refuel and launch again. Other times, a new direction is best. Either way, it’s a difficult decision and requires careful and prayerful analysis and evaluation. Providing a process of review and honest evaluation will help assure that those who are serving as certified lay ministers (CLMs) are engaged in active and life-giving ministry.
The primary responsibility for ministry review is with the congregation or community where the CLM is serving. Usually conducted by the church council or S/PPRC, this review provides the opportunity to determine if this ministry is still important and vital to the life of the congregation being served. It is also a good time to make any adjustments in the ministry team or covenant that may be needed.
It is expected that CLMs who are certified by the North Carolina Conference would be active in ministry and have worked with their district superintendent and mutual ministry team to assure their ministry covenant is appropriate for their ministry. Should the CLM be “inactive” (i.e., not serving in ministry with a ministry covenant), they should seek guidance from their clergy mentor and district superintendent for discernment and evaluation of their gifts and graces.