Affirming the Ministry of All Believers
Each local church, district and annual conference in The United Methodist Church has a Lay Leader who works to coordinate the ministry of the Church in partnership with clergy leadership, and works to encourage, support and coordinate the ministry of other laypersons.
The United Methodist Church has longstanding tradition of honoring and affirming the ministry of all persons. While we ordain some persons to specialized ministries of word, sacrament, and order, the vast majority of church ministry is carried out by laypersons. These persons commit their time, talent, gifts and service to ministries like teaching, administrative support, missions, and preaching. They are our Sunday School teachers, our church treasurers, our missions coordinators, and communion stewards. They walk in Crop Walks, volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, and serve in ministry with youth.
- MIUMC Certified Lay Servant Process>>>
- MIUMC Certified Lay Speaker Process>>>
- MIUMC Certified Lay Minister Process >>>
Additional information on the process can be found on the Michigan Conference Lay Servant Ministries website.
Lay Servant Ministries Training
All clergy, church admins, and laity are encouraged to watch and learn more about the Lay Servant Ministries program!
- What are the different types of certifications?
- How can Lay Servants help their pastors and congregations?
- What types of classes are available?
- When and where are classes being offered?
- Do I have to pursue “Certified” status if I take a class?
- How do I maintain my records (personal and by church) and renew each year?
Resources:
- Online Classes: https://beadisciple.com/beadisciple-courses/ (make sure the classes are “Lay Servant Ministries” in the far right column when choosing)
- Discipleship Ministries Handout
- Central Shores Lay Servant Course Checklist & Annual Activity Summary (.pdf)
- Central Shores Lay Servant Course Checklist & Annual Activity Summary (.docx)
Central Shores District Lay Servant Classes
Central Shores Lay Servant Ministries
Course Retreat – Fall 2026
On September 25-26, White Lake United Methodist Church in Montague hosted an amazing Lay Servant Retreat! We had a record number of students learning about the basics of the faith, preparing worship and how to begin Fresh Expressions of church. Thank you to everyone who helped to organize!
Central Shores District Lay Servant Ministries Co-Directors:
- Janice Buckley: [email protected]
- Sara Wolfsen: [email protected]