Lay Servant Ministries
In 2012, the General Conference of The United Methodist Church approved legislation to change the name of Lay Speaking Ministries to Lay Servant Ministries. For several quadrennia, various name changes had been proposed – none of which adequately described the role of this leadership development program. There is no change in the process of becoming a local church or certified lay servant from the lay speaker process.
A Lay Servant is…
- An active, supportive member of a United Methodist church
- Eager to serve through the church
- Well-informed on Scripture, and on doctrine, heritage, organization, and life of The United Methodist Church
- Committed to witnessing through church and community leadership, care-giving ministries, and spoken communication
- Willing to improve his/her skills for service
Annual Commitment to Lay Servant Ministries:
A lay servant is required to fill out an annual report form each year to maintain enrollment. It asks the lay servant to reflect on the previous year and list areas of ministry as well as other discipleship questions. Yes, lay servants are accountable to our church families, The United Methodist Church, and, most importantly, to God.
