EDUCATION

Lay Speaking Ministries, Basic Course, Instructor/Facilitator: Arnie Johnson. 

Description: “We're all called to proclaim God's wonder and works. Answering the spiritual nudges to put faith in action and represent Christ in our daily lives present unique opportunities to serve God and neighbor. As unique as you and your spiritual gifts.

The basic course for Lay Speaking Ministries guides you to discover your gifts of caring, leading and communicating and put them to use.

‘We can all find a calling in one or more of these areas of ministry,’ write the authors. ‘The church depends upon its laity to carry out its mission and purpose. …Many journeys of deepening faith and service in ministry have begun with this [book and] class.’
Sessions take you through thoughtful reflection on what it takes to make a congregation an outpost for mission and transformation and the role you can play — even if public speaking isn't your gift.”

You Can Preach, Advanced Course, Instructors/Facilitators: Rev. Elizabeth Davis and Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson. 

Description: “Laypersons who are called upon to preach on occasion, but who are not formally trained as preachers, will find this course and simple, direct booklet to be both practical and accessible. Designed for lay speakers, lay leaders, pastors and student pastors who have not completed formal preaching training, pastors seeking a basic refresher course, others who are called upon to preach in their pastor’s absence.” 

The registration cost will be approx. $35 for the Basic and $45. The final price is yet to be determined. This cost covers books, snacks, and lunch.

Once the New England Conference web site gets updated, you should be able to find the final information and registration information at http://www.neumc.org/pages/detail/36

And, there are plans in the works to offer more courses in April, probably the Basic again and an Advanced Course, possibly “Lay Speakers Discover Spiritual Gifts” or “Lay Speakers Grow Spiritually Through Daily Discipline.”