• 2008 Lay Speakers
• Definition of a Lay Speaker
• Expectations of a Lay Speaker
• Steps to becoming a Lay Speaker
• Responsibilities & limitations of a Certified Lay Speaker Appointed as Pastor
• Upcoming Courses

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A Lay Speaker Is:

An active supportive member of the United Methodist Church:

1. Eager to serve through the church;
2. Well-informed on the Scripture and the doctrine, heritage, organization and the life of the United Methodist Church;
3. Committed to witnessing through church and community leadership, care-giving ministries and spoken communication; and
4. Willing to improve his or her skills for service.

Lay Speaking Ministries offers training opportunities for laity who would like to use their witness, leadership, and service to inspire others to a deeper commitment to Christ and more effective discipleship. This may include the interpretation of the Scriptures, doctrine, organization, and ministries of the church.

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What is expected of a Lay Speaker?

Local Church Lay Speakers

1. Support and minister to the local church
2. Look for leadership opportunities in the local church
3. Must file a report with the Charge Conference every year

Certified Lay Speakers

1. Support and minister to the local church and beyond
2. Can be utilized by other congregations
3. Look for leadership opportunties in the local church and beyond
4. Must file a report with the Charge Conference every year
5. Must take a least one Advanced Course every three years to maintain certification

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Steps to becoming a Certified Lay Speaker:

1. Receive approval from Local Church
2. Submit a Lay Speaker Application to the District Office
3. Take Basic Courses A & B (Take this course for Local Church Lay Speaker Status.)
4. Take an Advanced Course (Take both courses for Certified Lay Speaker Status.)

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Responsibilities and limitations of a Certified Lay Speaker appointed as a Supply Pastor:

• Weekly preaching
• Calling on the sick and shut-ins
• Funerals, if requested
• Responsible for District and Conference Forms
• Cannot perform weddings
• Cannot serve Holy Communion without the assistance of an elder

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Upcoming Lay Speaker Courses

in the South Indiana Conference

LAY SPEAKER SCHOOLS - 2008

Columbus District

• Basic A & B, & Advanced Training - September 20, 8:30 to 3:30 pm.  Location to be announced.

Vincennes District

• Advanced Course (Lay Speakers Discover Spiritual Gifts)
  September 23, 2008 1:30-4:45 pm 
• Advanced Course (Lay Speakers are Accountable Disciples)
  November 25, 2008 1:30-4:45 pm

        All classes are held at Vincennes Community United Methodist Church, 1548 S. Hart St. Rd., Vincennes

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