A. NO. Some are called and some are not. The name does not imply that preaching is a mandatory duty. However, even if you would like to preach, there are no guarantees you will be asked to do so. There are many ways you can serve Christ in the Lay Speaking Ministries.

Q. What are the two categories of Lay Speakers?

A. Local Church Lay Speakers are the entry, initial level. These servant leaders are limited in service to the home church to which they are a member. Many Lay Speakers prefer to minister at this level. Certified Lay Speakers are at an advanced level, and they may serve as Lay Speaker beyond the borders and ministries of the home church out into the community.

Q. What is expected of me as a Lay Speaker?

A. The most important thing is to get involved, however and wherever you can, in lay ministry at your local church. Consider your spiritual gifts and interest areas. Also, you must complete and sign an Annual Report form every year to report your activities in ministry, and any lay speaking training you have completed. Your district/subdistrict Director of Lay Speaking Ministries will provide the form. Fill it out, sign it, and give it to your pastor. Your local charge or all church conference will consider your application for renewal as a Lay Speaker, and vote on it accordingly. Approval at that level authorizes you to continue on for another year as a Lay Speaker assigned to your local church.

How do I become a Lay Speaker?

A. You must take the formal Lay Speaking Ministries Basic Course (or Youth Basic Course) to become a Local Church Lay Speaker. Later, you may take another course to become a Certified Lay Speaker.

Q. How do I become a Certified Lay Speaker?

A. First, you must be a Local Church Lay Speaker. Then you must attend and complete one of the approved United Methodist Church Lay Speaking advanced courses. These courses are presented from time to time in the Rocky Mountain Conference. Your district/subdistrict director will set up these training events.

Q. Is there any other training required of a Lay Speaker?

A. YES. As a Local Church Lay Speaker you must take an approved Local Church Lay Speaker Refresher Course at least every three years. As a Certified Lay Speaker you must take any of the approved United Methodist Church Advanced Courses at least every three years. Certified Lay Speakers may also use Alternate Approved Advanced Course to satisfy this course credit. Lay Speakers are encouraged to take as many of the official courses as they can to grow in ministry. Taking more courses more often is always encouraged.

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