Local lay speakers, need to complete a basic lay speaking course. There is no expiration date on local lay speakers. The local church lay speaker needs to apply to the lay speaking committee to take the basic course. A recommendation by his/her pastor and the church council (or charge conference) is required. Upon acceptance by the committee, the applicant needs to satisfactorily complete the basic course. The local church lay speaker may serve his/her local church in which membership is held, by witness of the spoken work, vital leadership service, and care-giving ministry. A submission of an annual report to the charge conference is required. (Paragraph ¶ 267 in the Book of Discipline)
The Book of Discipline (¶ 266) lists specific places of service for local church lay speakers. They may
• offer help and support to the church's program emphases in a proactive manner;
• cultivate caregiving ministries within the local church and in the community;
• work with committees and others responsible for various ministries to provide leadership for congregational
and community life;
• lead meetings for prayer, study, training, and discussion at the request of the pastor, district superintendent,
or committee on lay speaking; and
• conduct or assist in worship services in the local church and offer sermons and addresses when asked to do
so by the pastor; district superintendent, or committee on lay speaking.
What is involved in the approval process?
People who wish to become local church lay speakers must apply in writing. They may simply write a letter, or they may apply on the form furnished by their district or annual conference. In the letter or report, they ask for approval from their pastor and from the church council (or equivalent) or charge conference in the congregation where they hold membership. The Book of Discipline describes the lay speaker candidate as one who is already "active in the support of the local church or charge" (¶ 266).
What training must a Local Lay Speaker attend?
Candidates must also complete the Lay Speaking Ministries: Basic Course or an alternative course of study approved by the conference committee on lay speaking.
If there is no expiration date for being recognized as a Local Lay Speaker, how does a Local Lay Speaker continue to be recognized by their church?
Local church lay speakers file an annual report and reapplication with their charge conference. At that time, their work within the local church is affirmed and recognized.
What is expected of Local Lay Speakers?
Supports and ministers to his/her local church
Looks for leadership opportunities in the local church
Must file a report with their Charge Conference every year