The Road to Emmaus

A Certified Lay Minister (CLM) is a qualified United Methodist layperson called to congregational leadership as part of a ministry team under the supervision of a clergyperson, but who often serves the church in many other ways. Paragraph 272 in the 2004 Book of Discipline, Paragraph 271 in the 2008 Book of Discipline, authorized by the 2004 General Conference, explains Certified Lay Ministry, requirements and service
distinction.

Our Book of Discipline tell us that a CLM:

• Is an extension of the historic role of laity in the
  Methodist environment.
• Is trained, supported, supervised and accountable
  for leadership in his/her context.
• Can be assigned by the bishop and cabinet as an
  appropriate leader in a smaller church or faith
  community.
• Has the support and supervision of a clergyperson.
• Can make a real difference in the vitality of a congregation
  that otherwise may be discontinued for
  lack of a pastor.

A Certified Lay Speaker or a person with equivalent training (Licensing School or seminary coursework) may become a certified lay minister.

If you are interested in becoming a CLM, pray to discern God’s will in your life. Reflect on questions like these: Could God be calling you as a layperson to be a
part of a ministry team using pastoral gifts given to you? Could you serve God faithfully in a team under the leadership of your pastor as a CLM in the congregation in which you are currently a member, or serve a small congregation as its leader? Are you willing to explore this form of leadership in The United Methodist Church?

If you can answer "yes" to any of these questions, consider becoming a Certified Lay Minister and experience what it is like to be faithfully alive to the possibilities of leading the mission and ministry of a church today as part of a ministry team. Talk with your pastor to explore the process. Complete the
training.

1. Local Church Recommendation
   Written recommendation of the Pastor and supporting vote of the Church Council or Church Conference where he/she holds membership.
   
   
2. Complete Coursework for CLM
   Module I: Covenant for Ministry
   Module II: Practice of Ministry
   Module III: Organization of Ministry
   Module IV: Connection and Ministry
   Module V: Experiential Learning

The CLM may be re-certified by the District Committee on Ordained Ministry every 2 years after:

• A successful ministry program
• Recommendation from Charge Conference
• Completion of Continuing Education
• Recommendation of District Superintendent

District Committee on Ministry Guidelines for Certified Lay Ministry

October 2011

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