Lay Speaker Fast Track Training
Lay Speakers are trained laity who can step in to preach and lead worship when a pastor needs to be away, and, in some cases, provide longer coverage.
The Lay Speaker Fast Track brings every required course into one yearly sequence, giving churches a steady stream of prepared lay preachers and worship leaders. It gives candidates a clear timeline to finish requirements without delays. The aim is to equip committed lay servants with solid theological grounding and practical ministry skills so congregations receive consistent worship support wherever it’s needed.
- Each class requires a $15 registration fee.
- Scholarships are available upon request at lsm@arumc.org.
- Classes will be held via Zoom from 9 am to 4 pm unless otherwise noted.
- Classes are open to everyone, not just those seeking Lay Speaker certification.
- Facilitators will email participants with required pre class assignment information.
- Deadline to register is 2 weeks before class date.
Upcoming Classes
United Methodist Polity
Saturday, October 17, 2026 or Saturday, February 20, 2027
(Oct. 17 registration has reached capacity.)
Understand how the UMC is structured, governed, and organized for mission.
Book: Polity, Practice, and the Mission of the United Methodist Church, Thomas Edward Frank; ISBN 978-0-687-33531-2
Facilitator: R. Holifield
Leading Worship
Saturday, October 24, 2026
Core principles of United Methodist worship and planning with theological intention.
Book: Worshiping with United Methodists, Hoyt Hickman; ISBN 978-0-687-33526-8
Facilitator: Rev. Patti Butler
Leading Prayer
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Learn how to write and lead public prayer with pastoral care and clarity.
Book: Shaping the Prayers of the People, Samuel Wells and Abigail Kocher; ISBN 978-0-8028-7097-1
Facilitator: TBD
Preaching
Saturday, January 16, and Saturday, January 30, 2027
(Both sessions are required.)
9 a.m.-1 p.m.
12 participants max.
Build biblical sermons from study to delivery with confidence and pastoral awareness.
Book: From Pew to Pulpit, Clifton F. Guthrie; ISBN: 978-0-687-06660-5
Facilitator: Rev. Dr. Michael Roberts
Lay Servant Ministry Basic Course
Date: TBD
A foundation in United Methodist discipleship, leadership, and servant ministry.
Book: Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course, Sandy Zeigler Jackson and Brian Jackson; ISBN 978-0-88177-627-00
Facilitator: TBD
Discover Your Spiritual Gifts
Date: TBD
Identify and use your spiritual gifts for ministry and the life of the church.
Book: Each One a Minister, William J. Carter; ISBN 978-0-88177-375-0
Facilitator: TBD