Perhaps you have even considered being more involved in mission and ministry in the past, but wanted to remain in the community where you live as a faithful servant. Perhaps you are the one others look toward to share your faith story. Perhaps you are not confident of the service to which God is calling, yet know that God has a hold on your life. Have you ever asked yourself: "Could God be calling me to be a leader in mission and ministry?"

Sometimes when that happens, we think we have to leave home or business to "go" into ministry. It doesn't have to be this way. Every Christian is a minister! And Certified Lay Ministry may be an appropriate response for you!

What is a Certified Lay Minister?

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

A person wishing to become a CLM enters the certification process, which includes training, support, supervision and accountability, while serving in a local church assigned by the District Superintendent. CLMs are laypeople serving out their call as a disciple of Jesus Christ. They are not intended to be reimbursed as either full- or part-time clergy, and are encouraged to have their main source of livelihood beyond their local church.

Our Book Of Discipline tells us that a CLM:

• Is an extension of the historic role of laity in the Methodist environment.


• Is trained, supported, supervised and acountable 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.

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 as a CLM in the congregation you are a member of or one nearby currently without a pastor? 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 or district superintendent to explore the process. Complete the training. Dedicate yourself to this task.

May God bless you as you make yourself available for this call!

See paragraph 271 of The Book of Discipline.