Community of Lay Ministers (CLM) ELCA Southwestern Washington Synod
C.L.M. Mission
“This community of intentional servants, equipped for ministry through spiritual renewal and continuing study, proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ by serving God’s people in the Southwestern Washington Synod of the ELCA and celebrating the reign of God in daily life.”
Initial Study Program
Since 1990, we have offered a unique study program which seeks to equip lay people for ministry in their local setting. The goal is to provide a solid background in Biblical Studies, Lutheran Confessions, Church History, and Practical Theology. Rather than requiring participants to leave their congregations in order to complete these studies, we bring the courses to them and expect that they will apply what they have learned to the context of their own particular ministry.
Who Should Apply?
Our mission is to enhance the ministry of lay people who are already serving their congregation in faithful and effective ways. These are people who have specific skills that are useful to the church and a strong commitment to Gospel of Jesus Christ. This is not a program to train church professionals, but is rather an indepth vocational preparation opportunity. For more clarification, please contact Pastor Jan Otto at 360-493-6601 who is the Study/Mentor Group Coordinator.
The Process
The decision to seek admittance to the CLM Study Program is a mutual one, made by the congregation, the pastor, and the lay minister.. This includes the completion of several documents. The first is a Covenant of Support signed by leaders of the congregation. The pastor completes a Pastoral Endorsement form, and an Application form is filled out by the candidate. All three should be submitted to the Southwestern Washington Synod office for consideration. The Bishop of the Synod will oversee the selection process, along with representatives from the Community of Lay Ministers. Application packets are available from the Synod Office 253-535-8300.
The Cost
At present, the only cost of this program is that of books during the initial two year study period. They average about $175 per year for each participant. We expect that the supporting congregation will provide this, and we encourage them to help with the cost of the fall retreat as well (registration usually comes to about $100 per person).
The Curriculum
Those selected for this program will participate in an initial two-year course of study that includes core courses, retreats, quarterly meetings, and practical training. Core courses are offered in small group settings. They are taught by a variety of clergy and CLM members. Guiding this experience are two Mentors. One is an active member of the Community of Lay Ministers. A second Mentor is a clergy person chosen by the Bishop of the SWWA Synod. In most cases, groups meet twice each month at a time that is convenient for all the participants. Core courses include: Introduction to the Old Testament, Introduction to the New Testament, Jesus & the Gospels, Lutheran Confessions, Church History, and Practical Theology. Other topics include spiritual development, vocation, prayer, sermon preparation, teaching skills, visitation and more. When possible, supervised work is available in a specific area of ministry that is appropriate to the candidate and congregation.
The Fruits
Upon completion of the two-year training program, candidates who have remained active in ministry are ready to be commissioned as Lay Ministers in their congregation or in a special setting. Prior to the service of commissioning, the pastor and congregational leaders work with them to define the nature and the goals of their particular ministry. The Bishop of the SWWA Synod grants a Lay Minister Certificate to those who 1) have completed all of the core courses, 2) are recommended by their mentors and congregational leadership team, and 3) are commissioned for a specific ministry.
Continuing Education and Community
Beyond the two year period of study that leads to a commissioned ministry, Lay Ministers continue to gather together two-three times each year for continuing education and mutual support. In addition, all are invited to the annual retreat that is centered around spiritual growth and renewal. A Community of Lay Ministers newsletter keeps members informed about these events and serves as a vehicle for shared ideas and information.
ELCA Associates in Ministry and Deacons are welcome to join our Community of Lay Ministers and take part in these regular events with us.
