The Lay School of Ministry of the East Central Wisconsin Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America trains lay persons of the church to perform service to and for the Body of Christ. The program of Lay Ministry was organized and instituted under the direction of former Bishop John Beem.
The Central Wisconsin School of Lay Ministry of the East Central Synod of Wisconsin was established in September 1999, to equip and empower adult lay persons in the fulfillment of their callings to serve Christ. It providers an oppurtunity to experience adult education through in-depth study.
The challenges of the twenty-first century call for educated, theologically reflective and articulate lay persons with a passion for mission. Our goal is to serve the East Central Synod of Wisconsin.
Our bishop and staff are instrumental in supporting and promoting the Lay School of Ministry. Participation in this program is recognized by our synod as an important way to strengthen East Central Synod congregations. While we purposefully do not offer academic credit, you will find the education is top notch. The Lay School of Ministry offers an oppurtunity to experience adult education through in-depth study. We enlist seminary professors, pastors with expertise in particular areas, as well as trained lay leaders as part of our teaching staff. One of the purposes of our Friday-Saturday meeting is to entice students into independent study throughout each month. The pastor-mentor component of the program is designed as a tool to encourage self-understanding and personal growth.