They may be people thinking about entering seminary for the ordained or diaconal ministry tracks and want to take some preparatory course work. Individuals may be recommended by a pastor, Associate in Ministry, diaconal minister, congregational member, or congregational council member to consider serving in the future as a licensed lay pastor. Participants may be people seeking to enrich their faith. Application materials for admission to the Lay School of Ministry are available upon contact with the synod office . Classes began in January, 1998.
Classes meet on the third weekend of each month, except for the summer months, for two years.
Classes meet on Friday evening and Saturday at St. James Lutheran Church, Verona. Book costs, travel, and lunch on Saturday are additional. Persons interested in the Lay School of Ministry as a means of becoming a certified Associate in Ministry or as a future seminarian will need to complete applications for the Candidacy Committee in addition to the forms for the Lay School. Field Experience is required for those seeking certification as an Associate in Ministry or licensed lay pastor. Clinical Pastoral Education is encouraged as well.