"Equipping the Saints" through the Lay Pastoral Assistants program..
"There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but they all come from the same Spirit. There are different ways to serve the same Lord, and we can each do different things. Yet the same God works in all of us and helps us in everything we do." (1 Corinthians 12:4-6)
A Lay Pastoral Assistant is a volunteer who serves in the local congregation by assisting the ordained pastor according to his/her gifts and the needs of the congregation. This could include activities such as teaching, leading music worship, visitations, assisting with worship, coordinating volunteers, committee work, or lay preaching, to name just a few...or some enroll for their own personal faith development
The courses for which you’re most likely to receive credit, will fall into one of the following four categories
•Grasping Our Lutheran Heritage
• Understanding What Happens in Worship
• Hearing/Reflecting on the Scriptures, or
• Serving Inside/Outside the Church.
The first graduation class celebrated the event with a large class of students at the Cochrane course in November, 2006. Gail Berg, Keith Johnson and Elaine Goehring were the first graduates. Since that time there have been two more graduations.
COURSES for 2009
Intergenerational Characteristics of Lutherans in Alberta; and the Implications for Ministry and for Passing on the Faith"
March 14 at Providence Renewal Centre, Edmonton; led by The Rev. James Hendricksen
History of the Lutheran Church in Canada
late in spring - April 3
led by The Rev. Dr. Faith Rohrbough, retired president of Lutheran Theological Seminary, Saskatoon
Conflict Resolution
October 31
led by Pastor Doug Hanson-Torwalt
Pastor Doug is a trained mediator for situations of conflict in the church. The course has practical implications not only in church leadership but in all group situations - family and larger community.
Register by calling the synod office at 780, 439-2636.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS PROGRAM
How will a Lay Pastoral Assistant be trained?"
Training will happen through a holistic training program that will include spiritual direction thinking and reflecting and doing. Our trainers are well-qualified theologians and leaders in the church
You will receive in-depth understanding that will increase your confidence and competence in, and enjoyment of doing church work.
How often will training events occur?
Weekend workshops will be offered at least three times a year: November, March and July. These events will be held at various locations throughout the Synod of Alberta and the Territories. As the program evolves, other opportunities will become available.
What status will I have after completing the program?
The program does not have official status, that is, it will not be recognized by congregations outside of your own. The program is not intended as training for employment but you will become a well-equipped volunteer. The program is not a substitute for the diaconal program, but the interest could possibly indicate a gift for ministry and may lead to further training towards either the diaconal or ordained ministry.
Cost?
You will be charged a one-time administration fee of $50. In addition each training session will cost approximately $75. Your congregation may help cover your training costs.
How long will the program take?
Three years. However, we expect that you will begin to be involved in parish ministry during the training period. We also believe that participants will want to sharpen their skills by engaging in lifelong learning opportunities.
How do I join the program?
Ask your pastor about the program and discuss how you may fully serve in your congregation. You may obtain a registration form and brochure from your pastor, or contact the Synod office at (780) 439-2636 or email: abtsynod@elcic.ca
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