Focus: Leadership development for congregational service Goal: Through education and personal growth, to equip persons for mission & ministry, using their gifts and skills in diverse ways Trained by: the Synod Commissioned by: Home congregation.Title:Lay Minister Accountable to: Home congregation Ministry fields: home congregation, Synod and/or community Prerequisites: active church member, application, references Training cycle: 3 years: can begin any time Applications: Accepted any time Training foci: Biblical overview, Lutheran theology, practical skills, discernment of gifts & call Examples of service: Teaching, assisting in worship, preaching, youth ministry, pastoral care, administration, evangelism, service on Synodical committees Teachers: seminary professors, rostered leaders, other professionals, lay ministers Training events:4 retreats & 2 skill days per year - retreats are overnight (1 night) Friday-Saturday. 12 retreats and 6 skill days total spread over 3 years Training setting: Move around synod - use retreat centers or churches and motels Costs: $100 per year tuition + room & board for events, and travel and books