Greensboro District Lay Speaker Training

The 2010 Lay Speaker Training program will be conducted at Guilford College United Methodist Church and is scheduled for the weekends of February 27–28 and March 6–7, 2010. Classes are scheduled to run from 9:00am to 12:30pm on Saturdays, 2:00 to 5:00pm on Sunday February 28 and 2:00 to 6:00pm on Sunday March 7.

If you have never participated in the lay speaking training program, as a new student, you would be required to register for the Basic Lay Speaking Course. This required orientation focuses on the three primary aspects of lay speaking ministry; leading, caring and communicating. It is designed for lay leaders and those who plan on doing lay speaking ministries. Courses led by Patricia Wiseman & Mitchell Matthews and Sandrea & Alex Williamson.

Five advanced courses will also be provided for those persons who have previously completed the Basic Course. Some of these courses are very new. Listed below are the advanced courses that will be provided and a brief description of each.

“Lay Speakers Preach” Course is designed for lay leaders, pastors and student pastors who have not completed formal preaching training, pastors seeking a basic refresher course, and others who are called upon to preach. Course led by Nancy Jimerson and David Vanhoy.

“Justice in Everyday Life, A Study of the United Methodist Social Principles” Modeled after the callings of the United Methodist Social Principles, this course delves
deeper into existing issues surrounding matters of faith and practices. This course encourages lay speakers to examine Social Principles of the United Methodist Church. Course led by Kim Keyse and Edd Bigham.

“Lay Speakers Lead Bible Study” This advanced course is designed to help lay speakers become versed in how to teach and lead Bible study. Course led by Virginia York Halverson and Linda McKinney.

“Lay Speakers Tell Stories” Lay Speakers will learn what makes good stories, discover their storytelling style, learn the techniques of effective storytelling, and practice creating stories from their own experience. Course led by Jackie Kerr.

“Advanced Presentation Skills for Lay Speakers” This course gives the lay speaker the opportunity to improve on those skills learned in the Basic and Preach courses - - Use of your voice and body, and clearer and more effective speech. Course led by Ethel Glenn and John Hanner.

How to register: Please see the attachment for a registration form.