Northern Lakes District
Spring 2027 Lay Servant Academy
Sundays 2/21, 2/28, 3/7, and 3/14
2:00 pm - 5:00 pm (CT)
Hebron United Methodist Church
202 West Church Street
Hebron, Indiana 46341
You are invited to join us for the Lay Servant Ministries Academy to begin or continue training for living out the call to make disciples for the transformation of our churches, communities, and world. This is an in-person LSA. You must be present for all four sessions to receive credit.
Important Information
Cost: $15.00 + Required Course Text
Payment Information: Online payment required. Please print a copy of your confirmation for your receipt.
Registration deadline: Prior to start of class on February 21, 2027.
Cancellation policy: Cancellations must be received via email to erin.belbutoski@inumc.org by 11:59 pm on Saturday, February 20, 2027 to be eligible for a refund less processing fee. No refunds after this date.
Course Descriptions
Introduction to Lay Ministry: the BASIC Course - led by Pastor Dave Patterson
Discover how your unique story and talents fit into God’s greater mission for the world. This course moves beyond the church walls to show you how to lead with impact, whether you are serving in a boardroom or a soup kitchen. Step into your calling as a Lay Servant and learn to transform your community through the power of intentional, Christ-centered leadership!
- Course text: Lay Servant Ministries: Basic Course Participant's Book by Sandy Zeigler Jackson and Brian Jackson. Available through Amazon and Cokesbury.
Leading Worship - led by Pastor Tom Clark
Understand the "why" behind our traditions so you can lead meaningful, spirit-filled services that truly connect your congregation to God. This course gives you the confidence to step into leadership roles, ensuring you are prepared to guide the community through the beauty and flow of United Methodist worship!
- Course text: Worshiping with United Methodists (Revised) by Hoyt Hickman. Available through Amazon and Cokesbury.
Fresh Expressions of Faith: A New Kind of Methodist Church for People Not in Church - led by Pastor Jim Denton
How do we share the love of Jesus with people who may never step foot inside a traditional church? This course explores how ministry happens in "third places"—the everyday coffee shops, parks, and neighborhood spots where life actually unfolds. Prepare to be equipped to build genuine relationships, cultivate new Christian communities, and become a living ministry of presence right where people are.
- Course text: Fresh Expressions of Faith: A New Kind of Methodist Church for People Not in Church by Kenneth H. Carter, Jr. and Audrey Warren. Available through Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Lay Servants Lead in Conflict Resolution - led by Pastor Wayne Williams
Don't just survive church conflict—learn how to lead through it. This course will equip you to step into challenging situations with confidence, grace, and practical tools. Discover how to diffuse tension, guide your faith community through tough conversations, and turn moments of friction into powerful opportunities for healthy dialogue and transformation.
- Course text: The Spirit and Art of Conflict Transformation by Thomas Porter. Available through Amazon and Upper Room Books.
Teaching Biblical Faith: Leading Small Group Bible Studies - led by Pastor Cathy Allison
Ready to lead small group Bible studies that truly transform lives? This course gives you practical tools to guide participants through dynamic ways of exploring scripture together. You'll learn how to facilitate meaningful conversations, deepen scriptural wisdom, and help your group apply biblical truth to everyday decisions and community life.
- Course text: Teaching Biblical Faith: Leading Small Group Bible Studies by Jack L. Seymour. Available through Amazon and Barnes and Noble.