New England Synod School of Lay Ministry
Grow in Faith. Serve with Confidence.
The School of Lay Ministry equips lay leaders across the New England Synod with biblical, theological, and practical training to confidently serve their congregations.
Signup for the AI in Minsitry Workshop
Join us for the AI in Ministry Workshop and learn how to use emerging tools with wisdom, faith, and confidence without losing your voice or your values. Register now to attend in person or online and take a practical, thoughtful step toward leading faithfully in a changing world.
You love the Church but feel stuck
You want to understand Scripture more deeply and serve your congregation well, but meaningful training can feel out of reach. Many lay leaders want to grow but don’t know where to turn.
Tracks
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Bible and Theology
The Bible and Theology Track invites lay leaders to deepen their understanding of Scripture and the core beliefs of the Lutheran tradition, grounding their faith in God’s Word and the church’s teaching.
Practical Church Skills
Coming Soon
The Practical Skills Track equips lay leaders with hands-on tools for serving their congregations in meaningful ways, including worship leadership, teaching, pastoral care, and outreach.
Faith in the World
Coming Soon
The Faith in the World Track explores how Christian faith is lived out beyond the walls of the church, helping lay leaders connect theology and discipleship with daily life, vocation, and public witness.
You’re Not Meant to Do This Alone
For over 350 lay leaders across the New England Synod, the School of Lay Ministry has offered trusted, accessible formation rooted in real church life. Our courses are shaped by pastors, professors, and bishops who understand the unique challenges and deep faithfulness of congregations in New England. We know what it’s like to feel called to serve but unsure where to begin or how to grow. That’s why we walk alongside you as we provide thoughtful teaching, a supportive learning community, and practical guidance so you can grow in confidence, deepen your faith, and serve your congregation with clarity and joy.
Our Next Cohort Starts September 2026
The next School of Lay Ministry cohort begins this September, and applications are now open. If you’re ready to grow deeper in your faith, gain confidence in your leadership, and serve your congregation with clarity and purpose, now is the time to take the next step and apply.
Become the Leader Your Church Needs
Through the School of Lay Ministry, you gain more than information, you gain confidence, clarity, and a deeper sense of calling. As you grow in your understanding of Scripture, theology, and the Lutheran tradition, you begin to trust your voice and your gifts. What once felt intimidating becomes meaningful and life-giving. Graduates of the program step into their congregations ready to serve in real and visible ways—leading Bible studies, assisting in worship, preaching when called upon, offering pastoral care, supporting youth and children, and strengthening outreach in their communities. Along the way, your own faith is renewed. You don’t just help others grow in faith you find yourself growing too, grounded in God’s Word and equipped to serve with joy, humility, and confidence.
School of Lay Ministry
The School of Lay Ministry equips lay leaders across the New England Synod with theological depth, practical skills, and spiritual formation so they can confidently serve their congregations and grow in faith.
