Not all ministry in the United Methodist Church is Ordained Ministry.  In fact, if it were not for the work of Lay Ministers in churches large and small, our church would be unable to survive.  Lay Ministers serve in every role in the local church.  Some are paid, but most are volunteers.  Lay Ministers respond to the call of God by serving God's church as choir directors, youth leaders, business administrators, Sunday school teachers, camp directors, volunteer coordinators, parish nurses, spiritual directors, and many more such specialties.  

Certification of Lay Ministry

Some lay ministry positions may be enhanced for the lay minister and the local church through the process of Lay Ministry Certification.  Currently, the United Methodist Church provides special certification studies for lay ministers in the following fields: music ministry, spiritual formation, youth ministry, camping and retreat ministry, Christian education, and evangelism ministries.  You can learn more about Lay Ministry Certification programs here.