Certified Pulpit Supply
You can see the full certification pathway, from Launching Lay Ministry to Certified Lay Minister, in this document.
The courses in this column are meant to help laity delve into church history, what the denomination believes and how to better understand the Bible. If you want to deliver a message, there are courses on leading worship, corporate prayer and preaching.
Certified Pulpit Supply, meant for people who want to deepen their understanding of – and skills for – ministry and/or become prepared to provide pulpit supply. If you feel called to preach outside of your home church, either occasionally or on a regular basis, the courses listed under the Certified Pulpit Supply are required. Note that the courses listed under Launching Lay Ministry should be completed first.
Leading Worship and Corporate Prayer
Description: This course focuses on the ministry of the layperson who either regularly or occasionally leads a group or congregation in worship. It will explain the basic pattern of United Methodist worship within the broader context of Christian worship.
Format: Online, on-demand via the Absorb learning platform
Availability: Available on-demand on Absorb
Preaching
Coming to Absorb in June 2023
Biblical Interpretation
Coming to Absorb in June 2023
United Methodist Heritage and Theology
Coming to Absorb in June 2023
Completing the Certified Pulpit Supply Process
Those who take the courses listed under Launching Lay Ministry and Certified Pulpit Supply are eligible to be interviewed by their district lay ministry team. You will also be asked to complete a log reflecting on all preaching experiences.
If approved as Certified Pulpit Supply, you will meet with your district lay ministry team at least every two years, unless you're under assignment to a local church. If you're under assignment to a local church, you will meet with the district committee on ordained ministry every year. In all cases, you will be required to complete continuing work as determined in your interview. This could be a course, coaching or mentorship.
Please note that if you are under assignment at a local church, you will be required to complete a background check and Safe Gatherings training.
If you feel called to preach and lead a congregation as a layperson, learn more about what it means to become a Certified Lay Minister.