All Christians are called to ministry by their baptism. Some are called to a lifetime of thoughtfully committed lay service, and others are called to set-apart, ordained ministry. This workshop is for those who would like to learn about the differences between lay and clergy ministry, and to hear an overview of elder and deacon ministry.

A step by step walk-through of the United Methodist Church’s candidacy process, from initial discernment through ordination.

Hear from seminary staff about what to expect in seminary and theological school, including areas of study, spiritual development, academic expectations, field/contextual education expectations, diversity and community.

Elders are ordained to Word, Order, Table, and Service, and they serve as pastoral leaders and in extension ministry. Join us for a panel discussion exploring some of the creative ways in which elders serve in the UMC.

Deacons serve as the bridge between the church and the world, and deacons have specialized ministries within and beyond the local church. Join us for a panel discussion with deacons in a variety of ministry settings.

Learn about creative ministries in the UMC for lay and clergy. We will explore new church starts, non-profit leadership, community organizing, creative ways of being church, church in the wild, and other innovative forms of ministry.

Learn about how elders and deacons serve in specialized roles beyond the local church, including as campus ministers, military and medical chaplains, and with other organizations. This workshop also includes information about endorsement, an additional credential useful or required for certain extension ministry settings.

Is your call to ministry rooted in social justice? Learn about some of the pathways the UMC has for young adults called to mission and justice work, including US-2 Missionary opportunities, the role of deaconess and home missioners, and ordained deacons.

More information about this workshop is coming.

Join us for a panel discussion led by seminary and theological school staff entrusted with helping students pay for graduate theological studies. Learn about options available for scholarships, denominational and other funding sources.

Leadership in ministry is tied to your identity. Ministry can also ask a lot of you. Join us for a panel discussion as we explore how to maintain boundaries and practice self-care as a ministry leader.

For campus ministers, chaplains, and vocational discernment coordinators to discuss questions like “What does vocational discernment support look like for young people today?”