Introduction to Christ Servant Ministry  (All are welcome)

• May 1, 8, 15, and 22, 2023 - Methodists United (MU) is offering the Basic class this Spring as a stand alone class. Pastor Bonny Yaeger is the instructor at Clarks Grove UMC, in Paxinos. Attendance at all classes is required for credit.  For more information contact CSM Conference Director, George Hollich or Patty Korbich.

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Advanced Training  (All are welcome)​​​​​

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• ​​April 28-29 via Zoom - EPA’s Laity Academy invites all EPA and GNJ members to two weekend learning events this year—one online and one onsite. Ruth Hendrickson, who has for years taught Laity Academy courses on prayer, will teach a course based on her new book Positioned.  Positioned takes you on a journey where you encounter the God of the Impossible through the struggles and triumphs of people just like you and just like me. You will be challenged and encouraged to tackle every hindrance holding you back so that you can walk in your divine destiny.  As you discover the depths of God’s great love for you, your vision for your life and future will shift as God opens your eyes. He knows your true potential and gave you your identity. This book will show you how to see yourself through God’s viewpoint so you can embrace what He is preparing for you. For more information or to register go to the Event Calendar on the EPAUMC website.

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• June 6, 8, 13, 15  - 7pm – 9pm via ZOOM - Healing Communities: Understanding & Developing Criminal Justice Ministries - Healing Communities is a national model for leaders to offer restoration and healing for those affected by the criminal justice system and shares how a congregation can be a station of hope. This course is offered in four sessions over a two-week period, with unique learning shared in each session. The course will cover (1) essential information and perspectives on the criminal justice system, current issues, and the impact of crime on victims, survivors, offenders and families; (2) relevant questions for reflection and discussion within congregations; (3) ideas and resources for laity and pastors to engage congregants; (4) tools, information, and resources for congregation members; and (5) resources and dedicated time to develop a customized congregational action plan suited to the culture, demographics and core beliefs of each congregation.­­­­­ The course has a maximum size of 20 participants and the registration deadline is May 26.  To register go to  https://www.gnjumc.org/leadership-academy/.  For more information contact Linda Van Til or Marilyn Schneider.

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• Although the number of in-person courses is limited, there are many on-line courses that can be taken for CSM credit. (See "Special Opportunities below.)  Some of the opportunities for on-line credit include Basic Sexual Ethics; Emotional Intelligence and Diversity; The Multi-Site/Satellite Model for Churches led by Mike Slaughter; and Both/And: Maximizing Hybrid Worship Experiences For Online and In-Person Audiences.  To receive credit for on-line experiences a CSM request for credit form must be completed and submitted no later than 30 days after completion of the course.   (Download Request for Credit Form in PDF).

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Advanced Training on-line via BeADisciple.com

BeADisciple.com – hosts online advanced courses. The courses on their website identified with the “learning and leading” logo are approved by Discipleship Ministries (formerly the General Board of Discipleship) and meet the continuing education requirements for renewal of Christ Servant Minister (one advanced course every 3 years), Certified Lay Speaker (one advanced course every 3 years), or Certified Lay Minister (one advanced course every 2 years). Although they have other approved courses designated on their website as "Lay Servant Ministries", the following are several upcoming courses…​