Leadership Advancement Process
What is the Leadership Advancement Process (LAP)?
The LAP is an education program designed to enable motivated lay persons through the power of the Holy Spirit to be more effective in their ministry for the Kingdom. They will see an increase in their devotion to the Lord and His lifestyle, an improvement in their tangible skills, and an increase in their biblical foundation in the Christian faith. For some, this will lead to certification as a recognized Lay Assistant (Word and Service) or being licensed as a Deacon (Word and Sacrament) in the Northwest District or eligible for the SMP (Special Ministry Pastor) program. For others it will simply mean obtaining a greater confidence and joy in ministry as they complete one or more courses (self-improvement).
What does the LAP want to achieve?
- TO SUPPORT those who are presently ministering within their congregations.
- TO RECOGNIZE AND CERTIFY these dedicated people for ministry with their congregations.
- TO INVOLVE congregations so that their dedicated lay people can be trained and used effectively.
- TO NURTURE the gifts with which each and every congregation has been graciously endowed.
- TO ENABLE churches to reach out to more people and to grow in grace and number.
- TO HELP PROVIDE a sound educational foundation to those who will be shaping the future of the Church.
What is a Lay Assistant?
A Lay Assistant is a dedicated Christian who is already working in a particular area of ministry within the church on a voluntary basis. The Lay Assistant Program wishes to enhance that existing ministry by helping to provide education that will deepen and broaden the lay assistant’s knowledge, skills and attitudes. The specific areas of ministry will vary from church to church and person to person. Areas of ministry could include church administration, nurture, evangelism, outreach or any area of ministry that could benefit from the services of the lay assistant.