By Jackie G. Jenkins
In II Timothy 2:15, it says study to show thyself approved, a worker that need not be ashamed but one who correctly spreads the word of truth. On Aug. 6, South Carolina United Methodist lay servants continued an annual tradition of refining, reinforcing, refreshing and sharpening their skills that they may better reach and make disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
That day, lay servants from across the state gathered at Virginia Wingard Memorial UMC, West Columbia, for the annual Lay Servants Academy. Assisting in the process was the keynote facilitator the Rev. Kathy Carr, from the St. Matthews Circuit, Bishopville. Carr was rated superbly on her manner in demonstrating the learning styles of adults.
A few points quoted from several sources included that adults learn best when they feel safe and supported; their individual needs and uniqueness are honored; their abilities and life achievements are acknowledged and respected; and when they are in an environment that fosters intellectual freedom and encourages experimentation and creativity. But as adults as they learn, they are also practical, goal-oriented, want things to be relevant to their lives and need a way to give feedback.
Among other high-rating participants were Allison Trussell, assistant editor from the Advocate, who gave inspiring information about the coverage of the Advocate and how membership is important. She enlightened lay servants about the advantage of church membership subscriptions. Lay servants were also encouraged to share the many ministries being done out in the churches and beyond the church walls. Trussell left copies of the August edition for lay servants’ perusal.
A longtime partner of Lay Servants Ministries, Southern Mutual Church Insurance marketing representative Jim Ellis, also met with the lay servants. Ellis not only shared words of encouragement from his company, but also brought gifts of the company’s paraphernalia. He shared his favorite grandmother’s hymn, “The Old Rugged Cross.” Lay servants knew he could sing, as he had done so in the past. Southern Mutual Church Insurance also paid for the academy’s lavish lunch, which was prepared by Tim Scott of Shandon UMC.
Following a fruitful morning Adult Teach Session with Carr, and after lunch, lay servants went to their respective classes: UM Heritage, Accountable Discipleship, Planning Worship, Preach, Evangelism and Understanding Men’s Ministry. Beyond the course books, each student received a flash drive containing the course objective, highlights and main points. They applauded this gift.
The feedback from the Lay Servants Academy was positive. Participants said they liked class interaction and discussion and the ability to give feedback; like that individuals had the opportunity to explore opinions; they loved the flash drives; they hope instructors and attendees will continue to review old classes so they are not forgotten. They said Kevin Lyle was an outstanding trainer. And Carr was an exceptional trainer, and the Teach Adult Session gave great pointers on how to reach young adults.
“Got some new ideas and insights into how to better serve mankind,” Tom Whitacre said.
First-time attendee Thelma Hudson said she enjoyed the academy.
“It exceeded my expectation,” Hudson said. “It was amazing to hear individuals discuss their faith journey. The speaker and instructors were great.”
“The trainer gave very practical and useful information; she was tremendous,” Dr. Ken Jenkins said. “She was fabulous and flexible in her presentation and modeled good facilitation skills. The class was equally engaging.”
“I really enjoyed the LSM Academy,” Christine Dawson said. “It was very enlightening. I’ve been going to the academy several years now, and there is a wonderful atmosphere of both fellowship and friendship. I enjoyed Allison Trussell’s presentation on the Advocate. It was both informative and interesting. I would thoroughly recommend the Lay Servant Academy to all district lay servant instructors.”
“Great job!” Annie Crocker said. “I’m looking forward to next year’s academy training.”
“The UMC is alive and well, and the instructors are doing their part to making disciples,” Kris Bergmann said. “Everyone there was excited about making disciples. They went away with a new appreciation for their ministry.”
The 2017 Lay Servants Academy has been scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 5, from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. at Virginia Wingard Memorial UMC, Columbia.
The purpose of the event is to offer instructors the annual academy to afford them the opportunity to meet the mandatory three-year certification/course requirement.
We are gratified to see instructors return annually as our schools rank high in providing the best tools to ensure our instructors retain sharp edges, stay conditioned and fresh to reach all our students and offer new concepts, ideas and insights that we may make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Jenkins is conference director for Lay Servant Ministries.
