The Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course Leader's Guide is an introductory course designed to equip new church leaders and renew current leaders in The United Methodist Church. It can be used with adults and youth and is the foundational course for other leadership training courses. This course covers the 3 three core categories of Lay Servant Ministries: Leading, Caring, and Communicating; it also emphasizes ministry in daily life and sharing faith stories. The plans in this Leader's Guide are designed to be taught in 5 two-hour sessions. They can also be used over a weekend. NOTE: This guide replaces the Lay Speaking Ministries Basic Course Leader's Guide, DR551. If you have taught the Basic Course before, you will need to adjust your teaching plans to emphasize the core categories described above. Session topics include: Ministry of the Baptized: priesthood of all believers; spiritual gifts; the need for a response to God's call; the role of laity in ministry. Leading: servant leadership; important roles in leadership; what it means to be a spiritual leader; Christian conferencing. Caring: biblical basis for caring ministry; acts of compassion and justice; caring for creation. Communication: guidelines for respectful communication; listening skills; sharing faith stories. Into the World: understanding leaders' role in fulfilling the Great Commission; importance of continued study and spiritual growth; role of hospitality; Appreciative Inquiry and Asset-Based Community Development. Appendices include two letters to participants (depending on whether the course is taught in 5 sessions or over a weekend), a sample format for Christian conferencing, evaluation forms for communication session, and resources (scripture, song, and meditation) for each session. The Participant's Book for this course is: Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course Participant's Book.
