 Education for Ministry, sponsored by the Episcopal Church, is a small-group, adult formation program based on study and practice in theological reflection. The EfM program is designed to help Christians prepare for their ministry (not to become an ordained minister). The four-year "Classic" program is designed for a deep exploration of the Old Testament, New Testament, Christian history, and theology. Readings are assigned from the Bible along with historical background information and interpretations from different perspectives. The one-year "Wide Angle" program includes the same four areas, still rigorous, but less deep than "Classic". Participants join a seminar group that meets locally or online. Groups typically meet for 2 or 3 hours per week from September to May. There are no tests or grades, but the University of the South provides a curriculum and reading list. A trained "mentor" facilitates the group meetings and logistics. Each group, with 6-12 participants, meets together to discuss their assigned readings. The readings are different for each program year, and the discussions are intense and enlightening while respecting confidentiality. Participants are asked to commit to one year at a time, beginning each fall. Participants spend about eight hours per week reading, meeting, etc. There are no ministry or service requirements, but the studying gives a new perspective on the faith journey. See the links below for more information, including lists of existing seminar groups around the United States.
Main EfM web site: https://theology.sewanee.edu/education-for-ministry/ List of onsite EfM seminar groups: https://theology.sewanee.edu/education-for-ministry/program/efm-onsite/ List of online-only EfM seminar groups: https://theology.sewanee.edu/education-for-ministry/program/efm-online/ This article has been submitted by Gary Gocek, a lay EfM participant. I recently retired from a career as a software developer. When I was working full time, my Christianity time was limited to Sundays with stories from the weekly lectionary, and the occasional community service project. Moses parted the sea and Jesus walked on water, and then on Monday, it was back to the rat race. Nowadays, I am blessed to be able to make the time for EfM—with my seminar group participants—and I have encountered the epic sweep from Eden to the new Jerusalem. EfM has provided me with a new approach to prayer, worship, study, and ministry. In 1 Samuel, Hannah set in motion events that led to David, but oh how David was flawed! Paul had a personality and was a philosopher on par with Socrates. Miracles happened and there were witnesses. The Holy Spirit and Jesus connect us. As I begin year 3, I am actually looking forward to reading a history textbook! Comments are closed.
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