Welcome to the Pensacola District Lay Speaking Ministry's Website! What is a Lay Speaker?      A lay speaker is a member of a local church or charge who is ready and desirous to serve the Church and who is well informed on the Scriptures and the doctrine, heritage, organization, and life of The United Methodist Church and who has received specific training to develop skills in witnessing to the Christian Faith through spoken communication, church and community leadership, and care-giving ministries. An applicant must be active in the support of the local church or charge. (Paragraph 266 of the Discipline of the United Methodist Church)      There are two "levels" of lay speaking. To become a Local Lay Speaker, you need to complete a basic lay speaking course. In addition, you must complete a refresher course once every three years to remain certified.      To become a Certified Lay Speaker, you must complete a basic course and an advanced course. In addition, you will have to take at least one advanced course every three years in order to maintain your status as a Certified Lay Speaker. Local Lay Speaker * Supports and ministers to his/her local church. * Looks for leadership opportunities in the local church. * Completes the Lay Speaker's Report annually. * Complete a refresher course once every three years to maintain certification. * Used in Local Church only. Certified Lay Speaker * Completes a basic course and an advanced course. * Supports and ministers to his/her local church. * Can be utilized by other congregations. * Looks for leadership opportunities in the local church and beyond. * Completes the Lay Speaker's Report annually. * Must take at least one Advanced Course every three years to maintain certification. * May be used in any Conference Church requesting the services of a Lay Speaker. And He said unto them, "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15