Methodist Church Ghana’s Lay Preachers certification process explained

The Methodist Church Ghana has outlined the process for identifying and certifying lay preachers.

According to the church’s constitution, under S.O 51, a lay preacher is identified by the Minister of the Circuit or society and given preaching appointments under six months to be monitored.

The certification process involves two exams, Part I and Part II. Candidates who pass the first exam are considered “under trial” until they complete the second part. The Freeman Center for Missions and Leadership Development administers these exams and processes certificates.

The Lay Ministries Directorate has noted challenges, including a lack of liaison with organizations within the church to produce handbooks and manuals. The directorate reminds candidates to Complete trail preaching appointments to receive certificates, Provide index numbers to access records and certificates and Read manuals provided after registration to prepare for exams

The Administrator of the Freeman Center The Rev Emmanuel Richard Amissah advised ministerial candidates to obtain their lay preacher certificates before pursuing ordained ministry to avoid last-minute pressure.

The Lay Ministries Directorate also encourages organizations within the church to share their materials with them to facilitate guidance and compilation.