Calendar

LAY SERVANT MINISTRIES ADVANCED COURSE: DISCOVER YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS
Thursdays, April 24, 2025 & May 1, 15, 22, 29, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM California (PDT)
Thursdays, April 24, 2025 & May 1, 15, 22, 29, 2025, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Hawaii (HST)
or Fridays, April 25, 2025 & May 2, 16, 23, 30, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Guam (ChST)
Zoom Online Platform

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below). Please note the deadline to register is Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The class size will max at 30 participants and registration will close if that number is reached before the registration deadline.

About the Class:

• This course helps participants understand spiritual gifts and how the church can use them to fulfill its mission and ministry. Participants will also learn what it means to be a spiritual leader and will be equipped to lead others in exploring and using their spiritual gifts.
• The instructor is Certified Lay Minister Dawn Molt. She has been an active member of Laguna Beach UMC for 31 years. She has a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychology and worked for many years with autistic children. She has served as SPRC Chair and Lay Leader multiple times, as well as taught Sunday school for 20 years. In her calling as a Certified Lay Minister, Dawn preaches and guides the Liturgists and is in charge of a nearly 60-member small group ministry. She also serves on the Care Team and Family Ministries. Additionally, Dawn is a member of the Board of Ordained Ministry for the Conference.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit.
• All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant or Certified Lay Speaker, and those needing continuing education for Certified Lay Servant status, are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class are required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status.
  • About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) status: After you take the Basic Lay Servant Class, you have 3 years to take an advanced class to qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant. If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay Speaker, you will need to take the following six advanced classes: Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, UM Heritage, UM Polity, a Preaching class, a Prayer class, and a Worship class. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Provide your own book:  Each One A Minister by William J. Carter (Amazon, Cokesbury, Upper Room)
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your confirmation email and submission message.

For more information about this course, contact Cathy Wilson in Connectional Ministries at cwilson@calpacumc.org.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

ORIENTATION TO MINISTRY

Register now at this link
Saturday, May 3, 2025, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (noon-Pacific Time) 
Saturday, May 3, 2025, 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM (Hawaii Time)

Registration Cost: Registration is FREE.  This event is sponsored by the Board of Ordained Ministry.

Registration Deadline: May 1, 2025

Location:  Zoom Online.

The Orientation to Ministry provides a space for those who are discerning a call to leadership within or through the United Methodist Church to learn about the distinctions between ordination, licensing, and certification for ministry, as well as to meet others who are also beginning this journey in our Conference.  This is a requirement for certification and a Local Pastor license as well as Provisional Membership (2020/2024 Book of Discipline, ¶312)

You only need to attend one Orientation to Ministry.

You can expect to share in a time of devotion, meet other candidates for ministry and key members of BOM, learn more about “calling” and how to identify your unique call within a United Methodist framework, as well.

If you’re just getting started, we’ll help you identify what steps to take first in your process.

2020/2024 Book of Discipline ¶312:
Orientation to Ministry—An orientation to ministry is required for all candidates for licensed and ordained ministry. Attendance at the orientation and becoming a certified candidate may be sequential or concurrent. This common ministry preparation experience is for the purpose of building collegiality and understanding among the varieties of set-apart ministry (deacons,
elders, local pastors). 1. The orientation shall be held in each annual conference and is the responsibility of the conference Board of Ordained Ministry. 2. Collegiality in ministry and commonalities and distinctions among the categories of ministry (deacon, elder, local pastor) will be emphasized to facilitate understanding and appreciation of the gifts contributed through team ministry, and the practice of set-apart ministry within the United Methodist connection will be articulated. 3. Guidelines will be made available from the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry.

Questions please contact:
Rev. Brian Belting, Board of Ordained Ministry Vocational Discernment Coordinator (vdc@bom.calpacumc.org) or
Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development (cwilson@calpacumc.org).

KHMER LAY SERVANT BASIC COURSE 

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

Sundays, May 4, 11, 18, 25, 2025, June 1, 2025  3:00 PM – 5:00 PM California (PDT)
Santa Ana UMC, 2121 N Grand Ave, Santa Ana CA 92705

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below).  Please note the deadline to register is Friday, May 2, 2025. The class size will max at 30 participants and registration will close if that number is reached before the registration deadline.

About the Class:

• This class will be taught in the Khmer language.
• About the Course:  God calls you to a life of servanthood as a disciple of Jesus Christ.  This course will give you a variety of opportunities to serve in your local and the greater church community.  This is the first class towards being a Certified Lay Servant, Lay Speaker or Lay Minister. The five sessions include;  Ministry of the Baptized, Leading, Caring, Communicating and Into the  World. You will also learn about the history of Lay Servant Ministries  and develop a personal testimony. The purpose of the course is to equip and empower laity for ministry through caring, communication, and leadership, ultimately helping them grow as disciples of Jesus Christ and make other disciples.
• Provide your own book: All participants will need a copy of Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course Participant’s Book by Sandy Jackson with Brian Jackson that is available in Spanish (Amazon, Cokesbury, Upper Room).
• The instructor is Phannary Nhem, a Certified Lay Member in the California-Pacific Conference.
• Classes are open to participants from all districts, but the class will take place in the South District at Santa Ana UMC.
• Need-based scholarships are available. Participants must ask the pastor of their home church before requesting a scholarship from the Conference.  If a scholarship is needed and not available from the local church, please complete the brief scholarship application below in the registration form.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit. To complete the 10 hour course requirement, outside assignments will also need to be completed.
• About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) and Certified Lay Speaker status: All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class is required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status. If you have taken the Basic Lay Servant Class within the last three years, taking this advanced class will qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant.  If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay SPEAKER, you will need to take the following advanced classes: Preaching, Leading or Planning Worship, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, Leading Prayer, United Methodist Heritage or History, and United Methodist Polity. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your submission message and confirmation email.

For more information about this course, contact Phannary Nhem at psnhem1212@gmail.com, or Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development at cwilson@calpacumc.org, (626) 824-2284.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

LAY SERVANT MINISTRIES in TONGAN: LSM107 UM HERITAGE & LSM108 UM POLITY
Mondays, May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM California (PDT) 
Mondays, May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2, 2025, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Hawaii (HST)
Tuesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27, June 3, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Guam (ChST)
Zoom Online Platform (Zoom link included in confirmation)

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below). Register by Sunday, May 4, 2025.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

About the Class:

• THIS CLASS WILL BE CONDUCTED ENTIRELY IN TONGAN. If you are looking for an English language class, please choose one that does not include “Tongan” in the title.
• About the two courses in one:
  • LSM107 UM Heritage: This course explores the basic beliefs and practices of the United Methodist Church as defined in Part II of The Book of Discipline. It uncovers a deeper understanding and experience of Christian faith as you embrace the United Methodist way.
  • LSM108 UM Polity: Theology shapes who we are and how we organize to transform the world.  This course explores the connection between Wesleyan theology and  Methodist organizational structure and practice.
• Provide your own book: All participants need the book Living Our Beliefs: The United Methodist Way by Kenneth L. Carder. The book can be purchased from Amazon, Cokesbury, or Upper Room.
• Need-based scholarships are available. Participants must ask the pastor of their home church before requesting a scholarship from the Conference.  If a scholarship is needed and not available from the local church, please complete the brief scholarship application below in the registration form.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit. To complete the 10 hour course requirement, outside assignments will also need to be completed.
• About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) and Certified Lay Speaker status: All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class is required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status. If you have taken the Basic Lay Servant Class within the last three years, taking this advanced class will qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant.  If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay SPEAKER, you will need to take the following advanced classes: Preaching, Leading Worship or Planning Worship, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, Leading Prayer, United Methodist Heritage or History, and United Methodist Polity. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your submission message and confirmation email.

For more information about this course, contact Rev. Dr. Kalesita Tu’ifua at kutuifua@gmail.com, Taufa Tenisi at ttenisi82@gmail.com, or Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development at cwilson@calpacumc.org, (626) 824-2284.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

MAY 5 | 6:30-8 PM PDT

In May, our Learning Lab series will turn to preparing you for our Annual Conference Session for 2025. This week, we’ll introduce you to our new meeting application that we’ll use for our sessions, bringing our hybrid experience and voting process into one easy to use platform on your device, whether it’s desktop, mobile, or tablet. This session is open to registered voters at Annual Conference, and meeting links and information will be sent to those registered prior to May 1.

Curso Basico: Introduccion al ministerio| LAY SERVANT HISPANIC MINISTRIES BASIC COURSE – APRIL 2025 – Mondays
Mondays, April 7, 14, 21, 28, 2025, May 4, 2025  6:45 PM – 8:45 PM California (PDT)

Finally, the LSM courses in Spanish are here. We are offering the Lay Servant Certificate and the Lay Speaker Certificate. Classes will be available Online via zoom and in person. You must register to get the zoom link.
REGISTER HERE: https://calpacumc.formstack.com/forms/lsmhispanicbasicapril2025

Finalmente los certificados de Servidores Locales y Predicadores Laicos se van a ofrecer en español. Y van a estar disponible tanto en linea por zoom y tambien en persona.
Necesita registrarse para obtener el enlace de las clases.
https://calpacumc.formstack.com/forms/lsmhispanicbasicapril2025
Zoom Online Platform and In Person 

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below). Please note the deadline to register is April 2, 2025. The class size will max at 30 participants and registration will close if that number is reached before the registration deadline.

About the Class:

• THIS CLASS WILL BE CONDUCTED ENTIRELY IN SPANISH. If you are looking for an English language class, please choose one that does not include “Español” in the title.
• About the Course:  God calls you to a life of servanthood as a disciple of Jesus Christ.  This course will give you a variety of opportunities to serve in your local and the greater church community.  This is the first class towards being a Certified Lay  Servant, Lay Speaker or Lay Minister. The five sessions include;  Ministry of the Baptized, Leading, Caring, Communicating and Into the  World. You will also learn about the history of Lay Servant Ministries  and develop a personal testimony.
• Provide your own book: All participants will need a copy of Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course Participant’s Book by Sandy Jackson with Brian Jackson that is available in Spanish (Amazon, Cokesbury, Upper Room).
• The instructor is Rev. Alexandro Vilches.
• Classes are open to participants from all districts, and the class will be in an online format.
• Need-based scholarships are available. Participants must ask the pastor of their home church before requesting a scholarship from the Conference.  If a scholarship is needed and not available from the local church, please complete the brief scholarship application below in the registration form.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit. To complete the 10 hour course requirement, outside assignments will also need to be completed.
• About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) and Certified Lay Speaker status: All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class is required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status. If you have taken the Basic Lay Servant Class within the last three years, taking this advanced class will qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant.  If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay SPEAKER, you will need to take the following advanced classes: Preaching, Leading or Planning Worship, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, Leading Prayer, United Methodist Heritage or History, and United Methodist Polity. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your submission message and confirmation email.

For more information about this course, contact Ervin Aguilon at confedeeducacion@gmail.com,  (818) 770-1710 or Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development at cwilson@calpacumc.org, (626) 824-2284.

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

• THIS CLASS WILL BE CONDUCTED ENTIRELY IN TONGAN. If you are looking for an English language class, please choose one that does not include “Tongan” in the title.

Spiritual Gift Course: This is a required class for certification of Lay Servant Ministry and along with Basic. Opportunities for Basic class is still available in English by our peers in the conference. Please check out the website for those schedules.

Instructors: Lay Servant Ministry in Tongan

Book From Upper Room:        Each One a Minister, a revised and enlarged edition of Carter’s previous book by the same title, begins with a 6-session study of Ephesians. Carter engages the reader in discovering the meaning of church, ministry, and gifts — from the early church up to the present.

As a follow-up to the Bible study, readers and study groups look at ways in which God’s gifts are practical as well as spiritual. Four ministry categories, closely connected to the congregational primary task (receive, relate, equip, send), are identified. Scripture readings, activities, and ways to implement specific ministries are suggested.

Designed to encourage individuals to discover God’s call to ministry in their own lives, Each One a Minister leads toward practical ways of using gifts in ministries in our congregations and in our communities. An ideal resource for clergy, lay leaders, study groups, and others seeking to identify and use their gifts in meaningful ways.

Purchases of book:  The Upper Room Store & Resource Library – For the Common Good

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

Course Schedule (Tuesdays only): 

Session 1: 05/06/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 2: 05/13/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 3: 05/20/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 4: 05/27/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 5: 06/03/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

LAY SERVANT MINISTRIES ADVANCED COURSE: DISCOVER YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS
Thursdays, April 24, 2025 & May 1, 15, 22, 29, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM California (PDT)
Thursdays, April 24, 2025 & May 1, 15, 22, 29, 2025, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Hawaii (HST)
or Fridays, April 25, 2025 & May 2, 16, 23, 30, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Guam (ChST)
Zoom Online Platform

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below). Please note the deadline to register is Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The class size will max at 30 participants and registration will close if that number is reached before the registration deadline.

About the Class:

• This course helps participants understand spiritual gifts and how the church can use them to fulfill its mission and ministry. Participants will also learn what it means to be a spiritual leader and will be equipped to lead others in exploring and using their spiritual gifts.
• The instructor is Certified Lay Minister Dawn Molt. She has been an active member of Laguna Beach UMC for 31 years. She has a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychology and worked for many years with autistic children. She has served as SPRC Chair and Lay Leader multiple times, as well as taught Sunday school for 20 years. In her calling as a Certified Lay Minister, Dawn preaches and guides the Liturgists and is in charge of a nearly 60-member small group ministry. She also serves on the Care Team and Family Ministries. Additionally, Dawn is a member of the Board of Ordained Ministry for the Conference.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit.
• All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant or Certified Lay Speaker, and those needing continuing education for Certified Lay Servant status, are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class are required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status.
  • About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) status: After you take the Basic Lay Servant Class, you have 3 years to take an advanced class to qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant. If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay Speaker, you will need to take the following six advanced classes: Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, UM Heritage, UM Polity, a Preaching class, a Prayer class, and a Worship class. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Provide your own book:  Each One A Minister by William J. Carter (Amazon, Cokesbury, Upper Room)
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your confirmation email and submission message.

For more information about this course, contact Cathy Wilson in Connectional Ministries at cwilson@calpacumc.org.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

SATURDAY, MAY 10, 2025

• 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM California: South District Conference & North District Conference.
• 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM California: West District Conference & East District Conference.
• 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Hawaii | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM California: Hawaii District Conference | Sunday, May 11, 2025, 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Guam

Registration required as part of AC2025 registeration, please visit www.www.calpacumc.org/ac2025

KHMER LAY SERVANT BASIC COURSE 

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

Sundays, May 4, 11, 18, 25, 2025, June 1, 2025  3:00 PM – 5:00 PM California (PDT)
Santa Ana UMC, 2121 N Grand Ave, Santa Ana CA 92705

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below).  Please note the deadline to register is Friday, May 2, 2025. The class size will max at 30 participants and registration will close if that number is reached before the registration deadline.

About the Class:

• This class will be taught in the Khmer language.
• About the Course:  God calls you to a life of servanthood as a disciple of Jesus Christ.  This course will give you a variety of opportunities to serve in your local and the greater church community.  This is the first class towards being a Certified Lay Servant, Lay Speaker or Lay Minister. The five sessions include;  Ministry of the Baptized, Leading, Caring, Communicating and Into the  World. You will also learn about the history of Lay Servant Ministries  and develop a personal testimony. The purpose of the course is to equip and empower laity for ministry through caring, communication, and leadership, ultimately helping them grow as disciples of Jesus Christ and make other disciples.
• Provide your own book: All participants will need a copy of Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course Participant’s Book by Sandy Jackson with Brian Jackson that is available in Spanish (Amazon, Cokesbury, Upper Room).
• The instructor is Phannary Nhem, a Certified Lay Member in the California-Pacific Conference.
• Classes are open to participants from all districts, but the class will take place in the South District at Santa Ana UMC.
• Need-based scholarships are available. Participants must ask the pastor of their home church before requesting a scholarship from the Conference.  If a scholarship is needed and not available from the local church, please complete the brief scholarship application below in the registration form.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit. To complete the 10 hour course requirement, outside assignments will also need to be completed.
• About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) and Certified Lay Speaker status: All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class is required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status. If you have taken the Basic Lay Servant Class within the last three years, taking this advanced class will qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant.  If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay SPEAKER, you will need to take the following advanced classes: Preaching, Leading or Planning Worship, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, Leading Prayer, United Methodist Heritage or History, and United Methodist Polity. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your submission message and confirmation email.

For more information about this course, contact Phannary Nhem at psnhem1212@gmail.com, or Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development at cwilson@calpacumc.org, (626) 824-2284.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

LAY SERVANT MINISTRIES in TONGAN: LSM107 UM HERITAGE & LSM108 UM POLITY
Mondays, May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM California (PDT) 
Mondays, May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2, 2025, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Hawaii (HST)
Tuesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27, June 3, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Guam (ChST)
Zoom Online Platform (Zoom link included in confirmation)

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below). Register by Sunday, May 4, 2025.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

About the Class:

• THIS CLASS WILL BE CONDUCTED ENTIRELY IN TONGAN. If you are looking for an English language class, please choose one that does not include “Tongan” in the title.
• About the two courses in one:
  • LSM107 UM Heritage: This course explores the basic beliefs and practices of the United Methodist Church as defined in Part II of The Book of Discipline. It uncovers a deeper understanding and experience of Christian faith as you embrace the United Methodist way.
  • LSM108 UM Polity: Theology shapes who we are and how we organize to transform the world.  This course explores the connection between Wesleyan theology and  Methodist organizational structure and practice.
• Provide your own book: All participants need the book Living Our Beliefs: The United Methodist Way by Kenneth L. Carder. The book can be purchased from Amazon, Cokesbury, or Upper Room.
• Need-based scholarships are available. Participants must ask the pastor of their home church before requesting a scholarship from the Conference.  If a scholarship is needed and not available from the local church, please complete the brief scholarship application below in the registration form.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit. To complete the 10 hour course requirement, outside assignments will also need to be completed.
• About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) and Certified Lay Speaker status: All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class is required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status. If you have taken the Basic Lay Servant Class within the last three years, taking this advanced class will qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant.  If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay SPEAKER, you will need to take the following advanced classes: Preaching, Leading Worship or Planning Worship, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, Leading Prayer, United Methodist Heritage or History, and United Methodist Polity. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your submission message and confirmation email.

For more information about this course, contact Rev. Dr. Kalesita Tu’ifua at kutuifua@gmail.com, Taufa Tenisi at ttenisi82@gmail.com, or Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development at cwilson@calpacumc.org, (626) 824-2284.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

MAY 12 | 6:30-8 PM PDT

In May, our Learning Lab series will turn to preparing you for our Annual Conference Session for 2025. This week, we’ll cover everything you need to know to register for and attend Annual Conference 2025. This session is designed for those who may be new to Cal-Pac or attending their first Annual Conference Session as a voting member. There is no need to register for the session – you can join the meeting at this link: https://app.meet.ps/attendee/qixr7tl6 

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

Descubriendo mis Dones Espirituales |
LAY SERVANT HISPANIC MINISTRIES: Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts
Mayo – Junio 2025 – Lunes/Mondays
Lunes, Mayo 12, 2025, Mayo 19, 2025, Mayo 26, 2025, Junio 2, 2025, 6:45 PM – 8:45 PM. California (PDT) Junio Sabado 7, 10:00am. en persona/Zoom.
Zoom Online Platform and In Person|Por Zoom y en Persona

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below). Please note the deadline to register is Friday May 12, 2025. The class size will max at 30 participants and registration will close if that number is reached before the registration deadline.

About the Class:

• **THIS CLASS WILL BE CONDUCTED ENTIRELY IN SPANISH. 
• About the Course: Este curso ayuda a los participantes a comprender los dones espirituales y cómo la iglesia puede usarlos para cumplir su misión y ministerio. Los participantes también aprenderán lo que significa ser un líder espiritual y se equiparán para llevar a otros a explorar y usar sus dones espirituales en la iglesia local. This course helps participants understand spiritual gifts and how the church can use them to fulfill its mission and ministry. Participants will also learn what it means to be a spiritual leader and will be equipped to lead others in exploring and using their spiritual gifts serving in the local church.
• Provide your own book: All participants will need a copy of Dones Espirituales: Divina habilitación para el ministerio (Spanish Edition): Fanning, Dr Don C: 9780983329084: Amazon.com: Books por favor compre su libro antes de clase, usando el enlace previo.
• The instructor is Ervin Adin Aguilon.
• Classes are open to participants from all districts, and the class will be in an online format.
• Need-based scholarships are available. Participants must ask the pastor of their home church before requesting a scholarship from the Conference. If a scholarship is needed and not available from the local church, please complete the brief scholarship application below in the registration form.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit. To complete the 10 hour course requirement, outside assignments will also need to be completed.
• About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) and Certified Lay Speaker status: All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class is required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status. If you have taken the Basic Lay Servant Class within the last three years, taking this advanced class will qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant. If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay SPEAKER, you will need to take the following advanced classes: Preaching, Leading or Planning Worship, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, Leading Prayer, United Methodist Heritage or History, and United Methodist Polity. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended, although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your submission message and confirmation email.

Para mas informacion contacte a: Ervin Aguilon at pastorervin2010@gmail.com, (818) 770-1710 or Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development at cwilson@calpacumc.org, (626) 824-2284.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

• THIS CLASS WILL BE CONDUCTED ENTIRELY IN TONGAN. If you are looking for an English language class, please choose one that does not include “Tongan” in the title.

Spiritual Gift Course: This is a required class for certification of Lay Servant Ministry and along with Basic. Opportunities for Basic class is still available in English by our peers in the conference. Please check out the website for those schedules.

Instructors: Lay Servant Ministry in Tongan

Book From Upper Room:        Each One a Minister, a revised and enlarged edition of Carter’s previous book by the same title, begins with a 6-session study of Ephesians. Carter engages the reader in discovering the meaning of church, ministry, and gifts — from the early church up to the present.

As a follow-up to the Bible study, readers and study groups look at ways in which God’s gifts are practical as well as spiritual. Four ministry categories, closely connected to the congregational primary task (receive, relate, equip, send), are identified. Scripture readings, activities, and ways to implement specific ministries are suggested.

Designed to encourage individuals to discover God’s call to ministry in their own lives, Each One a Minister leads toward practical ways of using gifts in ministries in our congregations and in our communities. An ideal resource for clergy, lay leaders, study groups, and others seeking to identify and use their gifts in meaningful ways.

Purchases of book:  The Upper Room Store & Resource Library – For the Common Good

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

Course Schedule (Tuesdays only): 

Session 1: 05/06/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 2: 05/13/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 3: 05/20/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 4: 05/27/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 5: 06/03/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

Developing Disciples (Certified Lay Ministry)

Wednesdays, May 14, 21, 28, June 4, 2025, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM California (PDT)
Wednesdays, May 14, 21, 28, June 4, 2025, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM Hawaii (HST)
Thursdays, May 15, 22, 29, June 5, 2025, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM Guam & Saipan (ChST)
Zoom Online Platform

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

Cost & Deadlines: $75 by Monday, May 11, 2025. The purchase of a book is also required. Classes are open to participants from all districts.

About the Class:

• Who are invited: This course is a required course for those seeking Certified Lay Minister status. For more about Certified Lay Ministry, visit the CLM web page at www.calpacumc.org/lsm. This course is also open to anyone who would like to attend for self-improvement/edification purposes. For Certified Lay Speakers and Certified Lay Servants, this course can be an Advanced LSM Course, but it is not one of the six required courses for Certified Lay Speaker.
• A minimum number of participants is required; if the class is canceled because not enough people register, registrants will be notified by email and those who have paid will be refunded. The maximum number of participants is 24.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit, as well as a two-hour assignment beyond the classroom, for a total of 10 hours.
• Instructors are Denise Serino, attorney and CLM Director and Cathy Wilson, Associate Director to Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development
• About the Class:  The purpose of this course is to explore the definition, models and paths of discipleship to help participants become deeper disciples of Jesus and equip them to cultivate disciples within the local church and beyond.
• Materials: A copy of this book is required: Discipleship in the New Expedition by Phil Maynard (Cokesbury, Amazon).
• Zoom information will be sent to you closer to the start date.
• Technical requirements: To participate in Zoom meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended, although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available.

For questions, contact CLM Registrar Denise Serino at deeserino@gmail.com.

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

LAY SERVANT MINISTRIES ADVANCED COURSE: DISCOVER YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS
Thursdays, April 24, 2025 & May 1, 15, 22, 29, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM California (PDT)
Thursdays, April 24, 2025 & May 1, 15, 22, 29, 2025, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Hawaii (HST)
or Fridays, April 25, 2025 & May 2, 16, 23, 30, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Guam (ChST)
Zoom Online Platform

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below). Please note the deadline to register is Tuesday, April 22, 2025. The class size will max at 30 participants and registration will close if that number is reached before the registration deadline.

About the Class:

• This course helps participants understand spiritual gifts and how the church can use them to fulfill its mission and ministry. Participants will also learn what it means to be a spiritual leader and will be equipped to lead others in exploring and using their spiritual gifts.
• The instructor is Certified Lay Minister Dawn Molt. She has been an active member of Laguna Beach UMC for 31 years. She has a Master’s degree in Counseling and Psychology and worked for many years with autistic children. She has served as SPRC Chair and Lay Leader multiple times, as well as taught Sunday school for 20 years. In her calling as a Certified Lay Minister, Dawn preaches and guides the Liturgists and is in charge of a nearly 60-member small group ministry. She also serves on the Care Team and Family Ministries. Additionally, Dawn is a member of the Board of Ordained Ministry for the Conference.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit.
• All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant or Certified Lay Speaker, and those needing continuing education for Certified Lay Servant status, are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class are required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status.
  • About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) status: After you take the Basic Lay Servant Class, you have 3 years to take an advanced class to qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant. If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay Speaker, you will need to take the following six advanced classes: Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, UM Heritage, UM Polity, a Preaching class, a Prayer class, and a Worship class. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Provide your own book:  Each One A Minister by William J. Carter (Amazon, Cokesbury, Upper Room)
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your confirmation email and submission message.

For more information about this course, contact Cathy Wilson in Connectional Ministries at cwilson@calpacumc.org.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

United Methodist Men from the Western Jurisdiction and Cal-Pac Annual Conference invite you to a National Day of Prayer Virtual Meeting

Saturday, May 17th at 10:00 AM PT

Free entry & all welcome

Join on Zoom: Meeting ID: 838 0919 2495; Passcode: 024486

Pray without ceasing 1 Thessalonians 5:17

WEST DISTRICT UWFaith SPRING EVENT 2025
Saturday, May 17, 2025, 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Venice UMC, 1020 Victoria Ave, Venice CA 90291

“Navigating the Landscape of Racial Justice“

Cost and Deadlines:  $20.00. Registration by Tuesday, May 13, 2025.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

About the Event

• We will have a panel of speakers, as well as sharing of stories, and opportunity for a group action activity.
• Registration begins at 9:00 AM with the program from 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM.
• For a flyer to share with your sisters, click here.
• For questions, contact Connye Thomas, ceeteeLA@yahoo.com | 310.488.4895.
• For payments, mail your payment to the address listed in the submission message and confirmation email.

KHMER LAY SERVANT BASIC COURSE 

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

Sundays, May 4, 11, 18, 25, 2025, June 1, 2025  3:00 PM – 5:00 PM California (PDT)
Santa Ana UMC, 2121 N Grand Ave, Santa Ana CA 92705

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below).  Please note the deadline to register is Friday, May 2, 2025. The class size will max at 30 participants and registration will close if that number is reached before the registration deadline.

About the Class:

• This class will be taught in the Khmer language.
• About the Course:  God calls you to a life of servanthood as a disciple of Jesus Christ.  This course will give you a variety of opportunities to serve in your local and the greater church community.  This is the first class towards being a Certified Lay Servant, Lay Speaker or Lay Minister. The five sessions include;  Ministry of the Baptized, Leading, Caring, Communicating and Into the  World. You will also learn about the history of Lay Servant Ministries  and develop a personal testimony. The purpose of the course is to equip and empower laity for ministry through caring, communication, and leadership, ultimately helping them grow as disciples of Jesus Christ and make other disciples.
• Provide your own book: All participants will need a copy of Lay Servant Ministries Basic Course Participant’s Book by Sandy Jackson with Brian Jackson that is available in Spanish (Amazon, Cokesbury, Upper Room).
• The instructor is Phannary Nhem, a Certified Lay Member in the California-Pacific Conference.
• Classes are open to participants from all districts, but the class will take place in the South District at Santa Ana UMC.
• Need-based scholarships are available. Participants must ask the pastor of their home church before requesting a scholarship from the Conference.  If a scholarship is needed and not available from the local church, please complete the brief scholarship application below in the registration form.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit. To complete the 10 hour course requirement, outside assignments will also need to be completed.
• About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) and Certified Lay Speaker status: All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class is required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status. If you have taken the Basic Lay Servant Class within the last three years, taking this advanced class will qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant.  If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay SPEAKER, you will need to take the following advanced classes: Preaching, Leading or Planning Worship, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, Leading Prayer, United Methodist Heritage or History, and United Methodist Polity. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your submission message and confirmation email.

For more information about this course, contact Phannary Nhem at psnhem1212@gmail.com, or Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development at cwilson@calpacumc.org, (626) 824-2284.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

LAY SERVANT MINISTRIES in TONGAN: LSM107 UM HERITAGE & LSM108 UM POLITY
Mondays, May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM California (PDT) 
Mondays, May 5, 12, 19, 26, June 2, 2025, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM Hawaii (HST)
Tuesdays, May 6, 13, 20, 27, June 3, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Guam (ChST)
Zoom Online Platform (Zoom link included in confirmation)

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below). Register by Sunday, May 4, 2025.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

About the Class:

• THIS CLASS WILL BE CONDUCTED ENTIRELY IN TONGAN. If you are looking for an English language class, please choose one that does not include “Tongan” in the title.
• About the two courses in one:
  • LSM107 UM Heritage: This course explores the basic beliefs and practices of the United Methodist Church as defined in Part II of The Book of Discipline. It uncovers a deeper understanding and experience of Christian faith as you embrace the United Methodist way.
  • LSM108 UM Polity: Theology shapes who we are and how we organize to transform the world.  This course explores the connection between Wesleyan theology and  Methodist organizational structure and practice.
• Provide your own book: All participants need the book Living Our Beliefs: The United Methodist Way by Kenneth L. Carder. The book can be purchased from Amazon, Cokesbury, or Upper Room.
• Need-based scholarships are available. Participants must ask the pastor of their home church before requesting a scholarship from the Conference.  If a scholarship is needed and not available from the local church, please complete the brief scholarship application below in the registration form.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit. To complete the 10 hour course requirement, outside assignments will also need to be completed.
• About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) and Certified Lay Speaker status: All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class is required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status. If you have taken the Basic Lay Servant Class within the last three years, taking this advanced class will qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant.  If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay SPEAKER, you will need to take the following advanced classes: Preaching, Leading Worship or Planning Worship, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, Leading Prayer, United Methodist Heritage or History, and United Methodist Polity. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom  meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a  laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the  Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended,  although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your submission message and confirmation email.

For more information about this course, contact Rev. Dr. Kalesita Tu’ifua at kutuifua@gmail.com, Taufa Tenisi at ttenisi82@gmail.com, or Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development at cwilson@calpacumc.org, (626) 824-2284.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

MAY 19 | 6:30-8 PM PDT

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

In May, our Learning Lab series will turn to preparing you for our Annual Conference Session for 2025. This week, we’ll join together with the other Western Jurisdiction conferences to learn about the four proposed amendments to our United Methodist Constitution.

This year’s Annual Conference gatherings require votes that impact our worldwide connection, and we want you to be informed and involved. Your participation matters!

At the General Conference 2020/2024 meeting, four pieces of legislation passed that would change the denomination’s constitution. In order for these changes to go into effect, the legislation must be ratified by the collective votes of annual and central conferences of the UMC. Throughout 2025, all central and annual conferences will be asked to vote on these important topics at their Annual Conference meetings.

The four pieces for ratification are:

• Ballot #1: Regionalization: Changing the structure of the UMC to create equity across the worldwide church.
• Ballot #2: Expand inclusiveness in church membership, especially as it relates to gender and ability.
• Ballot #3: Stand against racism and colonialism.
• Ballot #4: Clarify local pastor status regarding who can vote for clergy delegates.

Understanding these amendments is crucial as we move forward together, as each will impact how we operate as a global church. The Western Jurisdiction has prepared information on each to help you cast your vote. Lay and clergy members of the annual conference are invited to learn more and prepare for this critical vote by joining us on May 19 at 6:30 pm PDT for an information webinar where you can learn more from your ratification conference teams, and ask any questions you may have.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

Descubriendo mis Dones Espirituales |
LAY SERVANT HISPANIC MINISTRIES: Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts
Mayo – Junio 2025 – Lunes/Mondays
Lunes, Mayo 12, 2025, Mayo 19, 2025, Mayo 26, 2025, Junio 2, 2025, 6:45 PM – 8:45 PM. California (PDT) Junio Sabado 7, 10:00am. en persona/Zoom.
Zoom Online Platform and In Person|Por Zoom y en Persona

Cost & Deadlines: $20.00 and you must provide your own book (see below). Please note the deadline to register is Friday May 12, 2025. The class size will max at 30 participants and registration will close if that number is reached before the registration deadline.

About the Class:

• **THIS CLASS WILL BE CONDUCTED ENTIRELY IN SPANISH. 
• About the Course: Este curso ayuda a los participantes a comprender los dones espirituales y cómo la iglesia puede usarlos para cumplir su misión y ministerio. Los participantes también aprenderán lo que significa ser un líder espiritual y se equiparán para llevar a otros a explorar y usar sus dones espirituales en la iglesia local. This course helps participants understand spiritual gifts and how the church can use them to fulfill its mission and ministry. Participants will also learn what it means to be a spiritual leader and will be equipped to lead others in exploring and using their spiritual gifts serving in the local church.
• Provide your own book: All participants will need a copy of Dones Espirituales: Divina habilitación para el ministerio (Spanish Edition): Fanning, Dr Don C: 9780983329084: Amazon.com: Books por favor compre su libro antes de clase, usando el enlace previo.
• The instructor is Ervin Adin Aguilon.
• Classes are open to participants from all districts, and the class will be in an online format.
• Need-based scholarships are available. Participants must ask the pastor of their home church before requesting a scholarship from the Conference. If a scholarship is needed and not available from the local church, please complete the brief scholarship application below in the registration form.
• Attendance is required at all sessions for credit. To complete the 10 hour course requirement, outside assignments will also need to be completed.
• About Certified Lay Servant (CLS) and Certified Lay Speaker status: All those seeking certification as a Certified Lay Servant are invited to attend. The BASIC class and one Advanced Class is required to successfully apply for Certified Lay Servant status. If you have taken the Basic Lay Servant Class within the last three years, taking this advanced class will qualify you as a Certified Lay Servant. If you want to continue on to being a Certified Lay SPEAKER, you will need to take the following advanced classes: Preaching, Leading or Planning Worship, Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts, Leading Prayer, United Methodist Heritage or History, and United Methodist Polity. For more information about Lay Servant Ministries, click here.
• Technical requirements for Zoom participants: To participate in Zoom meetings, participants must have a reliable Internet connection, and a laptop, tablet, or smartphone device that can download and install the Zoom app. A web or phone camera and a microphone are highly recommended, although some users may call in via phone if a mic is not available. 
• Zoom information is included in your submission message and confirmation email.

Para mas informacion contacte a: Ervin Aguilon at pastorervin2010@gmail.com, (818) 770-1710 or Cathy Wilson, Associate Director of Lay and Clergy Credentialing and Development at cwilson@calpacumc.org, (626) 824-2284.

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

• THIS CLASS WILL BE CONDUCTED ENTIRELY IN TONGAN. If you are looking for an English language class, please choose one that does not include “Tongan” in the title.

Spiritual Gift Course: This is a required class for certification of Lay Servant Ministry and along with Basic. Opportunities for Basic class is still available in English by our peers in the conference. Please check out the website for those schedules.

Instructors: Lay Servant Ministry in Tongan

Book From Upper Room:        Each One a Minister, a revised and enlarged edition of Carter’s previous book by the same title, begins with a 6-session study of Ephesians. Carter engages the reader in discovering the meaning of church, ministry, and gifts — from the early church up to the present.

As a follow-up to the Bible study, readers and study groups look at ways in which God’s gifts are practical as well as spiritual. Four ministry categories, closely connected to the congregational primary task (receive, relate, equip, send), are identified. Scripture readings, activities, and ways to implement specific ministries are suggested.

Designed to encourage individuals to discover God’s call to ministry in their own lives, Each One a Minister leads toward practical ways of using gifts in ministries in our congregations and in our communities. An ideal resource for clergy, lay leaders, study groups, and others seeking to identify and use their gifts in meaningful ways.

Purchases of book:  The Upper Room Store & Resource Library – For the Common Good

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

Course Schedule (Tuesdays only): 

Session 1: 05/06/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 2: 05/13/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 3: 05/20/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 4: 05/27/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

Session 5: 06/03/2025 – 6 to 8 pm 

REGISTER AT THIS LINK

MAY 20 | 6:30-8 PM PDT

REGISTER NOW AT THIS LINK