God is calling about two dozen lay people—from the VA and NC Synods—into lay ministry in Christ’s church. Thanks be to God!

On the first weekend of February, these faithful disciples gathered in Salisbury, NC, for a weekend of intensive learning. About half the folks studied Lutheran Theology with the Rev. Dr. Justin Nickel and the other half studied Foundations for Worship with the Rev. Dr. Chad Rimmer, both of Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary.

Listen to the reflections of some of the North Carolina Synod participants:

• The weekend Theology Intensive provided a wonderful opportunity to meet those who are on the same journey with me and to be able to discuss and learn from each other.
  —Cheryl Wall, Certified Lay Preaching Cohort 2025, Theology Participant
• The Weekend Intensive was three days of meaningful worship, deep discussions of theology, preaching, and worship, along with great food and fellowship with those training to serve as lay preachers and Synod Authorized Ministers in the North Carolina and Virginia Synods. Thanks to Deacon Wendy Roberts, Lexi Barnhill, Pastor Mark Fitzsimmons, Dr. Nichols, and Dr. Rimmer for their leadership and teachings.
  —Tony Lippard, Certified Lay Preaching Cohort 2025, Preaching Intensive Participant
• It was such an uplifting weekend. Our group of Synod Authorized Minister (SAM) students studied worship and we learned so much. We also practiced, which really helped our confidence. The ability to learn on-site with others was invaluable.
  —Peggy Terhune, Synod Authorized Ministry Candidate, Worship Intensive Participant
• Our training intensive at the synod office was very well managed by the staff making learning much more stress-free and enjoyable the whole weekend.
  —Lucille Vogel, Synod Authorized Ministry Candidate, Worship Intensive Participant
• It was a real eye-opener; challenged and changed things I had believed about the Bible since childhood.
  —Walt Allen, Certified Lay Preaching candidate
• It was a wonderful feeling walking into the synod office doors because everyone was so nice and welcoming and to know we were all there for the same reason, to learn more about our Triune God and have the ability to preach to others in the future; that put a chill throughout my body that is hard to explain.
  —Kristin Teague, Theology Intensive participant, Lay Preaching 2025 Cohort

To learn more about Advanced Lay Ministries in the North Carolina Synod, visit the ALM webpage.