“You can be like faithful Aaron
holding up the prophet’s hands…”

LSB 826 “Hark the Voice of Jesus Crying”

Do you know the story of faithful Aaron?  The Children of Israel were engaged in battle with the Amalekites.  Whenever Moses held up his hands Israel prevailed, but when he lowered his hands, the Amalekites would take the upper hand.  When Moses’ arms tired, Aaron and Hur held up the prophet’s hands so Israel could win the battle (Exodus 17:8-13).  Do you have gifts that can support ministry in a congregation setting?  Could you lift up the prophet’s hands in your church? Commissioned Lay Ministry Certificate gives lay persons the education, training and credentials to serve faithfully in the congregations of The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod.  If you are interested in serving within the church, discuss your plans with your pastor.  You will need your pastor’s support through the admission process and guidance throughout the program. The 47-credit online learning program is available online, with the exception of two on-campus learning experiences.  Two courses are taught per semester by CUW faculty and adjunct instructors.  New cohorts begin  every year in June.

Program Features and Benefits

• Students are equipped to work under a pastor’s guidance and direction in a congregation
• The program is designed in three levels, with students able to complete as much of the program as meets their needs
• Students completing all three levels  are available for calls to congregations and agencies and are eligible to be rostered in  The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod with the designation “Minister of Religion Commissioned – Lay Minister”
• Students must have a minimum of an Associate of Arts degree or its equivalent in addition to the Lay Ministry courses to be certified.
• With additional coursework students can earn a bachelor’s degree in theology