Jun 20, 2023 | John W. Coleman

Robert Schrepple, Stewart Gantt, Gary Ragoobeer and Gerald Schuler. Judy Ehninger photo

Four new Eastern PA Certified Lay Ministers (CLMs) “graduated” in a Service of Recognition June 11, at Asbury United Methodist Church in Allentown. In its 14th year, the conference program now has 70 active CLMs, and 16 of them are assigned to churches as lay pastors.

“The Holy Spirit met this class at every turn, and four committed men, determined to defy all obstacles, completed the program online using Zoom,” reported Judy Ehninger CLM coordinator, who introduced them to the Annual Conference Laity Session in May. “This class has never met in person; yet they forged relationships and bonds that are amazing.”

Three of those men are from the North District: Gary Ragoobeer of Pocono Lake UMC; Robert Schrepple, who serves as the Lay Pastor of Gilberton UMC; and Gerald Schuler of Asbury UMC. Stewart K Gantt, of New London UMC, is in the South District.

(From left) Judy Ehninger, Rev. Dr. Andrew Foster, III,  Rev. Janis Bowers, Stewart Gantt,  Gary Ragoobeer, Rev. Janice Puliti, Robert Schrepple, Gerald Schuler. Rev. Dr. Hun Ju Lee. Rev. Lorraine Foster photo

“Dear Certified Lay Ministers, today we stand in awe of your dedication,” proclaimed the Rev. Hun Ju Lee, North District Superintendent, in his sermon. “Your commitment to nurturing your gifts, to furthering the cause of Christ, is a testament to your love for God and His people.”

In a world where few people really listen to God’s voice, Lee credited them for hearing, listening and responding to the “Call of God,” the same way young Samuel did when God first called him to become a prophet. (1 Samuel 3:1-10) “When we listen, God orders our lives.”

The service began with a video greeting from Bishop John Schol, who celebrated the new CLMs for accepting the call and special training to serve churches and communities in advanced ministry alongside clergy and lay leaders. Director of Christ Servant Ministries George Hollich also congratulated the new CLMs.

The four “graduates” received certificates and blessings from Cabinet members and offered brief testimonies about their 100 hours of challenging preparation and their outlook for enhanced ministries as CLMs.

Rev. Dr. Hun Ju Lee speaks as Judy Ehninger listens

In her remarks, Ehninger thanked the CLM course instructors: the Revs. Anita Powell; Lloyd Speer; Karyn Fisher; Michael Roberts; and Mark Salvacion. She announced that the current 2023 class has eight women. “We are excited to see where and how the Spirit leads them!”

“I encourage you to embrace the joy of service,” Lee told the new CLMs. “Amid the responsibilities, the tasks, the potential challenges, remember the joy that comes from serving God and others. It’s this joy, this profound fulfillment, that makes every moment of service worthwhile.

“Your path will be filled with opportunities for growth, for deepening your faith, and for witnessing the transformative power of God’s love.”

Lay members interested in Certified Lay Ministry, especially those currently serving as Christ Servant Ministers, should contact Judy Ehninger judy.ehninger@gmail.com or call 610-442-3140.